Tequila has come a long way from the party-starter reputation it once had. What was once seen as a spirit best suited for quick shots has now evolved into a sophisticated sipping experience enjoyed by tequila connoisseurs everywhere. At Pascale's Wine & Liquors in Fayetteville, NY, we've curated an impressive selection of premium tequila brands to offer our customers the very best. Keep reading the blog if you want to know more about our collection. The Different Tequila Styles and Their Aging Process Tequila is a complex and versatile spirit, with a wide range of styles determined by the aging process. Here is how they differ: Blanco (White) Tequila Also known as silver or plata tequila, this unaged expression is bottled immediately after distillation. Blanco tequilas are known for their clean, bright flavors, often exhibiting notes of citrus, pepper, and a touch of herbaceousness. These unaged tequilas are perfect for mixing in refreshing cocktails like margaritas, where their crisp profile can shine. Reposado (Rested) Tequila This style is aged in oak barrels for a minimum of 2 months, but less than a year. The time spent in the barrel imparts subtle woody and vanilla notes, while still maintaining the agave's inherent freshness. Reposados make excellent sipping tequilas, with a balanced flavor profile that complements a wide range of cuisines. Añejo (Aged) Tequila Aged for a minimum of 1 year, but less than 3 years, in oak barrels, añejo tequilas develop a rich, complex character. These tequilas exhibit deeper, more concentrated flavors of caramel, dried fruit, and spice, making them superb for savoring neat or on the rocks. Extra Añejo Tequila The pinnacle of tequila aging, extra añejo expressions are barrel-aged for a minimum of 3 years. This extended maturation process results in a smooth, velvety texture and an intensely layered flavor profile, with notes of vanilla, toasted oak, and dried herbs. Extra añejos are the ultimate sipping tequilas, best enjoyed slowly to fully appreciate their nuanced character. Top Tequila Brands and Recommendations at Pascale's 1800 Reposado Tequila 1800 Reposado is a great all-purpose tequila that works well for sipping or mixing cocktails. Its 6 months of oak aging give it a smooth, balanced profile with notes of vanilla, caramel, and warm spice. Enjoy this 80 proof, 120 calorie tequila neat, on the rocks, or in classic mixed drinks like an Old Fashioned or Paloma. The reposado style makes it a versatile option that pairs nicely with everything from tacos to grilled meats. Vizon Blanco Tequila For a clean, crisp tequila that shines in cocktails, go for Vizon Blanco. This unaged, 80 proof spirit has a bright, agave-forward flavor profile with hints of citrus and white pepper. At only 96 calories per 1.5 oz serving, it's a light, refreshing option that's perfect for margaritas, palomas, or enjoying on its own over ice. The pure taste of the agave makes Vizon Blanco a great choice for summer sipping or pairing with fresh, zesty dishes. 123 Organic Añejo Tequila For a truly sippable tequila experience, try the 123 Organic Añejo. This 80 proof expression spends 18 months in oak barrels, developing a rich, complex character with notes of vanilla, caramel, and dried fruit. At 121 calories per serving, it's a luxurious tequila to savor neat or on the rocks, allowing you to fully appreciate its velvety smooth texture and warming flavors. The añejo style makes it a fantastic pairing for hearty dishes like grilled steaks, roasted vegetables, or even chocolate desserts. Casa San Matias Rey Sol Extra Añejo Aged for a minimum of 3 years, this 80 proof spirit exhibits an exceptionally smooth, multilayered profile with flavors of toasted oak, dark chocolate, and dried fruit. Sip this 123 calorie-per-serving tequila slowly to fully appreciate its luxurious mouthfeel and complex character. The extra añejo style makes it an ideal pairing for special occasions or as a nightcap, allowing you to savor the culmination of the distiller's craft. Best Tequila for Margaritas For the perfect margarita, the tequila you choose is essential. Opt for a high-quality blanco or reposado tequila. Blanco tequilas, like Patrón Silver or Don Julio Blanco, have a clean, bright profile that