What is the Difference Between Añejo, Blanco, and Reposado Tequila?

The difference between Añejo, Blanco, and Reposado tequila lies primarily in how long each is aged, which impacts their flavor, color, and character. Below is a recommended selection of tequila varieties to try, allowing you to experience the distinct characteristics of each type.

Añejo Tequila

Añejo, which translates to "aged," is matured in small oak barrels for a period ranging from one to three years. This extended aging results in a rich amber color and a smoother, more nuanced flavor profile. Añejo tequilas are known for their depth and complexity, featuring prominent notes of oak, dried fruit, chocolate, tobacco, and sweet spices. The aging process mellows the agave intensity, creating a sipping tequila that is often compared to fine whiskeys or cognacs in terms of richness and refinement.

Recommended:

• Don Julio Añejo 1942 Tequila

• Teremana Añejo Small Batch Tequila

• Cincoro Añejo Tequila

• Riazul Añejo Tequila

• Adictivo Añejo Tequila

• Solento Organic Añejo Tequila

Blanco Tequila

Also known as silver or white tequila, Blanco is either unaged or aged for less than two months in stainless steel or neutral oak containers. It represents the purest form of tequila, highlighting the natural flavors of the blue Weber agave plant. Blanco tequila is typically clear in color and offers a bold, fresh, and crisp profile, often with notes of citrus, pepper, and herbal undertones. Because it is unaged, it provides the most direct expression of the agave's characteristics and is commonly used in cocktails, though premium versions can be enjoyed neat.

Recommended:

• Patrón Silver Tequila

• Casamigos Blanco Tequila

• Casa Dragones Blanco Tequila

• 1800 Blanco Tequila

• Lalo Blanco Tequila

• El Jimador Silver Tequila

Reposado Tequila

Reposado, meaning "rested" in Spanish, is aged in oak barrels for a minimum of two months and up to one year. This aging process imparts a pale golden hue and introduces subtle complexity to the tequila. The oak softens the sharper notes of the agave and contributes flavors such as vanilla, caramel, and mild spice, while still retaining some of the bright, vegetal characteristics of Blanco. Reposado is often preferred by those seeking a balanced tequila that can be sipped or mixed into more refined cocktails.

Recommended:

• Ilegal Mezcal Reposado

• Cazadores Reposado Tequila

• La Gritona Reposado Tequila

• Código 1530 Reposado Tequila

• Herradura Reposado Tequila

• El Tesoro Reposado Tequila