EXTRA AÑEJO
Time-Honored, Ultra-Aged, Luxuriously Smooth
Extra Añejo tequila represents the most mature and luxurious expression of the agave spirit. Aged for a minimum of three years in oak barrels, this style takes on deep, layered complexity—often rivaling fine Cognac or aged Scotch in richness and depth. With silky texture, long finish, and opulent notes of spice, dried fruit, leather, and wood, Extra Añejo is crafted for sipping, contemplation, and celebration.
Key Characteristics
Extra Añejo (or "XA") tequilas are full-bodied, dark amber in color, and profoundly smooth. Barrel aging softens the agave’s edge while adding warmth, richness, and long, refined finishes. Premium offerings often highlight individual barrels, estate-grown agave, or extended aging.
Style
Ultra-aged tequila (3+ years in oak)
Body
Full
Texture
Lush, round, velvety
Base Ingredient
100% Blue Weber agave (Extra Añejo must be 100% agave)
Typical Flavors
Dark chocolate, fig, tobacco, roasted agave, vanilla, cinnamon, toffee, leather, dried cherry, toasted oak
Origin & History
Officially recognized as its own category in 2006, Extra Añejo was created to acknowledge tequilas aged beyond traditional Añejo limits. Initially niche and collector-focused, the style has gained popularity among drinkers seeking a tequila that delivers the depth and elegance of a fine aged spirit. Producers now treat Extra Añejo as a showcase for craftsmanship, using select barrels, rare agave, and often bottle-aging for added polish.
How It’s Made
After distillation, Extra Añejo tequilas are aged in oak barrels for a minimum of three years. Producers may use ex-bourbon, Cognac, sherry, or wine casks to develop layered flavors. Lower evaporation rates and careful blending often result in exceptionally smooth, concentrated spirits. Some are aged in smaller barrels for more oak contact; others use larger casks for balance.
Notable Styles
Extra Añejos vary based on aging time, cask choice, and distillery philosophy:
Classic Extra Añejo
3–5 years
Balanced richness with agave in the background
Extended Aged
6+ years
Deep, concentrated, wood-driven with brandy-like qualities
Single Barrel or Limited Edition
Unique, high-end bottlings with collector appeal
Wine- or Sherry-Finished
Adds dried fruit, nuttiness, and extra dimension
Estate-Grown XA
Reflects terroir, purity, and luxury in every sip
Cocktail Pairings
While most Extra Añejos are sipped neat, they can elevate classic stirred cocktails—especially those traditionally made with aged spirits.
Classic Cocktails
XA Old Fashioned, Añejo Manhattan, Tequila Sazerac
Modern Mixes
Fig & Walnut Old Fashioned, Extra Añejo Espresso Martini, Cocoa-Rose Boulevardier
Food Pairings
XA tequila is best enjoyed with rich, savory fare or luxurious desserts—especially those with earthy, nutty, or caramelized notes.
With Savory
Grilled ribeye, mole poblano, short ribs, roasted duck with plum sauce
With Cheese
Aged blue cheese, Manchego Reserva, truffled pecorino, Comté
With Dessert
Spiced chocolate cake, flan, fig and walnut tart, churros with Mexican hot chocolate
How to Serve It
Glassware
Glencairn, copita, or wide-bowled nosing glass
Temperature
Room temperature; no ice, no mixers—just a clean pour
Storage
Store upright in a cool, dark place. Premium XAs are stable once opened but best enjoyed within 1–2 years for maximum aromatic complexity
Fun Fact
Because Extra Añejo tequila undergoes long barrel aging, some expressions can contain flavor profiles remarkably similar to aged Cognac, Armagnac, or even vintage Scotch—yet retain tequila’s agave heart.
Recommended Producers
These houses exemplify the diversity and craftsmanship of ultra-premium tequila, showcasing the richness and refinement achieved through extended aging.
Don Julio
An iconic name in tequila, celebrated for its smooth, elegant expressions like 1942, revered for its depth, balance, and enduring prestige.
Flecha Azul
A rising premium label blending tradition with innovation, producing extra añejos that offer complexity, richness, and modern luxury.
Recommended Pours
Don Julio - 1942 Tequila — A legendary, ultra-smooth añejo with rich notes of caramel, vanilla, and roasted agave wrapped in a long, luxurious finish.
Flecha Azul - Extra Anejo — A deeply aged tequila offering layered flavors of dried fruit, dark chocolate, and oak, with a silky, elegant profile.