2022 Fortaleza - Los Abuelos Winter Blend Tequila Reposado, Mexico

A sturdy Reposado for a striking individual.

Launched in 2005, Tequila Fortaleza may seem like a relatively new kid on the block, but it is actually much older than it looks (and that’s a good thing for once). The brand boasts over 150 years of history dating four generations back. In 1873, Don Cenobio founded the first distillery—La Perseverancia—in Tequila, Jalisco. Afterward, Javier—Don’s grandson, bought a piece of the plot in Tequila, the present-day home of the Tequila Fortaleza. In the late seventies, Don Javier handed over the business to a buyer but retained the plot of land and the distillery. Because of his grandson, Guillermo, the distillery saw the light of day again as he took up the business and reopened its doors in 2005. Tequila Fortaleza uses a 2-ton volcanic stone to crush the agave plant, separating the sugars before fermentation. This traditional technique is known as the ‘tahona method,’ which has been ditched by some distillers in favor of newer, quicker practices. However, Fortaleza is still going strong with this one, keeping the customs and tradition of Tequila-making alive and kicking.

Fortaleza Reposado Winter Blend is an elusive Spirit and a proud one at that. Cosily matured in ex-Bourbon and French Oak Barrels, it clocks in at 46.3% ABV and showcases notes of chocolate, black pepper, cinnamon, and citrus, together with dark chocolate notes, cooked agave and burnt butter on the palate. Its finish is reminiscent of toffee and has a pleasant lingering. Fans promptly snatch this type of Reposado Tequila, so be alert for future releases because you’ll have to have quick fingers to enjoy every drop slowly.