Liquor

55 Top Tequila Cocktails and Mixed Drinks for Your Parties

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A refreshing drink, possibly a cocktail, served in a glass. The drink is a vibrant red, garnished with a slice of lime and a sprig of mint

Ready to shake up your cocktail game? For tequila lovers, there’s a whole world beyond the original margarita waiting to be discovered. So including some cool margarita variations, let’s look at 55 tequila cocktails.

These drinks bring together simple ingredients in perfect harmony to create the best tequila cocktails you’ve ever tasted.

From classics served in a rocks glass with plenty of ice to spicy cocktails that pack a touch of spice, each recipe is crafted to wake up your taste buds. Whether you’re planning a dinner party or just craving something special on a hot summer day, these drinks deliver.

We’re mixing bright lime with good quality 100% agave tequila, exploring combinations with orange liqueur, and even taking some tropical paradise inspiration. Some are as simple as a splash of lime and soda water, while others bring complex layers of citrus juices and agave nectar.

A glass filled with a light-colored beverage, garnished with slices of green jalapeno peppers and a red chili salt rim

55 Top Tequila Cocktails

1. Spicy Margarita

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz tequila
  • 1 oz fresh lime juice
  • 3/4 oz triple sec or Cointreau
  • 1/2 oz agave syrup
  • Fresh jalapeño slices
  • Salt for rim (optional)

Instructions:

Rim the glass with salt if desired. Muddle a few jalapeño slices in a shaker. Add tequila, lime juice, triple sec, and agave syrup with ice. Shake well and strain into a glass over ice. Garnish with additional jalapeño slices.

2. Classic Margarita

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz tequila
  • 1 oz triple sec or Cointreau
  • 1 oz fresh lime juice
  • Salt for rim (optional)

Instructions:

Rim the glass with salt if desired. In a shaker, combine tequila, triple sec, and lime juice with ice. Shake well and strain into a glass over fresh ice. Garnish with a lime wheel.

A tall glass filled with a vibrant orange-red beverage

3. Tequila Sunrise

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz tequila
  • 4 oz orange juice
  • 1/2 oz grenadine

Instructions:

Fill a glass with ice and add tequila and orange juice. Slowly pour grenadine, allowing it to sink for a sunrise effect. Do not stir. Garnish with an orange slice and cherry if desired.

4. Paloma

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz tequila
  • 1/2 oz lime juice
  • 4 oz grapefruit soda or fresh grapefruit juice and club soda
  • Salt for rim (optional)

Instructions:

Rim the glass with salt if desired. In the glass, add tequila, lime juice, and grapefruit soda or juice and club soda over ice. Stir gently to combine. Garnish with a grapefruit slice.

Two copper mugs placed side by side on a white surface. Each mug is filled with a dark liquid, possibly a cocktail

5. Tequila Mule (Mexican Mule)

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz tequila
  • 1/2 oz lime juice
  • 4 oz ginger beer
  • Lime wedge for garnish

Instructions:

In a copper mug filled with ice, add tequila and lime juice. Top with ginger beer and stir gently. Garnish with a lime wedge.

6. Ranch Water

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz tequila
  • 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
  • 4 oz sparkling water
  • Lime wedge for garnish

Instructions:

Fill a glass with ice. Add tequila and lime juice, then top with sparkling water. Stir gently and garnish with a lime wedge.

A refreshing pink beverage in a glass, garnished with a sprig of rosemary. Beside the glass, there are slices of lime and a halved grapefruit

7. Tequila Mocking Goat

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz tequila
  • 1 oz fresh lime juice
  • 1/2 oz agave syrup
  • 3 oz grapefruit soda
  • Rosemary sprig for garnish

Instructions:

In a shaker, combine tequila, lime juice, and agave syrup with ice. Shake and strain into a glass over ice. Top with grapefruit soda and garnish with a rosemary sprig.

8. Apple Cider Margarita

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz tequila
  • 1 oz apple cider
  • 1/2 oz triple sec
  • 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
  • Cinnamon sugar for rim (optional)

Instructions:

Rim the glass with cinnamon sugar if desired. In a shaker, combine tequila, apple cider, triple sec, and lime juice with ice. Shake well and strain into the prepared glass. Garnish with an apple slice or cinnamon stick.

9. El Diablo

Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 oz tequila
  • 1/2 oz crème de cassis
  • 1/2 oz lime juice
  • 3 oz ginger beer

Instructions:

In a shaker, combine tequila, crème de cassis, and lime juice with ice. Shake well and strain into a glass filled with ice. Top with ginger beer and stir gently. Garnish with a lime wedge or blackberry if desired.

10. Honey Trap

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz tequila
  • 1 oz honey syrup (equal parts honey and water)
  • 1 oz fresh lemon juice
  • Fresh thyme for garnish

Instructions:

In a shaker, combine tequila, honey syrup, and lemon juice with ice. Shake well and strain into a glass over ice. Garnish with a sprig of fresh thyme.

Two glasses filled with a translucent, pale-yellow beverage. The rim of each glass is coated with a salt-like substance

11. Cadillac Margarita

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz premium tequila
  • 1 oz Grand Marnier
  • 1 oz fresh lime juice
  • Salt for rim (optional)

Instructions:

Rim the glass with salt if desired. In a shaker, combine tequila, Grand Marnier, and lime juice with ice. Shake well and strain into a glass over fresh ice. Garnish with a lime wedge.

12. Watermelon Mint Margarita

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz tequila
  • 1 oz fresh lime juice
  • 1/2 oz agave syrup
  • 3-4 fresh mint leaves
  • 1/2 cup fresh watermelon juice

Instructions:

In a shaker, muddle the mint leaves. Add tequila, lime juice, agave syrup, and watermelon juice with ice. Shake well and strain into a glass over ice. Garnish with a mint sprig or watermelon slice.

13. Tequila Negroni

Ingredients:

  • 1 oz tequila
  • 1 oz sweet vermouth
  • 1 oz Campari
  • Orange twist for garnish

Instructions:

In a mixing glass filled with ice, combine tequila, sweet vermouth, and Campari. Stir until well-chilled and strain into a glass over ice. Garnish with an orange twist.

