In this article, we are going to discuss the 5 states that drink the most tequila. If you want to check out our detailed analysis of the global tequila market, the recent investment in the tequila industry, and the success of celebrity-owned tequilas, head to 20 States that Drink the Most Tequila.
5. Illinois
Cases of Tequila Sold in 2021: 896,590
Although a good ol’ Old Fashioned is the drink of choice in Chicago, the city transforms in the spring and summer seasons, making it crave something more refreshing. Chicago has no shortage of quality Mexican restaurants and bars that specialize in tequila and mezcal, so drinkers are in for a treat worthy of patio season. The city’s margaritas mix up style and fun.
Illinois is ranked 28th out of the 50 states in alcohol consumption, with the average drinking-age Illinoisan consuming 2.32 gallons per year. Of the $62.6 billion in taxes collected by Illinois in 2022, 0.5%, or $320 million, came from alcoholic beverages sales tax.
4. Ohio
Cases of Tequila Sold in 2021: 913,640
Tequila sales received a major boost in Ohio during the pandemic, as margaritas became the state’s drink of choice. As the top control state for tequila consumption, Ohio saw a 24.6% increase in its sales volume from 2020. Patrón, Don Julio, and Casamigos were among the most popular liquor brands sold in The Buckeye State last year.
3. Florida
Cases of Tequila Sold in 2021: 1,399,590
Although Florida is still a vodka stronghold, tequila’s highest growth in volume happened in the Sunshine State in 2021, where the category grew an impressive 48% compared to the previous year. Every summer, Florida is also a big holiday destination for Spring Breakers from around the country, who never shy away from a tequila shot or three.
2. Texas
Cases of Tequila Sold in 2021: 3,015,310
It doesn’t come as a surprise that tequila is the liquor of choice in Texas. In fact, the most popular cocktail in the state is a margarita. Latinos have made up the largest share of the Lone Star State’s population since at least July 2022, with most of them having origins in Mexico.
Another popular drink in Texas is Ranch Water. Tequila meets Topo Chico and lime in a glass and, suddenly, it’s the only drink that staves off the Texas sun.
1. California
Cases of Tequila Sold in 2021: 5,074,820
As the weather heats up in Southern California, there’s nothing quite like sipping a cold, refreshing margarita. California continued to be the Largest Market for Tequila in the U.S. in 2021, as the category witnessed a 15.3% boost in sales compared to the previous year. The Golden State accounted for 20.6% of the overall nationwide tequila consumption in 2021. Over a million cases were sold in Los Angeles alone during the year, making it the Top City in America for Tequila Consumption.
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