Best Extra Anejo Tequilas

Why is extra anejo tequila so revered? Charged with depths of flavor from over three years in oak barrels, it stands as the zenith for tequila lovers. This guide unpacks the essence of extra anejo—its unparalleled aging process, distinctive taste notes, and the esteemed brands defining this category. As you immerse yourself, discover the subtleties and sipping etiquette that render extra anejo tequila an exquisite experience.

Overview of Extra Añejo Tequila

  • Extra Anejo Tequila, characterized by a minimum of three years barrel aging, offers a sophisticated flavor profile akin to well-aged spirits such as Cognac due to its nuanced notes of caramel, dried fruits, and honeyed agave finish.
  • Premium brands and limited release offerings of Extra Anejo Tequilas, such as Don Julio, Jose Cuervo, and Maestro Dobel, provide a diverse and exclusive tasting experience, some awarded for their excellence in quality and craftsmanship.
  • To best enjoy the complex flavors of Extra Anejo Tequila, it should be sipped neat at room temperature using a fluted tequila glass to concentrate the aromas, with pairings such as dark chocolate, smoked beef cheek, or pineapple upside-down cake to enhance the tasting journey.

My Top Extra Anejo Tequilas

My List of the Best Extra Anejo Tequilas

This is my list, yours may vary and of course like anything else in life, there will be debates. I highly encourage you to share your favorites in the comments section.

Tears of Llorona

tears of llorona extra anejo tequila
The color of this tequila is spectacular.

Read the Tears of Llorona review to find out why it tops my list as the best extra anejo tequila.

San Matias Rey Sol  

rey sol extra anejo tequila

 

Jose Cuervo Reserva de la Familia

jose cuervo reserva de la familia

Seleccion Suprema de Herradura

seleccion suprema herradura

El Tesoro Paradiso Extra Anejo

el tesoro paradiso

I'll be adding more color to these selections as well as written and video reviews, so stay tuned for that while I get organized.  You can't go wrong with anything on that list.

I'll go on record saying I haven't had any of the Tequila Ocho in this expression, and their Anejo expressions are among my favorites, so I will most likely be adding this to the list soon if I can sample it.  There is also a Cazcanes extremely limited release I just got this Spring, which isn't far from my top five list, in addition to the Maestro Dobel 1968 I haven't opened.

Understanding Extra Anejo Tequila

Bottle of extra añejo tequila surrounded by blue agave plants

Tequila, a beloved Mexican spirit, is not just about shots and margaritas. It’s a complex beverage with a rich history and an array of styles and flavors. At the pinnacle of this diversity lies Extra Anejo Tequila, including the renowned Tequila Ocho. This premium spirit is the epitome of tequila craftsmanship, offering a sophisticated tasting experience that is unparalleled in its depth and complexity.

The meticulous aging process is what qualifies a tequila as Extra Anejo. It is aged for a minimum of three years in barrels, a duration significantly longer than other tequila categories. This extended aging period imparts a unique character to the spirit, resulting in a tequila that is not just a beverage, but a journey of flavors to be savored.

The Aging Process

As we explore the world of Extra Anejo Tequila further, understanding the unique aging process becomes vital. The spirit is gently aged in oak barrels for at least three years, a process that allows it to acquire a rich and complex flavor profile.

With this extended aging, the spirit develops pronounced flavors such as cinnamon and dried fruits, giving it more presence. These flavors are reminiscent of the deep profiles found in Cognac, another well-aged spirit. This similarity is not a coincidence, but a testament to the sophistication and complexity that aging imparts to these spirits.

Blue Agave: The Key Ingredient

The essence of Extra Anejo Tequila is captured by its primary ingredient – the Blue Agave plant. This plant is the heart and soul of tequila, crafting its unique taste and quality.

The Blue Agave plant takes a minimum of 7 years to mature, a slow process that allows it to develop the sugars necessary for producing the rich, full taste that characterizes Extra Anejo Tequila. This extended maturation period ensures a deep and complex flavor in the final product, adding another layer to the intricate puzzle that is Extra Anejo Tequila.

The Flavor Profile of Extra Anejo Tequila

Aged oak barrels used in the tequila aging process

The real allure of Extra Anejo Tequila emerges from its flavor profile. The result of an extended aging process is a complex spirit, known for its diverse and nuanced flavor profile.

This premium tequila is characterized by flavor notes that include:

  • Toasted oak
  • Caramel
  • Fruits such as apricot and orange
  • Dried fruits like figs and dates
  • A smooth honeyed agave finish

The flavor profile of Extra Anejo Tequila, with its rich añejo profile, is akin to a well-aged whiskey, emphasizing its complex nature.

Oak Influence

The significant influence of French oak barrels on the flavor of Extra Anejo Tequila is undeniable. These barrels play a crucial role in defining the spirit’s flavor profile, adding a unique touch to its taste.

The aging process of extra añejo tequila in oak barrels imparts rich caramel notes to the spirit, making it the perfect choice for those who enjoy extra añejos lean. In addition to this, the barrels also lend a touch of toasted oak to the tequila. So, the next time you take a sip of Extra Anejo Tequila, remember to look out for these subtle notes of caramel and toasted oak.

Cognac Profile Comparison

The comparison of Extra Anejo Tequila with Cognac presents another intriguing aspect. Both these spirits are premium offerings known for their depth and complexity of flavors.

Extra Anejo Tequila and Cognac share a richness in flavor that stems from the extended aging process. They exhibit common notes such as vanilla and spice, adding to their similarity in tasting profiles. So, if you’re a fan of Cognac, chances are you’ll enjoy the exquisite taste of Extra Anejo Tequila.