14. Tequila Espresso Martini

Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 oz tequila
  • 1 oz espresso, freshly brewed
  • 1/2 oz coffee liqueur
  • 1/2 oz simple syrup (optional)
  • Coffee beans for garnish

Instructions:

In a shaker filled with ice, combine tequila, espresso, coffee liqueur, and simple syrup if desired. Shake vigorously and strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with coffee beans.

a glass filled with a golden-brown liquid, possibly a cocktail, garnished with a slice of citrus, possibly an orange as well as 2 brandy-soaked cherries

15. Tequila Manhattan (Distrito Federal)

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz añejo tequila
  • 1 oz sweet vermouth
  • 2 dashes Angostura bitters
  • Cherry for garnish

Instructions:

In a mixing glass filled with ice, combine tequila, sweet vermouth, and bitters. Stir until well-chilled and strain into a chilled glass. Garnish with a cherry.

two elegant glasses filled with a refreshing, pale-yellow beverage

16. Tommy’s Margarita

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz tequila
  • 1 oz fresh lime juice
  • 1/2 oz agave syrup
  • Salt for rim (optional)

Instructions:

Rim the glass with salt if desired. In a shaker, combine tequila, lime juice, and agave syrup with ice. Shake well and strain into a glass over fresh ice or serve straight up in a martini glass. Garnish with a lime wedge.

Tommy’s, of course, refers to the San Francisco restaurant run by the late Tommy Bermejo. Stop by the bar run by his son, Julio Bermejo, for some amazing tequila, great stories, and a lot of fun.

17. Jalapeño Pineapple Margarita

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz tequila
  • 1 oz pineapple juice
  • 1 oz lime juice
  • 1/2 oz triple sec
  • Fresh jalapeño slices
  • Salt or chili powder for rim (optional)

Instructions:

Rim the glass with salt or chili powder if desired. Muddle jalapeño slices in a shaker, then add tequila, pineapple juice, lime juice, and triple sec with ice. Shake well and strain into a glass over ice. Garnish with a jalapeño slice or pineapple wedge.

A clear glass containing a vibrant orange-yellow beverage, topped with a frothy white layer. Resting atop the beverage is a slice of lime and a

18. Tequila Sour

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz tequila
  • 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
  • 3/4 oz simple syrup
  • 1 egg white (optional)
  • Lemon twist or cherry for garnish

Instructions:

In a shaker, combine tequila, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white if using (dry shake without ice for foam). Add ice and shake again until well-chilled. Strain into a glass and garnish with a lemon twist or cherry.

19. Tequila Lemonade

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz tequila
  • 4 oz lemonade
  • 1/2 oz lime juice
  • Lemon slice for garnish

Instructions:

Fill a glass with ice. Add tequila, lemonade, and lime juice. Stir well and garnish with a lemon slice.

20. Siesta

Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 oz tequila
  • 1/2 oz Campari
  • 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
  • 1/2 oz simple syrup
  • 1/2 oz grapefruit juice

Instructions:

In a shaker, combine tequila, Campari, lime juice, simple syrup, and grapefruit juice with ice. Shake well and strain into a chilled glass. Garnish with a grapefruit twist.

A sophisticated cocktail setting. A crystal-cut glass holds a golden liquid, possibly whiskey, with ice cubes. Resting atop the glass is a

21. Oaxaca Old Fashioned

Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 oz reposado tequila
  • 1/2 oz mezcal
  • 1/4 oz agave syrup
  • 2 dashes Angostura bitters
  • Orange twist for garnish

Instructions:

In a mixing glass filled with ice, combine tequila, mezcal, agave syrup, and bitters. Stir well and strain into a glass over a large ice cube. Garnish with an orange twist.

22. Gingerbread Margarita

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz tequila
  • 1 oz gingerbread syrup
  • 1 oz fresh lime juice
  • 1/2 oz triple sec
  • Crushed gingerbread cookie for rim (optional)

Instructions:

Rim the glass with crushed gingerbread cookie if desired. In a shaker, combine tequila, gingerbread syrup, lime juice, and triple sec with ice. Shake well and strain into the prepared glass over ice. Garnish with a lime wheel.

A clear glass filled with a pinkish beverage, possibly a cocktail. A slice of orange is submerged in the drink, and the rim of the glass

23. Tequila Screwdriver

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz tequila
  • 4 oz orange juice
  • Orange slice for garnish

Instructions:

Fill a glass with ice. Add tequila and orange juice, then stir. Garnish with an orange slice.

24. Cilantro Jalapeño Mojito

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz tequila
  • 1 oz fresh lime juice
  • 1/2 oz simple syrup
  • Fresh cilantro leaves
  • Fresh jalapeño slices
  • Club soda

Instructions:

Muddle cilantro and jalapeño in a shaker. Add tequila, lime juice, and simple syrup with ice, and shake well. Strain into a glass over ice, then top with club soda. Garnish with additional cilantro and a jalapeño slice.

25. Tequila Tonic

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz tequila
  • 4 oz tonic water
  • Lime wedge for garnish

Instructions:

Fill a glass with ice. Add tequila and tonic water, then stir gently. Garnish with a lime wedge.

26. Frozen Margarita

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz tequila
  • 1 oz triple sec
  • 1 oz fresh lime juice
  • 1 cup ice
  • Salt for rim (optional)

Instructions:

Rim the glass with salt if desired. In a blender, combine tequila, triple sec, lime juice, and ice. Blend until smooth and pour into the prepared glass. Garnish with a lime wedge.

27. Grilled Pineapple Tequila Punch

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz tequila
  • 4 oz grilled pineapple juice
  • 1 oz lime juice
  • 1/2 oz agave syrup
  • Grilled pineapple slice for garnish

Instructions:

In a shaker, combine tequila, grilled pineapple juice, lime juice, and agave syrup with ice. Shake well and strain into a glass over ice. Garnish with a grilled pineapple slice.

28. Watermelon Tequila Aguas Frescas

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz tequila
  • 1 cup fresh watermelon juice
  • 1/2 oz lime juice
  • Mint sprig for garnish

Instructions:

In a glass filled with ice, combine tequila, watermelon juice, and lime juice. Stir well and garnish with a mint sprig.

A glass filled with a vibrant green liquid, possibly a cocktail or mocktail. The rim of the glass is adorned with a white salt or sugar, giving it a

29. Cucumber Tequila Cooler

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz tequila
  • 1/2 oz lime juice
  • 1/2 oz simple syrup
  • 3-4 cucumber slices
  • Club soda

Instructions:

Muddle cucumber slices in a shaker. Add tequila, lime juice, and simple syrup with ice, then shake. Strain into a glass over ice and top with club soda. Garnish with a cucumber slice.

30. Pomegranate Margarita

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz tequila
  • 1 oz pomegranate juice
  • 1 oz fresh lime juice
  • 1/2 oz triple sec
  • Pomegranate seeds for garnish

Instructions:

In a shaker, combine tequila, pomegranate juice, lime juice, and triple sec with ice. Shake well and strain into a glass over ice. Garnish with pomegranate seeds.

A cocktail glass filled with a vibrant pink liquid, topped with a frothy white foam. A triangular piece of citrus, possibly an orange peel

31. Blood Orange Margarita

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz tequila
  • 1 oz fresh blood orange juice
  • 1 oz fresh lime juice
  • 1/2 oz triple sec
  • Blood orange slice for garnish

Instructions:

In a shaker, combine tequila, blood orange juice, lime juice, and triple sec with ice. Shake well and strain into a glass over ice. Garnish with a blood orange slice.

