Cinnamon Tequila: What It Is & How to Enjoy It

Cinnamon tequila is a flavored spirit made by infusing traditional tequila with cinnamon flavoring, either through natural cinnamon extracts or added flavorings. Unlike 100% agave tequila, which has strict production regulations, cinnamon tequila often contains additional ingredients to achieve its distinctive sweet and spicy profile, making it popular for cocktails but generally not considered a premium sipping tequila by connoisseurs.

Cinnamon tequila represents a flavorful evolution in the world of agave spirits, blending traditional Mexican distillation methods with warm spice notes that appeal to both tequila enthusiasts and those new to the category. This distinctive spirit has gained significant popularity in recent years, particularly among cocktail enthusiasts seeking versatile mixing options with approachable flavor profiles.

What Exactly Is Cinnamon Tequila?

True cinnamon tequila begins with standard blanco (unaged) tequila distilled from blue agave, then undergoes a flavoring process where cinnamon elements are introduced. The cinnamon infusion typically happens after the distillation process, preserving the base tequila's integrity while adding complementary spice notes.

It's important to distinguish between authentic cinnamon-flavored tequila and products that market themselves as cinnamon tequila but are actually cinnamon whisky. Genuine cinnamon tequila must start with a tequila base (made from at least 51% blue agave), while products like Fireball Cinnamon Whisky use whisky as their base spirit. This distinction matters for both regulatory compliance and flavor authenticity.

Characteristic	Traditional Tequila	Cinnamon Tequila
Base Ingredient	Blue agave (100% or 51%)	Tequila base with cinnamon flavoring
Flavor Profile	Earthy, vegetal, sometimes citrus notes	Spicy cinnamon with sweet undertones
Production Method	Distilled without added flavors	Infused with cinnamon after distillation
Traditional Classification	Falls under CRT regulations	Considered a flavored tequila product

How Cinnamon Tequila Is Made

The production process for authentic cinnamon tequila begins with standard tequila production: harvesting mature blue agave plants, extracting their piñas (hearts), roasting them to convert starches to sugars, fermenting the extracted juices, and distilling the resulting liquid. After this base tequila is created, producers introduce cinnamon elements through several possible methods:

• Natural infusion: Adding real cinnamon sticks or bark to the finished tequila and allowing it to steep
• Flavor extraction: Using cinnamon essential oils or extracts to flavor the tequila
• Blending: Combining tequila with a cinnamon syrup or flavoring agent

Unlike traditional tequila which cannot contain added flavors or colors, cinnamon tequila products operate under different regulatory standards that permit these additions. This distinction explains why you won't find cinnamon-flavored options among premium 100% agave tequilas intended for sipping.

Taste Profile and Characteristics

Cinnamon tequila delivers a distinctive flavor experience that balances the inherent characteristics of tequila with warm spice notes. The best cinnamon tequila products maintain some of the agave's natural earthiness while introducing:

• A pronounced cinnamon spice that's immediately noticeable
• Sweet vanilla undertones that complement the spice
• A smooth, approachable finish compared to some blanco tequilas
• Reduced alcohol burn due to the flavoring agents

The quality of cinnamon tequila varies significantly between brands. Higher-quality options achieve a balanced integration of flavors where neither the tequila base nor the cinnamon dominates excessively. Lower-quality products often feature artificial-tasting cinnamon notes with an overly sweet profile that masks the underlying tequila character.

Cinnamon Tequila vs Regular Tequila: Key Differences

Understanding the distinction between cinnamon tequila and traditional tequila helps set proper expectations for this flavored spirit. While both share a tequila base, several important differences exist:

• Regulatory classification: Traditional tequila follows strict CRT (Consejo Regulador del Tequila) guidelines prohibiting added flavors, while cinnamon tequila operates under different regulations that permit flavoring
• Production standards: Premium tequilas focus on showcasing agave character through careful production, while cinnamon tequila emphasizes flavor integration
• Usage: Traditional tequila works well for sipping neat, while cinnamon tequila primarily serves as a cocktail ingredient
• Price point: Cinnamon tequila typically falls in the mid-range price category, positioned between budget mixers and premium sipping tequilas

Many tequila purists argue that cinnamon tequila shouldn't be classified as "tequila" at all due to the added flavorings, but rather as a tequila-based liqueur. This debate reflects broader discussions about innovation versus tradition in the spirits industry.

