AgaveTequila
Tequila Mixto
Emerged as commercial compromise when Blue Weber agave prices spiked in the 1940s–1960s. Mexican law allowed up to 49% non-agave sugar since the 1960s. Global expansion of tequila in the 1970s–1990s was largely driven by Mixto brands. The category's reputation for headaches and hangovers is a direct legacy of this adulterant.
Flavor Profile
Diluted agave character, thin body, often harsher finish. The non-agave sugars add nothing — they remove. Where 100% agave has Herbal-Green and Citrus-Bright complexity, Mixto tastes thin, hot, and indistinct. The most common reason people believe they 'don't like tequila.' Associated with headaches due to congener load from non-agave fermentation.
Key Producers
Well
Jose Cuervo Gold
$12-20Well
Sauza Silver
$12-18Most unbranded 'tequila-flavored' shooters
$10-15NOM-006-SCFI-2012. Minimum 51% fermentable sugars from Blue Weber agave; remaining up to 49% may be cane sugar, high-fructose corn syrup, or other permitted sugars. Label will NOT say '100% Agave.' The absence of the claim is the tell. Legal under Mexican law.