32. Strawberry Margarita

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz tequila
  • 1 oz fresh lime juice
  • 1 oz triple sec
  • 1/2 cup fresh strawberries, sliced
  • Salt or sugar for rim (optional)

Instructions:

Rim the glass with salt or sugar if desired. Muddle strawberries in a shaker, then add tequila, lime juice, and triple sec with ice. Shake well and strain into the prepared glass. Garnish with a strawberry slice.

33. Mango Margarita

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz tequila
  • 1 oz fresh lime juice
  • 1/2 oz triple sec
  • 1/4 cup fresh mango, diced
  • Salt for rim (optional)

Instructions:

Rim the glass with salt if desired. Muddle mango in a shaker, then add tequila, lime juice, and triple sec with ice. Shake well and strain into the prepared glass. Garnish with a mango slice.

A clear glass filled ice cubes and a pinkish liquid, possibly water, and a grapefruit peel twist on the side of the rim

34. Chipilo Cocktail

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz tequila
  • 1 oz Aperol
  • 1 oz fresh grapefruit juice
  • 1/2 oz simple syrup
  • Grapefruit twist for garnish

Instructions:

In a shaker, combine tequila, Aperol, grapefruit juice, and simple syrup with ice. Shake well and strain into a glass over ice. Garnish with a grapefruit twist.

Two elegant glasses filled with a vibrant pinkish-red liquid, possibly a cocktail. Each glass is adorned with a slice of lime on the rim

35. Here Comes the Sun

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz tequila
  • 1 oz orange juice
  • 1/2 oz carrot juice
  • 1/2 oz lime juice
  • Orange twist for garnish

Instructions:

In a shaker, combine tequila, orange juice, carrot juice, and lime juice with ice. Shake well and strain into a glass over ice. Garnish with an orange twist.

36. Rosita

Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 oz tequila
  • 1/2 oz dry vermouth
  • 1/2 oz sweet vermouth
  • 1/2 oz Campari
  • Orange twist for garnish

Instructions:

In a mixing glass filled with ice, combine tequila, dry vermouth, sweet vermouth, and Campari. Stir well and strain into a glass. Garnish with an orange twist.

37. Bee’s Knees with Tequila

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz tequila
  • 3/4 oz honey syrup (equal parts honey and water)
  • 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
  • Lemon twist for garnish

Instructions:

In a shaker, combine tequila, honey syrup, and lemon juice with ice. Shake well and strain into a glass. Garnish with a lemon twist.

A vibrant cocktail glass filled with a red beverage, garnished with a slice of blood orange and a lime wedge

38. Italian Margarita

Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 oz tequila
  • 1/2 oz amaretto
  • 1 oz fresh lime juice
  • 1/2 oz orange juice
  • Orange slice for garnish

Instructions:

In a shaker, combine tequila, amaretto, lime juice, and orange juice with ice. Shake well and strain into a glass over ice. Garnish with an orange slice.

39. Tequila and Pineapple Juice

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz tequila
  • 4 oz pineapple juice
  • Pineapple wedge for garnish

Instructions:

Fill a glass with ice. Add tequila and pineapple juice, then stir. Garnish with a pineapple wedge.

40. Tequila Old Fashioned (Añejo New Fashioned)

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz añejo tequila
  • 1/4 oz agave syrup
  • 2 dashes Angostura bitters
  • Orange twist for garnish

Instructions:

In a mixing glass filled with ice, combine tequila, agave syrup, and bitters. Stir well and strain into a glass over a large ice cube. Garnish with an orange twist.

41. Blanco Tequila Spritz

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz blanco tequila
  • 3 oz sparkling water
  • 1/2 oz fresh lime juice
  • Lime wheel for garnish

Instructions:

In a glass filled with ice, add tequila, sparkling water, and lime juice. Stir gently and garnish with a lime wheel.

a cocktail glass containing a beverage that is amber in color and has ice cubes. A hand holding a lit matchstick to A sprig of rosemary is also

42. Smoky Rosemary Margarita

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz tequila
  • 1 oz fresh lime juice
  • 1/2 oz triple sec
  • 1/2 oz agave syrup
  • Smoked rosemary sprig for garnish

Instructions:

In a shaker, combine tequila, lime juice, triple sec, and agave syrup with ice. Shake well and strain into a glass over ice. Garnish with a smoked rosemary sprig.

43. Cilantro Lime Margarita

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz tequila
  • 1 oz fresh lime juice
  • 1/2 oz triple sec
  • 1/2 oz agave syrup
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

In a shaker, combine tequila, lime juice, triple sec, and agave syrup with ice. Shake well and strain into a glass over ice. Garnish with fresh cilantro.

A sophisticated cocktail in a clear glass, garnished with three coffee beans on its frothy surface. The drink appears to have two layers

44. Espresso Tequila Tini

Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 oz tequila
  • 1 oz espresso, freshly brewed
  • 1/2 oz coffee liqueur
  • 1/2 oz simple syrup
  • Coffee beans for garnish

Instructions:

In a shaker, combine tequila, espresso, coffee liqueur, and simple syrup with ice. Shake vigorously and strain into a glass. Garnish with coffee beans.

45. Tequila Green Juice

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz tequila
  • 1/2 cup green juice
  • 1/2 oz lime juice
  • Celery stick for garnish

Instructions:

In a glass filled with ice, combine tequila, green juice, and lime juice. Stir well and garnish with a celery stick.

46. Blackberry Tequila Smash

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz tequila
  • 1 oz fresh lime juice
  • 1/2 oz agave syrup
  • 5-6 fresh blackberries
  • Mint leaves for garnish

Instructions:

Muddle blackberries in a shaker. Add tequila, lime juice, and agave syrup with ice, then shake well. Strain into a glass over ice and garnish with mint leaves.

A vibrant, red-colored cocktail garnished with a green celery stalk, a dried red chili, and a slice of lime

47. Tequila Bloody Mary (Bloody Maria)

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz tequila
  • 4 oz tomato juice
  • 1/2 oz lime juice
  • 2 dashes hot sauce
  • Celery stalk for garnish

Instructions:

In a shaker, combine tequila, tomato juice, lime juice, and hot sauce with ice. Shake well and strain into a glass over ice. Garnish with a celery stalk.

48. Strawberry Tequila Spritzer

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz tequila
  • 1/2 oz lime juice
  • 1/4 cup strawberry puree
  • 3 oz sparkling water
  • Strawberry slice for garnish

Instructions:

In a glass filled with ice, combine tequila, lime juice, and strawberry puree. Top with sparkling water and stir. Garnish with a strawberry slice.

