Altos Reposado vs Espolon Reposado

Last Updated on: 20th May 2024, 01:43 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.

Explore differences between Altos Reposado and Espolon Reposado in this direct analysis, and decide which Tequila suits you better!

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.

Written by: J Highland

Altos Reposado vs Espolon Reposado: Comparison

Altos Reposado: A tequila that blends fruity agave with caramel and oak hints. Perfect for cocktails or sipping, enriched by bourbon barrel aging. Welcoming for bourbon lovers and tequila enthusiasts alike, offering a unique twist on traditional tequila flavors.

Espolon Reposado: A harmonious mix of agave, vanilla, and spices, wrapped in an oak embrace. Ideal for both sipping and cocktails, it offers a sweet and warm finish. This tequila is approachable, yet complex enough to satisfy connoisseurs, providing excellent value.

Verdict: Choose based on personal preference. Espolon suits those who prefer a sweeter, aromatic tequila, while Altos appeals to those who enjoy oak influence and a smoother finish. Both work well in cocktails, adding unique characteristics to drinks, states tequila expert Neil Coleman.

Related: Reposado Tequilas on a Budget

Altos Reposado: A Bourbon-Kissed Tequila for Sipping or Mixing

• Nose: Fruity notes, agave, oak
• Palate: Agave, oak, caramel
• Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
• How to drink: Rocks, cocktails
• Similar to: Jimador Reposado

Agave & Oak:

Altos Reposado opens with a prominent agave aroma, hinting at subtle vanilla and oak notes from its time in bourbon barrels, appealing to bourbon enthusiasts.

Crisp & Sweet Taste:

The initial flavors surprise with crisp apple and lime, giving way to a bold and sweet blue agave taste. The finish blends spices and a touch of oak.

Cool & Pleasant Finish:

Unlike some Reposados, this one boasts a cool, medium-length finish with a pleasing combination of caramel and subtle pepper.

My Take:

Altos Reposado offers a well-rounded experience. The rich agave flavor is complemented by gentle vanilla and oak, making it a solid sipper.

Cocktail Contender:

However, it truly shines in cocktails, adding a touch of oak complexity to Tequila drinks. While Reposados can make Margaritas look slightly cloudy, Altos Reposado remains a good choice within its price range.

Bonus Facts:

• Altos uses a traditional tahona stone to crush agave, preserving sweetness compared to modern roller mills.
• Agaves are cooked in brick and stone ovens, avoiding the industrial taste often found in mass-produced tequilas.
• Owned by Pernod Ricard, the company behind spirits like Chivas Regal, Glenlivet, and Jameson.

Espolon Reposado: A Delightful Tequila for Sipping or Mixing

• Nose: Agave, citrus, baking spice, alcohol
• Palate: Agave, vanilla, earth, oak spice
• Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
• How to drink: Rocks, cocktails
• Similar to: Teremana Reposado

Inviting Aroma:

Espolon Reposado greets you with a well-balanced and pleasant aroma. It blends agave sweetness, citrus, subtle baking spice, and a touch of alcohol for a truly inviting first impression.

Flavorful Journey:

The first sip takes you on a delightful journey. You'll taste the essence of agave, followed by notes of butterscotch, vanilla, and a touch of sugar cookie, all balanced by a gentle oak spice.

Sweet & Warm Finish:

The finish is sweet, oaky, and slightly warm, leaving a pleasant and lingering peppery sensation.

My Take:

Espolon Reposado is a highly enjoyable and versatile tequila. It's approachable for beginners and offers complexity for experienced drinkers.

Unique Sweetness:

Its caramel sweetness is reminiscent of an Irish whiskey, but with a distinct warming character.

Well-Rounded Experience:

This tequila boasts a well-rounded and nuanced taste profile, free from harshness or artificial additives.

Excellent Value:

Espolon Reposado delivers excellent value for its price and comes highly recommended.

Enjoyment Options:

• Neat: Perfect for a smooth sipping experience.
• Cocktails: Shines as a base for cocktails, thanks to its affordability and solid quality.

Bonus Facts:

• Espolon Reposado is made by aging Espolon Blanco for two months in ex-bourbon barrels.
• The brand was founded by Cirilo Oropeza, who spent years learning the art of tequila at Jose Cuervo.
• Espolon is now owned by the Campari Group, headquartered in Milan, Italy.

Price comparison

Prices are approximate and stated in USD:

Specs comparison