What blanco tequila actually is
Blanco tequila is generally unaged, although the rules allow a short period of resting or mellowing before bottling. The spirit comes from blue Weber agave and must be produced by an authorised tequila producer within the protected denomination of origin in Mexico.
For a buyer, the important point is that two blancos can taste completely different. Agave source, cooking method, fermentation, distillation and final filtration all have an effect.
Where it works best
Blanco is a strong fit for margaritas, palomas, hard seltzers and most fruit-led RTDs. It also works well as a bottled sipping product when the liquid has enough character to stand on its own.
For an RTD, do not judge the tequila only when tasted neat. Test it inside the finished recipe. Citrus, sweetness, carbonation and flavourings can expose harshness that was not obvious in a small neat sample.
What to agree before ordering
Confirm the agave percentage, alcohol strength, flavour profile, expected annual volume, delivery format and the specification you need the supplier to hold.
A good brief is more useful than asking for the cheapest blanco available. Tell the supplier what you are making, the target retail price and how prominent the tequila should feel in the final drink.
Our view
For most new RTD projects, we would start with a good quality mixto blanco and build upwards only when the product needs it. Spending more on liquid does not automatically make the finished drink better.
The right answer is the liquid that performs in your recipe, fits your margin and can be supplied consistently.