Forget everything you think you know about tequila. Extra añejo tequilas are not your average party shots. These are sipping treasures, meticulously aged for at least three years in oak barrels, often much longer.
The result? A symphony of flavors.
Think of extra añejos as the Don Draper of the tequila world — smooth, sophisticated, and boasting a depth of character that only comes with time.
If you're ready to explore the pinnacle of tequila artistry and are seeking a spirit that deserves a standing ovation, you've come to the right place. Today, we're diving deep into the world of extra añejo, unveiling five bottles that deserve a place of honor on your top shelf.
Buckle up, agave adventurers, because we're about to unlock the ultimate tequila trophy cabinet.
What You Need to Know About Extra Anejo Tequila
As you already know, tequila is a spirit synonymous with vibrant fiestas, lime wedges, and that questionable dance move you perfected in college (we've all been there). It's a complex spirit with a rich history, and at the very top of its agave throne sits the extra añejo —the undisputed crown jewel of the tequila world.
Extra Anejo Tequila: An Overview
The story of extra añejo tequila is intrinsically linked to the evolution of tequila itself. While the fiery spirit has been around for centuries, its aging wasn't always a common practice. It wasn't until the 1970s that tequila producers began experimenting with extended aging in oak barrels.
The inspiration? It was likely a combination of factors — the growing popularity of aged spirits like whiskey and cognac and a desire to create a more premium expression of tequila. This experimentation eventually led to the official "extra añejo" category in 2006.
In fact, extra añejo — translating to "extra aged" in Spanish — is the ultimate expression of tequila's potential. Unlike its younger blanco and reposado siblings, extra añejo spends a minimum of three years slumbering in oak barrels. However, many extra añejos go beyond the minimum; some are aged for more than ten years.
Like all tequilas, extra añejos begin their life as blue agave hearts (piñas) grown in specific regions of Mexico. These hearts are then cooked, fermented, and distilled to create a clear tequila base.
The clear tequila base is then transferred into oak barrels, typically previously used for bourbon, whiskey, or even cognac. These seasoned barrels are where the magic happens. Over a minimum of three years (often much longer), the tequila interacts with the wood, slowly extracting flavors and colors.
The result? A transformation from a fiery spirit to a complex and luxurious one. Extra añejos are typically crystal clear in appearance, showcasing their purity and long aging. The initial taste offers a smooth and mellow experience, a far cry from the fiery bite of a blanco.
The agave is still there, but it's now beautifully complemented by a symphony of flavors – vanilla, caramel, dried fruit (think raisins or figs), baking spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, and maybe even a touch of chocolate. The finish is long and luxurious, leaving you with a warm, lingering aftertaste that begs for another sip.
TL;DR: Extra añejo is a sipping tequila — best enjoyed neat or on the rocks — that allows one to appreciate the depth and complexity of its flavor profile. Think of it as the aged whiskey or cognac of the tequila world — a spirit revered for special occasions, savored by discerning drinkers, and often carrying a price tag to match its premium status.
How to Choose the Best Extra Anejo Tequila
Choosing the best extra añejo tequila is a refined art that requires an appreciation for the subtleties that separate the truly exceptional from the merely good. It ultimately boils down to personal preference, but here's a guide to help you navigate this luxurious world and find your perfect match:
- Know Thy Agave: Understanding the noble agave plant—the backbone of tequila—is crucial. Please familiarize yourself with the different agave varieties and their flavor profiles. This knowledge will serve as your compass in the vast tequila landscape.
- Age Ain't Just a Number: If you crave the classic agave character of tequila, look for extra añejos with shorter aging times (around 3-5 years). Alternatively, for a more complex experience, explore extra añejos aged for eight years or more.
- Embrace the Complexity: Extra anejo tequilas are known for their intricate flavor profiles, ranging from velvety caramel and dark chocolate to subtle hints of oak and spice. Take your time to savor and appreciate the nuances in each sip.
- Seek Authenticity: Authenticity is non-negotiable when it comes to extra anejo tequila. Look for brands with a rich heritage, a commitment to quality, and a passion for preserving traditional production methods.
At the end of the day, your taste buds are the ultimate judge. Experiment with different brands, explore various aging techniques, and trust your instincts. Whether you prefer a bold and robust extra anejo or a smooth and mellow expression, let your palate guide you to tequila nirvana.
What Does Extra Anejo Tequila Cost?
You must be prepared to indulge your senses (and wallet) when it comes to the sublime pleasures of extra añejo tequila. These are not mere spirits for the faint of wallet but luxurious libations that demand a commitment to the finer things in life.
Let's start with the basics — a respectable 750ml bottle of extra añejo tequila will rarely languish below the $100 threshold. The prices follow suit as the age statements climb higher, into the rarified air of 8, 10, or even 15 years. It's common to find yourself paying $300, $500, or even more for these refined embodiments of a master tequilero's craft. That said, this is the price you should expect to pay for a sipping tequila.
