Recently we got a little lesson in tequila mixology from the Altos Tequila team and found ourselves mixing up some deliciously refreshing tequila-based cocktails, as well as learning more about the tequila making process along the way.
First off, quality is of the utmost importance when it comes to agave, the key ingredient in Altos Tequila is planted in the ideal growing conditions; 2,100 m above sea level, and in mineral-rich volcanic soil. The agave takes a staggering 7 to 8 years to grow to the right maturity and each Blue Weber Agave plant can make up to 8 bottles of Altos Tequila!
After only the best plants have been selected, they are slow-cooked in brick ovens for up to three days and then rested. The cooked plants are torn up with a roller mill and 2-ton volcanic Tahona Stone, releasing the sweet juices that make their way into every bottle of Altos Tequila. Each batch of agave is then fermented for an average of 36 hours.
Small-batches are then double distilled in 100% copper stills. Quality over quantity, always. After all that, their reposado tequila is aged for 6-8 months in former whiskey barrels, instilling a robust, yet pleasant body of agave, vanilla, and woody notes.
Their commitment to taking care with every step does not stop there, 98% of all organic waste from production is composted and reused to grow the next generation of agave. Quite an incredible feat considering the total amount of non-recycled material per year could fit inside the boot of a car!
Anyway, what it all comes down to is taste. If you’re someone who mostly consumes tequila late into the night as an obligatory shot, then this cocktail will definitely surprize you. Tasty and simple to make, it will transform the way you drink and think about tequila.
See the Crafted Paloma recipe below:
INGREDIENTS:
- Altos Plata 2 parts
- Fresh pink grapefruit juice 2 parts
- Lemon juice 1 part
- Agave syrup ½ part
- Pinch of salt
DIRECTIONS:
Frost the glass rim with salt and crushed pink peppercorns.
Pour all the ingredients except the grapefruit juice into the glass.
Mix using the ALTOS molinillo to dissolve the agave syrup.
Fill the glass with ice and finish with the pink grapefruit juice.
Garnish with half slice of pink grapefruit.
Enjoy!
