Bottom-Shelf Tequilas That Are Actually Worth Your Money

Beverage director Rob McShea, recommends Olmeca Altos Plata tequila, which he says is "perfect for mixing in cocktails and smooth enough to enjoy on its own."

The agave that goes into Olmeca Altos Plata tequilas is cooked in brick ovens, which produces more complex flavors. It retails for about $26-30 and has a sweet citrusy finish.

Cimarrón Blanco costs about $27 and is one of very few affordable additive-free tequilas. It is made by Enrique Fonseca, a legend within the tequila industry.

Jesus Muñoz of Good Lion Hospitality says, "The strong cooked agave notes with hints of citrus and pepper give a solid backbone to any agave cocktail."

This tequila retails for around $25. It is produced in Jalisco using agave from the highlands, and a third-generation master distiller oversees its production.

El Tequileño Blanco is a "mixto" tequila, so some raw cane sugar is added. Former bartender Lucas Assis calls it "a great budget option for making cocktails when hosting at home."

Arette Tequila’s additive-free tequila costs about $25. "I believe [it's] one of the best budget options," Assis said, noting that it's "widely available."

Arette uses both brick ovens and autoclaves to cook its agave. The tequila is a good example of lowlands tequila with classic herbal and peppery notes.

Tres Agaves bottles its blanco tequila right after distillation so that the agave is not muted by aging. The flavor profile balances citrusy and peppery notes.

The drink was once awarded the Double Gold medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition but has a retail price of only $27, making it a great deal.