The market is flooded with premium tequilas right now, making it hard to choose the right tequila. Just because a tequila states that it is 100% blue agave on the label does not mean that it is well-made; it is merely a statement that it is not cut with neutral cane spirit. Plenty of 100% blue agave tequilas on the market are subpar at best, and determining which tequilas are good and which to pass up can be a daunting challenge. Luckily, the tequilas made by Partida are all universally acclaimed as some of the very best tequilas from Mexico. Partida Blanco Tequila in particular is highly regarded by tequila connoisseurs for its clean, crisp taste and unrivaled smoothness.

Tequila is made from agave hearts called pinas. Hand-harvested by jimadors, Partida waits until the pinas are 7 to 10 years old to be harvested. This allows for the maximum amount of sugars to concentrate in the pinas, which are then slowly roasted in stainless steel ovens to allow for fermentation to occur. The agave nectar is then allowed to ferment for 36 to 40 hours before being double-distilled into tequila.

Partida Tequila Blanco retails for approximately $50, making it a premium tequila, but one whose quality far surpasses its price. At 40% ABV, this is a light, clean, and eminently sippable tequila.

On the nose, aromas of grapefruit, fresh herbs, and a surprising minerality are evident. This is a complex tequila, and as it sits in the glass, more aromas begin to slowly appear. Tobacco, white pepper, and a hint of fresh jalapeno pepper can be detected with a splash of cool water added.

As Partida Blanco hits the palate, it displays a medium-bodied richness that is surprising for such a young tequila. Citrus, pepper, and herbal notes abound before leaving the palate with a light, quick finish. Apricot, pineapple, and almond notes are also evident before the finish.

With its light, clean flavor, Partida Blanco is perfect for sipping neat, perhaps with a sangrita to complement it. While it will also mix well, avoid using Partida Blanco in cocktails that will cover up the quality of this great tequila. Margaritas, Palomas, and El Diablo cocktails will all be enhanced with Partida Blanco tequila. Overall, this is a fantastic sipping tequila and one of the best blanco tequilas available. At $50 a bottle, there probably isn’t a better value for premium tequila than Partida Blanco.