How to Drink Añejo Tequila
Añejo tequila is renowned for its aged flavour and aroma, having been matured for 14–18 months. This transforms it into a drink that deserves to be enjoyed with the respect and tradition its history commands. Thus, it’s essential to explore various ways to savour añejo tequila, from including it in classic cocktails to enjoying it neat or on the rocks, while also considering food pairings that best enhance its unique taste. Mastering the proper way to drink añejo tequila can elevate the experience from enjoyable to unforgettable.
How to Drink Añejo Tequila in Cocktails
Making an Old Fashioned Cocktail
The Old Fashioned is a timeless cocktail traditionally made with whisky, but substituting it with añejo tequila offers an unexpected twist. Required ingredients:
- 2 oz of añejo tequila
- 1 sugar cube
- A few drops of Angostura bitters
- Ice
- A slice of orange or lemon for garnish
Instructions: Muddle the sugar with the Angostura bitters until it dissolves. Add the tequila and ice, stir well, and garnish with a slice of citrus. For a distinctive touch, use decorative ice cubes made with a specialist ice tray.
Substituting Whiskey with Añejo in the Classic Manhattan
The Manhattan cocktail adapts beautifully to a variation using añejo tequila. Simply follow the traditional recipe, substituting whisky with añejo tequila:
- 2 oz of añejo tequila
- 1 oz of red vermouth
- A few drops of Angostura bitters
- Maraschino cherry for garnish
- Ice
Combine all ingredients with ice, then strain into a chilled glass using a cocktail strainer. Garnish with a maraschino cherry for the quintessential finish.
Making a Tequila Sazerac with Añejo
The Sazerac, one of the oldest known cocktails, can be reimagined by substituting cognac or whisky with añejo tequila. You’ll need:
- 2 oz of añejo tequila
- 1 sugar cube
- Two dashes of Peychaud’s bitters
- A bit of absinthe to rinse the glass
- Lemon peel for garnish
Instructions: Dissolve the sugar with the bitters and a drop of water, then add the tequila and mix using a shaker. Rinse a glass with absinthe, pour the mixture into the glass, and garnish with a twist of lemon peel.
Different Ways to Drink Añejo Tequila
Enjoying it Neat or on the Rocks to Appreciate Its Flavors
Drinking añejo tequila neat, either at room temperature or slightly chilled, allows you to fully appreciate its aromatic complexity and smoothness. Adding an ice cube can further open up its flavours, making each sip smoother.
Serving Añejo on the Rocks
For a more refreshing option, serve añejo tequila over ice. This method not only cools the drink but also slightly dilutes it, revealing different nuances within its flavour profile.
Using Angostura Bitters
Adding a few drops of Angostura bitters to your añejo tequila can elevate the experience, transforming a simple glass into a more complex flavour journey. The bitters add depth that complements the rich characteristics of the añejo.
Recommended Pairings When Drinking Añejo Tequila
Añejo tequila, with its rich and complex flavour profile, pairs beautifully with a variety of foods. Dishes with smoky flavours, such as grilled or barbecued meats, can especially enhance the character of a quality añejo. Dark chocolates and caramel-based desserts are also excellent choices to accompany this distinguished drink. Experimenting with different pairings can lead to surprisingly delicious combinations, elevating both the meal and the tequila.
Altos Añejo for a Sure Shot
No matter how you choose to enjoy añejo tequila, if you want the experience to be truly unique, you should select a super-premium tequila. With Altos, the method becomes secondary. Neat, on the rocks, in a Manhattan, with friends by the pool on a sunny Sunday, or at an intimate gathering – the only thing you need to focus on is enjoying the moment with your people. That’s Altos.