allows the lime and orange liqueur to shine. These unaged tequilas offer crisp, citrusy flavors that are perfect for margaritas. Reposado tequilas, such as Herradura Reposado or Casamigos Reposado, lend subtle oak and vanilla notes to the mix. These tequilas spend at least 2 months, but less than a year, aging in oak barrels, which gives them a smooth, more complex character. Margaritas made with reposado tequila will have a richer, more nuanced flavor. Regardless of the tequila style, use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best results. Freshly squeezed lime juice, a premium orange liqueur like Cointreau, and a well-balanced sweetener like simple syrup will all contribute to a margarita that truly showcases the tequila's flavor. Tequila Cocktail Recipes While the margarita may be tequila's most famous cocktail, this spirit can shine in many other drinks as well. Here are some standout recipes to try: Paloma Ingredients: 2 oz blanco tequila (such as Milagro Silver) 3 oz fresh grapefruit juice 1 oz fresh lime juice 1 oz simple syrup Top with club soda Method: In a highball glass filled with ice, combine the tequila, grapefruit juice, lime juice, and simple syrup. Stir gently and top with a splash of club soda. Garnish with a lime wedge. The Paloma is a beloved Mexican cocktail that highlights tequila's natural affinity for citrus. The grapefruit provides a refreshing tartness, balanced by the lime and a touch of sweetness. Tequila Old Fashioned Ingredients: 2 oz añejo tequila (such as Casamigos Añejo) 2 dashes angostura bitters 1 tsp simple syrup Orange twist for garnish Method: In a rocks glass, combine the añejo tequila, bitters, and simple syrup. Add a large ice cube and stir until well-chilled. Garnish with an expressed orange twist. This twist on the classic old fashioned truly shows the depth of aged tequila. The rich, oaky notes of the añejo spirit work beautifully with the warm spice of the bitters and subtle sweetness. Spicy Tequila Sunrise Ingredients: 2 oz blanco tequila, infused with jalapeño 4 oz fresh orange juice 1 oz grenadine Method: Infuse the blanco tequila with 2-3 jalapeño slices for at least 2 hours, then strain. In a highball glass with ice, layer the orange juice and grenadine. Carefully float the infused tequila on top. This take on the tequila sunrise adds a spicy kick. The jalapeño-infused tequila complements the fresh orange juice and sweet grenadine for a balanced, visually striking drink. Tequila Tasting Tips Appreciating tequila requires close attention and an open palate. Use a copita or tequila-specific glass to nose the spirit and identify the aromas. Blanco tequilas often have bright, herbaceous notes of citrus and pepper, while reposados show subtle oak and vanilla. Aged tequilas develop richer scents of caramel, dried fruit, and spice. When tasting, take a small sip and let it linger. Note the initial flavors, how the taste evolves, and the finish. Pay attention to the texture and mouthfeel as well - blancos are crisp, while añejos are velvety. With practice, you'll discern the nuanced differences between tequila styles. This understanding will allow you to fully appreciate the craftsmanship that goes into these agave-based spirits. How to Enjoy Tequila Responsibly? Tequila is meant to be savored, not quickly consumed. Serve it at 55-60°F to allow the flavors to shine. Sip it neat or on the rocks to fully experience the spirit's character. Consider the tequila's style when pairing with food. Lighter dishes like seafood and salads pair well with blanco and reposado, while the bolder añejo and extra añejo expressions can stand up to heartier fare. Shop the Best Tequila at Pascale's Wine & Liquors As tequila's popularity continues to grow, the team at Pascale's Wine & Liquors in Fayetteville, NY, remains dedicated to providing our customers with the finest selection of agave-based spirits. Our knowledgeable staff is always available to offer recommendations, answer your questions, and guide you towards the perfect tequila for your tastes and occasions. For any inquiries, feel free to reach us at (315) 355-6222 or pascalesfayetteville@gmail.com. We look forward to helping you find your new favorite tequila and elevating your drinking experience.
