Introduction:
Tapatio Reposado Tequila is a premium spirit produced by La Alteña Distillery, established in 1937 by Don Felipe Camarena in the highlands of Jalisco, Mexico. This reposado expression is aged to perfection, offering a harmonious balance between the vibrant agave flavors and the subtle influences of oak maturation.
Agave Content:
Crafted from 100% estate-grown Blue Weber Agave, harvested at peak maturity to ensure optimal flavor and sweetness.
Aroma and Flavor Profile:
- Aroma: Fruity and intense cooked agave notes, complemented by hints of apple, pear, vanilla, caramel, and a subtle smokiness. White pepper and clove add a delicate spice, with creamy undertones emerging upon breathing.
- Flavor: The sweetness of cooked agave predominates, enriched by herbal and peppery nuances. Slightly smoky with notes of caramel, cocoa, vanilla, and nuts such as walnut, peanut, and hazelnut. The finish is smooth yet spicy, leaving a lasting impression on the palate.
Mouthfeel:
Medium-bodied with a luminous straw yellow color, exhibiting golden and slightly greenish tones. The texture is creamy and well-balanced, enhancing the overall tasting experience.
Aging Process:
Aged for four months in ex-bourbon casks, two months longer than the legal requirement for reposado tequilas. This extended aging period allows for a more rounded flavor profile, taming the edges of the robust Blanco while introducing subtle oak characteristics.
Distillery and Production Details:
- Distillery: La Alteña Distillery
- NOM: 1139
- Region: Arandas, Los Altos, Jalisco, Mexico
- Cooking: Agave piñas are slow-cooked in traditional brick ovens to enhance natural sweetness.
- Extraction: Juices are extracted using a combination of traditional tahona (large stone wheel) and roller mill.
- Fermentation: Open-air fermentation in wooden vats, utilizing a proprietary yeast culture maintained for generations.
- Distillation: Double-distilled in copper pot stills to achieve a refined and pure spirit.
- Alcohol by Volume (ABV): 38% (76 proof)
Farming Practices:
Tapatio is committed to sustainable farming methods, cultivating their agave without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers. This dedication to environmental responsibility ensures the preservation of traditional tequila-making heritage and the production of high-quality spirits.
Overall Impression:
Tapatio Reposado Tequila offers a well-balanced and flavorful experience, seamlessly blending the fresh agave character with the nuanced complexities introduced by oak aging. Its smooth finish and intricate flavor profile make it an excellent choice for sipping neat or enhancing premium cocktails, appealing to those who appreciate a finely crafted reposado tequila.