Clase Azul Tequila in Australia: How to Choose (Reposado vs Guerrero Mezcal vs Ultra)
Clase Azul has taken the Australian spirits scene by storm, quickly earning a reputation among connoisseurs and curious sippers alike. At Caravan Wines & Spirits, we have witnessed firsthand the intrigue and sometimes confusion that surrounds choosing between Clase Azul Tequila Reposado, the Mezcal expressions (including regional releases), and the ultra-premium ULTRA Añejo 5 Years. If your goal is to buy with confidence—whether to savour neat, celebrate, share, or collect—this guide is for you.
The Clase Azul Landscape in Australia
Clase Azul’s appeal in Australia is as much about the artistry of its hand-painted decanters as the depth and distinctiveness of the spirits. We focus exclusively on authentic, high-quality bottles sourced through reputable importers, so you can buy knowing you’re getting the real deal.
- Clase Azul Tequila Reposado
- Clase Azul Mezcal—a polished, sipping-focused mezcal
- Clase Azul San Luis Potosi 43% 750ml—a mezcal made from native green agave
- Clase Azul Tequila ULTRA Añejo 5 Years
Tequila vs Mezcal: The Fundamentals
To make an informed choice, it helps to clearly understand what sets tequila apart from mezcal—and where Clase Azul’s approach fits in the spectrum.
What Makes Clase Azul Tequila Unique?
- Produced from 100% blue Weber agave (not the legal minimum of 51%)
- Agave is slow-cooked in stone ovens, then distilled and aged (Reposado and ULTRA are barrel-aged)
- Results in a spirit that emphasizes smoothness, depth, and a signature creaminess, with notes of vanilla, caramel, and gentle baking spice
Clase Azul tequilas are often compared to fine cognac or Scotch in their richness and complexity.
What Makes Clase Azul Mezcal Stand Out?
- Crafted from regional, non-blue agave varieties (such as green agave in San Luis Potosi)
- Uses ancient roasting methods, infusing the spirit with earthy, mineral, and smoky notes
- Mezcal expressions lean more savoury and herbaceous, with notes that can include dried fruit and subtle saline undertones
If you love complexity and the sensation of drinking something deeply "of the land," mezcal may resonate more.
Head-to-Head: Reposado vs Mezcal vs ULTRA Añejo
| Expression | Spirit Type | Ageing | Flavour Profile | Best For | Typical Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Reposado | 100% blue Weber agave tequila | 8 months in ex-bourbon casks | Cooked agave, vanilla, caramel, soft oak, gentle spice, extra smooth | Sipping neat, gifting, luxury tequila entry-point | High |
| Mezcal (incl. regional) | Non-blue agave mezcal | Usually unaged or lightly rested | Smoky, earthy, mineral, green notes, more savoury | Adventurous drinkers, food pairing | High |
| ULTRA Añejo 5 Years | Ultra aged tequila | 5 years, incl. rare sherry and ex-bourbon barrels | Rich agave, chocolate, tobacco, dried fruit, deep oak and spice | Collectors, milestone celebrations | Very High |
Clase Azul Reposado: The Luxe Classic
The entry point for many into Clase Azul, the Reposado is defined by a balance between traditional agave sweetness and barrel-mellowed sophistication. Expect an instantly inviting aroma of creamy vanilla and caramel, with soft pepper, honey, and cooked agave on the palate. Eight months in ex-bourbon barrels (long for a reposado) gives it an edge in smoothness.
- Impresses as a gift—thanks to its ornate decanter
- Ideal for sipping neat, on a single ice cube, or in a luxurious minimalist cocktail
- Pairs exceptionally with foods such as caramel desserts, nuts, and soft cheeses
Clase Azul Mezcal & Regional Variants
Clase Azul’s mezcal offerings—including the core Mezcal and regional releases—are for those seeking complexity and a true sense of provenance. Mezcal has a reputation for rustic wildness, but Clase Azul’s take is smooth, sophisticated, and beautifully balanced. The earthy backbone, gentle smoke, and green agave character (in bottles like San Luis Potosi) pair brilliantly with roasted vegetables, barbecued meats, or intense cheeses.
