Both reposado and añejo are aged in oak, which is where a lot of the confusion starts. But the amount of time each spends in the barrel changes the tequila dramatically.

Reposado: "Rested"

Reposado means "rested" and refers to tequila aged in oak barrels for a minimum of two months and up to just under a year. That short aging window gives it a light golden color and a smooth profile, with subtle vanilla and oak notes layered over the agave character, without losing the agave itself.

Añejo: "Aged"

Añejo means "aged" and requires a minimum of one year in oak, up to three years. The extended time in the barrel gives añejo a deeper amber color and a noticeably richer, more complex profile, closer in character to a fine brandy or whiskey.

How to Tell Them Apart by Sight and Taste

- Color: Reposado is pale gold; añejo is deep amber.

- Aroma: Reposado leans lightly sweet and oaky; añejo is richer, with notes of caramel, dried fruit, and toasted oak.

- Finish: Reposado finishes smooth and balanced; añejo finishes longer and more complex.

Which One Should You Choose?

Reposado is the more versatile choice, great for sipping and for cocktails that call for a little extra depth (like a tequila old fashioned or a Mexican mule). Añejo is best saved for sipping neat, the way you'd enjoy a good whiskey.

Try Both from Centinela

Centinela's Premium Reposado and 3 Años Añejo are both crafted from 100% blue agave, aged the traditional way. Taste them side by side to see the difference barrel time really makes.