If your homemade cocktails never quite taste like the ones from your favorite high-end bar, the secret might be in the proof. Standard 80-proof spirits can easily get lost behind citrus, sweeteners, and other mixers, resulting in a drink that lacks character. High-proof tequila, with its concentrated flavor and robust agave backbone, solves this problem. It has the strength to stand up to other ingredients, ensuring the spirit's complex notes shine through in every sip. Using the best high proof tequila is one of the simplest ways to give your Margaritas and Palomas a richer, more professional quality that will impress any guest.
Key Takeaways
- Focus on Flavor, Not Just Strength: High proof tequila delivers a more concentrated and authentic agave taste because less water is added. This preserves the natural oils from the plant, creating a richer texture and a more complex flavor profile.
- Let It Breathe Before You Sip: Give your high proof tequila a few minutes to rest in the glass after pouring. This simple step allows the initial alcohol vapors to soften, which helps the complex agave aromas and flavors become more pronounced and enjoyable.
- Great for Sipping or Mixing: Don't reserve high proof tequilas only for sipping neat. Their bold character provides a strong backbone in cocktails, ensuring the true agave flavor stands up to mixers and isn't watered down.
What Exactly is High Proof Tequila?
If you've ever felt that your favorite tequila was missing a certain something, you might be ready to explore the world of high proof. So, what is it? High proof tequila is simply tequila bottled with a higher alcohol by volume (ABV) than the standard 40% (80 proof). Most tequilas you see on the shelf are distilled to a higher strength and then diluted with water to hit that specific number. High proof expressions, however, are bottled much closer to their distillation strength, typically ranging from 48% to 55% ABV.
This isn't about chasing a bigger buzz; it's about experiencing a more robust and pure expression of the agave. By adding less water, distillers preserve more of the natural oils and flavorful compounds that are often diluted away. The result is a richer, more complex spirit that offers a true taste of the plant and the place it came from. Think of it as the difference between a filtered photo and the original raw image, you get all the detail, nuance, and character. For anyone serious about their tequila collection, high proof bottles are a fantastic way to experience the spirit in one of its most authentic forms.
What "Proof" Means for Your Spirit
"Proof" is a term you see on every bottle, but what does it actually mean? It’s simply a way to measure the alcohol content in a spirit. In the United States, the proof is exactly double the alcohol by volume (ABV) percentage. So, a standard tequila at 40% ABV is 80 proof. A high proof tequila bottled at 55% ABV is 110 proof. While the term originated from an old British method involving gunpowder (a story for another time!), today it’s just a straightforward number. When you see "high proof," it's a clear indicator that the spirit has been bottled with less dilution, promising a more concentrated and flavorful experience.
How Higher Proof Changes Flavor and Texture
This is where things get really interesting. Adding less water doesn't just make a tequila stronger; it fundamentally changes its character. Higher proof tequilas often trade the soft, delicate notes you might find in standard 80-proof expressions for a more complex and vibrant flavor profile. You get to experience the full spectrum of flavors from the agave itself: bright citrus, cooked agave sweetness, earthy minerality, and a peppery spice that tingles on the palate. The texture is different, too. These tequilas often have a richer, more viscous mouthfeel because more of the natural oils from the agave are preserved, creating a spirit that feels substantial and satisfying to sip.
How Still Strength Tequila is Made
Ready to go one step further? Let's talk about "still strength." This term refers to tequila that is bottled exactly as it comes off the still, with zero water added after distillation. It is the purest and most unadulterated expression of the distiller's craft. While not all high proof tequilas are still strength, all still strength tequilas are high proof. This method preserves the absolute integrity of the spirit, capturing a snapshot of the tequila at its most intense and flavorful moment. Exploring these rare and limited bottles is like hearing a musician's raw, unplugged performance, it's powerful, honest, and unforgettable.
The Best High Proof Blanco Tequilas to Try
When you want to experience the purest expression of blue weber agave, a high-proof blanco is the perfect place to start. Without any barrel aging, these tequilas let the raw character of the plant and the craft of the distiller shine through. The higher alcohol content carries more of the agave’s natural oils and flavors, creating a richer, more intense, and incredibly complex spirit that feels more viscous and full-bodied on the palate. These bottles are fantastic for sipping slowly, allowing you to appreciate every layer of flavor as it unfolds. They also make unforgettable cocktails, adding a depth and structure that standard-proof tequilas just can't match. A high-proof margarita, for example, will have a much more pronounced agave backbone that stands up beautifully to citrus and sweeteners, ensuring the tequila flavor isn't lost. These are not just tequilas with more kick; they are tequilas with more character. Exploring them is a great way to deepen your understanding of what agave spirits can be. Here are some of the absolute best high-proof blancos that deserve a spot in your tequila collection.
