In the realm of tequila, few expressions capture the essence of tradition and purity as profoundly as Fortaleza Still Strength Blanco. This uncut, additive-free tequila offers an authentic taste of Jalisco’s rich heritage, delivering a robust and unadulterated experience that resonates with both aficionados and newcomers alike.
A Legacy Rooted in Jalisco
Fortaleza’s story begins in the heart of Tequila, Jalisco, where the Sauza family has been cultivating agave and producing tequila for generations. Embracing time-honored methods, Fortaleza remains steadfast in its commitment to traditional production techniques, setting itself apart in an industry increasingly dominated by modern shortcuts.
Traditional Production Methods
Agave Cultivation and Harvesting
The journey of Fortaleza Still Strength Blanco starts with 100% blue Weber agave, meticulously grown in the mineral-rich soils surrounding the distillery. These agaves are allowed to mature for 7–8 years, ensuring optimal sugar content and flavor development before harvesting .
Cooking and Extraction
Post-harvest, the agave piñas are slowly baked in traditional brick ovens for several days. This method caramelizes the sugars, enhancing the natural sweetness and complexity of the agave. Subsequently, the cooked agave is crushed using a tahona—a massive volcanic stone wheel—a labor-intensive process that extracts the juice while preserving the plant’s nuanced flavors .
Fermentation and Distillation
The extracted juice undergoes open-air fermentation in wooden vats, allowing wild yeasts to impart unique characteristics to the fermenting must. Following fermentation, the liquid is double-distilled in small copper pot stills, a process that refines the spirit while retaining its rich, agave-forward profile .
Bottling at Still Strength
Unlike many tequilas that are diluted with water before bottling, Fortaleza Still Strength Blanco is bottled directly from the still at 46% ABV. This approach preserves the tequila’s full-bodied character and offers a more intense, unfiltered expression of the agave spirit
Tasting Notes
Aroma
On the nose, Fortaleza Still Strength Blanco presents inviting aromas of ripe fruit, baked agave, green olive, and earthy undertones. These scents hint at the depth and complexity awaiting the palate .
Palate
The first sip reveals a vibrant medley of flavors: sweet cooked agave, buttery notes, and a distinctive olive brininess. Accents of black pepper and vegetal nuances add layers of complexity, culminating in a rich and creamy mouthfeel that lingers pleasantly
Finish
The finish is long and satisfying, with the high proof amplifying the tequila’s natural flavors without overwhelming the senses. A subtle interplay of citrus and earthy tones persists, inviting another sip to explore its evolving profile .
Why Choose Fortaleza Still Strength Blanco?
Authenticity
In an era where many tequilas incorporate additives to mask imperfections or enhance flavors artificially, Fortaleza stands out by adhering strictly to traditional methods and eschewing any additives. This commitment ensures that each bottle offers a genuine representation of tequila as it was meant to be experienced
Craftsmanship
Every step of Fortaleza’s production process is executed with meticulous attention to detail, from the hand-harvesting of mature agave to the artisanal distillation techniques. This dedication to craftsmanship results in a tequila that is both complex and approachable, appealing to a wide range of palates.
Exclusivity
Due to its traditional production methods and limited output, Fortaleza Still Strength Blanco is produced in small batches, making it a sought-after gem among tequila enthusiasts. Its scarcity adds to its allure, offering a unique tasting experience that is both rare and rewarding .
