From $26 to $225, 10 Reposado Tequilas for Every Budget

From barely oaked to showing lots of deep, rich flavor, reposado Tequila can express a myriad of personalities. The category occupies a unique space in the middle of the aging range, with the spirits rested in oak barrels from two months to one year.

Many of the reposados on this list are on the lighter side of the oak spectrum, yielding Tequilas that are lean rather than lush. That easier hand means that herbaceous, mineral-like and fruity or vegetal notes shine through in a lively way.

A number of producers are working on the opposite end of the spectrum and creating reposados with more pronounced oak presence, like interesting cask selections that add complexity. For example, Kostiv ages its reposado for six months in barrels that previously held Cabernet Sauvignon, which lends nutty, fruity tones. Elsewhere, Partida’s Roble Fino expression spends six months in ex-Bourbon casks, then another two months in barrels that previously held single-malt whiskey. The end result: a Tequila that drinks remarkably like a mellow whiskey. And Lobos Reposado PX is finished in Pedro Ximénez Sherry casks, which add honeyed richness.

The category occupies a unique space in the middle of the aging range, with the spirits rested in oak barrels from two months to one year.

If the distinguishing characteristic of a reposado is how long it ages, what does it say that some producers find ways around that restriction? For example, the Lobos Reposado PX mentioned above is blended with a touch of longer-aged extra añejo Tequila. See also the El Tequileño Reposado Rare, which ages for a full six years in American oak—longer than many extra añejos. Yet, because it’s aged in a vessel larger than the 600 liter maximum, it still gets to bear the reposado label. It’s an odd loophole.

So which reposado to choose—a longer-oaked version that exhibits plenty of vanilla and spice, or a less oaked version that’s citrusy and bright? Luckily, there’s room for both types on the shelf.

 

Partida Roble Fino Reposado Tequila; $100, 92 points. A minimum six-month rest in ex-Bourbon barrels followed by another 2 months in ex-single malt casks has draped this Tequila in rich finery. Look for a deep golden hue and savory aromas that suggest fresh tomato. The bold palate opens with Sherry, dried dates, golden raisins and candied ginger. The long finish is laced with creamy caramel.