Tapatío Blanco 110: Pure Agave Intensity
If you’re looking for a tequila that is unapologetically bold, Tapatío Blanco 110 is your bottle. At a powerful 55% ABV, it delivers an incredible blast of pure, cooked agave flavor. This isn't a spirit that whispers; it makes a statement. You’ll find strong notes of black pepper, earth, and a pleasant minerality that lingers on the palate. Created by the legendary La Alteña distillery, this tequila is a masterclass in traditional production. It’s the perfect choice for the purist who wants to taste the true, unadulterated heart of the agave plant. It's a robust and rewarding experience from one of the most respected names in the industry.
G4 Blanco 108: Artisanal Craftsmanship
From the renowned Camarena family comes G4 Blanco 108, a spirit that beautifully balances high proof with refined complexity. Clocking in at 54% ABV, it’s intense yet remarkably smooth. The flavor profile is a vibrant mix of rainwater minerality, bright citrus, and fresh herbs, all layered over a solid foundation of sweet cooked agave. This tequila is a testament to meticulous artisanal craftsmanship, from the spring water used in its production to the traditional stone ovens. It’s a sophisticated sipper for anyone who appreciates the finer details in their spirits and the legacy of a family dedicated to quality.
Wild Common Still Strength: Bold and Unfiltered
Wild Common Still Strength offers a truly unique and authentic tasting experience. As an unfiltered tequila bottled at 50% ABV, it retains all the natural oils and flavors from the distillation process, giving it a wonderfully rich texture. The profile is distinctly clean, with prominent herbaceous and mineral notes that feel both earthy and bright. It’s a fantastic example of a modern distillery honoring traditional methods to create something truly special. This bottle is a must-try for enthusiasts looking for a pure and expressive spirit that stands out from the crowd and showcases the beauty of minimal intervention.
Fortaleza Blanco Still Strength: Citrusy Complexity
Often considered a benchmark for quality, Fortaleza Blanco Still Strength is a bottle that lives up to its legendary reputation. At 46% ABV, it’s slightly more approachable than others on this list but sacrifices none of the complexity. This tequila is bursting with bright, citrusy notes of lime and grapefruit, balanced by a buttery, olive-brine character and the sweet warmth of cooked agave. Its rich, viscous mouthfeel makes it an absolute delight to sip. Finding a bottle can be a challenge, making it a prized part of any rare & limited collection and a true trophy for any serious enthusiast.
Cascahuin Plata 48: Sweet and Grassy Notes
Cascahuin Plata 48 is a high-proof blanco that has earned a devoted following among tequila lovers, and for good reason. Bottled at 48% ABV, it presents a fascinating and delicious flavor profile that leans into sweet, almost dessert-like notes alongside fresh, grassy undertones. It’s an additive-free tequila that showcases the beautiful complexity that can be achieved through careful fermentation and distillation. This spirit is exceptionally well-rounded, making it both an excellent sipper and a fantastic base for a premium cocktail. It’s a perfect example of the quality coming from the El Arenal region, known as the lowlands of Jalisco.
Don't Forget Aged Tequilas: High Proof Reposados & Añejos
When you think of high proof tequila, your mind probably jumps straight to the crisp, agave-forward character of a blanco. But don't let the unaged expressions have all the fun. High proof tequilas also come in beautiful aged varieties, like Reposados and Añejos, that offer a completely different and deeply complex sipping experience. The time spent in a barrel introduces a whole new dimension to these powerful spirits. The interaction between the high-alcohol tequila and the wood creates a rich tapestry of flavors, layering notes of spice, caramel, and vanilla on top of that vibrant, cooked agave core. It’s a fascinating category for anyone who loves a spirit with character and depth.
Don Fulano Fuerte: A Balanced, Aged Expression
As the very first high proof tequila released back in 2002, Don Fulano Fuerte holds a special place in the history of agave spirits. This 100-proof Añejo is a masterclass in balance. Instead of letting the alcohol heat dominate, it presents a beautifully integrated profile. Tasters consistently praise its notes of warm cinnamon and spice, which are carried by a distinct, oily mouthfeel that coats the palate. It’s a sophisticated and robust tequila that proves high proof and aging can work together in perfect harmony, creating a memorable and satisfying sip every time.
