(HP) - If there is one thing we like here at the Epicurious offices, it's great tequila. In fact, Nilou Motamed, our EIC, keeps a rather expansive selection of artisanal bottles in her office bar at all times. Needless to say, no arms were twisted in conducting this taste test. Under the watchful eye of NYC tequila guru Jason Silverman, we sipped our way through 21 blanco and reposado tequilas, and we did it all for you.

Ever wondered which tequilas are best for making margaritas and which are smooth enough for sipping? Want to know which tequilas taste amazing AND cost less than $30? Whether you fancy yourself a tequila snob, are looking for a killer mixer, or just want to get the best bang for your buck, we've got you covered. Read on to see which tequilas reigned supreme.

Tequila 411:

Blanco or silver tequilas are usually unaged and bottled (or stored) immediately after the distillation process. Sometimes they're aged for less than 2 months and kept in stainless steel or oak barrels. Reposado refers to tequilas that have been aged for at least 2 months, but no more than a year, in oak barrels.

Method to Our Madness:

Our tasters ranked the tequilas on a scale from 1 to 5 in three different categories: aroma, taste and finish. In addition, the tequilas were also judged according to set criteria such as "best for the tequila newbie" or "best for mixology."

The Results:

Best Blanco Tequila: Casa Dragones Blanco ($75.00)

Best Sipping Tequila: Casa Dragones Blanco