49. Grapefruit Basil Tequila Smash

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz tequila
  • 1 oz fresh grapefruit juice
  • 1/2 oz lime juice
  • 1/2 oz simple syrup
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions:

Muddle basil leaves in a shaker. Add tequila, grapefruit juice, lime juice, and simple syrup with ice, and shake well. Strain into a glass over ice and garnish with basil leaves.

50. Tequila Limeade

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz tequila
  • 4 oz limeade
  • Lime wedge for garnish

Instructions:

In a glass filled with ice, combine tequila and limeade. Stir and garnish with a lime wedge.

A martini glass filled with a clear liquid, possibly a cocktail. The rim of the glass is coated with a white, sugary substance, reminiscent of a salted

51. Mexican Martini

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz tequila
  • 1 oz fresh lime juice
  • 1/2 oz triple sec
  • 1/2 oz olive brine
  • Olive for garnish

Instructions:

In a shaker, combine tequila, lime juice, triple sec, and olive brine with ice. Shake well and strain into a martini glass. Garnish with an olive.

52. Lavender Margarita

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz tequila
  • 1 oz fresh lime juice
  • 1/2 oz lavender syrup
  • 1/2 oz triple sec
  • Lavender sprig for garnish

Instructions:

In a shaker, combine tequila, lime juice, lavender syrup, and triple sec with ice. Shake well and strain into a glass over ice. Garnish with a lavender sprig.

53. Jalapeño Watermelon Margarita

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz tequila
  • 1 oz fresh lime juice
  • 1/2 oz agave syrup
  • 1/4 cup watermelon puree
  • Fresh jalapeño slices

Instructions:

Muddle jalapeño slices in a shaker. Add tequila, lime juice, agave syrup, and watermelon puree with ice. Shake well and strain into a glass over ice. Garnish with a jalapeño slice.

A glass, possibly a cocktail or dessert glass, filled with a creamy beverage. The rim of the glass is garnished with a sprinkle of what

54. Chocolate Tequila Martini

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz tequila
  • 1 oz chocolate liqueur
  • 1/2 oz coffee liqueur
  • Chocolate shavings for garnish

Instructions:

In a shaker, combine tequila, chocolate liqueur, and coffee liqueur with ice. Shake well and strain into a glass. Garnish with chocolate shavings.

55. White Lady with Tequila

Ingredients:

  • 1 1/2 oz tequila
  • 3/4 oz triple sec
  • 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
  • Lemon twist for garnish

Instructions:

In a shaker, combine tequila, triple sec, and lemon juice with ice. Shake well and strain into a glass. Garnish with a lemon twist.

A glass filled with a vibrant orange-red beverage, garnished with a slice of lime on the rim

Final Thoughts

Every great cocktail starts with a cocktail shaker and a dash of creativity. From the most popular cocktails to unique recipes adding a tequila twist to classic drinks, these recipes will keep your parties exciting.

Remember that premium tequila that is 100% agave, such as many of the tequilas available at Trader Joe’s, fresh citrus, and high-quality mixers like Topo Chico make all the difference. Even a simple squeeze of lime and maraschino liqueur can transform into something spectacular with the right technique.

Whether you’re mixing up drinks with orange bitters for sophistication or adding a spicy kick for adventure, the key is quality ingredients and proper mixing. Don’t forget the basics: fresh ice, proper measurements, and good technique with your cocktail shaker.

Let these recipes inspire you to become your own mixologist. With practice, you’ll develop an instinct for the perfect mix that makes every drink special. Planning a party, these drinks along with my amazing collection of drinking quotes are all you need to get started!

Remember to drink responsibly and ensure everyone enjoying these cocktails is of legal drinking age.

What Tequila Does Trader Joe’s Sell? [Complete Price List]

by

Liquor isn’t allowed to be sold in grocery stores in every state. But where it does, if they have a Trader Joe’s, that’s a great place to buy liquor, especially tequila. But what tequila does Trader Joe’s sell?

Trader Joe’s sells many top-name brands such as Milagro, Cazadores, Hornitos, and Casamigos in addition to a number of private-label tequila varieties sold under the Trader Joe’s name.

But does every TJs that can sell liquor carry all of these brands? And who makes their house brand tequilas and are they any good? And does TJs have the best price on tequila?

Let’s dive into the details.

Does Trader Joe’s only sell their brand of tequila?

Trader Joe’s stocks many top name-brand tequilas in addition to several varieties of their house-brand tequila. The brand names often available include Cazadores, Milagro, Casamigos, Espolòn, and Casamigos.

However, not every name brand is sold in every state that allows liquor sales.

In fact, its liquor selection is one reason many customers swear by the quirky yet highly successful store. It offers name-brand bottles at prices that won’t break the bank.

But in order to offer its customers good products at low prices, most of its products are private labels. In fact, it’s one of the secrets some stores can offer high-quality products at prices that often make us question their quality.

As an example, a Tequila you’ll get at TJ (its own private label) for, let’s say, $24 could be available under a different name and packaging and a slightly different expression for $56.

There are those who’ll argue that ShopRite is a better deal than Trader Joe’s. Which one’s better? That’s what I explored in a recent article of mine. It’s no secret that TJ’s is cheaper, but there is one reason that thousands flock to ShopRite instead.

Just click the link to read it on my site.

Here are the brands and prices I saw at Trader Joe’s in Santa Fe on a recent visit

All are 750 ml bottles, except Campo Azul which are 1-liter bottles.

The biggest downside to their overall great selection is that they only carry 1 type of Añejo tequila, and it’s their house brand. That doesn’t mean it’s bad, but there are no premium high-end tequilas like a Don Julio Añejo of Don Julio 1942.

Brand of Tequila Price
Campo Azul Blanco $13.99
Campo Azul Reposado $13.99
Casamigos Blanco $43.99
Cazadores Reposado $24.99
Espolòn Blanco $24.99
Espolòn Reposado $24.99
Hornitos Reposado $22.99
Mi Campo Blanco $21.99
Mi Campo Reposado $21.99
Milagro Blanco $25.99
Teremana Blanco $27.99
Teremana Reposado $31.99
Trader Joes Blanco $19.99
Trader Joes Añejo $22.99

They also sell 1 variety each of Sauza and Cuervo, but most of their products are terrible, so I’m not going to waste much space talking about them. If you must drink Sauza, at least get their Hornitos line. For Cuervo, get their Reserva de la Familia or Tradicional lines.

Remember, the only good tequila is 100% agave. Steer clear of anything that doesn’t proudly and prominently say that on the label clearly.

Is Trader Joe’s Tequila good?

Trader Joe’s house brands of tequila are outstanding and manufactured by many well-known and respected distilleries such as Cazadores, El Mayor, and Exotico.

And as all good tequila is, TJ’s house brands are all 100% agave.

