In recent years, the spotlight on clean, organic, and natural products has expanded to the world of tequila. While many are familiar with tequila’s rich history and its place in cocktail culture, fewer know about the growing demand for additive-free tequila—a purer form of this beloved spirit.
What is Additive-Free Tequila?
Additive-free tequila is crafted without the use of additional flavorings, sweeteners, or colorants. Standard regulations in the tequila industry allow for up to 1% of non-tequila additives, but many traditional producers believe this compromises the spirit’s authenticity. Additives such as caramel coloring, glycerin for smoother textures, or artificial sweeteners to balance flavors, are commonly used in mass-produced tequilas.
With additive-free tequila, you get a product that’s entirely agave-driven, showcasing the true essence of the blue Weber agave plant. Every flavor note you taste, from earthy to citrusy to spicy, comes solely from the agave and the aging process in oak barrels.
What are the Benefits of Additive-Free Tequila?
- Authenticity in Flavor
Additive-free tequila delivers a more authentic taste, unmasked by synthetic elements. The natural sweetness of the agave shines through, and the specific terroir (or region) of the plant is often noticeable, offering a richer experience for connoisseurs. - Healthier Choice
Tequila itself is known to have fewer calories than many other spirits, but avoiding artificial ingredients further ensures you’re consuming a cleaner product. Without added sugars or chemicals, additive-free tequila offers a purer and more natural choice for mindful drinkers. - Higher Quality
Brands producing additive-free tequila tend to follow traditional methods passed down through generations. These producers focus on quality over quantity, ensuring each bottle meets strict standards that highlight their craftsmanship.
Why Choose Additive-Free Tequila?
For those who enjoy sipping tequila straight or in simple cocktails, the difference in flavor between an additive-laden product and an additive-free one is immediately noticeable. It’s the tequila equivalent of drinking single-origin, organic coffee versus a flavored variety—the complexity of the base ingredient is more prominent and nuanced.
In recent years, there has also been a push towards transparency in the tequila industry. Tequila brands that label their products as additive-free are committing to an honest relationship with consumers, who are becoming increasingly savvy about what’s in their drinks.
How to Identify Additive-Free Tequila
It can be challenging to identify additive-free tequila just by looking at the bottle since many brands don’t make this distinction on their labels. However, a few key indicators can help:
- Look for NOM Numbers
The NOM (Norma Oficial Mexicana) is a unique number that identifies each distillery in Mexico. Researching the distillery’s practices can help determine if they follow traditional methods without additives. - Check for Certifications
Some tequilas have certifications or come from producers part of the “Tequila Matchmaker’s Additive-Free Program,” which highlights tequilas that maintain traditional production methods. - Stick to Traditional, Small-Batch Producers
Smaller distilleries often pride themselves on additive-free production, relying on slow-cooked agave and small-batch processing to create a more authentic spirit.
Top Additive-Free Tequila Brands to Try
1. Lagrimas del Valle
2. Lost Lore
3. Don Fulano
4. Alma del Jaguar
5. Terralta
6. Siempre
7. Lalo
8. Tequila Ocho
9. Tapatio
10. Pasote
11. Cascahuin
12. Siete Leguas
13. Tanteo
14. Espero
15. El Tequileno
16. San Matias
Additive-free tequila represents a return to the roots of tequila-making, emphasizing purity, quality, and tradition. Whether you’re a casual drinker or a tequila enthusiast, choosing additive-free varieties allows you to experience tequila as it was meant to be tasted—free from modern shortcuts and full of rich, agave-driven flavor. Explore Cork and Brew’s range of additive-free tequilas and taste the difference for yourself.
