Top Selling Tequila Brands in the USA

The tequila market in the USA is dominated by brands that not only offer quality but also boast rich histories and strong market presence. Here’s a look at the top-selling tequila brands, their sales data from the most recent year, and a brief history of each company.

1. Jose Cuervo

• 2022 Sales: 9.2 million cases

• Growth: 15.9% from the previous year

• Company Background: Jose Cuervo, founded in 1795, is the largest tequila brand worldwide. Owned by Becle, this brand has maintained its lead by continually evolving its product offerings while staying true to traditional methods.

2. Patrón

• 2022 Sales: 3.5 million cases

• Growth: 10.1% from the previous year

• Company Background: A relatively newer brand, established in 1989, Patrón was acquired by Bacardi in 2018. It's known for its premium tequila, produced in Jalisco, Mexico, and has become synonymous with luxury and quality in the spirits world.

3. Don Julio

• 2022 Sales: 3.2 million cases

• Growth: 16.9% from the previous year

• Company Background: Founded in 1942 by Don Julio González, this brand is also under the Diageo umbrella since 2014. It has built a reputation for high-quality tequila made from 100% blue agave.

4. Casamigos

• 2022 Sales: 3.2 million cases

• Growth: 42.5% from the previous year

• Company Background: This modern brand was co-founded by actor George Clooney in 2013 and quickly made waves in the industry before being acquired by Diageo in 2017. Its appeal is boosted by celebrity backing and premium product quality.

5. 1800 Tequila

• 2022 Sales: 2.5 million cases

• Growth: 22.5% from the previous year

• Company Background: Named after the year tequila was first aged in oak casks, 1800 Tequila is produced by Proximo Spirits. It is known for its distinctive trapezoidal bottle and its variety of flavors and expressions.

6. Hornitos

• 2022 Sales: 2.1 million cases

• Growth: 10% from the previous year

• Company Background: A brand of Beam Suntory, Hornitos was launched in 1950 and has been recognized for pushing boundaries in tequila production, notably with its innovations in creating unaged and aged varieties.

7. El Jimador

• 2022 Sales: 1.7 million cases

• Growth: 21.4% from the previous year

• Company Background: Named after the farmers who harvest agave plants, El Jimador is produced by Casa Herradura. Founded in 1994, it quickly became the best-selling tequila in Mexico and enjoys substantial popularity in the U.S.

8. Espolòn

• 2022 Sales: 1.3 million cases

• Growth: 19.8% from the previous year

• Company Background: Owned by the Campari Group, Espolòn was created in 1998 and is celebrated for its rich, bold flavors derived from 100% blue agave. The label's artwork, inspired by Mexican heritage, adds to its appeal.

These brands not only lead in sales but also reflect the diverse history and innovation within the tequila industry. They cater to a broad spectrum of tastes, from traditionalists who appreciate nuanced flavors developed over centuries to modern drinkers attracted by sleek branding and celebrity endorsements.