Understanding the different types of tequila—and discovering which one is right for you.
Have you ever ordered a margarita only to have your bartender or server ask,
Do you have a preference on your tequila?"
Suddenly you're staring at a list of unfamiliar names, wondering if you should just nod and hope for the best.
Don't worry—you aren't alone.
The good news? Once you understand the four main styles of tequila, ordering your next cocktail (or sipping tequila neat) becomes a whole lot more enjoyable.
While every distillery has its own unique process, the biggest difference between the four main categories comes down to how long the tequila is aged and the barrels it's aged in. Those two factors dramatically influence the flavor in your glass.
Blanco (Silver or Plata)
Aged: Unaged or up to 60 days
Blanco is tequila in its purest form. It highlights the natural flavors of the agave plant with bright citrus notes, fresh herbs, and a touch of peppery spice. Because of its clean, vibrant profile, it's the classic choice for cocktails like a Margarita or Paloma.
Best for: Margaritas, Palomas, and fresh citrus-forward cocktails.
Reposado ("Rested")
Aged: 2–12 months in oak barrels
Reposado bridges the gap between fresh agave and barrel-aged richness. The oak adds subtle notes of vanilla, caramel, and light spice while still allowing the tequila's natural character to shine through.
It's incredibly versatile—smooth enough to sip on its own but equally at home in a premium cocktail.
Best for: Elevated Margaritas, Ranch Waters, or sipping.
Añejo ("Aged")
Aged: 1–3 years in oak barrels
With more time in the barrel comes a richer, darker tequila. Añejo develops flavors reminiscent of baking spices, chocolate, toasted oak, and dried fruit, making it a favorite among whiskey and bourbon drinkers.
This is the tequila you'll want to slow down and enjoy.
Best for: Sipping neat, over ice, or in spirit-forward cocktails like a Tequila Old Fashioned.
Extra Añejo ("Ultra Aged")
Aged: 3+ years in oak barrels
The longest-aged style of tequila, Extra Añejo is bold, luxurious, and incredibly complex. Extended barrel aging creates deep bronze color and layered flavors that often rival fine whiskey or cognac.
This is a bottle made for special occasions and slow conversations.
Best for: Sipping and savoring.
So...which one should you choose?
There isn't a wrong answer.
A Blanco Margarita delivers bright, crisp citrus flavors that many people know and love. But maybe you're looking for something a little smoother, with hints of vanilla and caramel—that's where a Reposado shines.
Or maybe you're a bourbon fan looking to explore tequila. An Añejo or Extra Añejo might surprise you with their rich, oak-forward character and depth of flavor.
The beauty of tequila is that there's always something new to discover.
Pat's Private Barrel Selection
That spirit of exploration is exactly what inspired Pat's newest private barrel selection with Cambio Tequila.
Rather than choosing a single expression, Pat worked with Cambio to create an exclusive blend that combines Reposado and Añejo tequilas, finished in both toasted and untoasted French oak casks.
The result is a smooth, aromatic tequila that balances bright agave with layers of vanilla, warm oak, subtle spice, and a finish that's uniquely its own. It's a bottle you won't find anywhere else because it was crafted specifically for Metro.
Ready to find your favorite?
The next time you're looking over our tequila selection, you'll know exactly what those names mean—and maybe you'll even step outside your comfort zone.
Who knows? Your new favorite tequila might just be waiting for you at Metro.
From the Table is from Metro Insider's weekly series exploring the stories, flavors, and craftsmanship behind the food and drinks we love.
