FOOD NEWS
Reposado Vs Anejo Tequila: What's The Difference?
BY JUNIPER FINCH
Aside from basic blanco tequila, there exist two aged tequila variations — añejo and reposado — which share a few similarities but differ in aging, complexity, and flavor notes.
Reposado, meaning "rested," is made of blanco tequila that is aged for two months to a year, giving it a golden color, smoother texture, and more layered taste.
Depending on whether it’s aged in oak barrels or barrels previously used for aging other spirits like whiskey, reposado can have notes of oak, vanilla, citrus, pepper, or smoke.
The spirit's subtle spice and complexity make it excellent for sipping straight or giving an unexpected nuance to tequila cocktails like Margaritas and Palomas.
Añejo, meaning "old" in Spanish, is aged for one to three years, significantly longer than reposado, giving it an even more complex flavor and a slight sweetness.
After a year, the tequila turns a bit spicy like reposados, but after three years, it becomes subtly sweet with notes of caramel, vanilla, and cinnamon similar to bourbon.
Although some aficionados argue that añejo is best neat, the strong, complex spirit also fares well in cocktails as long as you’re looking for a strong, alcohol-forward flavor.
Thus, añejo is best if you want a complex, layered sip and you’re willing to pay for it. Reposado is more versatile and has a more accessible price tag to match.