When learning about types of tequila, it’s important to understand how this iconic Mexican spirit is officially classified. Tequila is categorized based on the type of sugars used in its production and the time it spends aging in barrels, both of which directly influence its flavor, aroma, color, and overall quality.
Understanding these distinctions helps consumers choose the right tequila for sipping, mixing, or pairing with food.
Tequila Categories
One of the primary ways to differentiate the various types of tequila is by the sugars used during the fermentation process.
100% Agave Tequila
This category includes tequilas made exclusively from sugars derived from Blue Weber Agave (Agave Tequilana Weber var. azul).
Among all types of tequila, 100% agave tequila is considered the purest option. It delivers a more authentic agave flavor and is generally smoother, making it ideal for drinking neat or on the rocks. These tequilas must clearly state “100% agave” on the label.
Tequila (Mixto)
Mixto tequila must contain at least 51% blue agave sugars, while the remaining percentage may come from other approved sugar sources such as sugarcane or corn syrup.
These types of tequila are typically more affordable and are widely used in cocktails. However, they tend to have a milder agave profile and may include additives to adjust flavor and color.
Tequila Classes
Another key way to understand the different types of tequila is by how long they are aged—or whether they are aged at all. Aging takes place in oak barrels, and the interaction with wood significantly impacts the tequila’s characteristics.
Blanco Tequila
Blanco tequila is not aged in barrels, which is why it remains clear and colorless. It is bottled shortly after distillation or rested briefly in stainless steel tanks.
Among the different types of tequila, blanco best represents the pure, natural flavor of agave, with fresh, herbal, and citrus notes.
Joven (Gold) Tequila
Joven, also known as gold tequila, is typically a blanco tequila that has been blended with approved additives such as caramel coloring, glycerin, or oak extract.
Its flavor and color do not come from barrel aging but from these added elements. This style is commonly found among mixto tequilas and is often used in mixed drinks.
Reposado Tequila
Reposado tequila is aged in oak barrels for at least two months but less than one year.
This aging process allows the tequila to develop a light golden color and a smoother taste, balancing agave notes with hints of vanilla, wood, and spice. Reposado is one of the most versatile types of tequila, suitable for sipping or cocktails.
Añejo Tequila
Añejo tequila is aged for one to three years in oak barrels.
These types of tequila have deeper amber tones and more complex flavors, including caramel, chocolate, dried fruit, and toasted oak. Añejo tequila is typically enjoyed neat due to its richness and smooth finish.
Extra Añejo Tequila
Extra añejo tequila is aged for more than three years.
This is the most mature and refined category among all types of tequila, offering intense complexity, a silky texture, and flavors similar to aged whiskey or cognac. It is considered a premium sipping spirit.
How Can You Tell If a Tequila Is Reposado or Colored with Additives?
When learning about the different types of tequila, many consumers wonder how to tell whether a tequila gets its color naturally from barrel aging or from added flavoring agents.
The most reliable way to know is by reading the label. If the bottle clearly states “Reposado,” “Añejo,” or “Extra Añejo,” it means the tequila obtained its color, aroma, and flavor through aging in oak barrels. These aging classifications are regulated and indicate that the tequila spent a defined period in contact with wood.
If the label does not include any of these aging terms, the tequila is likely a Joven (Gold) tequila. In this case, the color, flavor, or aroma may come from approved additives—known as abocantes—such as caramel coloring, oak extract, or glycerin, rather than from barrel aging.
Understanding label terminology is essential when comparing types of tequila, as it helps you distinguish between naturally aged tequilas and those that achieve their characteristics through additives rather than time in a barrel.
Is Añejo Tequila Better Than Blanco?
No, añejo tequila is not better than blanco tequila. In order to become añejo, a tequila must first start as a blanco tequila. The quality remains the same—what changes are the characteristics developed through time spent aging in oak barrels.
Many people perceive añejo tequila as smoother and less harsh on the throat. However, this sensation comes from the influence of the wood, not because it is a better or higher-quality tequila. During aging, the flavors and aromas from the barrel—such as vanilla notes, toasted seeds, and warm oak tones—soften and mask the alcohol. This can make reposado and añejo tequilas feel smoother on the palate, which sometimes leads people to assume they are superior.
When comparing types of tequila, it’s important to understand that both blanco and añejo can be excellent-quality tequilas. The difference lies in flavor profile, not craftsmanship or purity.
Ultimately, the best tequila depends on personal taste:
- People with strong palates who enjoy bold flavors, spices, garlic, or intense seasonings often prefer blanco tequila.
- Those with sweeter palates or who enjoy softer, rounder flavors tend to choose reposado or añejo tequila.
Understanding the differences among the types of tequila helps you choose the one that best matches your palate, rather than assuming one is better than another.
100% Tequila vs. Tequila: When Should You Choose Each One?
Both options are valid, and the choice ultimately depends on personal taste. 100% tequila offers more pronounced agave-forward notes, while tequila (made with at least 51% agave sugars) tends to be slightly sweeter due to the additional sugars used in its production. In the end, it comes down to what the consumer enjoys most and how the tequila feels on their palate.
