Was going to reply but the first post was way too old and you answered it well. So many good tequilas out right now, and if you don't like additives, plenty to choose from. I personally don't give a shit. If it tastes good, I'll drink it, if it doesn't, I won't; additives be damned. For instance, everyone is tatering the fuck out of Fortaleza but I've had the añejo and blanco on 3 different occasions, just not my bag. Hard pass for me. But if people are going to buy that out, should I really be upset if I don't like it? Not really, just don't want the run on bourbon to cross into tequila. That would fucking suck ass.
As to good ones, agree on Ocho, and would add Siembra Valles/Azul, Tapatio, Casachuin Tahona, 7L, Pueblo Viejo, G4, and Lalo. And while I like it, I now it isn't for everyone but i do suggest people try JC Tradicional. Regular JC is obviously crap but Añejo Tradicional is (for me) fantastic at the price point.
But speaking of Lalo, does anyone know what austin based means? I don't get how they can be "tequila" and have brands be called 512 or austin based for Lalo. Does it just mean the HQs are in texas but all the plants, fermentation are in Mexico? Aren't there terroir laws and all that? I know Lalo had a grand opening party in austin a month ago or so but still confused on how it all shakes out.
Had two bars near me in the last year that sold bad ass tequila. Very out of the blue and one would not expect them to have selections worth a shit. The first sadly closed down cause their idea of a breaded chicken and bacon burrito literally only had one long thin bacon strip in it (and yes I'm using the term correctly). The second, still going strong and a very nice surprise. They have the full 7L lineup, all the Arte Noms, and most G4. They even had G4 madera blanco which was divine. As for 1146, i liked it a lot. I've heard and it could very well be bullshit, but that it's the same juice as the Tears bottles but just made different? Dunno. But it is damn fine stuff. I can find it for $84 near me but just got a bottle of Primo that I had been meaning to buy so gonna finish it first then get the 1146. I will say the 1146 was way better than 1579 but that might be a personal preference, blanco v añejo thing as well.