Tequila is a popular alcoholic drink that is commonly consumed in shots. Reposado tequila specifically refers to tequila that has been aged in oak barrels for a minimum of 2 months, but less than a year. This aging process gives reposado tequila a smoother, more complex flavor compared to blanco (unaged) tequila. When it comes to calories, the number of calories in a shot of reposado tequila can vary depending on the brand and proof of the tequila.
Calorie Count in a Standard Shot of Reposado Tequila
Most standard sized shots of reposado tequila contain around 100 calories per 1.5 ounce (44 ml) shot. However, this calorie count is based on tequila that is 80 proof (40% alcohol by volume). The calorie content changes depending on the proof of the tequila:
- 80 proof tequila: ~100 calories per 1.5 oz shot
- 90 proof tequila: ~110 calories per 1.5 oz shot
- 100 proof tequila: ~120 calories per 1.5 oz shot
So the higher the alcohol by volume (ABV), the more calories there will be in each shot. The calorie difference between 80 proof and 100 proof tequila is around 20 calories per shot.
Factors that Influence Calorie Content
There are a few key factors that impact the number of calories in a shot of reposado tequila:
Proof/Alcohol Percentage
As mentioned above, the higher the proof and alcohol percentage, the higher the calorie count. Pure alcohol contains about 7 calories per gram. So the more alcohol in the tequila, the more calories it will contain.
Serving Size
The serving size greatly impacts the calorie count as well. A standard tequila shot is usually around 1.5 ounces. However, some restaurants and bars may pour larger shots with 2 ounces or more of tequila. The bigger the serving size, the more calories the shot will have.
Mixers & Garnishes
Many people drink reposado tequila in cocktails mixed with juices, sodas, syrups and other ingredients. These additions will increase the calorie count compared to drinking it straight. Garnishes like lime wedges or salt on the rim will only add minimal calories.
Brand
While most reposado tequilas have a similar calorie count, some brands may slightly differ based on their distillation process and additives. Organic, additive-free tequilas tend to have fewer calories than mass-produced commercial brands.
Calorie Comparison to Other Alcohol
Compared to other popular alcohols, a shot of 80 proof reposado tequila is moderate in calories:
| Alcohol | Calories (per 1.5oz serving) |
|---|---|
| 80 Proof Vodka | ~100 calories |
| 80 Proof Whiskey | ~100 calories |
| 80 Proof Gin | ~100 calories |
| 80 Proof Reposado Tequila | ~100 calories |
| Dry White Wine | ~120 calories |
| Dry Red Wine | ~125 calories |
| Light Beer | ~100-150 calories |
As you can see, a shot of 80 proof reposado tequila is very similar in calories to vodka, whiskey, and gin. It is slightly lower in calories than wine or beer. So tequila is a moderately caloric spirit option.
Low Calorie Mixers
There are several low calorie mixers that can be paired with reposado tequila to keep the calorie count low:
- Sparkling water
- Diet soda
- Seltzer water
- Club soda
- Low calorie tonic water
- Sugar-free juices like lemon, lime, grapefruit
- Skinny margarita mixes
- Herbal tea
Some of the lowest calorie options to mix with tequila are sparkling water, club soda, and sugar-free citrus juices like lime or lemon. Avoid full-sugar fruit juices, cream liquors, and sugary simple syrups.
Does Type of Tequila Impact Calories?
The three main types of tequila are blanco, reposado, and añejo. Does the type of tequila impact the number of calories?
Blanco Tequila Calories
Blanco tequila is unaged and usually has the same number of calories as reposado, around 100 calories per shot. The calorie count may be slightly lower if blanco tequila has a lower alcohol content.
Reposado Tequila Calories
As explained earlier, reposado tequila contains around 100 calories per 1.5 ounce shot if it is 80 proof. Reposado is aged 2 months to 1 year, which slightly deepens the color and flavor but does not affect calorie content.
Añejo Tequila Calories
Añejo tequila is aged 1-3 years in oak barrels. The aging and evaporation process may slightly increase the ABV and calories compared to blanco or reposado. A typical 1.5 ounce shot will have 100-110 calories depending on proof.
In summary, blanco, reposado and añejo tequila all contain approximately the same number of calories per serving. Añejo may be slightly higher in calories due to its longer aging process and evaporation effects.
Ways to Reduce Calories in Tequila Drinks
Here are some tips to reduce the calories when drinking reposado tequila:
- Drink tequila shots straight up instead of in sugary, high-calorie cocktails
- Mix with zero-calorie beverages like sparkling water instead of juice
- Use fresh citrus juices instead of sweet liqueurs or syrups
- Limit yourself to 1-2 shots instead of having multiple shots
- Skip the sugary margarita mix and make fresh margaritas instead
- Use a calorie-free sweetener like stevia instead of sugar to sweeten drinks
- Drink on the rocks or with soda water instead of frozen blended drinks
- Choose lower calorie appetizers like shrimp cocktail instead of queso dip
Being mindful about mixers and portions is key to keeping tequila drinks lower in calories. Sipping slowly instead of taking shots can also help reduce overall calorie intake from tequila.
