Review: Alto Canto Tequila High Proof Blanco and Reposado
Alto Canto is a certified organic, additive-free tequila that is distilled at a whopping 9,000 feet. I am familiar with the difference between Lowland and Highland tequila, which is determined by where the Blue Weber agave is sourced, but I was not aware that the altitude of the distillery could impact the flavor. The good folks at Alto Canto explain its influence:
Alto Canto is distilled at the highest altitude of any tequila in Mexico using organic agaves cooked for 72 hours in traditional brick ovens. The agaves are macerated by tahona (a volcanic rock wheel) to prevent stressing the fibers, then transferred to wooden tanks for natural fermentation. A second Malolactic fermentation brings flavors to their peak.
Wild malolactic fermentation occurs over 80 hours, with endemic yeasts creating a unique flavor profile. The fermented product is then distilled in copper stills. The high altitude causes the alcohol to evaporate at a lower temperature, resulting in a smoother tequila. Alto Canto ages its tequilas in new American oak barrels inside a building made from local adobe bricks, which breathe the terroir and allow for a slow extraction of flavors and aromas.
This process, called Tequila de Altura, reinvents the tequila tradition in its purest form. High altitude and lower pressures result in better quality. The endemic yeasts, distillation process, and mountain aging create unrivaled spirits.
I’m intrigued. The tequila are packaged in attractive boxes and beautiful, distinctive bottles. Let’s open them up and give the tequilas a try.
NOM 1636.
Alto Canto Tequila High Proof Blanco– Alto Canto produces an 80 proof Blanco, but they only sent their higher proof offering for review. This is fine with me since I love over-proof tequila, and one can always add water if necessary. The nose on this tequila is big and punchy, showing brash notes of lemon citrus, flint, perfume, oregano, and lightly sweet roasted agave. On the palate, freshly cracked black pepper hits first, followed by sweet roasted agave, pear, rose petals, and a touch of salinity. The perfume character was a bit heavy for me, but this is a delicious and nuanced tequila that will find a following all the same. The finish is fairly long, as the black pepper note returns to complete the experience. The blanco is good enough to sip and will stand out in a cocktail where its bold flavor and higher proof will shine. 96 proof. B+ / $90
Alto Canto Tequila Reposado – The Reposado is aged in new American oak barrels for four months. The light color of the tequila suggests it was not aged for very long, but the use of virgin oak allows the wood to play a larger role, which is certainly the case here. Poured in a glass, this lightly colored tequila presents gentle aromas of vanilla, perfume, lime, flint, and roasted agave. The palate proves more assertive but nicely balanced. First comes vanilla, followed by notes of caramel, lime, rose petals, and gently sweet roasted agave. Midpalate brings a peppery kick along with a bit of an alcohol bite, and the finish introduces some milk chocolate to the mix as the flavors slowly recede on the long finish. I wouldn’t recommend using this for cocktails. Its balance and distinctiveness would be lost when paired with mixers. This is a sipping tequila and priced accordingly. 80 proof. B+ / $105
Alto Canto Tequila High Proof Blanco
$90
