How many calories are in Reposado tequila? Your complete nutritional guide

December 29, 2025 •

4 min read

A standard 1.5-ounce (44 ml) shot of 80-proof Reposado tequila contains approximately 97-100 calories. The vast majority of these calories are derived directly from the alcohol content itself, and a key fact for those watching their diet is that pure tequila contains no carbohydrates, protein, or fat.

Quick Summary

A standard 1.5 oz pour of reposado tequila contains around 100 calories, with its caloric content sourced entirely from the alcohol. Calorie totals can increase significantly with sugary mixers.

Key Points

Standard Calorie Count: A 1.5 oz shot of 80-proof Reposado tequila contains around 97-100 calories, sourced entirely from the alcohol.
Source of Calories: Reposado tequila, like other pure distilled spirits, is calorie-dense due to alcohol (7 calories per gram) but contains 0g of carbs and fat.
Mixers are Key: Sugary additions like soda, juice, and cocktail mixes are the primary culprits for increasing the total calorie count of a tequila drink.
Optimal Choices: For a low-calorie option, enjoy reposado neat, on the rocks, or with zero-calorie mixers like soda water and fresh citrus.
100% Agave is Best: Choosing a reposado made from 100% agave ensures a cleaner spirit without added sugars or artificial coloring that can be found in some mixto tequilas.

Understanding the Calories in Reposado Tequila

When evaluating the nutritional content of any distilled spirit, including reposado tequila, it's crucial to look beyond common misconceptions. The aging process for reposado, which involves resting in oak barrels for a minimum of two months, adds a mellow flavor but does not significantly alter its caloric content. The calories in pure reposado tequila come from one source: the alcohol itself. At approximately 7 calories per gram, the alcohol by volume (ABV) is the sole determinant of the spirit's base calorie count. A typical 80-proof (40% ABV) reposado has a very consistent calorie profile, making it a reliable option for those monitoring their intake.

The Calculation Behind Tequila Calories

Unlike many other alcoholic beverages like beer or wine, which contain sugars and carbohydrates from fermentation, distilled spirits like tequila have had these elements removed during the distillation process. For a standard 1.5 oz (44 ml) shot of 80-proof tequila, the process is straightforward:

Alcohol Content: 40% ABV means the shot contains 0.6 fluid ounces of pure ethanol.
Conversion: 1 gram of alcohol contains roughly 7 calories.
Total Calories: This results in approximately 97-100 calories per shot, depending on the specific brand and bottling proof.

This is why 100% blue agave tequila, regardless of its age, starts with the same basic, low-calorie foundation. The aging process adds flavor and color but does not add sugar or carbohydrates that would increase its calorie count.

Reposado Calories Compared to Other Spirits

Reposado tequila is often viewed favorably by those on low-carb or keto diets because of its 0g carbohydrate content. But how does it stack up against its siblings and other popular spirits? Here's a brief comparison based on a standard 1.5 oz shot:


Spirit Type	Calories (approx.)	Carbs	Aging	Additives	Key Notes
Reposado Tequila	97-100	0g	2-12 months	Minimal (100% agave)	Mellow, woody flavor; no carbs.
Blanco Tequila	96-98	0g	Un-aged	Minimal (100% agave)	Crisp, pure agave flavor; lowest calorie.
Añejo Tequila	98-102	0g	1-3 years	Minimal (100% agave)	Rich, complex flavor; slightly higher calories due to maturation.
Vodka (80 proof)	97	0g	None	None	Similar calories to tequila, flavorless.
Whiskey (80 proof)	113	0g	Varies	Varies	Higher calorie due to congeners and process.

The Real Culprits: Mixers and Cocktails

While the calories in reposado tequila itself are manageable, the total calorie count of your drink can skyrocket depending on the mixers you choose. A margarita is a prime example. The classic mix of tequila, lime juice, and high-sugar orange liqueur can easily turn a low-calorie spirit into a high-calorie indulgence.

For example, a typical margarita mix can contain a large amount of added sugar, potentially adding hundreds of calories to your drink. The same goes for sodas, juices, and other sweetened mixers. To keep your calories in check, it’s best to opt for simple, fresh ingredients.

Enjoying Reposado Tequila on a Calorie-Conscious Diet

Managing your calorie intake while still enjoying a quality spirit is entirely possible. The key is to be mindful of your mixers and consumption habits. Here are some effective strategies:

Stick to the basics: Enjoy reposado tequila neat, on the rocks, or with a splash of soda water and a fresh citrus squeeze. This keeps the total calories low while allowing the tequila's complex flavor to shine.
Craft your own cocktails: Avoid pre-made, sugary margarita mixes. Instead, make your own with fresh lime juice, a hint of agave nectar or a zero-calorie sweetener, and a touch of sparkling water.
Choose fresh ingredients: For cocktails, use fresh juices rather than store-bought varieties, which often contain added sugars. A paloma made with fresh grapefruit juice and soda water is a great low-calorie alternative to a sugary mixed drink.
Mind your portions: Stick to a single 1.5 oz pour to keep your calorie consumption in check. It's easy to overpour at home, so measuring is a key step.
Stay hydrated: Drink a glass of water between each alcoholic beverage. This not only helps with hydration but also slows down your overall consumption.

Conclusion

For those watching their calorie intake, reposado tequila is an excellent choice, containing approximately 97-100 calories per 1.5-ounce shot. The calories are derived exclusively from the alcohol, with no added carbohydrates or sugars in 100% agave versions. The real challenge lies in the mixers and cocktail additions, which can dramatically increase the overall caloric value. By opting for fresh, low-sugar ingredients or enjoying the spirit neat, you can enjoy the rich, aged flavor of reposado without compromising your dietary goals. To learn more about how alcohol contributes calories to your diet, consider consulting a reliable source on the subject, such as the information provided by the UK's NHS on calories in alcohol. Ultimately, moderation and thoughtful mixing are your best strategies for a balanced and flavorful experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, there is virtually no significant calorie difference between reposado and blanco tequila. The aging process for reposado adds color and flavor but does not introduce calories, assuming both are 100% agave with the same proof.

Yes, pure reposado tequila is keto-friendly because it contains zero carbohydrates. The calories come solely from the alcohol. To keep your drink keto-compliant, use zero-carb mixers like soda water and fresh lime juice.

The calorie count of a reposado margarita depends heavily on the mixers. A margarita made with a high-sugar mix can have several hundred calories. A 'skinny' margarita with fresh lime juice and a zero-calorie sweetener will be much lower in calories.

Excellent low-calorie mixers for reposado include soda water, fresh lime or lemon juice, and a splash of low-sugar juices like fresh grapefruit. These options enhance the flavor without adding unnecessary sugar and calories.

The calorie count per shot can vary slightly by brand, primarily due to slight differences in alcohol by volume (ABV) or proof. However, for 80-proof tequilas, the calorie count is highly consistent, averaging around 97-100 calories per 1.5 oz shot.

Yes, like most distilled spirits, the calories in reposado tequila are considered 'empty' because they provide energy without significant nutritional value from vitamins, minerals, or other beneficial nutrients.

To reduce calories, enjoy reposado tequila neat or on the rocks. When making cocktails, opt for fresh, low-calorie mixers and avoid pre-made mixes. Mindful portion control is also essential to keeping total calorie intake low.