TJ’s Tequila Blanco is of high quality, and it goes for a song. You probably know El Mayor and Exotico, TJ’s Tequila, which scored 92 percent in a recent competition and won a Gold Medal, is made the maker of these brands.

It’s a distillery known as Destiladora Gonzalez Gonzalez.

TJs Tequila is very good. It’s not surprising that some reviewers also agree with me. Christopher Null of drinkhacker.com rates TJs Tequila very high.

He mentioned its vanilla (which he thought is surprising), pepper, hay, lemongrass, and of course, the agave. He remarked that its finish is long and lasting. He thought it’s a classy Tequila. By the way, I should mention that it’s 80 proof (that’s an ABV of 40%).

If you like to know more about liquor sales in general at TJ, check out a recent article of mine, where I explored the theme across all types of liquor, not just tequila. What really surprised me was just how amazingly cheap one of the top vodkas was there.

Just click that link to read it on my site.

Who makes Trader Joe’s tequila reposado?

The manufacturer of Trader Joe’s Tequila Reposado is the company El Viejito from Guadalajara in Jalisco, Mexico. Under their brand label, El Viejito tequilas typically rate in the mid to high 80s on tequila review sites.

But private label manufacturers do change over time, so they may not always be the manufacturer.

By now, you probably know that a considerable chunk of Trader Joe’s products are private-label items. Most stores don’t declare who makes products for them.

It’s often deliberately kept secret. Interestingly, the manufacturers also keep mum. (Maybe that’s the real meaning of “private” in private label). Seriously, it’s easy to sense what could happen if we knew the manufacturers of the private-label items we buy.

It’ll have a negative impact on the revenue of brand-name items. That’s one of the things that’ll happen. Why would you pay $67 for a product if you could get nearly the same item at $47? 

Can you buy Casamigos tequila at Trader Joe’s?

Trader Joe’s does sell Casamigos tequila, but not in every state that allows liquor in grocery stores. For example, it does not sell it at Trader Joe’s stores in California, but it does in New Mexico. Patrón tequila is the same way. It is not sold in California but is in other states.

But skip the Patron; Casamigos is much better.

Casamigos (House of Friends) was started by George Clooney and two of his friends. Mr. Clooney came up with the idea that they should create one of the best-tasting and smoothest Tequilas (for their own drinking pleasure).

In time, it’s become a multiple award-winning drink that Diego eventually bought for a billion dollars!

To see if the TJ’s near you sell Casamigos, simply put in your zip code on the Casamigos website and see if TJ’s shows up in the list that pops up.

You won’t find that info on TJ’s website.

Is Trader Joe’s Tequila Campo Azul any good?

Trader Joe’s Tequila Campo Azul has won the San Francisco WSC award in four different years. Plus, the Beverage Testing Institute rated it 92 in 2 different years.

Its ABV is 40%. Proof 80. Distiller: Productos Finos de Agave NOM 1416. The lovely-shaped bottle has a hologram around its neck. Perhaps a sign to prevent fake reproductions.

It’s smooth and light!

You can savor the exquisite blend of vanilla, cedar, chamomile, ginger, and pepper. It’s aged four months and has a neutral aroma, it has a straw color, and like all good tequilas, it’s 100% agave.

Can you get any tequila you want from your local grocery stores?

I am afraid the answer is: it depends. Even in 2021, some states don’t allow the sale of alcohol, and some have restrictions on the time stores can sell it.

This is what I explored in a recent article of mine. One of the things I shared is a convenient table showing you exactly what you need to know at a glance.

Just click the link to read it on my site.

Conclusion

Trader Joe is one of America’s beloved grocery stores with a near cult-like following.

Its liquor selection is one of its main attractions. We explored if it only sells its own brand of tequila, if they’re any good, and who makes its tequila.

And we even revealed whether you could buy George Clooney’s tequila at TJ’s too.

If you’re lucky enough to live in a state that allows grocery stores to sell liquor, it’s well worth shopping at TJ’s for tequila and other spirits.

Does Trader Joe’s Sell Liquor? (Complete state by state guide)

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Where and when you can get liquor to buy from a grocery store can be a tad confusing as it varies so much from state to state. But since Trader Joe’s is known to sell a lot of good stuff at low prices, you might be wondering, “Does Trader Joe’s sell liquor?”

Trader Joe’s does sell liquor in every state they operate in which allows grocery stores to sell liquor. Those states include California, Colorado, Illinois, and Massachusetts, and many others, with some states having additional restrictions.

But don’t worry.

Below, I’ll cover every state and all the limits and restrictions per state. And I’ll even review some of the details specifically about what brands Trader Joe’s carries in the states that allow it.

Let’s get started.

What states allow liquor to be sold in Trader Joe’s?

In the below table, you’ll find states and the opening times where you can get liquor in grocery stores. States that allow liquor are in bold.

 STATE ALLOW LIQUOR SALES AT GROCERY  STORES?  RESTRICTIONS
Alabama NO  
Alaska NO  
Arizona NO  
Arkansas NO  
California YES No restrictions. Mon-Sun(8AM-9PM)
Colorado YES No restrictions. Mon-Sun(8AM-9PM)
Connecticut NO  
Delaware NO  
Florida NO  
Georgia  NO  
Hawaii NO  
Idaho YES Mon-Sun(8AM-9PM)
Illinois YES 9AM-9PM
Indiana NO  
Iowa NO  
Kansas NO  
Kentucky YES 8AM – 9PM (Mon-Sat)
1PM – 9PM (Sun)
Louisiana YES  
Maine NO  
Maryland NO  
Massachusetts YES 9AM – 10PM (Mon-Sat) 10AM – 10PM (Sun) beer, wine, spirits
Michigan NO  
Minnesota YES 8AM – 9PM (Mon-Sat)
Mississippi NO  
Missouri YES 8am-10pm
Montana NO  
Nebraska YES 8AM-9PM
Nevada YES 8AM-9PM
New Hampshire NO  
New Jersey YES 9AM – 10PM (Mon-Sat) 12PM-10PM (Sun)
New Mexico YES 8am -9pm
New York NO  
North Carolina NO  
North Dakota NO  
Ohio NO  
Oklahoma NO  
Oregon NO  
Pennsylvania NO  
Rhode Island NO  
South Carolina NO  
South Dakota NO  
Tennessee NO  
Texas NO  
Utah NO  
Vermont NO  
Virginia NO  
Washington YES 8am-9pm
West Virginia NO  
Wisconsin YES 8am-9pm
Wyoming YES 8am-9pm

Is alcohol cheaper at Trader Joe’s?

Trader Joe’s does have lower prices on beer and wine, and liquor where available compared to most alcoholic beverage stores in the same areas. And their private label alcohol is significantly cheaper.

A bottle of that might be $20 elsewhere can typically be found at Trader Joe’s for $15. So, you might be wondering why they are cheap. 

