Añejo tequilas hold a special place in the world of agave spirits. Aged in oak, they balance the pure essence of agave with layers of warmth, depth, and refined complexity. At the 2025 New York World Spirits Competition, this category was especially competitive, with two standout tequilas capturing the judges’ attention: 1800 Cristalino and Blue Star Añejo.

1800 is no stranger to the world stage, and their Cristalino once again reminded judges why it remains a benchmark in the category. By carefully filtering aged Añejo to achieve clarity without sacrificing depth, this expression offers tequila lovers both tradition and innovation. The result is a tequila that feels modern yet classic, approachable yet layered—a worthy finalist in this year’s competition.

Taking the title of Best Añejo Tequila was Blue Star Añejo, a spirit that dazzled the judges with its layered complexity and impeccable balance. Crafted with meticulous attention to aging and blending, Blue Star Añejo exemplifies the artistry possible within this category.

What sets this tequila apart is its ability to harmonize richness with vibrancy: indulgent notes of cocoa and tobacco are lifted by an undercurrent of brightness, making each sip dynamic and engaging.

This year’s competition highlighted how diverse Añejo tequilas can be—whether filtered and modern, like 1800 Cristalino, or deeply expressive and layered, like Blue Star. Both finalists captured the category’s essence, but Blue Star Añejo’s nuanced balance and inviting profile ultimately secured its place as the best Añejo Tequila of the 2025 New York World Spirits Competition.