Tequila is a popular spirit among partygoers and cocktail enthusiasts alike. With its bold taste and distinctive aroma, tequila has earned a reputation as a formidable liquor that can pack a punch. As a tequila aficionado, it’s only natural to want the best of the best when it comes to your drink of choice. Altos Tequila is a brand that has been making waves in the industry, and many people are curious to know if it’s worth trying out.
In this article, we’ll be taking a closer look at Altos Tequila and exploring its features, taste, and overall quality. We’ll delve into the history of the brand and the production process behind the tequila, as well as the characteristics that set it apart from other tequila brands. Whether you’re a seasoned tequila drinker or a curious newbie, this article will provide you with all the information you need to decide whether Altos Tequila is indeed a good tequila.
Understanding the History of Altos Tequila and its Distillery
Altos Tequila is one of the most popular tequila brands in the world. The company was founded in 2010 by two bartenders, Henry Besant and Dre Masso, who wanted to create a high-quality tequila that could be enjoyed by everyone. The brand is produced at the Destilería Cascahuín, which is located in the highlands of Jalisco, Mexico. This distillery has been producing tequila for over a century and is owned by the Partida family.
The production process of Altos Tequila is unique because it combines traditional and modern techniques. The agave plants are grown for seven to eight years before they are harvested. The jimadores, who are responsible for harvesting the agave, use traditional methods to ensure that only the best agave is used. The agave is then cooked in brick ovens and crushed with a tahona, a traditional stone wheel. The juice is then fermented and distilled twice, using copper pot stills. The resulting tequila is aged for six to eight months in American oak barrels, which imparts a subtle smoky flavor and a golden color.
The Distinctive Characteristics of Altos Tequila: A Comparative Analysis
Altos Tequila is known for its distinctive taste and high quality, which is why it is popular among tequila lovers worldwide. The agave used to make Altos Tequila is grown in the highlands of Jalisco, Mexico, where the climate and soil conditions are ideal for growing flavorful and sweet agaves. The plants are hand-selected and harvested before being cooked in traditional brick ovens, which helps preserve their unique flavors and aromas.
Furthermore, Altos Tequila undergoes a slow and careful fermentation process, which allows it to develop its unmistakable complex flavor profile. The result is a smooth and balanced tequila with notes of citrus, almond, and honey, which are complemented by the earthy and spicy undertones that are characteristic of high-quality tequilas. When compared to other tequilas, Altos Tequila stands out due to its well-rounded taste and smooth finish, making it an excellent choice for sipping, mixing, or simply enjoying on its own.
How Altos Tequila is Made: Step by Step Process
Altos Tequila is made using blue weber agave plants, which are grown for 8 to 12 years before they are considered mature enough for tequila production. Once the agaves are ready, they are harvested by removing the leaves and cutting the core at its base. This core is then called piña, which is sliced into small pieces and cooked in an oven for 24 to 38 hours at a low temperature. This process converts the carbohydrates in the piña into fermentable sugars and gives Altos Tequila its unique flavor.
After the piñas are cooked, they are crushed to extract juice, which is then fermented using yeast. The fermentation process can take up to ten days, during which the high sugar content is converted into alcohol. Once the fermentation is complete, the tequila is distilled twice in copper pot stills, which helps to remove impurities and create a smoother, fuller-bodied tequila. This step is crucial in the production of Altos Tequila as it helps to achieve the perfect balance of sweetness and acidity, making it a delicious and high-quality tequila.
Sipping and Tasting Altos Tequila: The Flavors and Aromas
Sipping and tasting Altos Tequila is an experience that tequila connoisseurs will surely appreciate. This tequila is known for its smooth, clean, and complex taste. When sipping it, you will immediately pick up on its earthy and citrusy notes which are distinctive because of Altos’ exclusive oven-roasting process that ensures maximum quality.
The flavors and aromas of Altos Tequila are created by its unique recipe which uses 100% Weber Blue Agave plants that take around seven to eight years to mature. This slow maturation process produces agave that is rich in enzymes and gives Altos Tequila a sweet, floral aroma that sets it apart from other tequilas. Partnered with its subtle flavor profile, Altos Tequila is perfect to sip neat or to use as the base for classic cocktails like Margaritas.
The Quality of Altos Tequila: Awards and Recognition
Altos Tequila has been widely recognized for its impressive quality and taste. It has won numerous awards and accolades from prestigious organizations in the industry, including the 2021 San Francisco World Spirits Competition where it received a double gold medal. The brand has also received recognition at the Ultimate Spirits Challenge, International Wine and Spirits Challenge, and the Tequila Masters, among others.
One of the standout qualities of Altos Tequila is its commitment to using only high-quality ingredients in its production process. The brand uses 100% blue Weber agave, grown in the red soil of Los Altos highlands, which is known for its distinctive taste and aroma. The agaves are hand-selected, slow-cooked, and blended with unique yeast strains to create the smooth, rich flavor profile that has garnered critical acclaim from judges and consumers alike. With its impressive track record of accolades and quality production process, Altos Tequila is undoubtedly a great choice for tequila lovers looking for a premium experience.
Altos Tequila Cocktails: Easy and Delicious Recipes
Looking for a fancy and refreshing cocktail that’s easy to make? Altos Tequila’s got you covered, with their quick and delicious cocktail recipes. Altos is a versatile and smooth tequila that pairs well with a variety of flavors – from spicy and tangy to sweet and fruity.
One of the simplest and most popular Altos cocktails is the Margarita. All you need is Altos Tequila, lime juice, and triple sec. Shake it up with ice and strain it into a salt-rimmed glass for a classic margarita that never fails to impress. You can also experiment with other ingredients like grapefruit juice, jalapenos, and agave syrup to create your own unique cocktail creations. With Altos Tequila, the possibilities are endless!
Distinctive Ways to Enjoy Altos Tequila: Perfect Pairings with Food
Altos Tequila has a unique flavor profile that sets it apart from other tequilas on the market. While it can certainly be enjoyed straight or in a classic margarita, there are some distinctive ways to enjoy Altos Tequila that can enhance the overall experience.
One way to enjoy Altos Tequila is to pair it with spicy foods. The tequila’s peppery notes can complement the heat of spicy dishes, creating an interesting contrast and balance of flavors. Altos Tequila can also be paired with rich, savory foods like grilled meats or aged cheeses. The tequila’s earthy undertones can bring out the richness of these foods, making for a truly delicious pairing. Whether you’re enjoying Altos Tequila with friends or alone, experimenting with food pairings can be a fun and enjoyable way to experience this delicious tequila.
The Conclusion
After considering all of the factors, it is safe to say that Altos Tequila is a good tequila. With its commitment to quality and traditional methods of production, Altos provides a smooth, flavorful taste that can be enjoyed on its own or in a variety of cocktails.
However, it is important to note that taste is subjective, and what may be a great tequila for one person may not be the same for another. Ultimately, the best way to determine if Altos Tequila is a good tequila is to try it for yourself and see if its unique flavor profile meets your preferences. Regardless of personal taste, it is clear that Altos Tequila is a brand that takes pride in their product and strives to deliver a high-quality spirit to its customers.