
Terralta Blanco 80 Proof
Terralta · Tequilera Alteña (NOM 1139)
Terralta's standard-proof blanco is often overshadowed by its high-proof sibling, but this 80-proof expression is a study in highland elegance. Felipe Camarena's work at the family distillery in the highlands of Jalisco produces tequila with remarkable mineral clarity. At this accessible price, it's one of the best entry points into serious craft tequila.
Nose
Bright cooked agave and wet mineral earth open the nose. Citrus — lime zest and a touch of grapefruit — float above green herbal notes and a faint floral lavender quality.
Palate
Clean and medium-bodied with sweet roasted agave, white pepper, and a gentle grassiness. Mid-palate delivers citrus pith and a subtle yeastiness that adds savory depth. Mineral notes persist throughout, anchoring the sweetness.
Finish
Medium length with lingering cooked agave and a peppery, slightly herbal fade. Clean and appetizing.
- Agave
- 100% Blue Weber Agave (Highland grown)
- Production
- Slow brick oven-cooked agave, natural fermentation with wild yeast, double distilled
- Region
- Jesús María, Jalisco, Mexico
- Cooking Method
- Slow brick oven-cooked agave, natural fermentation with wild yeast, double distilled
- Distillation
- Double distilled in copper pot stills
- NOM
- NOM 1139
- Additives Free
- Yes
Cocktail Suggestion
Highland Paloma — 2 oz Terralta Blanco · 0.75 oz fresh lime juice · 0.5 oz fresh grapefruit juice · 0.25 oz agave nectar · 2 oz grapefruit soda · Build in a Collins glass over ice, stir gently, garnish with grapefruit wedge and salt rim.
Food Pairing
Ceviche with jicama, mango, and serrano chili
Produced by third-generation master distiller Felipe Camarena at Tequilera Alteña in the red-clay highlands of Jesús María, Jalisco, Terralta is a family project that prioritizes slow-cooked agave, natural fermentation, and highland terroir above all else.
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