Popular Cinnamon Tequila Applications

Cinnamon tequila shines brightest when used in cocktails where its distinctive flavor can enhance the overall drinking experience. Here are three versatile applications:

Cinnamon Tequila Sunrise

This variation on the classic Tequila Sunrise uses cinnamon tequila to add warmth to the traditional citrus profile:

• 2 oz cinnamon tequila
• 4 oz orange juice
• 0.5 oz fresh lime juice
• 0.75 oz grenadine

Pour tequila, orange juice, and lime juice over ice in a highball glass. Stir gently, then slowly pour grenadine down the side to create the signature sunrise effect.

Spiced Margarita

A cinnamon tequila margarita offers a seasonal twist on the classic:

• 2 oz cinnamon tequila
• 1 oz fresh lime juice
• 0.75 oz orange liqueur
• 0.5 oz agave syrup

Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into a salt-rimmed glass. Garnish with a lime wedge and cinnamon stick.

Serving Recommendations

While cinnamon tequila works best in cocktails, it can be enjoyed in several ways:

• On the rocks: Serve chilled over ice to slightly mute the alcohol heat
• With ginger ale: Creates a simple, refreshing highball
• In coffee: Adds warmth to after-dinner coffee drinks
• With apple cider: Makes a seasonal fall cocktail

Common Misconceptions About Cinnamon Tequila

Several myths surround cinnamon tequila that deserve clarification:

• "All cinnamon tequilas are the same": Quality varies dramatically between brands, with some using natural flavorings and others relying on artificial ingredients
• "Cinnamon tequila is just for beginners": While it offers an approachable entry point, quality cinnamon tequilas have legitimate craft behind them
• "It's not real tequila": Authentic cinnamon tequila starts with real tequila as its base, though it doesn't meet the strict definition of unflavored tequila
• "It's always extremely sweet": Better brands achieve balance rather than overwhelming sweetness

Understanding these distinctions helps consumers make informed choices about which cinnamon tequila products align with their preferences and expectations.

Shopping for Quality Cinnamon Tequila

When selecting a cinnamon tequila, consider these factors to ensure you're getting a quality product:

• Check the label for "100% agave" if you want a higher-quality base spirit
• Look for products that specify "natural flavorings" rather than artificial ingredients
• Consider the alcohol content (typically 30-35% ABV for cinnamon tequilas)
• Read reviews from reputable spirits critics for quality assessments
• Examine the price point—extremely cheap options often indicate lower quality

Remember that cinnamon tequila serves a different purpose than premium sipping tequilas. It's designed for mixing and offers a specific flavor profile that works well in certain cocktail applications rather than showcasing pure agave character.

Is cinnamon tequila considered real tequila?

Authentic cinnamon tequila starts with a tequila base (made from at least 51% blue agave) but includes added cinnamon flavorings. Traditional tequila regulations prohibit added flavors, so cinnamon tequila falls under a different regulatory category as a flavored tequila product rather than pure tequila.

What's the difference between cinnamon tequila and Fireball?

Fireball is actually cinnamon whisky, not tequila. It uses whisky as its base spirit rather than tequila. Authentic cinnamon tequila must start with a tequila base made from blue agave, while Fireball and similar products use a neutral grain spirit base with whisky flavorings.

How should I store cinnamon tequila?

Store cinnamon tequila upright in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight or temperature fluctuations. Unlike wine, distilled spirits don't continue aging in the bottle, but exposure to light and heat can degrade flavor quality over time. Once opened, consume within 1-2 years for best flavor.

Can I make my own cinnamon tequila at home?

Yes, you can create homemade cinnamon tequila by adding cinnamon sticks to a quality blanco tequila and allowing it to infuse for several days. Start with 2-3 cinnamon sticks per 750ml bottle of tequila, taste daily, and remove the cinnamon when the desired flavor intensity is reached. This method produces a more natural flavor than artificial cinnamon syrups.

What cocktails work best with cinnamon tequila?

Cinnamon tequila shines in cocktails that complement its warm spice notes, including cinnamon margaritas, tequila sunrises, palomas with grapefruit soda, and fall-inspired drinks with apple cider or cranberry juice. It also works well in dessert cocktails and pairs nicely with citrus, vanilla, and other warm spices like nutmeg.