The Legal Limits of Tequila Production
While the concept of a 100% proof spirit (which would be 200 proof, or pure ethanol) is intriguing, it is not possible with tequila. By law, the Consejo Regulador del Tequila (CRT) dictates a specific alcohol by volume (ABV) range for all tequila production. This strict regulation ensures product consistency and quality across the industry.
The legally permissible ABV for commercial tequila in Mexico and the United States is 35% to 55%. This range, when converted to the U.S. proof system (where proof is double the ABV), means tequila is legally sold between 70 and 110 proof. Therefore, a 100% (or 200 proof) tequila is a mythical product, as it exceeds the absolute legal maximum.
How to Get 100 Proof Tequila
Despite the impossibility of a 100% pure alcohol tequila, you can absolutely purchase a 100 proof tequila. In fact, many distillers offer them as a showcase of their craft. High-proof or "still strength" tequilas are celebrated for their heightened agave flavor and aroma, as they are often less diluted than the standard 80 proof versions.
Notable 100 proof and overproof tequilas include:
- Don Fulano Fuerte Blanco: An acclaimed 100-proof option known for its intense agave flavor and aromatic complexity.
- Dulce Vida Organic Tequila: This brand features a full line of 100 proof tequilas, including a blanco and añejo, that offer concentrated flavor.
- 1800 Select Silver: This tequila blanco is bottled at 100 proof, giving it a bolder character than its standard counterpart.
- Tapatio Blanco 110: Pushing the legal limit, this 110 proof (55% ABV) tequila from La Alteña distillery is a favorite among enthusiasts for its robust flavor profile.
- Terra de Libertad: Another example of a tequila bottled at the 55% ABV (110 proof) legal limit.
What Makes High-Proof Tequila Different?
The higher alcohol content in these spirits is not just about potency; it fundamentally alters the tasting experience. Less water is added after distillation, which means the natural compounds that create flavor and aroma are less diluted. This results in a more robust, full-bodied spirit with a thicker mouthfeel and a more intense expression of the agave from which it was made.
For cocktails, a high-proof tequila can be a game-changer. Its bold character allows it to stand up to strong mixers, ensuring the spirit's flavor profile is not lost. For sipping, it offers a powerful and complex profile that can be both exhilarating and revealing of the spirit's true character.
High Proof vs. Standard Tequila Comparison
| Feature | Standard 80 Proof Tequila (40% ABV) | High Proof Tequila (100-110 Proof) |
|---|---|---|
| Alcohol Content | 40% ABV | 50% to 55% ABV |
| Flavor Profile | Milder, smoother, more balanced | Bolder, more intense, heightened agave and spice notes |
| Aroma | Subtle, nuanced | Pronounced and fragrant, with a potent bouquet |
| Mouthfeel | Lighter, cleaner | Thicker, oilier, more viscous |
| Cocktail Use | Mixes well, but can be overpowered by strong mixers | Stands up to complex cocktail ingredients, shines in elevated drinks |
| Sipping Experience | Easy-drinking, gentle heat | Powerful, complex, often preferred by connoisseurs for neat sipping |
The Allure of Still Strength Tequilas
For many spirits enthusiasts, particularly those coming from the whiskey world, the move towards still strength or high-proof tequilas is a natural progression. It offers a chance to taste the truest expression of the spirit before significant dilution. The complexity and concentration of flavor found in these bottlings highlight the nuances of the agave source, the terroir, and the distillation process itself.
Brands like Fortaleza, Cascahuín, and Tequila Ocho have all released highly sought-after still strength expressions, cementing the category's place in the modern tequila market. These premium offerings often reflect a commitment to traditional production methods, where the liquid is bottled as close to its exit from the still as possible, preserving its raw and powerful character. For further exploration of these kinds of expressions, check out the in-depth blind tasting reviews featured on enthusiast sites.
Conclusion: The Pursuit of Purity
In summary, while a true 100% pure alcohol tequila is a legal and technical impossibility, the market is rich with 100 proof and higher expressions that offer an intense and rewarding agave experience. High-proof tequila, defined as 50% ABV (100 proof) or more, provides concentrated flavor and aroma for both sipping and mixing. By understanding the legal boundaries and the production methods that result in these bolder spirits, aficionados can appreciate the true craft behind still strength tequila. So, if you're asking, "Can you get 100% proof tequila?", the answer is no, but a full-bodied 100 proof is certainly within your grasp.