Siembra Valles High Proof Tahona: Tropical Complexity
If you're looking for a high proof Reposado that truly stands out, Siembra Valles High Proof Tahona is a must-try. This expression, bottled at 49.5% ABV, has been ranked number one by aficionados for its incredible complexity and unique flavor profile. It’s crafted using the traditional tahona wheel, which imparts a rich texture and earthy quality. On the palate, you’ll find a delightful mix of sweet cooked agave and distinct minerality, brightened by surprising notes of tropical fruit. It’s a vibrant and layered tequila that showcases the beautiful potential of high proof aged spirits.
How Barrel Aging Affects High Proof Tequila
Aging a high proof tequila in a barrel is a delicate balancing act. The higher alcohol content allows the spirit to extract flavors from the wood more intensely than its 80-proof counterparts. This process imparts additional notes of vanilla, caramel, and baking spices, creating a richer, more layered tasting experience. The magic lies in preserving the tequila’s essential character. A great high proof Añejo tequila doesn’t mask the agave with wood; it complements it, resulting in a spirit that is both powerful and nuanced, with a finish that lingers long after the last sip.
What Do High Proof Tequilas Actually Taste Like?
If you think high proof just means a stronger burn, it’s time to reconsider. While the alcohol is more present, a well-made high proof tequila doesn’t just offer heat; it delivers an incredible concentration of flavor. Because less water is added to dilute the spirit before bottling, the natural character of the agave shines through in its purest form. You get a richer, more viscous texture and a complex profile that standard-proof tequilas often can't match. It’s a full-bodied experience that captures the raw, authentic essence of the spirit straight from the still.
Tasting Notes from Our Favorite Brands
Every high proof tequila tells a different story. For a masterclass in agave intensity, Tapatío Blanco 110 delivers a powerful punch of black pepper and sweet cooked agave that connoisseurs adore. If you’re seeking balance, G4 Blanco 108 is a beautiful example of how high proof can be both intense and refreshing, with bright citrus and spice notes. For those who love a clean, earthy profile, Wild Common Still Strength offers a vibrant mix of herbaceous and mineral notes. And for something a little different, Cascahuin Plata 48 presents a delightful balance of sweet, almost dessert-like flavors with a fresh, grassy finish.
What Flavors to Expect
Beyond the notes of specific brands, high proof tequilas share a common thread: intense, unadulterated agave flavor. Expect to find a spectrum of notes, from vegetal and grassy to bright and fruity. The higher alcohol content acts as a vehicle, carrying more of the oils and esters that create these complex aromas and tastes. This results in a bolder, richer flavor that coats your palate. While there is a noticeable warmth, it should feel like a pleasant embrace rather than a harsh burn, allowing the deeper, earthier notes of the agave to come forward in a way that’s simply not possible at 80 proof.
How to Properly Taste High Proof Spirits
To truly appreciate a high proof spirit, you need to approach it with a little intention. First, use the right glassware. A snifter or a dedicated tequila glass helps concentrate the aromas, allowing you to pick up on subtle nuances before you even take a sip. When you do taste it, start with a very small sip. Let it sit on your tongue for a moment to allow your palate to acclimate to the proof. This small step prevents the alcohol from overwhelming your taste buds, so you can fully experience the complex flavors that follow.
Why You Should Let Your Tequila Breathe
Just like a fine wine, high proof tequila benefits from a little air. Pouring a glass and letting it rest for a few minutes can make a world of difference. This process, often called "opening up," allows some of the more volatile alcohol vapors to dissipate. As the spirit breathes, the initial heat softens, and the intricate layers of flavor and aroma become more pronounced and integrated. You’ll find that the tequila becomes smoother and more expressive, revealing hidden notes you might have missed otherwise. It’s a simple act of patience that rewards you with a more enjoyable and complex tasting experience, especially for bottles from our Rare & Limited Collection.
Should You Sip It Neat or Mix It in a Cocktail?
So, you’ve got a bottle of high-proof tequila. The big question is: do you sip it straight or mix it into a cocktail? The honest answer is that you can’t go wrong either way. The choice really comes down to the specific bottle and what kind of experience you’re in the mood for. High-proof tequilas are incredibly versatile, offering a bold intensity that can be savored on its own or used to create a more complex and memorable cocktail.
