Reposado is the Spanish word meaning “rested” in the tequila category reposado.
The name refers to tequila that has rested or matured in oak after distillation. Mexican rules require reposado tequila to spend at least two months in oak containers. During that time, the spirit generally develops a pale-gold color and additional aromas from the wood.
Reposado sits between blanco and añejo in the familiar tequila style sequence. Blanco is normally bottled without substantial aging, while añejo must mature for at least one year. Extra-añejo requires at least three years. Joven, also called oro or gold tequila, is a separate category and may involve blending or permitted adjustments rather than the same minimum aging definition.
The word is sometimes used casually to mean any lightly aged tequila, but a bottle sold as reposado must meet Mexico’s official classification rules. Its flavor often makes it suitable for sipping, spirit-forward drinks, and cocktails where a blanco would taste sharper.