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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.  Rank Bottle Category 1 Fortaleza Reposado Reposado Tequila 2 Fortaleza Añejo Añejo Tequila 3 Fortaleza Blanco Still Strength Blanco Tequila 4 Don Julio 1942 Añejo Tequila 5 Dulce Oro Reposado Reposado Tequila 6 Patrón XO Café Dark Cocoa Mini Coffee Liqueur (Agave-Based) 7 Fortaleza Reposado Winter Blend 2025 Limited Edition Reposado 8 Cascahuín Añejo (88 Proof) Añejo Tequila 9 Swell de Spirits Los Convidados No. 3 Agave Spirit 10 Clase Azul Reposado Reposado Tequila 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.

In the world of bourbon, few names command as much respect and admiration as Buffalo Trace. Renowned for its impeccable craftsmanship and a history that spans over two centuries, Buffalo Trace is a beacon of excellence in American whiskey. Whether you're a seasoned bourbon connoisseur or just beginning your journey, understanding the legacy and offerings of Buffalo Trace is essential. At The Bourbon Concierge, we’re dedicated to guiding you through this iconic brand’s rich history and diverse portfolio, ensuring you find the perfect bottle for any occasion. The Distillery That Defined American Bourbon Buffalo Trace Distillery is more than just a name; it’s a legend in the world of spirits. Established in 1775, it holds the distinction of being the oldest continuously operating distillery in the United States. This remarkable heritage has been recognized with numerous accolades, including the prestigious "Distillery of the Year" award from Whisky Magazine and "Brand Innovator of the Year" from the International Wine and Spirits Competition. These honors underscore Buffalo Trace's commitment to quality, innovation, and tradition. Throughout its storied history, Buffalo Trace has played a pivotal role in shaping the bourbon industry. From surviving Prohibition to pioneering new distillation techniques, the distillery has consistently set the standard for excellence. With each bottle, Buffalo Trace not only delivers exceptional bourbon but also a piece of American history. A Symphony of Flavor When exploring Buffalo Trace’s offerings, it’s important to note that Buffalo Trace isn’t just a distillery; it’s also a brand under the distillery’s umbrella.  Buffalo Trace Bourbon, the flagship brand, is known for its rich, complex flavor, making it a favorite among bourbon enthusiasts. However, the distillery also produces other legendary brands like Blanton’s, which is celebrated as the world’s first single-barrel bourbon, and the highly coveted Pappy Van Winkle, often regarded as the pinnacle of bourbon excellence. In addition to these, Eagle Rare and Weller offer distinct tastes that cater to both traditionalists and those seeking something a bit different. Each brand under the Buffalo Trace umbrella represents a different aspect of the distillery’s commitment to quality and variety, ensuring there’s a perfect bourbon for every palate. Craftsmanship at Its Finest Buffalo Trace’s commitment to craftsmanship is what truly sets it apart in the crowded world of bourbon. From the careful selection of grains to the unique yeast strains used in fermentation, every step of the production process is meticulously controlled to ensure the highest quality. One of the standout features of Buffalo Trace is its ability to produce both everyday sipping whiskies and unique, complex varieties. The flagship Buffalo Trace Bourbon, with its smooth and well-balanced flavor, is perfect for those looking to enjoy a refined whiskey on any occasion. Meanwhile, bottles like Blanton’s and Eagle Rare offer deeper, more complex flavor profiles that are best savored neat, allowing drinkers to fully appreciate the nuanced layers of caramel, vanilla, and spice. This versatility is a testament to Buffalo Trace’s expertise in catering to a wide range of tastes, from those who enjoy a casual glass to seasoned connoisseurs who savor every drop. Rare and Coveted Bottles For bourbon enthusiasts and collectors alike, Buffalo Trace’s limited-edition releases are a treasure trove of rare and highly sought-after bottles. These limited editions, often released in small quantities, are celebrated for their exceptional quality and unique characteristics. The Antique Collection, featuring bottles like George T. Stagg and Sazerac, is a prime example of Buffalo Trace’s ability to create bourbons that are both complex and robust. These bottles are not just drinks; they’re experiences, offering a depth of flavor that is the result of years of careful aging and craftsmanship. A unique offering from Buffalo Trace is Bourbon Cream, a delightful liqueur that blends rich dairy cream with the distillery’s signature bourbon. While it may not be as widely known as some of the other offerings, its occasional availability makes it a coveted find, perfect for those looking to add a luxurious touch to their after-dinner drinks. At The Bourbon Concierge, we specialize in sourcing these rare and limited-edition bottles, ensuring that our clients have access to some of the most exclusive bourbons in the world. Perfect Bourbons to Begin Your Journey If you’re new to bourbon, Buffalo Trace offers several approachable options that serve as a perfect introduction to this rich and varied spirit. Buffalo Trace Bourbon, the distillery’s flagship product, is an excellent starting point. Its smooth, well-rounded flavor profile, featuring notes of caramel, vanilla, and spice, makes it an ideal choice for sipping neat, on the rocks, or in your favorite cocktails. For those looking for a slightly different experience, Weller Special Reserve offers a softer, wheat-based profile that is milder and sweeter, making it perfect for beginners. These bourbons are not only versatile but also provide a great introduction to the broader world of Buffalo Trace’s offerings, ensuring that you find a taste that suits your preferences. Let Us Guide You Through the Diverse World of Buffalo Trace Buffalo Trace’s legacy in the bourbon world is unmatched, offering a diverse portfolio that ranges from accessible, beginner-friendly options to rare, collectible editions. Whether you’re just starting your bourbon journey or are a seasoned connoisseur, Buffalo Trace has something to offer. At The Bourbon Concierge, we’re more than just a retailer; we’re your trusted partner in navigating the rich world of bourbon. Our expertise ensures that you’ll find the perfect bottle, whether it’s a well-known favorite or a rare gem. If you’re searching for a specific vintage, need recommendations based on your taste preferences, or are looking to add something unique to your collection, our team is here to assist. Explore our curated selection of Buffalo Trace bourbons today and discover why this iconic distillery continues to be a favorite among bourbon lovers. Contact The Bourbon Concierge now, and let us help you find the perfect bottle to elevate your next gathering or add to your collection. Cheers to great bourbon and even better experiences!   Photo by Josh Collesano on Unsplash