Maverick Spirits introduces Agave Blanco
San Antonio-based Maverick Spirits has introduced a "traditionally Mexican" Agave Blanco to the US market.
Distilled using a hybrid still and bottled in-house at the Maverick Spirits Distillery, the spirit is made from 100% blue agave nectar. “Tequila, by law, has to be distilled in Mexico, and until recently very few distilleries were making agave spirits in the US as there was no category in the federal regulations,” said Kevin Graham, Maverick Spirits head distiller. “Our founder, Dr Kenneth Maverick, closely followed the early federal discussions to determine an American style of agave spirits. With our proximity to Mexico and history here in San Antonio, it made a lot of sense to us to produce agave spirits. “When the regulations were approved by the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) for an agave spirit category, we were ready with a pre-designed label and recipe for distilling. In fact, we were the first distillery approved for producing agave spirits in the US.” The liquid is fragrant on the nose with notes of apple blossom, roasted agave and white pepper, while vanilla, honeysuckle and green fruit notes lead on the palate. Agave Blanco is recommended sipped neat or mixed into cocktails, such as a Margarita or a Paloma. Maverick said: “It makes a lot of sense for us to produce this spirit, which is traditionally Mexican, right here at our distillery in Texas. “Our Agave Blanco has captured the attention of industry connoisseurs. We are excited to make it easier for people around Texas to try it through the expansion of our retail distribution in the state.” Maverick Spirits Agave Blanco is now available for purchase online, with shipping to 41 states in the US. Retailing for RRP US$40, it is currently offered in 750ml bottles. Last year the TTB proposed changes to its permit application for distillers in an effort to deregulate and ‘modernise’ the process.
