Fortaleza - Los Abuelos Tequila 'Still Strength' Blanco, Jalisco, Mexico

Tequila Fortaleza Blanco 'Still Strength' is a masterful expression of traditional tequila-making techniques, offering a robust and unadulterated taste of the Jalisco highlands. This tequila is bottled at still strength, preserving the full intensity and character of the agave, making it a remarkable choice for tequila purists. With its roots deeply intertwined with over 150 years of family tradition, Fortaleza Blanco 'Still Strength' embodies the authenticity and dedication of the Sauza family, who have been instrumental in shaping the tequila industry.

Production Details:

• NOM: 1493
• Agave Source: Tequila Valley, Jalisco, Mexico
• Cooking Method: Stone/brick oven
• Crushing Method: 100% stone crushed using a traditional tahona
• Fermentation: Open-air wood tanks with natural yeast
• Distillation: Double distilled in copper pots
• Proof: 92 (46% ABV)
• Water Source: Natural spring from the Tequila Valley
• Bottles: Hand-blown in Mexico, each uniquely crafted

Tasting Notes:
Fortaleza Blanco 'Still Strength' greets the nose with an enticing bouquet of ripe agave, earthy green olives, and a subtle hint of minerality. On the palate, it offers a more rustic and vibrant profile compared to its regular Blanco counterpart, with enhanced flavors of butter, black pepper, and vegetal notes. The tequila's bright, lively nature is a testament to its minimal processing, allowing the pure essence of agave to shine through, from the oven to the glass.

La Historia de Tequila Fortaleza:
Tequila Fortaleza may have officially launched in 2005, but its heritage dates back to 1873, when Don Cenobio Sauza founded his first distillery, La Perseverancia, in the town of Tequila, Jalisco. Don Cenobio was a pioneering force in the tequila industry, introducing innovations such as using steam to cook agave and establishing Blue Agave as the preferred variety for tequila production.

His legacy continued through his descendants, with each generation making significant contributions to the tequila world, from exporting tequila to the United States to helping establish the Denomination of Origin for Tequila. The distillery that produces Fortaleza today, La Fortaleza, was restored by Guillermo Sauza, Don Javier's grandson, who revived the family's traditional methods after decades of inactivity.

Serving Suggestions:
Tequila Fortaleza Blanco 'Still Strength' is best enjoyed neat to fully appreciate its bold, unfiltered character. It can also be savored in a crafted cocktail where the intensity of the agave can stand out. Serve it at room temperature or slightly chilled, and pair it with rich, flavorful dishes like grilled meats, earthy vegetables, or traditional Mexican fare to enhance its complex flavors.