Tequila Reposado for Beginners

Confused by the different types of tequila? You're not alone. This post simplifies what you need to know about tequila reposado, when to use it, mix it, and the main differences you should know.

Whether you're a mixer or sipper, a good reposado will help you fall in love with all things tequila.

reposado tequila in two shot glasses with limes and salt

What is Tequila Reposado?

The word "reposado" means "rested" in Spanish, so this "rested tequila" has been distilled (made) and then aged.

For tequila to be considered reposado, it's been left to age anywhere from 2-12 months inside of a barrel made out of oak wood.

The length of time will vary depending on the brand and often the price.

The Differences Between Regular Tequila and Reposado

The biggest difference between regular tequila and Reposado is that Reposado has been aged after the liquor is made. Therefore, it takes longer from the time the tequila is made to the time it's bottled and ready to drink.

Since the tequila sits to age inside an oak barrel, the final product tends to contain "woodsy" undertones.

The other difference between traditional tequila and Reposado is the coloring. Reposado tequila will naturally have a darker coloring to it, almost making it look golden.

There are many tequilas out there that say that they're a "golden tequila," but many of them have artificial dyes or coloring added to them, so unless it's labeled as Reposado tequila or "aged X time," you might be getting artificially colored tequila.

Is Tequila Reposado Better than Anejo or Silver?

Tequila connoisseurs and those that sip it slow tend to prefer Tequila Reposado over others because of the smoother flavors.

While you can mix reposado into any drink, it's often the tequila of choice for serving on the rocks (over ice), or slow sipping chilled or at room temperature.

What Does Tequila Reposado Taste Like?

Reposado contains several flavor notes that often win tequila fans. A well-aged quality reposado will have a hint of oak from the oak barrels, a subtle sweet caramel flavor, and a hint of vanilla.

It's the perfect tequila to use as a slow sipper because it gives your tastebuds time to enjoy all the various flavor profiles.

Reposado also pairs great in heavier cocktails with juice or drink mixers, although there's nothing wrong with using it for margaritas.

Chilling Reposado in the fridge or freezer will give it a different flavor profile than serving it at room temperature, so I recommend exploring that option.