How much sugar is there in tequila?

December 6, 2025 •

3 min read

Pure tequila, made from 100% blue agave, contains zero grams of sugar. This fact surprises many, given that the drink originates from the naturally sweet agave plant. The low-sugar reality of high-quality tequila stems from the distillation process that removes residual sugars, leaving only alcohol and flavor.

Quick Summary

Pure tequila contains no sugar due to the distillation process, but mixto and flavored varieties may include added sweeteners. The sugar content depends on the tequila type and any mixers used, which can significantly alter the final nutritional profile.

Key Points

Pure Tequila Has No Sugar: 100% blue agave tequila contains zero grams of sugar because all of the agave's natural sugars are converted to alcohol and removed during fermentation and distillation.
Watch Out for Mixto Tequilas: Mixto tequilas are made with only 51% agave sugars and can contain up to 49% other sugars and additives, which increases their sugar content significantly.
Mixers Are the Main Culprit: The highest source of sugar in tequila drinks comes from sweet mixers, like those used in pre-made margaritas, not the spirit itself.
Keto-Friendly Option: Due to its lack of sugar and carbohydrates, 100% agave tequila is a popular choice for those on low-carb diets, such as the ketogenic diet.
Read the Label: To ensure you are choosing a low-sugar option, always check the bottle for the phrase "100% Agave" or "100% Puro de Agave".
Be Aware of Flavored Tequilas: Like mixto, flavored tequilas often have a high sugar content due to added flavorings and sweeteners.

Unpacking the Tequila Production Process

To understand the minimal sugar content in pure tequila, one must first explore its production. Tequila is a distilled spirit originating from the fermented juice of the blue agave plant. The process is a careful art, refined over centuries in Mexico, and it’s this very process that determines the final sugar content of the liquor.

The Role of Fermentation and Distillation

Harvesting the agave: The heart of the blue agave plant, known as the piña, is harvested after years of maturation.
Cooking the piña: The piña is slow-cooked to convert its complex carbohydrates (fructans, including agavins) into simple fermentable sugars.
Extraction: The sweet juice is extracted from the cooked agave.
Fermentation: Yeast is introduced to the agave juice, which begins the fermentation process. It is during this stage that the yeast consumes the sugars, converting them into ethanol (alcohol) and carbon dioxide. This step is critical to the final sugar content.
Distillation: The fermented liquid is then distilled. This process purifies the liquid, leaving behind the non-alcoholic components, including any remaining sugar. High-quality, pure tequila is distilled until all residual sugars are eliminated.

100% Agave vs. Mixto Tequila

Not all tequilas are created equal, and the type of tequila you choose directly impacts its sugar content. This distinction is crucial for anyone monitoring their sugar intake.

100% Agave Tequila

As the name suggests, this tequila is made exclusively from the sugars of the blue agave plant. The distillation process ensures the final product is sugar-free. These tequilas are typically higher quality and are sought after for their pure, complex flavors. The label will proudly state "100% agave" or "puro de agave".

Mixto Tequila

Mixto tequilas are a blend that must contain at least 51% agave sugars, with the remaining 49% coming from other non-agave sugars or additives. These additional sugars are not consumed by the yeast during fermentation, or are added after distillation, and thus contribute to the final product's sweetness and sugar content. Flavored tequilas and many lower-cost brands fall into this category and can be laden with sugar and other additives.

The Impact of Mixers

Even if you choose a 100% agave tequila, the sugar content can skyrocket depending on your choice of mixer. While a shot of pure tequila is sugar-free, a classic margarita made with a pre-made mix can contain a significant amount of sugar. Choosing sugar-free mixers or making cocktails with fresh ingredients is the best way to control sugar intake.

The Takeaway for Health-Conscious Drinkers

For those on low-sugar diets, such as the ketogenic diet, pure tequila is a suitable spirit because it contains no sugar and no carbohydrates. However, the alcohol content itself can still affect blood sugar levels, especially for people with diabetes, by interfering with the liver's ability to regulate glucose. It is always recommended to consume alcohol in moderation and consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice.

Comparison Table: Tequila vs. Other Spirits


Spirit	Sugar Content (per 1.5 oz shot)	Carbs (per 1.5 oz shot)	Common Additives
100% Agave Tequila	0g	0g	None
Mixto Tequila	Varies (can contain added sugar)	Varies	Caramel coloring, flavorings, sugar
Straight Whiskey	0g	0g	None
Pure Vodka	0g	0g	None
Liqueurs	High (sweetened spirits)	High	Sweeteners, flavorings, and colors
Regular Beer (12 oz)	Varies (approx. 12g)	Varies (approx. 12g)	Grains, sugars

Conclusion

So, how much sugar is there in tequila? The answer is clear: none, if you are drinking a high-quality, 100% agave tequila. The distillation process effectively removes all sugars and carbohydrates, resulting in a pure, sugar-free spirit. The issue of sugar in tequila arises with mixto versions, which can contain added sweeteners, and especially with the sugary mixers used in cocktails. By choosing 100% agave tequila and being mindful of your mixers, you can enjoy this celebrated spirit while keeping your sugar intake in check. Always remember to consume alcohol responsibly.

For more information on the distinctions, you can consult a reputable source like the Consejo Regulador del Tequila, the organization responsible for ensuring the quality of tequila production in Mexico. https://www.crt.org.mx/

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, 100% agave tequila is sugar-free due to the distillation process that removes all sugars and carbohydrates. However, mixto or flavored tequilas can have added sugars.

Yes, agave nectar is naturally high in sugars. It's crucial to understand that the sugars in the agave plant are what are fermented to make tequila, and the distillation process removes them from pure tequila.

100% agave tequila is made entirely from blue agave sugars, resulting in a sugar-free end product. Mixto tequila contains at least 51% agave and up to 49% other non-agave sugars or additives, leading to a higher sugar content.

Most pure, unflavored distilled spirits like tequila, whiskey, and vodka contain no sugar. However, sweetened liqueurs and flavored spirits do contain significant amounts of added sugar.

For those on low-carb diets like keto, 100% agave tequila is a suitable choice because it contains zero carbohydrates and zero grams of sugar.

No, aging does not add sugar to tequila. Reposado, Añejo, and Extra Añejo tequilas are all aged in barrels, but they remain sugar-free, retaining the zero-sugar characteristic of pure tequila.

To make a low-sugar tequila cocktail, use 100% agave tequila and sugar-free mixers such as fresh lime juice, soda water, or sparkling water. Avoid pre-made margarita mixes and sugary sodas.