Don Nacho Tributo reposado tequila and 400 Conejos Mezcal win top honors at Bartender Spirits Awards

At the 2025 Bartender Spirits Awards, two agave spirits stood out as the top selections in their categories, according to a panel of leading American bartenders. Don Nacho Tributo Reposado Tequila was named the world’s best tequila, while 400 Conejos Espadín Joven Mezcal took the top spot among mezcals. Both spirits are widely available in the United States and have earned recognition for their quality, craftsmanship, and value.

Don Nacho Tributo Reposado Tequila is produced by the Hernandez Gutierrez family in Los Altos, Jalisco, Mexico. The region is known for its highland agave and deep-rooted tequila traditions. The production process begins with slow-cooking mature agave in stone ovens, followed by extraction using roller mills. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks without fibers, and the spirit is double-distilled in stainless steel pot stills. The tequila is then aged for 10 months in new American white oak barrels.

The result is a tequila with a bright straw-yellow color and golden highlights. On the nose, it offers fresh and baked agave aromas, complemented by notes of vanilla, maple syrup, citrus zest, and a touch of anise. The palate is robust and aromatic, featuring a balance of agave and oak flavors. Pepper, cinnamon spice, and subtle caramel sweetness round out the profile. The finish is long and smooth, with lingering notes of cooked agave, wood spices, and caramel. Don Nacho Tributo Reposado Tequila has been praised for its balanced character and appeal to both experienced tequila drinkers and newcomers.

In the mezcal category, 400 Conejos Espadín Joven Mezcal was recognized for its authentic representation of Oaxacan mezcal traditions. Produced in Santiago Matatlán, Oaxaca—a region often called the heart of mezcal production—the spirit is made from 100% Espadín agave. The brand is owned by José Cuervo but follows traditional methods: roasting agave hearts in underground pits, crushing them with a stone wheel known as a tahona, fermenting in wooden vats, and double-distilling in copper pot stills.

This joven (unaged) mezcal is crystal-clear with silver nuances. Its aroma features wood smoke and light char alongside hints of ripe fruit and herbal notes. On the palate, sweet cooked agave stands out along with herbaceous and fruity flavors and a persistent cold smoke character. The finish is long and smooth with subtle smokiness and lingering fruit and herb notes. 400 Conejos Espadín Joven Mezcal has been noted for its balance and complexity at an accessible price point.

The Bartender Spirits Awards are judged by an expert panel of bartenders and industry professionals from across the United States. Spirits are evaluated based on quality, innovation, value, and craftsmanship. The competition is considered a benchmark for excellence within the industry.

Both Don Nacho Tributo Reposado Tequila and 400 Conejos Espadín Joven Mezcal are available at major retailers throughout the country. Their recognition at this year’s awards highlights not only their quality but also their accessibility to American consumers interested in exploring top-tier agave spirits. According to bartenders who participated in the judging process, these selections represent some of the best options currently available for those seeking to experience authentic tequila or mezcal at home or in bars across the nation.