Tequila styles explained

Tequila starts with blue Weber agave. The age statement on the bottle is about time in oak after distillation, not how long the plant grew in the field. Blanco (or silver) is unaged or briefly rested. It should taste like agave, citrus, pepper, and steam. Reposado rests in oak at least two months, usually under a year. Añejo sits at least a year. Extra añejo is three years or more. Oak can add vanilla and spice; too much oak can hide the plant. Look for “100% agave.” Mixto can legally include other sugars. That is not a moral failing, but it is a different drink. Towns and highlands produce different profiles; you do not need a map tattoo to enjoy them. Order blanco in a margarita if you want the agave to speak. Sip reposado when you want a little wood. Treat extra añejo like a slow whiskey, not a mixer.