Blanco (white) or plata (silver) – bottled directly after distillation or rested in stainless steel or neutral oak barrels to allow oxidisation for up to two months. This type has a bold taste and works well in cocktails.
Joven (young) or Oro (gold) – sometimes blends of unaged and aged tequilas but more commonly unaged tequilas produced in the same way as blancos but given a golden hue from the addition of colouring and additives for flavour.
Reposado (rested) – aged in oak barrels of unspecified size or vats called ‘pipones’ for a minimum of two months and up to a maximum of 12 months. This is best for mixed drinks and sipping.
Añejo – aged in oak casks with a maximum capacity of 600 litres for at least one year, or between one and three years. These often have a toasty, vanilla and citrus flavour.
Extra Añejo – aged at least three years in oak barrels with a maximum capacity of 600 litres. These generally have more of a smoky flavour and can be compared to fine French Cognacs with similar price tags.
Curados – a new category launched in 2006 – tequilas flavoured with natural ingredients such as orange, lemon, strawberry, pear and pineapple. A minimum 25% agave spirit must be used with 75% of the fermentable sugars coming from cane or corn and the addition of sweeteners, colouring and/or flavourings up to 75ml per litre.