Smooth, Aged Añejo Tequila Tastes Nothing Like The Tequila You're Used To

When you think tequila, you probably think shots. The salt-lime-shooter that marks the start of an evening out is often followed by scrunched faces and sighs of reliefs once swallowed. But with añejo tequila, the experience is much smoother, literally. The pricier, darker older sibling to blanco and reposado is a sipper, meant to be slowly enjoyed instead of tossed down the gullet.

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Is añejo better than reposado?

To be considered añejo, which means aged in Spanish, the tequila must be aged one-to-three years, giving the drink a smokey and complex taste meant to be sipped. Reposado, which translates to rested, is aged for a few months up to a year. This leaves the tequila tasting slightly oaky but still bright. To add another term to the cocktail shaker, extra añejo tequila is aged in barrels for at least three years, giving it a very deep brown hue and even richer flavors. Typically, the longer a tequila is aged, the more expensive it is.

How we chose these products

We gathered recommendations from folks in the industry most familiar with tequila—chefs, bartenders, and beverage directors. We asked them what their go-to añejo tequila is and how they like to enjoy it. On this list are some budget-friendly options under $50, but also some splurges worth considering, too. For your next glass of tequila, here are the best añejo bottles to try.

Looking for more on tequila? Here are the tequila brands you need to know about, our favorite tequila cocktails, and some recipes for cooking with tequila.