Awards tell one story. Purchasing behavior tells another.

Every year, certain bottles quietly separate themselves from the rest—not because critics say they should, but because collectors continue to reach for them.

Based on verified customer purchases between January 1 and July 21, 2026, these are the ten most purchased tequila and mezcal bottles at The Bourbon Concierge.

Unlike many "best tequila" lists, these rankings are not based on awards, expert opinions, paid placements, or editorial picks. They reflect actual purchasing behavior from collectors and enthusiasts shopping for premium and limited-production agave spirits. 

How We Ranked These Bottles

These rankings are based exclusively on customer purchases placed through Bourbon Concierge between January 1 and July 21, 2026.

The rankings are determined by:

• Total bottles purchased
• Individual product listings (including limited annual releases)
• Combined tequila and mezcal categories
• Verified purchase data only

The rankings are not adjusted for price, availability, promotions, critic reviews, or production volume. Because many of these bottles are highly allocated or seasonal releases, they reflect collector demand—not necessarily how many bottles producers made available.

The Top 10 Bottles

#1 Fortaleza Reposado

Why collectors buy it

Fortaleza Reposado has become the benchmark for traditionally produced reposado tequila. Made using slower, heritage production methods—including brick ovens, tahona milling, and open-air fermentation—it consistently delivers the roasted agave character many enthusiasts seek.

Best for

Collectors looking for one of the most respected traditionally produced reposados available today.

#2 Fortaleza Añejo

Why collectors buy it

Rather than masking the agave with heavy oak influence, Fortaleza Añejo strikes a balance between mature barrel character and fresh agave flavor. Its consistency has made it one of the most sought-after añejos in recent years.

Best for

Drinkers looking for an elegant sipping tequila that emphasizes craftsmanship over sweetness.

#3 Fortaleza Blanco Still Strength

Why collectors buy it

Bottled at still proof without dilution, this expression delivers concentrated roasted agave, citrus oils, black pepper, and herbal complexity. It's widely regarded as one of the purest ways to experience Fortaleza's distillate.

Best for

Experienced tequila enthusiasts who enjoy full-proof spirits.=

#4 Don Julio 1942

Why collectors buy it

The miniature format allows buyers to experience one of tequila's most recognizable luxury brands in an approachable size. It's also popular for gifting, tastings, and travel.

Best for

Trying Don Julio 1942 without purchasing a full-size bottle.

#5 Dulce Oro Reposado

Why collectors buy it

One of this year's strongest-performing emerging brands, Dulce Oro Reposado has earned attention for its balance of cooked agave, vanilla, oak, and baking spice.

Best for

Collectors interested in discovering producers outside the largest tequila houses.

#6 Patrón XO Café Dark Cocoa Mini

Why collectors buy it

Although discontinued, Patrón XO Café continues to have a dedicated following. The Dark Cocoa edition has become increasingly difficult to find, driving continued collector interest.

Best for

Fans of discontinued and collectible agave-based liqueurs.

#7 Fortaleza Reposado Winter Blend 2025

Why collectors buy it

Each annual Winter Blend release showcases a unique maturation profile while remaining unmistakably Fortaleza. Limited availability has made every release highly anticipated.

Best for

Collectors seeking annual limited editions.

#8 Cascahuín Añejo (88 Proof)

Why collectors buy it

Cascahuín has built a reputation among enthusiasts for producing exceptionally traditional tequila with remarkable balance. The 88-proof añejo combines mature oak with vibrant agave character.

Best for

Drinkers exploring respected independent producers.

#9 Swell de Spirits Los Convidados No. 3

Why collectors buy it

Independent bottlings continue to gain popularity among enthusiasts looking for distinctive agave spirits with a strong sense of place. Los Convidados No. 3 reflects this growing trend toward smaller-production releases.

Best for

Collectors seeking unique, conversation-worthy bottles.

#10 Clase Azul Reposado

Why collectors buy it

Clase Azul remains one of the most recognizable names in luxury tequila. Its handcrafted ceramic decanter and approachable flavor profile continue to make it a favorite for both gifting and celebrations.

Best for

Luxury gifting and collectors who appreciate iconic presentation.

What This Data Reveals About Tequila in 2026

Fortaleza continues to dominate collector demand.

Four different Fortaleza expressions appear in the top ten, including the top three overall positions. No other producer came close to matching its sales volume during the first half of 2026.

Traditional production methods remain highly valued.

Many of this year's best-performing bottles come from producers known for traditional techniques, including slower fermentation, brick ovens, tahona milling, and careful small-batch production.

Collectors are expanding beyond household names.

While Don Julio and Clase Azul remain strong performers, buyers are increasingly exploring producers such as Cascahuín, Dulce Oro, Swell de Spirits, and of course Fortaleza, reflecting growing interest in craft-focused agave spirits.

Mezcal continues gaining momentum.

Although tequila dominates overall purchases, artisan mezcal continues to attract collector attention. The highest-selling mezcal in our data was Macurichos Espadín con Cacao, (currently sold out but you can join the list to be notified when its back. The pour was followed by Del Maguey Vida Mezcal and Clase Azul Guerrero Mezcal, suggesting growing curiosity about traditionally produced mezcal beyond mainstream offerings.

Final Thoughts

Awards and critic scores certainly have their place, but purchase data offers another valuable perspective: what collectors actually choose when they're spending their own money.

While availability, allocations, and seasonal releases all influence demand, these rankings provide a real-world snapshot of which tequila and mezcal bottles have captured the attention of enthusiasts in 2026. We'll continue updating this report as the year progresses to reflect changing collector preferences and emerging trends.