So how cheap? It’s very cheap when you consider that a bottle of one of its most popular wines, Charles Shaw, goes for less than $3! It practically goes for a song. It’s available as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Chardonnay, in red and white varieties.

It’s so popular, more than a billion bottles have been sold.

It’s being made for TJ, under a contract, by Bronco Wine. Bronco Wine employs a variety of strategies to keep its overhead very low. This is why TJ gets to sell the wine at such rates. What of Vodka? Vodka at Costco goes for $12.99, while Gin at TJ sells for $11.99.

But I used to regularly buy my tequila, bourbon, and vodka at TJs when I lived in California.

And, for example, I used to buy Puerto Vallarta Tequila Blanco in a 750ml bottle for under 15 bucks. These days (and admittedly I left California in 2004) that same bottle sells elsewhere for $28.

These days, they mostly sell their private label tequila, but the prices will almost always be better on all alcohol at TJ’s.

Can you buy these goodies at any Trader Joe’s store, no matter where you live?

Actually, it depends. You’ll only be able to buy them in states that allow grocery stores to sell liquor. Not to worry, in a recent article of mine, I gave a complete guide, state by state.

Just click the link to read it on my site.

What kinds of liquor does Trader Joe’s sell?

Trader Joe’s sells vodka, tequila, bourbon, whiskey, rum, and most other common types of liquor. In many, but not all cases, the products sold will be labeled under the Trader Joe’s private label, but as with their other house-brand items, will be from reputable manufacturers.

For example, going back to my personal favorite, 100% agave tequila, Trader Joe’s sells their Trader Joe’s Blanco Tequila at rock bottom prices.

This tequila is made at the Destiladora Gonzalez Gonzalez, NOM 1143 who also make the brands El Mayor and Exotico. The TJs tequila actually scored a 92 in a recent competition and received a gold medal.

So they really do have great liquor at great prices.

They, of course, also have a full complement of other types of liquor, and the rumor is that aside from their Texas vodka, Absolut makes their other vodkas. But again, that’s just a rumor.

Does Trader Joe’s give a case discount on liquor?

Trader Joe’s doesn’t offer case discounts on liquor. Trader Joe’s mission is to sell the best products at the lowest prices every day without the need for sales or discounts. In fact, Trader Joe’s does not offer case discounts on any of its products.

Its products are mainly private label brands.

These are of high quality because they’re actually being manufactured by some of the best manufacturers of brand-name products. The store is not really the best place for bulk purchases (that’ll be Costco). But, as it is, its liquor prices are a steal.

Before I wrap up, I thought it’s nice I share some interesting facts about TJ and ShopRite.

Now, TJ is one of America’s favorite grocery stores, but there are those who love ShopRite with a passion. So, I took the time to research and explore both in a recent article of mine.

In the article, I looked at their prices, who has more organic products, whether you can order online from both stores, the best things to buy at TJ, and if it has better meat than ShopRite.

Just click that link to read it on my site.

Conclusion

In the preceding paragraphs, I looked at the states where you could get liquor at TJ.

But we also looked at whether the liquor is cheap, the types of liquor on offer, and whether you could get case discounts. The liquor goes for a song.

Understandably, there are no case discounts.

But with liquor, some people also want to buy smokes. Does Trader Joes sell tobacco products in its stores?

The answer I give in a recent article might surprise you. That’s especially considering that the brothers who started Trader Joe’s and Aldi had a huge falling out over selling cigarettes.

Just click that link to read it on my site.

Photo which requires attribution:

Hard Liquor in Trader Joe’s? by Bjorn is licensed under CC2.0

Why Don’t Grocery Stores Sell Liquor? (& which states allow it)

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If you enjoy a good cocktail but find it inconvenient to buy liquor at a liquor store, you may wonder why don’t grocery stores sell liquor?

After the end of prohibition in 1933, states were allowed to regulate alcohol sales themselves. But it resulted in a wide variety of laws from state to state. However, many states in the US do sell liquor at grocery stores. But, each county within the state can have its own laws regulating the sale of liquor.

But there’s a lot more to know than that!

Many states allow you to buy beer and/or wine in grocery stores. But some states do not sell any alcohol in grocery stores. Some states will allow you to buy liquor on Sundays, but even some of those don’t let you buy it before noon.

For example, in Nebraska, you cannot purchase liquor until noon. But in Florida, there are no time restrictions on liquor sales, but you can only purchase liquor from liquor stores.

And other states limit the liquor licenses chain stores have so not all locations may actually sell liquor. It all gets very confusing and frustrating.

But have no fear! We’ve done the leg work to make sure you are well informed about the sale of alcohol in various states.

Just keep reading!

What states do not sell alcohol in grocery stores?

Alcohol is prohibited from being sold in grocery stores in Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Alaska.

Alaska and Delaware have no Sunday restrictions, but you can only buy alcohol at liquor stores. This is any alcohol – beer, wine, and liquors such as tequila, vodka, gin, etc..

In fact, if you are in Alaska, you can’t even enter a licensed premises if you are under 21 years of age unless you are with a parent, guardian, or spouse that is of age. (source)

With a bar for every 60 residents, Alaska is notorious for having high rates of alcoholism.

As a result, they have a very high rate of violence and crime stemming from intoxication. So it’s no surprise that Alaska has such harsh laws regarding alcohol sales. They’ve even been known to arrest bar patrons for being too drunk. (source and source)

While you can’t purchase alcohol in all grocery stores in Pennsylvania, you can purchase beer from some gas stations. You can also purchase up to two six-packs of beer from local bars. (source)

However, over time, the laws have started to loosen a bit and some grocery stores have started selling alcohol. The grocery stores that are allowed to sell alcohol must do so at a separate register.

What states allow grocery stores to sell liquor?

The states listed below DO allow sales of liquor in grocery stores:

  • Arizona
  • California*
  • Illinois
  • Indiana
  • Louisiana**
  • Maine
  • Massachusetts
  • Michigan
  • Missouri
  • Nebraska
  • Nevada
  • New Mexico
  • North Dakota
  • South Dakota
  • Washington
  • West Virginia
  • Wisconsin
  • Wyoming

*Fun Fact: California does not allow alcohol to be displayed within five feet of the cash register if the establishment also sells motor fuel.

** Louisiana liquor sales are allowed in grocery stores. But, individual cities, towns, and villages may disallow it. Shreveport does not allow hard liquor sales in grocery and other non-liquor store outlets. Bossier city does allow hard liquor sales in grocery stores. Rural Caddo Parish allows it as well.

Each state comes with its own limitations on the sale of liquor in grocery stores.

Read this recent article for a more thorough explanation of what those limits are. You might find it interesting to know that Kentucky, home of Jim Beam, has some of the most confusing liquor laws in the country.

Just click the link to read it on my site.

What states don’t sell alcohol on Sundays?

