When it comes to tequila, there are few expressions as revered and appreciated as extra añejo. This category of tequila, which is aged for three years or more, is the pinnacle of the tequila-making craft. And within this category, Espolon Extra Añejo stands out as a true masterpiece.
Espolon Extra Añejo is made from 100% blue agave, which is grown in the highlands of Jalisco, Mexico. The agave is harvested at its peak maturity, when the plant's sugars are at teir highest concentration. This ensures that the tequila has a full and complex flavor profile.
After the agave is harvested, it is roasted in traditional brick ovens for several days. This process caramelizes the sugars in the agave and gives the tequila its distinctive flavor. The roasted agave is then crushed and the juice is fermented using a proprietary yeast strain. The fermented juice is then double-distilled in copper pot stills, which results in a smooth and refined tequila.
But what truly sets Espolon Extra Añejo apart is its aging process. The tequila is aged for over three years in a combination of American and French oak barrels. This extended aging process allows the tequila to develop a rich and complex flavor profile, with notes of vanilla, caramel, and oak. The oak barrels also impart a deep golden color to the tequila, which is a hallmark of extra añejo tequilas.
When it comes to enjoying Espolon Extra Añejo, it is best to sip it neat or on the rocks. This allows the full complexity of the tequila to be appreciated, without the distraction of mixers or other flavors. The tequila has a smooth and velvety mouthfeel, with a long and lingering finish.
Espolon Extra Añejo is a true masterpiece of tequila-making. Its 100% blue agave base, traditional production methods, and extended aging process result in a tequila that is rich, complex, and truly unforgettable. Whether enjoyed as a special occasion sipper or shared with friends, Espolon Extra Añejo is a tequila that is sure to impress even the most discerning of palates.
The Difference Between Anejo and Extra Anejo
Anejo and Extra Anejo are both types of tequilas that are aged in oak barrels. The main difference between the two is the duration of their aging process. Anejo tequilas are aged between 1-3 years, while Extra Anejo is aged for 3 years or more.
The aging process imparts specific characteristics to tequila, such as a darker color, a smoother taste, and a more complex aroma. Anejo tequilas are typically darker in color than Blanco or Reposado tequilas, and have a smoother, more refined taste. They also have a more complex aroma, with notes of vanilla, caramel, and oak.
Extra Anejo tequilas, on the oher hand, have an even darker color than Anejo tequilas, and their taste is even smoother and more refined. They have a more intense aroma, with notes of wood, tobacco, and leather.
The main difference between Anejo and Extra Anejo tequilas is the duration of their aging process. Anejo is aged for 1-3 years, while Extra Anejo is aged for 3 years or more. Extra Anejo tequilas tend to have a darker color, a smoother taste, and a more complex aroma than Anejo tequilas.
What is Extra Añejo Tequila?
Extra Anejo is a term used to describe a type of tequila that has been aged for more than three years, which is longer than the aging period for Anejo tequila. This extended aging process gives the tequila a more complex and refined flavor profile. The tequila is typically aged in oak barrels, with American and French oak beig the most popular. The use of different types of wood barrels can affect the flavor and aroma of the tequila. Extra Anejo tequila is considered to be the most premium and expensive type of tequila due to its extended aging period and the resulting high-quality taste.
The Smoothness of Extra Anejo Tequila
Extra Añejo tequila is generally smoother than other types of tequila. This is because it is aged for a longer period of time, usually for a minimum of three years in oak barrels. During this time, the tequila becomes more mellow and acquires a richer flavor profile. The aging process also allows the tequila to develop more complex notes of vanilla, caramel, and oak, which contribute to its smoothness. Extra Añejo tequila is typically enjoyed neat or on the rocks, as its smoothness is best appreciated when sipped slowly.
Conclusion
Espolon Extra Añejo is an exceptional tequila that is aged for a minimum of three years, resulting in a rich and complex flavor profile. Its smooth and mellow taste makes it perfect for sipping and enjoying on its own or on the rocks. The use of American and French oak barrels adds depth and character to the tequila, making it a true delight for any tequila aficionado. Espolon Extra Añejo is a must-try for anyone looking for a high-quality, aged tequila that is rich in flavor and complexity.
