Last Updated on: 5th April 2024, 10:56 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.
Don’t be fooled by the golden gleam! Reposado and Gold Tequilas may look alike, but their taste adventures diverge dramatically.
Dive into the distinct qualities of each to discover the tequila that best suits your palate!
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
Difference between Gold and Reposado
“Gold Tequila is a blend of agave and undisclosed sugars, while Reposado Tequila is made solely from 100% agave, offering agave flavors with delicate notes of oak, vanilla, and caramel when crafted properly. Additionally, Gold Tequila obtains its color from artificial additives, whereas Reposado Tequila acquires its color through aging in oak barrels.”, states Tequila expert Neil Coleman.
Understanding Gold Tequila: Sweetener, Budget Option, and Potential Drawbacks

Gold tequila, known for its amber color, has become a popular choice for some. However, it’s important to understand its unique characteristics before making a decision.
Key points to consider:
- Not 100% agave: Unlike silver or blanco tequilas, gold tequilas often contain additional coloring agents and may include undisclosed sugar sources allowed by Mexican law.
- Sweeter taste: This can be appealing to those who prefer a sweeter tequila experience.
- Budget-friendly: Gold tequilas are generally more affordable than 100% agave options.
- Cocktail suitability: They can be suitable for specific cocktails like the Cantarito, where their sweetness complements the recipe.
- Potential hangover concerns: Some people report experiencing worse hangovers with gold tequila compared to 100% agave varieties. While the exact cause is unclear, it’s something to be mindful of.
Ultimately, the choice of whether or not to try gold tequila is a personal one. By understanding these key points, you can make an informed decision that best suits your preferences and taste.
Only shop for Tequila labeled as “100% agave” and avoid those with misleading labels such as “Made from Blue Agave”.
Neil Coleman
Reposado Tequila: A Smooth Tequila Experience

Looking for a tequila that’s both smooth and flavorful? Reposado tequila might be the perfect choice for you.
Aged for smoothness: Unlike silver or blanco tequila, reposado undergoes aging in oak barrels for at least 2 months. This process adds a subtle amber color and imparts flavors of oak and vanilla, resulting in a sweeter and smoother taste profile compared to unaged tequilas.
Perfect for beginners: Reposado’s smoothness makes it a great choice for those new to tequila. It’s enjoyable neat on the rocks or can be used in various cocktails.
Budget-friendly mixing: When using reposado in cocktails, there’s no need to splurge on top-shelf options. A good quality mid-range reposado will provide excellent results without breaking the bank.
Reposado is 100% agave, sweeter and easier to drink than Blanco Tequila
Neil Coleman