Unlike standard 80-proof spirits that can get lost behind mixers, high-proof tequila has the backbone to stand up to citrus, sweeteners, and sodas. Its robust agave character shines through, adding depth to your favorite drinks. At the same time, many of these spirits are crafted with such care that they offer a rich, layered tasting experience all by themselves. Let’s explore how to make the most of your bottle, whether you’re a purist or a mixologist.
The Case for Drinking High Proof Tequila Straight
Many high-proof tequilas are made to be sipped. Their higher alcohol content carries intense aromas and flavors, often with a wonderfully thick, oily texture that coats your palate. These spirits showcase the purest expression of the agave and the distiller’s craft. When you sip a high-proof tequila neat, you’re tasting it exactly as the maker intended. To get the full experience, pour a small amount and let it rest in the glass for a few minutes. This allows the spirit to "open up," softening the alcohol notes and letting the complex agave flavors come forward. Many of the bottles in our Rare & Limited Collection are perfect for this kind of slow, deliberate tasting.
How High Proof Tequila Transforms Your Cocktails
If you think high-proof tequila is only for sipping, you’re missing out. Its strength is a huge asset in cocktails. A higher proof means more concentrated flavor, which prevents your drink from tasting watered down. It can instantly improve classics like a Margarita or a Paloma, giving them a richer, more agave-forward taste that you just can’t get from a standard-proof spirit. Instead of a delicate vanilla note, you get a more natural and nuanced flavor that adds layers to your drink. Using a high-proof spirit from our tequila collection is one of the easiest ways to make your home cocktails taste like they came from a high-end bar.
The Right Way to Serve It (and the Right Glassware)
Whether you’re sipping it neat or mixing it, presentation matters. To properly appreciate the aromas of a high-proof tequila, serve it in a glass with a curved shape, like a snifter or a tulip glass. This shape concentrates the vapors, allowing you to pick up on all the subtle notes before you even take a sip. If you’re drinking it straight, remember to go slowly. Take small sips and let the liquid rest on your tongue to experience how the flavors evolve. At Sip Tequila, we believe that understanding the story behind the spirit enhances the experience, and taking the time to serve it properly is part of honoring that tradition. You can learn more about our philosophy on our About Us page.
Which High Proof Tequilas Offer the Best Value?
When we talk about value in high-proof tequila, we're looking beyond the price tag. Value is about the experience in the bottle: the intensity of the flavor, the complexity of the aroma, and the quality of the craftsmanship. A great value high-proof tequila delivers a powerful and memorable tasting experience that feels worth every penny. It’s about finding a spirit that truly showcases the pure, unadulterated character of the agave. These tequilas are bottled with less water, which means you get a more concentrated and authentic spirit that hasn't been diluted down to the legal minimum.
The good news is that you don’t always have to splurge to find an exceptional bottle. Some of the most respected distilleries produce high-proof expressions that are both accessible and incredibly flavorful. The key is to understand what you're paying for. Are you paying for a unique production process, a limited release, or simply a spirit that offers an incredible punch of flavor? Understanding what drives the cost and character of these tequilas will help you find the perfect addition to your collection, whether you’re looking for a go-to sipper or a rare bottle for a special occasion. It all comes down to knowing what to look for and appreciating the craft behind the spirit.
The Distilleries Defining the High Proof Movement
The rise of high-proof tequila is being led by distilleries that prioritize tradition and transparency. These producers are committed to crafting spirits that are robust, authentic, and full of agave flavor. Instead of diluting their tequila down to the standard 40% ABV, they bottle it closer to its still strength, preserving the natural oils and flavor compounds that make the spirit so compelling. This approach results in tequilas with a noticeably thicker, more viscous mouthfeel and an aromatic intensity that you just can't find in lower-proof options. Many of these bottles come from smaller, family-owned distilleries, and you can often find them in curated rare & limited collections.
What to Expect at Different Price Points
You can find outstanding high-proof tequilas at various price points. In the more accessible range, you’ll discover workhorse blancos that are perfect for sipping or making standout cocktails. For example, a bottle like Tapatío Blanco 110 offers an incredible punch of peppery, cooked agave flavor at an impressive 55% ABV, making it a favorite among enthusiasts. As you move up in price, you can expect to find more nuanced and complex spirits. These might feature unique production methods, extended fermentation, or aging in special barrels, all of which contribute to a deeper and more layered tasting experience. Exploring the full tequila collection can help you see how these factors influence both price and profile.
What Makes a High Proof Tequila Worth the Price?
