Last Updated on: 17th May 2024, 05:58 pm
J Highland
J Highland is a certified sommelier with 30 years in the liquor industry, owning a pub, a liquor store, and moonlighting as an agave spirits distiller.
With the assistance of Tequila expert Neil Coleman and customer feedback, I have assembled a list of the top Tequilas for Old Fashioned.
Written by: J Highland
Choosing the Best Añejo Tequila for Old Fashioned
- Best Tequila for Old Fashioned: Affordable Añejo Tequilas are recommended for Old Fashioned cocktails. Their barrel aging imparts bourbon-like notes with added agave depth, suitable for the cocktail's profile.
- Tequilas for Old Fashioned: El Mayor Añejo, 1800 Añejo, Espolon Añejo, Altos Añejo, Gran Centenario Añejo, Don Julio Añejo, Patron Añejo.
- Tequila Old Fashioned Taste: Tequila substitutes rye's spiciness with blue agave sweetness, offering a distinct take on the classic Old Fashioned.
- Versatility of Tequila: Tequila mixes well with various ingredients, from Coke to mineral water, pineapple juice, and Sprite. 100% agave Tequila is also known for minimizing hangovers, making it a great cocktail base.
- Quick Note: Running a pub and liquor store provides me ample access to various spirits, in addition, I moonlight as an agave spirits distiller. I assess them using customer feedback, expert opinions and online research.
Quick Look at the Best Tequilas for Old Fashioned
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Tequila | Price |
| El Mayor Añejo | $33 |
| 1800 Añejo | $35 |
| Espolon Añejo | $40 |
| Altos Añejo | $30 |
| Gran Centenario Añejo | $26 |
| Don Julio Añejo | $57 |
| Patron Añejo | $47 |
El Mayor Añejo: Budget-Friendly Añejo for Sipping or Sweet Old Fashioneds
El Mayor Añejo offers a budget-friendly alternative to top brands. Its caramel, vanilla, and peppery agave notes make it great for sipping or a unique Old Fashioned, says tequila expert Neil Coleman.
1800 Añejo: Bourbon-Esque Tequila for Sipping or Newcomers
1800 Añejo bridges the gap between Tequila and Bourbon with familiar vanilla, spice, and caramel notes. Smooth and affordable, it's a great Tequila for sipping or introducing Bourbon lovers to agave.
Espolon Añejo: Affordable Añejo for All Palates
Espolon Añejo offers a taste of butterscotch, agave, and oak at a great price. Enjoyable neat or in cocktails, it's a versatile Añejo for Tequila fans and newcomers alike, with a hint of bourbon for those who prefer familiar flavors.
Altos Añejo: Light & Natural Añejo for Classic Cocktails
Altos Añejo prioritizes natural agave and oak flavors, making it a great mixer for cocktails like Old Fashioneds. Its lighter profile stands out among affordable Añejos, with hints of caramel, spice, and subtle agave.
Gran Centenario Añejo: Reliable Añejo for Sipping, Old Fashioneds or Shots
Gran Centenario Añejo offers a familiar profile of oak, caramel, and vanilla at a budget-friendly price. This reliable Añejo is enjoyable neat, in cocktails, or even as a shot. Expect subtle agave and a touch of spice for a smooth sipping experience.
Don Julio Añejo: Warm Cinnamon & Smoke for Sipping
Don Julio Añejo leans into bourbon-like notes with vanilla, oak, and a distinctive cinnamon warmth. This balanced sipper offers a touch of smoke and subtle sweetness, perfect for those who enjoy a complex and warming agave experience.
Patron Añejo: Sweet & Simple Añejo for Sipping
Patron Añejo prioritizes caramel sweetness with hints of oak and vanilla. While lacking strong agave presence, it offers a smooth sipping experience at a fair price. Enjoy neat, without needing ice or mixers.
How to Choose a Good Tequila for Old Fashioned
Ideal Choice: Select an affordable Añejo Tequila for your Old Fashioned. Its aging process in barrels imbues it with bourbon-like flavors, complemented by the unique depth of agave, making it suitable for this classic cocktail.