Last Updated on: 5th April 2024, 09:09 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.
Discover the differences between Espolon Reposado vs Patron Reposado in this in-depth comparison and decide which Tequila is better for You!
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
Espolon Reposado vs Patron Reposado: Comparison
Espolon Reposado: A smooth and approachable tequila with a rich blend of agave, vanilla, and oak spice. Perfect for those who appreciate a sweet and complex flavor at a great price.
Patron Reposado: An oak-forward tequila with a strong alcohol presence, offering a peppery finish and a unique clove note. Best enjoyed by those who favor a bold oak character.
Verdict: Espolon Reposado stands out for its balance and affordability, catering to a wide range of palates. Patron Reposado offers a distinct oak-driven taste for enthusiasts looking for a robust flavor profile at a higher price point, states tequila expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Best Sipping Reposado Tequila
Espolon Reposado: A Sip of Smoothness
- Nose: Sweet agave, citrus, baking spice, ethanol
- Palate: Agave, vanilla, earthy notes, oak spice
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Cocktails
- Similar to: Espolon Blanco
Aroma: Espolon Reposado offers a welcoming nose with a blend of agave’s gentle sweetness, a touch of citrus, and hints of baking spices. A subtle presence of alcohol completes the aroma.
Taste: The initial sip reveals a rich agave flavor that transitions into a creamy combination of butterscotch, vanilla, and a subtle sweetness reminiscent of sugar cookies. A gentle oak spice lingers in the background, adding complexity.
Finish: The finish is pleasant and warming, with a sweet, oaky aftertaste and a touch of peppery spice.
Overall: Espolon Reposado proves to be a well-crafted tequila. It offers a balanced and nuanced flavor profile, making it easy to drink and enjoy. While not groundbreaking, it delivers consistent quality at an attractive price.
Additional Notes:
- Aged for 2 months in ex-bourbon barrels, resulting in a warm amber color and notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak.
- Made by the Campari Group, owners of brands like Wild Turkey and Montelobos.
- Free from artificial flavors and sweeteners, highlighting its genuine tequila taste.
Recommendation: Espolon Reposado offers great value for the price and is a solid choice for those seeking a smooth and enjoyable tequila on a budget.
Patron Reposado: A Quick Look
- Nose: Oak, agave, alcohol
- Palate: Agave, vanilla, alcohol, oak
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Rocks
- Similar to: Patron Añejo
Aroma: This tequila opens with a mix of agave and oak, with a touch of alcohol warmth that mellows over time.
Taste: The palate is surprisingly oak-forward for a 2-month aged spirit. A hint of sweetness peeks through, but the alcohol makes a noticeable presence alongside a unique clove note.
Finish: The finish brings a warming sensation with peppery spice and a subtle vanilla touch.
Overall: While Patron Reposado is a genuine tequila free of additives, its short aging time results in a flavor profile that may not suit everyone’s preference for sipping. The alcohol presence might be too strong for some, and mixing it might mask the subtle taste notes. For a smoother sipping experience, other options might be worth exploring.
Additional Notes:
- Aged for 2 months in oak barrels.
- Produced at the Patron distillery in Jalisco, Mexico.
- Owned by Bacardi.
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Tequila | Price |
| Espolon Reposado | $29 |
| Patron Reposado | $48 |
Specs comparison
| Characteristics | Espolon | Patron |
| Type of tequila | Reposado | Reposado |
| Aging length | 2 months | 2 months |
| 100% agave | Yes | Yes |
| Grinding method | Roller mill | Roller mill/Tahona |
| Stainless steel tank fermentation | Yes | No |
| Wood tank fermentation | No | Yes |
| Cooking method | Autoclave | Stone/brick ovens |
| Double-distilled | Yes | Yes |
| Additives | Unsure | No |
| ABV | 40% | 40% |
| Proof | 80 | 80 |