Fortaleza Blanco Still Strength Tequila

Fortaleza Blanco Still Strength is an occasional limited release bottled at the natural proof of the copper pot still distillate — uncut and undiluted, at 92 proof (46% ABV). The same tahona-produced, stone-oven-cooked Tequila Valley spirit as the standard Fortaleza Blanco, but presented at the proof it comes off the still before water addition reduces it to standard 80 proof bottling.

The difference between Still Strength and standard Blanco is not just proof — it is the concentration of the agave character. The tahona process, stone oven cooking, and copper pot distillation that define Fortaleza's traditional production are all more present and more pronounced at 46% ABV than at 40%. The roasted agave, black pepper, mineral earth, and olive note that define the standard Blanco are intensified, and the mouthfeel is significantly fuller. For collectors and enthusiasts who want to understand what Fortaleza's distillate actually tastes like before dilution, Still Strength is the definitive expression. Releases in small quantities and sells through quickly — typically allocated.

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Intensified roasted agave, baked fruit, green olive, earth, black pepper — the standard Blanco character at higher concentration
• Palate: Fuller and richer than the standard Blanco — butter, olive, earth, black pepper, vegetal agave with more grip and texture
• Finish: Long, dry, and peppery — persistent agave and mineral character

Specs

• Distillery: Fortaleza (NOM 1493), Tequila Valley, Jalisco, Mexico
• Agave: 100% Blue Weber, Tequila Valley lowland
• Style: Blanco Still Strength, unaged
• Cooking: Stone/brick oven
• Crushing: 100% tahona stone wheel
• Distillation: Double distilled, copper pot stills
• ABV: 46% (92 proof)
• Size: 750ml

Explore the full Fortaleza collection or browse all additive-free tequila at Wooden Cork.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Fortaleza Still Strength differ from the standard Blanco?

Same production, different bottling proof. The standard Blanco is diluted with water to 80 proof (40% ABV) before bottling. Still Strength is bottled directly from the distillate at 92 proof (46% ABV) with no water addition. The higher proof produces more pronounced agave character, fuller mouthfeel, and more intensity throughout — the most direct expression of what the tahona production process actually produces.

Is Fortaleza Still Strength always available?

No — it is an occasional limited release produced in small quantities. Wooden Cork carries it when allocated inventory is available. It moves quickly due to collector demand and is not a permanent catalog item.

Does the higher proof make it harsh?

At 46% ABV it is barely above standard spirits bottling — only 6 proof points higher than the regular Blanco. The tahona production and traditional methods produce a naturally smooth distillate, so the still strength version reads as concentrated and intense rather than harsh. A small amount of water or a single ice cube opens it up significantly if preferred.