Top 7 Types of Tequila Ranked by Flavor and Aging

Tequila is more than just a party drink or margarita mixer—it’s a refined and diverse spirit with deep cultural roots and craftsmanship. Whether you’re a curious beginner or a seasoned sipper, understanding the different types of tequila can dramatically elevate your appreciation of this iconic Mexican spirit.

In this guide, we’ll explore the top 7 types of tequila ranked by flavor and aging, showcasing the unique qualities of each variety. You’ll also learn what tequila is, how to drink tequila, and what the 5 main types of tequila are, with a couple of rising stars included for good measure.

What Is Tequila?

Tequila is a distilled alcoholic beverage produced from the blue agave plant which is mainly grown in the region of Tequila, in the state of Jalisco, Mexico. The agave heart, also known as piña, is steamed, fermented, and distilled to produce this incredible and versatile spirit.

The use of the term "Tequila" or tequilas may refer to distillation from one of those designated regions in Mexico and according to a specific process. Tequila must contain at least 51% blue agave, while the best tequilas are 100% blue agave.

1. Blanco Tequila – Pure, Unaged Agave

Aging: Unaged or rested for up to 60 days

Flavor Profile: Bright, bold, and agave-forward with notes of citrus, pepper, and herbs

Best For: Classic cocktails like margaritas and palomas; also appreciated neat by connoisseurs

Blanco tequila (sometimes referred to as "silver" tequila) is the truest representation of the agave plant. It is an unaged spirit embodying the fresh, herbaceous flavor of blue agave with vibrant notes that range from spicy and peppery to slow and citrusy. 

Although many treat blanco (especially in jiggered shots) as a party spirit, it is the "Chef's tequila" in the drinks world. Why? Because its unaged character highlights the artistry of a tequilero. Some blancos are smooth with honey and vanilla flavors while others are bold and vegetal.

How to drink tequila: If you’re just starting your tequila journey, begin with a blanco. Sip it neat or enjoy it in refreshing cocktails like Ranch Water, a drink that’s become a sensation in the tequila scene.

2. Reposado Tequila – The Balanced Middle Ground

Aging: Aged in oak barrels for 2 to 12 months

Flavor Profile: Smooth and mellow with vanilla, honey, toasted oak, and subtle spice

Best For: Sipping, premium margaritas, and substituting in whiskey cocktails

Reposado means "rested" in Spanish, and that is what this tequila has done. A short stay in oak barrels lends warmth and character to the spirit without overpowering the agave. 

Reposado tequilas are a good starting point for newcomers, their balanced profile allows them to be part of a cocktail very versatile in nature and yet perfect for sipping. The smooth texture with light oak influence qualifies a reposado tequila as soft and finish with a slight spiciness. 

Try using a reposado in place of whiskey in an old-fashioned or Manhattan. A touch of agave nectar for sweetness and you'll have a unique twist on a classic cocktail!

3. Añejo Tequila – Rich and Complex

Aging: Aged 1 to 3 years in small oak barrels

Flavor Profile: Caramel, oak, vanilla, tobacco, and dark chocolate

Best For: Sipping neat or over ice; great substitute for bourbon or scotch

4. Extra Añejo Tequila – Ultra-Aged Luxury

Aging: Aged 3 years or more

Flavor Profile: Bold and luxurious with notes of espresso, dried fruit, leather, and spice

Best For: Neat sipping and special occasions

Extra añejo is the ultra-premium category of tequila. Aged for a minimum of three years, these tequilas offer a complexity on par with the finest aged spirits in the world, including cognac and scotch.

Because agave takes 7 to 10 years to mature and extra añejo requires a minimum of 3 years in the barrel, the bottle in your hand is at least a decade in the making. That time commitment results in bold, luxurious flavors with incredible smoothness.

This is the tequila to break out for celebrations or reflective nights. Sip it neat in a wide-mouthed glass to appreciate its aromas and flavors.

5. Cristalino Tequila – Clear but Aged

Aging: Añejo or extra añejo, charcoal filtered

Flavor Profile: Clean and soft, with subtle sweetness and notes of oak and vanilla

Best For: Elegant sipping and modern cocktails

Cristalino tequilas are one of the newest and fastest-growing tequila types. These are aged tequilas that have been filtered through charcoal to remove the color while preserving the complexity of aging.

Though they appear clear like a blanco, they taste smoother and softer than traditional añejos. Their crystal-clear look and easy-drinking style make them popular with both seasoned and new tequila drinkers.

Use cristalino to elevate a cocktail, or enjoy it chilled for a crisp, smooth finish.

6. Joven Tequila – A Unique Blend

Aging: Typically a blend of blanco and aged tequilas (reposado, añejo, or extra añejo)

Flavor Profile: Bright with subtle aged notes; balanced and approachable

Best For: Cocktails and casual sipping

Joven (meaning "young") tequilas bridge the gap between unaged and aged expressions. These blends combine the vibrancy of blanco with the roundness of aged tequila to create a smooth yet complex spirit.

While "gold" tequila often refers to lower-quality mixto tequila colored with additives, 100% agave joven tequilas can be wonderful and elegant expressions.

If you're looking for a tequila that offers both freshness and finesse, joven is worth exploring.

7. Mezcal (Honorable Mention)

Aging: Varies; can be joven, reposado, or añejo

Flavor Profile: Smoky, earthy, complex

Best For: Adventurous sippers and unique cocktails

While not technically tequila, mezcal deserves an honorable mention. Mezcal is also made from agave (sometimes different varieties), and often cooked in underground pits, which gives it a signature smoky flavor.

If you enjoy bold flavors and want to explore beyond the traditional types of tequila, mezcal is an exciting category to dive into.

What Are the 5 Types of Tequila?

The five officially recognized types of tequila are:

1. Blanco (Silver)
2. Joven (Gold)
3. Reposado
4. Añejo
5. Extra Añejo

Cristalino is a newer, unofficial category but gaining popularity fast.

How to Drink Tequila Like a Pro

Drinking tequila isn’t just about shots and limes. To truly appreciate its depth:

• Use the right glass: A snifter or copita helps capture aroma.
• Sip, don’t shoot: Especially with aged varieties.
• Add water or ice: Just a splash can open up flavors.
• Pair with food: Tequila goes great with ceviche, grilled meats, and spicy dishes.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re savoring the bold agave of a blanco or indulging in the luxurious complexity of an extra añejo, there’s a tequila for every taste and occasion. By understanding the different types of tequila, you can better choose bottles that suit your palate and enhance your cocktails.

So the next time someone asks, "What are the 5 types of tequila?", you’ll have more than just an answer—you’ll have stories, tasting notes, and maybe even a favorite bottle to recommend.

Salud!