Maestros del Agave - Chapter 2

Your Maestros del Agave journey:

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Maestros del Agave

Chapter 2

HIGH-PROOF HEROES

Why are these so trendy?

Proof shapes how a spirit shows up in the glass. Higher-ABV tequilas carry more aroma, weight, and intensity before dilution softens their edges. In this chapter, you’ll explore what makes high-proof tequilas different from standard 40% expressions and why they’ve become favorites among producers and enthusiasts alike.

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Proof determines how

spirit carries itself into the glass

After distillation, tequila doesn’t always stay at full strength. Water is often added to bring it down to standard bottling proof. High-proof tequilas reduce that dilution, preserving more of the spirit’s original aroma, texture, and structure.

Alcohol level plays a crucial role in how flavor behaves. Higher proof can amplify intensity, weight, and length, while water softens edges and releases certain aromas. Small changes in dilution can dramatically alter balance, mouthfeel, and finish.

This is why high-proof tequilas have gained so much attention. They offer a more direct expression of the spirit, closer to what comes off the still.

Proof doesn’t overpower flavor. It controls how much of it you experience.

Take a moment before tasting

Begin with aroma

At a higher proof, aromas are less detectable, yet the profile will change and reveal more of itself as the alcohol blows off in the glass. Take your time with these!

Take a small sip and let it move across your palate

Pay attention to the flavor, mouthfeel, and structure. Does the tequila seem strong and expressive, or more subtle? Observe how the flavor changes from the mid-palate to the finish.

Now move between the two glasses

Moving between the two glasses reveals how proof shapes balance, texture, and finish. Differences become clearer in contrast, especially in how long flavors linger and how they evolve.

Now add a few drops of water to each glass. Swirl, smell, and taste again. See how dilution softens edges, releases aroma, and reshapes the experience. let THE proof tell its story.

A Tale of Two Bottles

Side by side

Select a comparison method to explore the differences:

El Mexicano High-Proof Blanco Tequila

Agave Expression:
Estate-grown agave from the Los Altos region of Jalisco, which are known to contain sweetness, minerals and earth.
Texture & Structure:
Soft and creamy, with a medium body and finish. At 90-proof, this is a great starting point that reveals complexity in the aroma.
Aromatic Profile:
Cooked agave, anise/licorice, salt/brine, earth, citrus, black pepper, and minerals.

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Cazcanes No.10 Still Strength Blanco

Agave Expression:
Classic Tequila Valley agaves bring an earthy and vegetal vibe with a touch of cinnamon.
Texture & Structure:
Bold, thick, and oily, with a long finish. An exciting example of the higher-proof experience.
Aromatic Profile:
Agave, earth, mint, and cinnamon on top of a black pepper and citrusy base.

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El Mexicano High-Proof Blanco Tequila

BOTTLING STRENGTH:
Bottled at a 45% ABV, to preserve intensity and carry more of the distillery’s character into the glass.
DILUTION IMPACT:
Minimal dilution keeps flavors concentrated, providing a thicker texture and a longer, more expressive finish.
FLAVOR IMPACT:
Prominent cooked agave, earth, citrus, black pepper, and licorice, delivered with amplified depth and length.

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Cazcanes No.10 Still Strength Blanco

BOTTLING STRENGTH:
Bottled at 100 proof to preserve intensity while maintaining balance and clarity in the final spirit.
DILUTION IMPACT:
No dilution highlights cooked agave and citrus, with black pepper, brine/salt, and minerals emerging in the finish.
FLAVOR IMPACT:
Cooked agave, black pepper, lime, vegetal, with earth, citrus, and anise.

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TIME TO Mix Things Up

Shake, stir, and experiment with recipes designed to let each spirit shine.