There are several states with a Sunday ban on retail alcohol sales.

But even states with Sunday sales bans have caveats. Most of the states listed below ban liquor sales, but still allow beer and wine sales. Some take it a step further by banning Sunday sales at certain times during the day.

Those states are:

Arkansas Alcohol and liquor sales are prohibited in most counties on Sunday and statewide on Christmas day.
Georgia Alcohol sales vary by county. Counties that do allow Sunday sales cannot sell alcohol until 12:30 p.m.
Mississippi Liquor stores are closed on Sunday, but beer is still sold at grocery stores.
North Carolina State-run liquor stores are closed, which means no liquor sales. Beer is sold all day on Sunday at grocery stores.
South Carolina No hard liquor sales are permitted on Sunday. Beer and wine can be purchased all day.
Tennessee No wine or liquor sales are permitted on Sunday. Beer is sold all day.
Texas No liquor sales are permitted. Beer and wine cannot be sold until noon.
West Virginia No liquor sales are permitted. Beer and wine cannot be sold until 1:00 pm.

Why are they called blue laws?

Blue laws are designed to ban certain activities on Sunday for religious reasons, particularly to observe a day of worship or rest.

Some states ban horse racing and car sales on Sundays. Some states ban hunting on Sundays. A handful of states ban the sale of alcohol on Sunday.

I found two theories about why they are called blue laws. The first one is the one that I had always heard: that the laws were originally written on blue paper.

However, the more likely reason is based on the 18th-century usage of the word “blue.” In the 18th century, “blue” meant rigidly moral in a disparaging sense. (source)

They were originally enacted to encourage church attendance and restrict activity to that which was deemed worthy of observation on the Sabbath.

The first blue law was enacted in colonial Virginia in 1610. Though it wasn’t called a blue law, it mandated church attendance on Sundays. The law also prohibited unseemly behavior.

Drinking alcohol or public displays of affection were subject to penalties that included large fines or confinement.

Eventually, blue laws evolved to ban the sale of tobacco and alcohol as well as unnecessary labor. Some areas also prohibited some kinds of entertainment.

What states still have blue laws?

Many states still have blue laws in place, but most of them have been repealed in the United States.

Even so, the Supreme Court has held that blue laws are constitutional. Blue laws ensure that mail carriers get a day of rest, guarantee a day of rest for religious reasons, and protect workers and families.

Some states ban certain alcohol sales. Others ban car sales on Sundays and others ban horse racing.

The states below currently have blue laws in place:

Arkansas Alcohol and liquor sales are prohibited in most counties on Sunday and statewide on Christmas day.
Georgia Alcohol sales vary by county. Counties that do allow Sunday sales cannot sell alcohol until 12:30 p.m.
Illinois Horse racing is prohibited on Sundays, with exceptions. Car dealerships are closed on Sunday
Iowa Car sales and mobile home sales are prohibited on Sunday
Maine Hunting is prohibited on Sunday. Almost all businesses are prohibited from opening on Thanksgiving Day.
Maryland Car dealerships are prohibited from doing business on Sunday, with some exceptions. Professional sports teams are prohibited from playing games before 1:00 p.m. on Sunday.
Massachusetts Alcohol sales are banned on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and Memorial Day.
Minnesota Car dealerships are not allowed to do business on Sunday.
Mississippi Liquor stores are closed on Sunday, but beer is still sold at grocery stores.
North Carolina State-run liquor stores are closed, which means no liquor sales. Beer is sold all day on Sunday at grocery stores. Gun hunting is prohibited on Sunday between 9:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.
Oklahoma Car dealerships are closed on Sunday.
Pennsylvania Hunting is prohibited on Sunday, except for foxes, crows, and coyotes.
Tennessee No wine or liquor sales are permitted on Sunday. Beer is sold all day.
Texas car dealerships must be closed on either Saturday or Sunday. The dealer gets to choose which day. No liquor sales are permitted on Sunday. Beer and wine cannot be sold until noon.
West Virginia No liquor sales are permitted on Sunday. Beer and wine cannot be sold until 1:00 pm. Hunting is prohibited in all but 14 counties.

Final Thoughts

Trying to purchase alcohol, especially liquor, while you’re traveling from state to state can be very frustrating.

Laws are regulated at the state level and many states pass that responsibility down to counties and cities. I’ve discussed a few of those regulations including blue laws and how they affect alcohol sales in certain states.

I also talked about what states allow the sale of liquor at grocery stores, as well as any limitations. And, I even listed the states that do not allow the sale of liquor at grocery stores.

While this is a pretty thorough guide, you should still check the local laws. That’s especially true if you are going to a state that has different laws for different counties.

 

What States Allow Grocery Stores to Sell Liquor? (state by state)

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After the end of prohibition in 1933, states were allowed to regulate alcohol sales themselves. But it resulted in a wide variety of laws from state to state. So many have wondered what states allow grocery stores to sell liquor?

I decided to investigate and here’s what I learned:

The states listed below allow sales of liquor in grocery stores:

  •  
  • Arizona
  • California*
  • Illinois
  • Indiana
  • Louisiana**
  • Maine
  • Massachusetts
  • Michigan
  • Missouri
  • Nebraska
  • Nevada
  • New Mexico
  • North Dakota
  • South Dakota
  • Washington
  • West Virginia
  • Wisconsin
  • Wyoming

But there’s a lot more to know than that!

Many states allow you to buy beer in grocery stores. But some only allow you to buy wine. Some states will allow you to buy liquor on Sundays, but even some of those don’t let you buy it before noon.

For example, in Nebraska, you cannot purchase liquor until noon. But in Florida, there are no time restrictions on liquor sales, but you can only purchase liquor from liquor stores.

And other states limit the liquor licenses chain stores have so not all locations may actually sell liquor. It all gets very confusing and frustrating.

But have no fear! We’ve done the leg work to make sure you are well-informed about each state’s alcohol laws. However, if you aren’t familiar with why some states don’t allow it, click here to read this comprehensive article on my website that breaks down exactly why some states have restrictive liquor laws, and what you can do to try and change them.

Ready? Just keep reading!

** Louisiana liquor sales are allowed in grocery stores. But, individual cities, towns, and villages may disallow it. Shreveport does not allow hard liquor sales in grocery and other non-liquor store outlets. Bossier city does allow hard liquor sales in grocery stores. Rural Caddo Parish allows it as well.

Can you buy liquor on Sundays in the states that allow liquor in grocery stores?

The states listed below allow sales of liquor in grocery stores on Sunday:

  • Washington
  • California*
  • Nevada
  • Arizona
  • New Mexico
  • Wyoming
  • North Dakota
  • South Dakota
  • Nebraska**
  • Missouri
  • Illinois
  • Wisconsin
  • Michigan
  • Massachusetts

*California does not allow alcohol to be displayed within five feet of the cash register if the establishment also sells motor fuel. (Because it encourages drinking and driving???)