Nutritional Profile of Reposado Tequila
Beyond just calories, here is the nutritional profile of a standard 1.5 ounce (44 ml) shot of 80 proof reposado tequila:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 97 |
| Carbohydrates | 0 g |
| Sugars | 0 g |
| Fat | 0 g |
| Protein | 0 g |
| Sodium | 2 mg |
As you can see, tequila itself has no carbohydrates, sugars, fat or protein. The main caloric component is the alcohol. Tequila does contain some vitamins and minerals, but not in significant amounts.
Is Tequila Gluten-Free?
Most tequila is naturally gluten-free since it is distilled from fermented blue agave juice. As long as the tequila has not been blended with other gluten-containing ingredients, pure tequila is generally considered gluten-free.
Health Effects of Tequila
Like other alcohol, drinking reposado tequila has both short-term and long-term effects on health:
Short-Term Effects
- Relaxation, euphoria from alcohol intoxication
- Risk of injury, accidents while intoxicated
- Impaired coordination, reflexes, judgement
- Dehydration from diuretic effects
- Upset stomach, nausea, especially when overconsumed
Long-Term Effects
- Increased risk of liver disease, cirrhosis
- Potential high blood pressure and stroke
- Weight gain and obesity
- Addiction and alcoholism
- Brain damage and memory problems
- Numerous types of cancer
- Vitamin deficiencies
- Stomach ulcers and inflammation
Drinking reposado tequila in moderation may not have severe effects on health. However, frequent overconsumption can negatively impact the liver, heart, brain, and other vital organs.
Maximum Recommended Intake
There are some general guidelines for responsible alcohol consumption that can be applied to drinking reposado tequila:
- Women: 1 standard drink per day (1.5oz tequila)
- Men: 2 standard drinks per day (3oz tequila)
- No more than 4 drinks on any day for men or women
- No more than 7 drinks per week for women
- No more than 14 drinks per week for men
It’s also recommended to have some days each week without any alcohol consumption. Binge drinking poses significant health and safety risks. Pregnant women should avoid alcohol altogether.
Tips for Drinking Reposado Tequila Responsibly
Here are some tips to drink reposado tequila responsibly and minimize negative effects on your health:
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated
- Eat food before and while drinking to slow alcohol absorption
- Sip drinks slowly instead of taking shots
- Limit yourself to 1-2 standard drinks
- Avoid drinking every day, take regular days off from alcohol
- Don’t drink alcohol on an empty stomach
- Avoid binge drinking and getting severely intoxicated
- Don’t drive or operate machinery after drinking
- Monitor your intake if taking any medications that interact with alcohol
Being aware of serving sizes, pacing yourself, and drinking plenty of water can all help reduce the risks and negative effects of consuming tequila. Moderation is key.
Common Questions
Does reposado tequila have more calories than blanco tequila?
No, blanco and reposado tequila generally contain about the same number of calories, around 97 calories per 1.5 ounce shot. The aging process of reposado does not significantly impact the calorie content.
Is reposado tequila keto-friendly?
Yes, pure reposado tequila without any added sugars or carbs is keto-friendly. Hard liquors like tequila, vodka, whiskey have zero carbs or sugar. Avoid sugary cocktail mixes that can increase carb count.
Does reposado tequila cause weight gain?
Drinking moderate amounts of tequila by itself will not directly cause weight gain. However, consuming a lot of calories from alcohol and drinking sugary cocktails can contribute to excess calorie intake and fat gain over time.
Is reposado tequila gluten-free?
Most reposado tequila is gluten-free since it is distilled from 100% agave. But those with celiac disease should still check the label since some tequilas may contain traces of gluten from barrels, yeasts or additives.
Does reposado tequila expire?
Properly stored tequila has an indefinite shelf life and does not really expire. Over many decades, the flavor profile may slowly change but it will not make you sick. Very old tequila is still safe to drink.
The Bottom Line
In summary, a 1.5 ounce shot of 80 proof reposado tequila contains approximately 97 calories and zero carbs or sugar. The number of calories can reach 100-120 per shot depending on the alcohol proof. While tequila is relatively low in calories for an alcoholic spirit, overconsumption can lead to weight gain and negative health effects. Following safe drinking guidelines and opting for low calorie mixers are the best ways to keep reposado tequila consumption in check.
