Tequila, What’s the Difference?

Plata, Reposado, Anejo, Gold! What is the difference between the different types of tequila?

I admit, when we first bought this store I didn't know much about tequila. My only experience was almost twenty years ago when I was tattooing my own foot and the only thing around to help with the pain was a bottle of Jose Cuervo Gold. Don't drink and self tattoo friends. I'd like to think I've come a long way from that time in my life. No more self tattooing and a better (responsibly earned) knowledge of liquor. So what is the difference between the various types of tequila on offer? Let's break it down.

In order for a spirit to be called tequila it must be at least 51% agave. The other 49% can come from a neutral spirit made from sugar cane juice. If you see a label that says 100% blue agave, that doesn't mean it's 100% agave. That means agave used was blue agave.

Silver or Blanco tequilas are not aged. The tequila is distilled and then bottled. Sometimes it is rested in steel containers for a couple of months, but that rest does not change the flavor. Blanco tequila tends to have flavor notes of herbal agave, black pepper, citrus, and some natural sweetness. Without aging to mellow it out, blanco tequila has some bite. It is best used in cocktails such as Margaritas, Ranch Water, Palomas, Tequila Sunrises, and so on.

Reposado tequila has been aged or rested in oak barrels for 2-11 months. This resting period allows the tequila to pick up tannins from the wood which imparts a faint color as well as caramel and honey flavor notes. The original flavors mellow a bit adding notes of vanilla, chocolate, and chilies. Reposado tequilas are great in cocktails. Try them in Margaritas, Grand Marnier Margaritas, Mexican Mules, a Tequila Old Fashioned, and more.

Anejo tequila has been aged for more than a year in oak barrels. The tequila develops a deeper color and gains subtle toasted, vanilla and caramelized notes. The extra rest also mellows out the tequila providing a nice smooth finish. Much like a quality bourbon, anejo tequilas are best served neat or on the rocks to fully appreciate their flavor.

In 2006 a new category was added to the world of tequila named Extra Anejo. These tequilas have been aged for over three years. Like scotches and bourbons this type of tequila is tempered with water to lower the proof which further enhances the smooth finish.

We've covered the main categories of tequila. But wait! What about Gold tequila? Typically gold tequilas are actually what is called a mixto. Remember the rule about only having to be 51% agave? Same thing with gold. Only these varieties commonly add things like sugar, colorings, glycerin, flavorings, and more to mimic reposado and anejo tequilas. This is why gold tequila is typically much cheaper than reposado or anejo varieties.

There you have it, the difference between the different types of tequila. Hopefully when you are perusing the tequila section at your local liquor store (hopefully here!) you will have a better idea of what those labels mean.