Every year on July 24, World Tequila Day is celebrated. A day that honours one of the most loved spirits of Mexico. While many think tequila is meant for fun parties and margaritas, premium tequila has evolved much more into a drink that is loved for its craftsmanship, much like a fine whisky or a wine. Its taste relies not only on the blue agave plant from which it comes but also on how long it is aged after the distillation process.
If you are a tequila fan, chances are you may have come across bottles named Blanco, Reposado or Añejo. These terms describe the ageing process, other than just the various ingredients. Each style has its own personality, fragrance and also the manner in which to enjoy it.
Whether you are curious to know what sets them apart or what exactly to order next time as per your choice without getting confused, knowing these tequila styles can totally change the way you enjoy this loved Mexican spirit.
Blanco Tequila: Fresh, Bright And Full Of Agave Flavour
Also known as Silver or Plata tequila, Blanco is either bottled instantly after the distillation process or rested in stainless steel tanks for about two months or less. As it is not aged in wooden barrels, it maintains the earthy sweetness of blue agave with a citrusy and peppery taste.
The crisp flavour of Blanco makes it a most preferred choice in cocktails such as Margaritas and Palomas, where its freshness is not overpowered. Not only this, but it also reflects the distiller's skill very precisely, as there are no barrel tastes to mask the natural essence of the agave.
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Reposado Tequila: Smooth With Gentle Oak Notes
Reposado translates to "rested" in the Spanish language. It is aged in oak barrels from two months to a year. During this period, the tequila slowly soaks up a bit of wood taste, developing traces of vanilla, caramel and soft spice. While all this, it still preserves the freshness of agave. The outcome is a spirit that feels smooth, more fuller and works perfectly well for sipping alone or mixing it in cocktails, as it lets other add-ons shine.
Many tequila lovers believe Reposado to be the most adaptable type, as it balances the brightness with richness that it gets from ageing in a barrel, making it easy to try for the first time for both beginners and seasoned drinkers.
Añejo Tequila: Rich, Complex And Made For Slow Sipping
Añejo refers to "aged", and this tequila is left for one to three years in the oak barrels to mature. Extended ageing gives it a deep amber hue and layered flavours that feel like toasted oak, cocoa, dried fruits, caramel and then warm spices upon drinking. The agave notes become much softer, letting the barrel features take centre stage.
Rather than using it in cocktails, Añejo is generally enjoyed neat or over a glass filled with ice so its complexity can be enjoyed in every sip. Its smooth mouthfeel and whisky-like depth have made it a loved choice among those who like exploring premium spirits.
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Which One Should You Choose?
There is no rule book for what is a good tequila, as the choice depends thoroughly on your taste preferences, how you like to enjoy it, and even the food you decide to pair with it. Here's a simple guide to let you choose the suitable bottle that fits every occasion.
Blanco: If you like fresh, crisp and citrus-based beverages, Blanco is the perfect choice. Its bold agave taste shines in cocktails such as Margaritas and Palomas, making it suitable for summer brunches, house parties and even casual get-togethers. You can pair it with guacamole, ceviche, tacos or even grilled prawns to enjoy at its best.
Reposado: Reposado is preferred by those who like a much smoother and softer spirit without losing the freshness of agave. Light oak ageing gives it hints of vanilla and caramel, making it suitable for both on the rocks and also for premium cocktails. It's a fantastic choice to have if you are hosting dinner parties. You can pair it with grilled chicken, tacos, barbecue, roasted vegetables and even well-aged cheeses.
Añejo: If you generally enjoy whisky or sipping spirits, Añejo is worth a try. The rich notes of caramel, toasted oak undertone, cocoa and dried fruits make it perfect to sip for slow evenings or for special occasions. Rather than mixing it in cocktails, you can also enjoy it neat with a lot of ice, along with dark chocolate, smoked meats or a dessert board to get the most pleasing experience.