Ocho launches Bourbon barrel-aged Tequila

Tequila brand Ocho has partnered with Brooklyn-based Widow Jane Distillery to launch an añejo aged in Bourbon barrels.

The collaboration marks the second time the brands have linked up, having first worked together on a reposado aged for eight weeks and eight days in Widow Jane’s Bourbon barrels. Named Tequila Ocho Añejo Barrel Select Widow Jane 2024, the brand took the new expression a step further, ageing it for the full year in recently emptied Widow Jane barrels. Ocho’s co-founder and master distiller, Carlos Camarena, said: “The philosophy of Ocho has always been to showcase the terroir of the agave plants, but we also love to try and experiment with new, innovative ideas. “This extraordinary expression of Ocho Añejo marries the finest agave-forward Tequila with the heady aromas, rich caramel and baking-spice notes from the Widow Jane barrels. The enhanced 96 proof [48% ABV] adds a further dash of intensity. “The collaboration between makers from two very different parts of the world means an expression of Tequila that shines brightest in its profile of agave, yet framed up beautifully by the specifically-chosen Bourbon barrels, making for a true Ocho sipping experience.” As with all products in Ocho's range, the Tequila was made with overripe agave, harvested exclusively from a single field, Rancho El Nacimiento, which is owned and operated by Camarena. The expression is available at retailers in select US states for RRP US$90 per 750ml bottle. Jesse Estes, global ambassador of Tequila Ocho, added: “Given the immensely positive feedback we received about Tequila Ocho Reposado Barrel Select Widow Jane, it made sense to apply what we learned and channel that same spirit of innovation to an añejo. “With that said, I could not have imagined how well the Añejo Barrel Select Widow Jane has turned out. The higher ABV carries even more flavour and makes for a superbly rich and delightful sipper.” Last year, Ocho opened its new distillery and visitor experience in Jalisco, Mexico. The new site, called Los Alambiques, is also home to a cantina named ‘La Cantina de Don Tomas’, in honour of Ocho’s late co-founder, Tomas Estes, who died in April 2021.