It's important to note that duties and taxes can significantly increase the final price, especially if you're ordering online from a different country.
Where Can You Buy Extra Anejo Tequila?
Tracking down an excellent extra añejo is easier than you might think. Your neighborhood liquor store is a solid starting point – they'll likely have some popular extra añejo brands gathering dust on the pricier shelves.
If you want more selection, visit a specialty liquor or tequila shop. These places cater to the tequila snobs and usually have an impressive extra añejo lineup, from big names to small-batch craft bottles. Just be prepared to pay a premium for their super-curated collections.
You can even find extra añejos in upscale Mexican restaurants and tequila bars. The catch? While convenient, be prepared for a significant price markup compared to retail stores.
Finally, if you prefer convenience and comfort, look no further than online liquor retailers like Speakeasy. These platforms usually offer a wide selection of tequilas, including a wide variety of extra añejos. You can comparison shop, read reviews, and maybe even score a limited release without leaving your couch. Plus, quick shipping straight to your door — the lazy sipper's dream.
The Best Extra Anejo Tequilas
Extra añejo tequilas typically have a higher price tag due to their extensive aging process and complex flavor profile, but they are ideal for sipping neat or on the rocks.
However, don't overlook añejo tequilas, which, while not undergoing as extensive aging, can still offer exceptional sipping experiences. Brands like Goza Tequila and JFC Anejo Tequila are excellent examples of añejos worth savoring.
That said, here are some of our favorite extra anejo tequilas:
JFC Extra Anejo Tequila
- MSRP: $204.99
- Proof: 80 (40% ABV)
- Tasting Notes: Sweet Spice, Herbs, Toasted Brioche, Cinnamon, Citrus, Chocolate.
- Our Rating: 5/5
Crafted in 200-year-old Haute Futaie French oak tree barrels, JFC Extra Anejo Tequila is a standout choice for those seeking an exceptional sipping experience. This rare spirit is the result of a meticulous aging process – a one-year-old tequila spends an impressive 30 months in barrels. Its flavor profile is rich and complex, featuring notes of sweet spice, toasted brioche, cinnamon, and citrus.
Pros
- It is exceptionally smooth with a velvety texture.
- Complex flavor profile with notes of herbs, spices, and chocolate.
- Small batch production.
- Competitive pricing compared to other extra anejo tequilas.
Cons
- Limited availability in some regions.
- It may lack the complexity of some pricier extra añejos.
Gran Patrón Piedra Extra Añejo
Image Source: https://www.patrontequila.com/
- MSRP: $349.99
- Proof: 80 (40% ABV)
- Tasting Notes: Sweet, Agave, Vanilla, Mushroom.
- Our Rating: 4.5/5
Gran Patrón Piedra Extra Añejo embodies the essence of luxury tequila, crafted with precision and care using the tahona process. Its deep mahogany color and complex aroma of fresh fruit and toasted oak set the stage for a taste experience like no other. While its premium price tag may deter some, those who indulge will be rewarded with a smooth, long-lasting finish that leaves a lasting impression.
Pros
- Exceptional craftsmanship using the tahona process.
- Rich and complex flavor with notes.
- Distinctive crystal bottles and elegant packaging.
- A long-lasting, smooth finish leaves a lasting impression.
Cons
- Premium price point may be prohibitive for some consumers.
- The flavor profile may not appeal to those seeking a more traditional tequila taste.
Avión Reserva 44 Extra Añejo Tequila
Image Source: https://tequilaavion.com/
- MSRP: $139.99
- Proof: 80 (40% ABV)
- Tasting Notes: Cinnamon, Clove, Vanilla, Salted Caramel, Jalapeño.
- Our Rating: 4.5/5
Handcrafted in limited batches to ensure exceptional quality, Avión Reserva 44 is a one-of-a-kind extra anejo tequila. Aged for 36 months in American Oak barrels, it delivers a dark and rich flavor profile that evolves with each sip, revealing 44 unique flavor notes. This multiple award-winning tequila offers the perfect balance of a complex yet savory flavor with hints of ripe, luscious fruits.
Pros
- Small-batch production ensures excellent quality and taste.
- Value for money.
- Complex and lasting flavor profile.
- A medley of 44 unique notes leads to an unmatched sipping experience.
Cons:
- Some may find the taste overwhelming due to the variety of ingredients.
- Limited availability in certain areas.
Extra Añejo Tequila: Top-Shelf Nectar for Discerning Sippers
We all deserve a little luxury now and then, and extra añejo delivers a sipping experience unlike any other. Skip the sugary cocktails and tired tequilas — treat yourself to a sip of pure agave bliss.
Extra añejo is the perfect way to unwind, relax, and appreciate the finer things in life. With every sip, you might find yourself letting out a contented sigh (it's okay, we won't judge).
Before we wrap up, please remember that the world of extra añejo tequilas is vast and exciting. Take some time to explore different brands and aging expressions to find the bottle that perfectly suits your taste buds and budget.