The real allure of a high-proof tequila is its undiluted character. You're paying for a more direct and expressive taste of the agave and the distiller's craft. With less water added, the spirit retains more of its essential oils and aromatic compounds, leading to a richer, more complex flavor profile. Think of it as trading a bit of smoothness for a lot more personality. A higher proof doesn't just mean more alcohol; it means more flavor. This intensity is what makes these tequilas so satisfying to sip slowly, allowing you to appreciate every note of citrus, pepper, earth, and sweet cooked agave.
How to Choose the Right High Proof Tequila for You
Finding the perfect high-proof tequila is a personal journey, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. With so many incredible options available, the key is to understand your own palate and know what to look for in a bottle. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just starting to explore spirits with more character, a little guidance can help you select a tequila that you’ll truly enjoy. Think about the flavors you typically gravitate towards. Do you prefer bright, citrusy notes, or are you drawn to earthy, vegetal profiles? Answering these questions is the first step to finding a high-proof spirit that feels like it was made just for you.
Match a Tequila to Your Taste Preferences
High-proof tequilas are celebrated for their strong aromas, rich flavors, and a wonderfully thick, oily texture that coats your palate. If you’re someone who appreciates a spirit with a bold personality, you’re in the right place. Bartenders often reach for these tequilas because their distinct character stands up beautifully in cocktails and offers a memorable sipping experience on its own. A great way to start is by considering what you already like. If you have a favorite standard-proof tequila, see if that distillery offers a high-proof or still-strength version. This allows you to explore a more intense expression of a profile you already know and love from our tequila collection.
Additive-Free vs. Traditional: What's the Difference?
When you see "additive-free" on a label, it means the tequila is made without any extra sugars, flavorings, or colorings. You’re getting the purest taste of the agave, water, and yeast, reflecting the true craft of the distiller. This is especially important in high-proof expressions, where every nuance is amplified. You’ll also see terms like "High Proof" and "Still Strength." High Proof means some water was added after distillation, but the alcohol content is still above 46%. Still Strength, on the other hand, means no water was added at all. It’s bottled at the exact proof it came off the still, offering the most authentic and unadulterated experience.
How to Start Your High Proof Collection
Ready to build your collection? A fantastic starting point is a high-quality, high-proof blanco. This will give you a clear sense of the agave’s natural character without the influence of barrel aging. Once you find a blanco you enjoy, you can explore how that profile evolves in reposado and añejo expressions. When you pour your first glass, give it a few minutes to "open up." Swirl it gently and let it breathe. This allows some of the alcohol vapors to dissipate, revealing the complex aromas underneath. Exploring our Rare & Limited Collection is a great way to discover unique bottles that will become the centerpiece of your bar.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying High Proof Tequila
Venturing into the world of high-proof tequila is exciting, but a few common misconceptions can trip up even seasoned drinkers. Knowing what to look for (and what to ignore) is the key to finding a bottle you’ll truly love. Think of this as your field guide to making smarter choices, ensuring that every high-proof tequila you bring home is a winner. By sidestepping these simple mistakes, you can build a collection that’s not just impressive, but also perfectly suited to your palate. Let’s clear up some of the myths and get you ready to shop with confidence.
Myth-Busting: Why Higher Proof Doesn't Mean Harsher
Let’s get one thing straight: higher proof does not automatically equal a harsher, more aggressive spirit. It’s one of the biggest myths in the tequila world. In a well-crafted tequila, a higher alcohol content can actually carry more of the raw agave’s complex flavors, delivering a richer and more vibrant tasting experience. Instead of a fiery burn, you often get more pronounced notes of cooked agave, citrus, and minerals. Many tequila aficionados seek out these expressions specifically because they offer a purer taste of the plant. The best way to understand this is to try some of our rare and limited bottles for yourself and see how beautifully the flavors stand out.
Don't Judge a Tequila by Its Price Tag
While it’s true that many exceptional high-proof tequilas come with a premium price, cost isn’t the only measure of quality. A high price can be influenced by marketing, elaborate packaging, or artificial scarcity, not just what’s inside the bottle. Instead of letting the price guide you, focus on the distillery’s reputation, its production methods, and whether it’s confirmed to be additive-free. A fantastic high-proof tequila offers great value because of its craftsmanship, not its cost. You can find many tequilas in our best-sellers collection that have earned their spot through sheer quality, offering incredible flavor at a fair price.
