Anejo Vs Reposado: What’s The Difference

Tequila is more than just a party drink to serve at celebrations. It's actually an incredibly complex and nuanced type of spirit that encompasses several important sub-categories. Generally, these categories include Blanco tequila, Reposado, Añejo, and Extra Añejo tequila.

Still, there are two specific types that are often confused: Reposado and Añejo.

But why exactly do these tequilas get mistaken for each other? And how can you tell them apart?

In this simple guide, we'll explain what these types of tequila are, what makes them similar, and the major differences between them so you can spot the difference the next time you're looking for your ideal tequila.

So, if you're ready to brush up on your tequila knowledge, then let's get into it!

What Are Reposado And Añejo Tequilas?

Before we can get into the nitty-gritty of how these two types of aged spirits, it's important to know what defines them. That way, you can get a better understanding of where they get their name and what makes them unique compared to other variations of tequila.

Reposado tequila

Reposado tequila has been aged, which is what sets it apart from its unaged counterpart, Blanco tequila (the purest expression of tequila). However, it isn't typically aged as long as Añejo tequila. Instead, after being distilled from blue agave, it's left to rest in oak barrels for around two months to a year.

The term 'reposado' actually means 'rested' in Spanish, which is what makes its name so fitting. It literally rests in barrels to age so that the notes of the barrel mix with the blue agave to give it a richer flavor profile.

What's great about Reposado tequila is that it sits somewhere between the crisp taste of Blanco and the deep, complex flavors of Añejo. This is what makes it a great pick for tequila enthusiasts who are looking for something a little more versatile.

Añejo tequila

Añejo tequila is another type of aged tequila. But what makes it different from Reposado is that it's aged for a minimum of a year in oak barrels.

In Spanish, 'añejo' means 'old', and its name couldn't be more spot-on. This type of tequila has a more lengthy aging process to absorb the flavors of the barrel and gain a richer flavor compared to other types. Plus, the longer it ages, the deeper the flavor gets, which is why it makes for the perfect standalone drink to sip and savor.

Are There Any Similarities Between Reposado And Añejo Tequila?

Although there are some distinct differences between Reposado and Añejo tequila, they do share one similarity: Their production process.

Both of these tequilas are made from the blue agave plant, which is harvested before the piñas or hearts of the plant are removed. The piñas are then cooked to break down their starches into fermentable sugars (which is, of course, a crucial step for the making of almost any alcohol).

Once the piñas are cooked, they're typically crushed using a large stone wheel known as a tahona (in more traditional methods) or more modern machines to extract their extra-sweet juice.

During the fermentation process, this juice is mixed with yeast to change the sugars into alcohol, which is distilled. In some cases, the liquid may be put through the distillation again, which would then change it to a twice-distilled spirit.

At this point in the process, the spirits are ready to be aged, which is where the differences between Reposado and Añejo tequila come in...

The 4 Major Differences Between Reposado And Añejo Tequila

So, if the production process for these two types of tequila is so similar, how do you tell the difference? Well, there are four major factors that make these tequilas unique, including:

• The aging process

• Their flavor profiles

• Their color and aromas

• The price

1. Aging process and time

Typically, Reposado tequila is aged for a minimum of two months and typically up to one year. This is what allows it to develop a smooth and refined taste in comparison to Blanco tequila, which is unaged, or aged for up to two months at a maximum.

Although this may seem like a long time, it's relatively short compared to Añejo.

Añejo tequila is aged in oak barrels for one to three years. Giving this tequila a longer time to rest in the barrels allows for more interaction between the agave and the wood. This makes for a much richer tequila with a deeper taste.

You also get Extra Añejo tequila, which is an ultra-aged variation that has been left in the oak barrels for more than three years. Of course, this makes the flavors much more intense.

2. Flavor profile

Thanks to the aging process, both Añejo and Reposado tequila develop unique flavor profiles that come from the agave and how it interacts with the wood of the barrels.

However, Reposado has a more mellow flavor with lighter notes like light vanilla, a touch of spice, and a subtle oakiness that comes directly from the wood. This mix of flavors makes Reposado smoother and lighter on your palette, which is why it's a favorite among tequila drinkers.

On the other hand, Añejo tequila usually develops more complex flavors. Because it's left in the barrel for longer, the spirit can absorb even more flavors from the wood, which results in a sweeter tequila with notes of caramel, vanilla, toffee, and cinnamon.

3. Color and aroma

Both of these tequilas can be considered dark spirits compared to the lighter hues of Blanco tequila. However, you can still see the difference between the two if you know what to look for.

Reposado tequila typically ranges from a pale gold color to a deeper amber, with a mild and fresh aroma. Thanks to the agave, it should also still have an earthy smell.

In comparison, Añejo tequila is much darker because of the aging process. The aroma is also more intense and refined, with a spicier smell that comes from the wood of the oak barrels.

4. Price

The price of any type of tequila can vary from brand to brand, with some being more expensive than others. Still, there is usually an obvious price difference between these two types of tequila.

In most cases, Añejo tequila is more expensive than Reposado because it requires more time, space, and care to age it to perfection. But the price is well worth the cost—these are some of the best tequilas you can buy.

The cost of production for Añejo is also higher since the barrels need to be monitored more strictly throughout the entire aging process. And, since it takes longer to make, typically, fewer bottles of Añejo that can be produced at a time.

Although Reposado tequila is still high-quality, it's generally more affordable because it has a shorter resting period. So, if you're looking for a budget-friendly tequila option, then you may want to opt for a bottle of Reposado.

When To Choose Añejo Vs. Reposado Tequila

Want to know which tequila to pick for Cinco de Mayo? Or maybe you'd prefer a sipping tequila to savor. No matter what kind of taste you're after, you can get it from these two types of tequila.

For cocktails

Although it's more common to use a Blanco tequila for cocktails, you don't have to limit yourself if you want to kick your drinks up a notch.

If you're making mixed drinks, then Reposado tequila is a good choice. Its light and smooth character gives it a softer taste, so it doesn't overwhelm other flavors in your favorite cocktails.

For sipping

Añejo tequila is made to be enjoyed neat, making it the perfect sipping whiskey. That way, you can savor the complex notes of dried fruits, wood, and delicious spices without any other flavors getting in the way.

FAQs

Which is better: Blanco, Reposado, or Añejo?

Deciding which tequila you like best is all dependent on your taste preferences. No tequila is necessarily better than others, as they all have unique flavors and notes that can be appreciated in different ways.

Still, if you want the best experience of each of these tequilas, then we'd recommend:

• Blanco: G4 Blanco tequila

• Reposado: Fortaleza tequila

• Añejo: Azul tequila

Is Añejo the smoothest?

Yes, Añejo is generally considered the smoothest type of tequila besides Extra Añejo. Although Blanco tequila is the purest form, it's usually the most earthy.

Final Thoughts

Now that you know the difference between Reposado and Añejo tequila, you can wow even the most knowledgeable tequila enthusiasts.

Just remember: You won't truly know the difference until you taste it! Luckily, at The Liquor Bros, we've got every kind of tequila you could ever want. So pick out some bottles and put your new-found tequila knowledge to the test.