Final answer:
The five types of tequila are Blanco, which is unaged, Joven, a blend with little aging, Reposado, aged for 2 months to a year, Añejo, aged for 1 to 3 years, and Extra Añejo, aged for a minimum of 3 years.
Step-by-step explanation:
Types of Tequila and Their Aging Process
The five different types of tequila are based on their aging and processing methods. These are:
- Blanco (or Silver) - Unaged tequila, bottled or stored immediately after distillation, or aged less than two months in stainless steel or neutral oak barrels.
- Joven (or Gold) - A blend that involves the mixing of Blanco with aged tequilas, additives, or both, typically not aged long on its own.
- Reposado - Aged for a minimum of two months, but less than a year in oak barrels of any size.
- Añejo - Aged in small oak barrels for a minimum of one year, but less than three years.
- Extra Añejo - Aged for a minimum of three years in oak barrels. This category was established in 2006 to recognize the longer-aging process used by certain distilleries.
The aging process impacts the color, flavor, and smoothness of the tequila, thus creating a wide spectrum of options for tequila enthusiasts.