How to Spot an Authentic High Proof Bottle
Understanding a few key terms will help you identify an authentic bottle. You’ll often see "high proof" (or "overproof") and "still strength" used. "Still strength" means the tequila was bottled directly from the still with no water added, capturing its most raw and potent character. "High proof" usually means a small amount of water was added, but the final spirit is still well above the standard 40% ABV. Always look for "100% de Agave" on the label. This confirms it’s made entirely from Blue Weber agave. As a company founded on a passion for authentic spirits, we believe in connecting you with the real stories behind each bottle, which you can learn more about on our About Us page.
Where to Find the Best High Proof Tequilas
Once you know what you’re looking for, the hunt for the perfect bottle begins. Finding high proof tequilas can be a rewarding experience, especially when you know where to look. From online communities to curated collections, here are a few of the best ways to source incredible still strength spirits.
Strategies for Finding Great Prices
Sometimes, the best deals aren’t found through a sale but through community. As the tequila world grows, enthusiasts are adopting strategies from the bourbon and craft beer scenes. One collector put it perfectly: "Make friends online, ship each other." Building relationships with fellow tequila lovers in forums or social media groups can open doors to trading for bottles you can’t find locally or getting tips on where to find a great price. This approach not only helps you source rare finds but also connects you with a passionate community that shares your appreciation for authentic agave spirits.
Join Online Communities to Discover New Bottles
Beyond just finding good prices, online communities are a fantastic resource for discovery. Many of the best distilleries are creating immersive digital experiences, like virtual tours and online tastings, to connect directly with fans. These groups and forums are often the first place you’ll hear about new releases, limited editions, and up-and-coming producers. It’s a great way to stay ahead of the curve and learn the stories behind the spirits. We believe in the power of these connections, which is why we build direct partnerships with distilleries to bring their incredible tequilas and stories to you.
When to Look for Sales and Special Offers
Timing your purchases strategically can also lead to significant savings. Keep an eye out for special promotions from online retailers, especially around major holidays or during seasonal sales events. Signing up for the email newsletters of your favorite shops is one of the easiest ways to get notified about discounts and exclusive offers. Many retailers also have rewards programs that let you earn points on purchases, which can be redeemed for discounts on future bottles. It pays to be patient and watch for the right opportunity to add a prized high proof tequila to your collection.
Explore Sip Tequila's Curated High Proof Collection
If you want to skip the search and go straight to the good stuff, a curated collection is your best bet. Most tequilas are bottled at 80 proof (40% ABV), but the bottles in a high proof collection are specifically selected for their greater intensity. We’ve taken the time to source some of the most exceptional and robust high proof tequilas available, perfect for enthusiasts looking to explore powerful flavors and unique profiles. Our Rare & Limited collection features incredible still strength options that showcase the true character of the agave, all in one place.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is high-proof tequila just about getting a bigger buzz? Not at all. The real purpose of high-proof tequila is to deliver a more intense and authentic flavor. By adding less water before bottling, distillers preserve more of the natural oils and compounds from the agave plant. This creates a spirit with a richer texture and a more complex taste, allowing you to experience the tequila in one of its purest forms.
I'm worried a high-proof tequila will be too harsh. Is that true? That's a common concern, but in a well-made spirit, higher proof doesn't mean harsher. While you will notice the warmth, it should feel pleasant rather than aggressive. The higher alcohol content actually carries more of the nuanced flavors, like cooked agave and citrus. If you let it rest in the glass for a minute and take small sips, you'll find the spirit opens up beautifully.
What's the real difference between "high proof" and "still strength"? Think of it this way: all still strength tequilas are high proof, but not all high proof tequilas are still strength. "Still strength" is the most direct expression, bottled exactly as it comes off the still with zero water added. "High proof" is a broader term for any tequila bottled above the standard 40% ABV, meaning a small amount of water may have been added to reach a specific proof point.
Which high-proof tequila is a good one to start with? A high-proof blanco is the perfect place to begin because you get the pure agave character without any barrel influence. For a classic and bold introduction, Tapatío Blanco 110 is a fantastic choice that delivers incredible agave intensity. If you want something slightly more approachable yet still complex, Cascahuin Plata 48 offers a beautiful balance of sweet and grassy notes.
Does using such a good tequila in a cocktail waste its quality? Absolutely not; in fact, it makes your cocktails significantly better. A high-proof tequila has the flavor concentration to stand up to mixers like lime juice and sweeteners. Where a standard tequila might get lost, a high-proof spirit ensures the agave character remains the star of the drink. It's one of the best ways to create a truly memorable, top-shelf margarita or paloma.
