Unveiling the World’s Best Tequila: Winners from the 2024 International Wine & Spirit Competition

1800 Milenio Extra Añejo Tequila.

If it feels like tequila-based drinks are popping up on cocktail lists everywhere, rest assured, you’re not hallucinating. Tequila, a spirit once consigned to shooters and, even worse, hangovers, is suddenly everyone’s favorite spirit.

As the second most popular spirit in America, only vodka has a larger share; tequila is having its long overdue moment in the spotlight. Much like bourbon, another North American original that has recently been rediscovered by drinkers, a big reason that tequila is booming is the emergence of a plethora of high-quality brands on the market.

These premium and ultra-premium tequilas from Mexico have completely transformed how people view tequila. While it still nicely fits into the party drink category, it is quickly gathering a wide array of fans as an excellent sipping liquor and the perfect base for a memorable cocktail.

The experts at the International Wine & Spirits Competition, one of the oldest and most respected events in their field globally, recently revealed their 2024 winners. Held annually in London, judges assess participants using a blind taste test method, scoring up to 100 points. This year, out of thousands, 107 bottles earned the Gold Outstanding Medal by scoring 98 points or above, including two exceptional tequilas. Critically acclaimed, these tequilas are easy to find for those seeking the finest globally.

1800 Milenio Extra Añejo Tequila

Initially released in 2000 in limited editions, 1800 Milenio has captivated judges and drinkers annually with each release. Its excellence partly lies in its historic production roots in Mexico. It is crafted at the famed La Rojeña Distillery in Jalisco, the region synonymous with tequila. This distillery, the oldest still operating in the area, is also responsible for creating renowned spirits like Jose Cuervo and Gran Centenario.

The debut of 1800 Tequila in 1975 marked it as a pioneer among premium tequila brands, significantly transforming public perceptions about the drink. The 1800 Milenio Extra Añjeo, a showcase of their top-tier craft, is produced using 100% blue Weber agave. These are grown on family-owned estates and are harvested at the optimal stage in Tequila, Mexico. The beverage then undergoes an extensive, precise aging process to reach its distinguished taste.

After a two-year aging process in oak barrels, the spirit underwent a brief further maturation in French Oak Cognac barrels, lending it a well-known soft and balanced flavor profile. It is available for sale at a price around $249 per bottle. You can purchase it here.

The panel of judges provided their feedback: “Lucious stone fruit and red apple aromas lead to a harmonious blend of alcohol and sweetness on the palate. A delightfully deep mouthfeel with a lingering spice-driven finish.”

Lunazul Primero Humosa Blanco Tequila.

Lunazul Primero Humoso Blanco Tequila

Launched in 2004, Lunazul Tequila quickly gained attention thanks to founder Francisco Beckmann, a descendant in the seventh generation of Mexico’s oldest tequila-making lineage. Beckmann’s vision was to craft superior small-batch tequilas that would expose the intricate tastes of what he believed was an underrated spirit.

To achieve this goal, he established Tierra de Agaves, a boutique distillery positioned amidst his family’s extensive agave fields, among the largest privately held plots in the world. The distillery is dedicated to producing tequila using only local ingredients, and their spirits are often celebrated for their exceptional and bold flavors.

One notable offering from Lunazul is the Primero Humoso Blanco Tequila, known for combining the smokiness characteristic of Mezcal with the smoothness typical of classic Blanco tequila. They achieve this by blending mesquite wood-smoked agave with fresh blue Weber Agave, creating a distinctive smoky tequila. This tequila is perfect for serving neat or as a base in various cocktails. It is available for purchase at $29.99 here.

Here is what the judges had to say about it: “Fresh grass and peppermint creaminess with a whisper of smoke. Rounded and earthy, showcasing nuances of root with tropical and citrus aromatics. Smoothly rounded and balanced with vibrant fruitiness and earthy spices, revealing balsamic and citrus on the lingering finish.”

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About the Author: Chris Lehoux

Meet Chris Lehoux, an experienced wine connoisseur and dedicated blogger with a deep passion for all things wine-related. With years of expertise in the industry, Chris shares insightful wine reviews, valuable wine tasting tips, expert pairing advice, and captivating tales of vineyard visits. Join Chris on a journey through the world of wine, where every sip is an adventure waiting to be savored!