Standard tequilas are typically 40% ABV. However, high-proof tequilas exceed this level, and aficionados of their more intense profiles are drawn to their heightened agave flavor. That plant’s earthy, herbal essence is better preserved during the short dilution process used for high-proof tequilas, giving them a wider spectrum of flavors and an equally wide range of drinking experiences.
The production of these tequilas is an art. Producers reserve their best agave for these batches and use only the oldest and most traditional production methods, preserving the long-standing heritage of tequila making. The distillers’ ability to maintain smooth flavor at a higher proof is a testament to the craftsmanship behind their work.
Vintegrity’s meticulously curated selection of agave spirits features several exceptional high-proof expressions from some of the most talented distillers in the world. Explore these six must-try options.
Tapatio Blanco 110
Tapatio comes from one of the tequila world’s most respected and influential figures, Carlos Camarena. Camarena is a fifth-generation farmer and third-generation tequilero. His family’s roots in crafting tequila date back to 1937, when his grandfather, Don Felipe Camarena, founded La Alteña distillery. Tapatio was the flagship brand of the distillery and is still produced there today.
Tapatio Blanco 110 is double-distilled as close to bottle strength as possible. It’s a medium-bodied tequila with bold aromas of citrus, white pepper, jalapeños, and mint. It is buttery smooth on the palate, with a mingling of wet grass, cooked agave, cinnamon, and apple notes.
Available in Missouri and Kansas.
Tequila Ocho Single Barrel Añejo
Tequila Ocho is another creation of Carlos Camarena and partner Tomas Estes. Every tequila produced is crafted with extreme care, precision, and commitment to terroir. Tequila Ocho’s expressions not only preserve the essence of pure agave but also elevate and showcase its finest qualities.
The Single Barrel Añejo from Tequila Ocho provides an authentic, agave-forward sipping experience. The intense profile includes a nose with notes of lime, buttercream, vanilla, cedar, white pepper, chocolate, and dried fruit. Silky flavors of green apple, butterscotch, cinnamon, and lime are followed by a gentle level of heat on the finish.
Available in Missouri and Kansas.
Tequila Ocho Puntas
This expression from Tequila Ocho is described as the “distiller’s cut” and is one of the brand’s highest-proof tequilas. The bold flavor is developed using open-air wood vat fermentation and a double copper pot distillation. Only the best of the best agaves are used, showcasing the brand’s strong commitment to agave terroir.
On the nose, notes of grass, pine, and citrus are balanced by those of molasses, sweet potato, and pumpkin. The flavor profile is complex, with ancho chili and black pepper notes accompanied by salted caramel, cocoa, almond, pineapple, green apple, and orange zest. Altogether, this high-proof expression is elegantly smooth and intriguing.
Available in Missouri and Kansas.
Alma del Jaguar Nocturna
Alma del Jaguar is a unique handcrafted tequila. Inspired by efforts to preserve and protect the world’s northernmost population of wild jaguars, this sustainably produced tequila is crafted in collaboration with Sergio Vivanco of NOM 1414.
It is hand-distilled in Mexican copper pot stills and blended with both wild and Champagne yeasts. The nose consists of cooked agave, orange zest, honey, cucumber, sea salt, and white pepper notes, while the palate remains light with fresh flavors of citrus, honey, orange, and green pepper—all wrapped up with a crisp, peppery finish.
Available in Missouri and Kansas.
Cascahuín Plata 48
Tequila Cascahuín was established in 1904 by founder Salvador Rosales Briseño. The brand is defined by its rich heritage and commitment to producing exceptional tequila through a variety of traditional methods. From brick ovens to open-air wooden vat fermenting, Cascahuín’s processes impart a distinct, authentic quality to each of their tequilas, and every batch produced is crafted from single estate harvests.
Cascahuín Plata 48 is a smooth and indulgent tequila with dessert-like richness and a rustic edge. The nose is a blend of cooked agave, fresh herbs, cardamom, coffee, and walnut notes. The palate carries a combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla notes balanced with those of grass and mint.
Available in Missouri and Kansas.
