Lalo Tequila launches high-ABV blanco

Tequila brand Lalo has released its second expression, a higher-ABV version of its blanco bottled at 54% ABV.

Co-founded by the third generation of the family behind Don Julio, Eduardo ‘Lalo’ González, Lalo’s offering consists only of an an additive-free blanco that’s made from three ingredients: water from Jalisco, highland agave also handpicked from Jalisco, and Champagne yeast. The brand said the addition of its High Proof expression offers everything that fans love about the original 40% ABV blanco, but with extra boldness. Of its launch, González explained: "This release is particularly special to me and embodies my heritage and soul of the Tequila-making that’s been a part of my family for generations. “High Proof is not just a new product; it is a personal and artistic expression inspired by my childhood memories of working alongside my father and grandfather in the agave fields of Mexico. It’s like a journey that takes you to the peak of what Tequila should be and I am proud to share this innovation with Tequila lovers across the country.” Although it sits at a higher ABV than usual for a blanco, the brand believes the expression is 'approachable, balanced and easy’, while capturing Tequila at its 'purest essence'. The profile is said to bring tasting notes of cooked agave, hints of floral and a peppery finish that is complemented by a 'distinctive minerality’. Like Lalo's flagship blanco, the higher-ABV Tequila’s production consists of handpicked agave and a traditional cooking method with two distillations, but it’s undiluted – which gives it a ‘bolder, unaltered’ flavour profile. Expanding on this, drinkers will notice unique features for a blanco such as a ‘visible viscosity’ on the glass and a smell that the brands calls the 'epitome of the agave experience', with grassy notes of fresh agave and an earthy scent of clay from the ovens. Other notes derived from agave’s natural sweetness see dark fruits with hints of vanilla, cinnamon and dulce de leche. Lalo High Proof is now available nationwide in the US for US$74.99. Earlier this year, we caught up with González on why he started the brand and its commitment to a blanco-only approach.