**Nebraska allows liquor sales on Sunday beginning at noon.

Indiana does allow the sale of liquor in grocery stores. However, there are no alcohol sales at grocery stores on Sunday whatsoever. West Virginia grocery stores are prohibited from selling liquor all day on Sunday.

Trader Joe’s is known for its low prices. But what about liquor? Do they sell it and is it also cheap?

Just click here to read my complete breakdown on Trader Joe’s and which states they are in allow them to sell liquor. But I also let you know what name brands they carry and the inside scoop on whether their prices are actually better than a liquor store.

How is alcohol regulated by the law?

Prohibition ended in 1933 with the ratification of the 21st amendment.

Since that time, alcohol has been regulated by a combination of federal, state, and local laws. These laws regulate the manufacturing and the sale of alcohol, as well as the drinking age.

The 21st amendment is the primary federal law governing alcohol policies. It also gives individual states control over whether to allow the sale of alcohol in the state at all.

It also regulates importing, distribution and possession of alcohol within the state. Some states offer local governments control over alcohol policy development and enforcement. Other states control alcohol policy at the state government level.

Unfortunately, the confusing state of affairs as it relates to alcohol policy is the drawback of giving states and local governments control over alcohol policy.

However, even with the flexibility of some laws at the state level, Congress maintains the power over certain alcohol policies, such as the minimum legal drinking age.

Love tequila? I sure do. But in the states that allow it, does Trader Joe’s carry tequila?

Click here to read this complete guide to EXACTLY what brands of tequila Trader Joe’s carries, how much of their selection is private label and what well-known brands actually make their private label tequila.

Which states have state-owned liquor stores?

In some states, the state has complete ownership and control over liquor stores.

This means that the stores generate income for the state. This money can be put towards education, infrastructure, or any other government needs. States also offer standardized training for liquor store owners and can restrict the number of liquor stores across the state.

Considering how many extra dollars are generated for the state, it’s interesting that there aren’t more states doing this. The states that currently have state-owned liquor stores are:

  • Alabama
  • Idaho
  • New Hampshire
  • North Carolina
  • Pennsylvania
  • Utah
  • Virginia 

State-owned liquor stores are typically closed on Sunday and voting day.

An Overview of Alcohol sales

This handy map put together by Christopher Ingraham of the Washington Post shows a birds-eye view of state alcohol sales in supermarkets.

Note: the states labeled “No Sales” allow the sale of beer with very low alcohol content. As Christopher Ingraham says, “Near beer isn’t real beer.”

Alcohol is prohibited from being sold in grocery stores in Pennsylvania, Delaware, and Alaska.

Maryland laws vary widely from county to county. Consult this county by county list to get the complete breakdown of laws.

Many states still prohibit the sale of alcohol on Sundays. Those that do allow sales on Sunday often can’t sell it until later in the day.

Check the state laws if you are planning on traveling to another state. It can be very frustrating if you are trying to buy alcohol, only to find out when you get to the register that you can’t purchase alcohol on Sunday.

Beer Only Sales

Utah, Colorado, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Minnesota allow only beer to be purchased at grocery stores.

However, grocery store sales are limited to beer with 4% ABV or lower. In Utah, beer over 4% ABV must be sold in state-run stores. Colorado, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Minnesota require that beer over 4% ABV be sold at liquor stores.

Of interest, Oklahoma requires that beer sold at liquor stores be sold at room temperature. (less likely to crack one open on the way home???)

New Jersey is interesting. While they do not limit the ABV of beer, grocery chains are only allowed 2 liquor licenses for the entire state.

This means that only 2 locations for each chain can sell beer in their stores. As a result, most grocery stores do not sell alcohol. Additionally, many establishments have a BYOB policy.

Liquor licenses are so expensive in New Jersey that they actually allow patrons to bring their own beer and wine for consumption.

Tennessee, Kentucky, Alabama, Mississippi, New York, and Connecticut all allow beer to be sold in grocery stores. However, there are some things you need to be mindful of:

Kentucky is said to have some of the most confusing liquor laws in the country.

They have wet, dry, and “moist” counties. It might be a good idea to check out their official wet/dry map before trying to purchase alcohol in Kentucky.

Alabama and Mississippi have several dry counties as well. Their official wet/dry lists can be found here and here, respectively.

Beer and Wine Sales

Southeastern states, along with Texas, Oregon, Indiana, Montana, Ohio, Vermont, and New Hampshire allow beer and wine sales in grocery stores.

Note: 40oz bottles of beer or malt liquor are not sold in Florida. The maximum available size is 32oz.

New Hampshire homebrewers take note: New Hampshire limits household beer or wine production to 100 gallons per year if you’re doing it by yourself (200 gallons if someone else helps).

Fun fact: As the flagship home of prohibition, Westerville, Ohio was once known as the “Dry Capital of the World.” During a period known as the Ohio Whiskey Wars, a businessman named Henry Corbin owned a saloon and sold alcohol despite local laws banning it.

The building was blown up in protest by residents multiple times.

Beer, Wine and Liquor Sales

Southwestern states and most midwestern states allow sales of beer, wine, and liquor in grocery stores.

The states listed below allow sales of liquor in grocery stores:

  • Arizona
  • California*
  • Illinois
  • Indiana
  • Louisiana**
  • Nebraska
  • Nevada
  • New Mexico
  • North Dakota
  • Missouri
  • Michigan
  • Massachusetts
  • South Dakota
  • Washington
  • West Virginia
  • Wisconsin
  • Wyoming

*Fun fact: California does not allow alcohol to be displayed within five feet of the cash register if the establishment also sells motor fuel.

** Louisiana liquor sales are allowed in grocery stores. But, individual cities, towns, and villages may disallow it. Shreveport does not allow hard liquor sales in grocery and other non-liquor store outlets. Bossier city does allow hard liquor sales in grocery stores. Rural Caddo Parish allows it as well.

Final thoughts

Trying to purchase alcohol while you’re traveling from state to state is very frustrating.

Laws are regulated at the state level and many states pass that responsibility down to counties and cities. We’ve gone over many of the laws, and have hopefully made it a little easier to navigate.

While this is a pretty thorough guide, you should still check the local laws. That’s especially true if you are going to a state that has several wet, dry or “moist” counties.

One thing more and more shoppers do these days is to order their groceries through companies like Instacart.

You can order beer, wine, and liquor through Instacart. But one thing you may not know is which stores Instacart raises the prices on.

Yes, it’s true. While they don’t do it with all stores, Instacart does bump prices up an average of 15% on many grocery stores. Check out which ones in a recent article.

Just click that link to read it on my site.

Additional source:

https://www.stateliquorlaws.com/map