- Lovely as a slow-sipper for those with a whisky or red wine background
- Classic pairing with grilled meats, charred root veg, or dark chocolate
- Brings a new layer to tasting flights for agave aficionados
The Pinnacle: Clase Azul ULTRA Añejo 5 Years
At the very zenith sits ULTRA Añejo 5 Years, a bottle cherished by collectors and those seeking a true event spirit. The intensity from years in a mix of sherry and bourbon barrels shows in a dense, silky palate—offering up deep oak, chocolate, tobacco, dried fruit, and a lingering agave finish that rewards contemplation. This is not for mixing; it’s best reserved for toasts, milestone celebrations, or as a centrepiece in a world-class collection.
- Ultra-luxurious presentation and scarcity make it a showstopper
- Perfect for special occasions, gifting to mark life events, or serious agave enthusiasts wanting the absolute best
How to Decide: Matching Clase Azul to Your Taste & Occasion
- If your palate leans toward smooth, dessert-like spirits, Reposado is your gateway
- If you crave complexity, earth, smoke, and authenticity—mezcal will fascinate you
- If you want an extraordinary bottle for momentous events or investment, the ULTRA is in a league of its own
Your budget can also help: Reposado and Mezcal are both in the high hundreds, while ULTRA consistently breaks into the thousands in Australia. For tasting nights, create a vertical using two or even all three to appreciate the evolution of agave.
Service: How to Present Clase Azul at Its Finest
- Pour 20-30 ml into a tulip glass (or copita/small wine glass)
- Allow it to rest for a few minutes before nosing gently
- Enjoy at room temp (18-22°C). If warm, chill the bottle 10-15 minutes, but never serve ice-cold
- Savour neat, either alone or in a simple pairing with food or chocolate
For food pairing inspiration, check our range of gourmet Foodstuffs to match caramels, nuts, or cheeses with each style.
Safety and Authenticity: Buying Clase Azul Online
Bottle counterfeiting is a rare but real concern on the secondary market, so always opt for reputable, licensed retailers. At Caravan Wines & Spirits, we guarantee authenticity and provide fast, secure shipping Australia-wide (typically 4-5 business days for metro orders). Explore the Mezcal, Pisco & Tequila category for our curated agave range.
More on the Agave Category
If you enjoy the depth of Mexican spirits, you might also like our popular guide: Pisco vs Mezcal vs Cachaça: The Clear Buyer’s Guide for Australian Drinkers (with Top Bottles to Try).
FAQ: Clase Azul Tequila & Mezcal for Australian Buyers
Is Clase Azul legal and easy to buy in Australia?
Yes, provided you use a licensed retailer, Clase Azul is legally imported and sold in Australia.
What is the price range for Clase Azul in Australia?
Generally, Reposado and Mezcal expressions fall in the mid to high hundreds while ULTRA Añejo commands a price in the low thousands.
Is the investment in Clase Azul bottles "worth it"?
For those who appreciate sipping spirits with pedigree, hand-crafted presentation, and unique taste, many find the price justified—especially as a gift or centrepiece.
How do Reposado and Mezcal taste-side by side?
Reposado is sweeter and smoother, emphasizing baking spices and caramel, while Mezcal leans earthy, smoky, and mineral, with pronounced agave character.
Can I use these in cocktails?
While possible, it's typically considered best to enjoy them neat or with the most minimal mixers so as not to overshadow their complexity.
What’s the best way to serve Clase Azul?
Neat, at room temperature, in a tasting glass. If you must chill, only do so lightly.
How long does a bottle last once opened?
Ideally enjoy within 12-24 months after opening. Store upright, away from sunlight and excess heat.
What should I do with my ornate Clase Azul decanter once it’s empty?
Many reuse them as vases, water carafes, or decorative items. Simply rinse well and air dry.
Where can I buy Clase Azul ULTRA Añejo 5 Years in Australia?
Directly from Caravan Wines & Spirits here (subject to stock). Stock is limited and high demand—order when available.
Conclusion: A Community of Taste
At Caravan Wines + Spirits, our ethos is about more than retail; it's about helping you discover and share remarkable bottles that bring the world a little closer together. Clase Azul is one of those spirits that ignites conversation and celebration—whether you are new to high-end tequila, intrigued by mezcal, or pursuing a truly iconic bottle.
Ready to explore? Our full premium spirits selection awaits, and our team is always here to help you select the perfect match for your taste and occasion.