Top Extra Anejo Tequila Brands to Savor

Selection of extra añejo tequila bottles from top brands

Having familiarized yourself with the uniqueness of Extra Anejo Tequila, let us now delve into some of the leading brands in this category. Some popular extra anejo tequila brands include:

  • Don Julio
  • Jose Cuervo
  • Adictivo Tequila
  • Herradura Seleccion Suprema
  • Gran Patron Piedra
  • Tapatio Excelencia
  • Cabal Extra Anejo

Each of these brands brings something unique to the table, ensuring a diverse tasting experience for tequila enthusiasts.

Limited Release Offerings

The satisfaction derived from savoring limited release tequilas is truly unmatched. These tequilas are sought after by connoisseurs for their uniqueness and rarity.

Maestro Dobel, Don Alberto, Don Fulano, and Don Ramon are three brands that have released limited edition extra anejo tequilas. These tequilas are celebrated for their distinctive characteristics and exclusivity. The exclusivity of these offerings enhances the overall experience for connoisseurs, making each sip a cherished moment.

Award-Winning Selections

Prestigious awards bestowed upon extra anejo tequilas are a testament to their excellence and craftsmanship. These labels stand as a testament to the skill and dedication that go into the production of these spirits.

Tequila San Matias, an extra anejo, has earned recognition for its smoothness and complexity, earning multiple awards. Similarly, Tequila Cava de Oro has been honored with awards for its exceptional quality, including its rich texture and aromatic depth. Other award-winning extra anejos like Rey Sol and El Tesoro Paradiso have garnered acclaim, showcasing the diversity of top-quality tequilas.

How to Best Enjoy Extra Anejo Tequila

Fluted glass with extra añejo tequila served neat

Knowing how to relish the complexity of Extra Anejo Tequila is of paramount importance. Similar to fine Cognac, extra anejo tequila is designed to be savored by sipping, allowing connoisseurs to appreciate its crafted complexity.

This premium spirit is best consumed neat, at room temperature. This allows the full appreciation of its complex flavors. In addition, a fluted glass is recommended for consuming extra anejo tequila as it enhances the experience by concentrating the aromas.

Sipping Neat vs. On the Rocks

For savoring Extra Anejo Tequila, one can choose between sipping it neat or on the rocks. Each method offers a unique experience, allowing the drinker to appreciate the spirit’s intricate nuances in aroma and flavor notes.

Sipping tequila on the rocks with a single ice cube or some crushed ice in a lowball or double rocks glass can mellow out the spirit’s aromas, enhancing the appreciation of its nuanced details. However, drinking it sipped neat allows for a full appreciation of its intricate nuances, capturing subtleties in each sip. Both methods are valid and depend on the drinker’s personal preference.

Glassware Selection

The selection of appropriate glassware can significantly enrich the sipping experience. Copita-shaped glasses, such as the Glencairn copita, with expansive bowls and narrow rims are ideal for sipping extra anejo tequila as they concentrate the aromas, allowing for a heightened sensory experience.

Some other stylish and functional options include the Libbey Brandy Glass and Riedel Vinum Lead Crystal Tequila Glass. These glasses are crafted to allow harsh vapors to evaporate while funneling aromatic compounds to the nose, enhancing the overall experience.

NEAT glasses, originally intended for whiskey, have also found a place in tequila tasting, offering an alternative for tequila enthusiasts.

Pairing Suggestions for Extra Anejo Tequila

Pairing of extra añejo tequila with dark chocolate and charcuterie board

An apt pairing can enhance the tasting journey of Extra Anejo Tequila. Just like a good wine, Extra Anejo Tequila can be paired with a variety of foods to enhance its complex flavors.

Classic pairings for Extra Anejo Tequila include dark chocolate, which enhances the tequila’s complex flavors like vanilla, roasted agave, and spices. In the realm of savory foods, smoked beef cheek, particularly when smoked with añejo barrel wood chips and braised with añejo tequila, pairs excellently with extra anejo tequila.

For a more adventurous pairing, you can try pineapple upside-down cake, which complements the tequila’s notes of vanilla, pineapple, and honey. Other interesting pairings include:

  • Aged Gouda and Manchego cheeses
  • Fried chicken
  • Grilled steak
  • Sushi, particularly Dutch Yellowtail

Each of these pairings offers a unique way to enjoy Extra Anejo Tequila, making every sip a delightful experience.

Extra Anejo Tequila Reviews

Check out my growing library of extra anejo tequila reviews:

Summary

Extra Anejo Tequila is a unique and complex spirit that offers a premium drinking experience. Its production process, from the careful selection of mature Blue Agave to the meticulous aging in oak barrels, results in a spirit that is rich in flavor and character. Whether you’re a tequila enthusiast or an adventurous spirit connoisseur, Extra Anejo Tequila offers a journey of flavors that is sure to delight and intrigue. So here’s to the beauty of Extra Anejo Tequila – may each sip bring you joy and discovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Extra Anejo tequila so expensive?

Extra Anejo tequila is expensive due to the use of high-quality barrels, longer aging periods, and distinct packaging, all contributing to its exclusivity and price.

Is extra Anejo better?

Yes, extra Anejo tequilas are considered the most complex and are meant to be enjoyed on their own.

What's the difference between reposado and extra Anejo?

The main difference between reposado and extra Anejo tequila is the aging process. Reposado is aged between 2-12 months, while extra Anejo is aged for 3 years or more.

What is Extra Anejo Tequila?

Extra Anejo Tequila is a premium spirit with a complex and rich flavor profile, achieved through at least three years of aging in oak barrels.

How does the aging process influence the flavor of Extra Anejo Tequila?

The aging process in oak barrels imparts rich flavors to Extra Anejo Tequila, including cinnamon and dried fruits, similar to Cognac.