Choosing Tequila: Blanco, Reposado, or Añejo?

Spring celebrations and Cinco de Mayo gatherings bring plenty of tequila questions. The words blanco, reposado and añejo on a label are a good place to start, and you do not need to be an expert to choose well.

The three common styles

• Blanco (sometimes called silver or plata) is generally unaged or very lightly rested. Many people find it bright and agave-forward, and it is a popular choice for mixing.
• Reposado means "rested." It spends some time aging in wood, which often softens the spirit and adds warmer notes.
• Añejo means "aged." It typically spends longer in wood than reposado and is often enjoyed slowly, much like a whiskey.

These terms follow official aging categories, and the label on each bottle tells you which one applies. You will also see extra añejo, along with flavored and blended products.

Think about how you will use it

• Margaritas and Palomas: many people reach for a blanco.
• A smoother mixed drink or sipping on ice: a reposado is a nice middle ground.
• Sipping neat: an añejo may suit someone who enjoys aged spirits.

These are starting points; plenty of people sip blanco and mix with reposado.

Read the label

• Style: blanco, reposado, añejo or another category.
• "100% agave" or not: the label usually tells you. Ask if you are unsure what a particular bottle states.
• Proof or ABV.
• Bottle size.

If production methods matter to you, the producer's own website is the best place to learn more.

Consider your preferences

If you enjoy bright, fresh flavors, start with blanco. If you like a bit of warmth and roundness, try reposado. If you prefer aged spirits, explore añejo. A good way to learn is to compare two styles side by side in small pours with friends.

Prefer it ready to go?

If you would rather skip the mixing, spirits-based canned cocktails include tequila margaritas and Palomas. See our Cutwater canned cocktail guide and our ready-to-drink checklist.

Ask Stanley's

Our team is glad to show you tequila in each style and help you find a bottle that fits your plans and budget. Visit 1049 S State Street, call (601) 353-0331, or browse delivery options on Stanley's DoorDash store page.

Please enjoy responsibly. Must be 21+ to purchase.