When exploring the different types of tequila, it’s important to consider how they will be consumed. Tequila is widely used in cocktail making, especially because these expressions are often more affordable and designed for mixing. If you plan to prepare cocktails, it’s generally better to use tequila—preferably blanco and not aged.
Many people say, “I’m going to buy an añejo tequila to make margaritas.” Is it possible? Of course. But realistically, it can feel like a waste of a tequila that has spent years aging, waiting to be enjoyed. Reposado and añejo tequilas go through a maturation process that deserves appreciation. The best way to enjoy them is neat, sipping slowly to fully experience their aromas and flavors.
For cocktail purposes, the recommendation is clear: use blanco tequila. It is more economical, delivers fresh and vibrant agave notes, and achieves exactly what you want in a cocktail. This is why blanco tequila is essential in mixology. It can be either 100% tequila or tequila, depending on your preference and budget.
Understanding the different types of tequila helps you choose the right one for each occasion—whether it’s mixing a refreshing cocktail or savoring a well-aged spirit on its own.
How Can You Tell If It’s 100% Pure Agave Tequila?
Consumers can identify whether they are purchasing 100% pure agave tequila by carefully reading the label on the bottle. Mexican regulations require that any tequila made exclusively from blue agave sugars clearly state this on the label.
You will typically see one of the following phrases:
- 100% pure agave
- 100% blue agave
- 100% agave
If none of these statements appear, the product is classified simply as tequila, meaning it is made with at least 51% blue agave sugars and the remaining sugars come from other sources.
When learning about the different types of tequila, checking the label is one of the most important steps to ensure you are choosing the style and quality that best match your preferences—whether for sipping neat or using in cocktails.
Does Tequila Expire? Does Its Flavor Change Over Time?
Once tequila is bottled—whether in stainless steel containers or glass—it no longer undergoes aging or fermentation. Unlike wine or certain spirits that continue to evolve in the bottle, tequila remains stable after bottling.
In practical terms, tequila does not have an expiration date. It can last for many years without spoiling. This applies to all types of tequila, including blanco, reposado, añejo, and extra añejo.
However, changes can occur over time due to external factors. One of the most common issues is seal deterioration. If a tequila bottle sits for many years in a cellar or on a home bar, the seal may eventually weaken. When this happens, alcohol can slowly evaporate through the compromised seal, followed by the liquid itself.
This evaporation affects the tequila’s characteristics. As alcohol content decreases, the flavor, aroma, and overall balance of the tequila can change, resulting in a noticeably different taste.
That said, as long as the bottle remains sealed and unopened, tequila can be stored for many years without significant changes. While the seal may naturally degrade over a very long period, tequila itself does not truly expire. Understanding proper storage helps preserve the quality and flavor across all types of tequila, ensuring a consistent drinking experience over time.
Is Tequila Only Drunk as a Shot?
Tequila is traditionally served in a caballito, also known as a shot glass—but that’s not the only way to enjoy it. In fact, one of the things that makes tequila so unique is its versatility. You can use almost any type of glass depending on how you want to drink it and which of the types of tequila you’re enjoying.
The caballito or shot glass is the classic option for drinking tequila straight. However, tequila is also commonly served in other glassware:
- Riedel tequila glass: This is the official glass for tequila tasting. If you want to identify the aroma, flavor, and other sensory characteristics of the tequila, this is the ideal choice. Just like champagne and cognac have their own specific glasses, tequila has one designed for proper tasting.
- Martini glass: Perfect for classic cocktails like the margarita.
- Old fashioned glass: Commonly used for tequila served on the rocks, especially for aged styles like reposado or añejo.
This flexibility is what makes tequila stand out among other spirits. Whether you’re sipping, mixing, tasting, or even drinking straight from the bottle, tequila adapts to the moment. Across all types of tequila, there’s no single “correct” way to drink it—only the way you enjoy it most.
At Dialce, we believe that understanding what you drink enhances the experience. From choosing the right glass to exploring the different types of tequila, knowledge allows you to appreciate tequila beyond traditions and stereotypes. Whether you enjoy it neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail, tequila is meant to be enjoyed your way—always with quality, intention, and moderation.
Recommended for you: The best tequila produced in Mexico for your brand.
Frequently asked questions about types of tequila
What are the 4 types of tequila?
The four main types of tequila, based on aging, are blanco, reposado, añejo, and extra añejo. Each type differs in flavor, aroma, and color depending on how long it is aged in oak barrels.
What are the 5 best tequilas?
There is no single list of the “best” tequilas, since quality is subjective and depends on personal taste. In general, high-quality tequilas are those made with 100% blue agave, produced using traditional methods, and properly aged according to their classification.
What is the smoothest tequila?
Many people consider reposado and añejo tequilas to be smoother because barrel aging adds mellow flavors like vanilla and caramel. That said, a well-made blanco tequila can also be very smooth and clean.
How many types of Patrón tequila are there?
This question varies by producer, but most tequila producers offer several styles, typically including blanco, reposado, añejo, and extra añejo, along with limited or special editions.
