Within the next two years, tequila is set to overtake vodka as the best-selling spirit category in the United States. In fact, globally, the beloved Mexican export has never been as widely welcomed as it is now. So it’s no surprise that a new expression hits the shelves every week. Not all of them are created equal, of course. But today, we can tell you about one that’s stronger than most.
Tequila Ocho has introduced the 2024 version of its Plata Puntas. At 54%, it’s the revered brand’s highest ABV release to date. And it’s right up there in the race for the best tequila we’ve tasted all year.
Tequila Ocho was founded in 2008 by Carlos Camarena, the legendary fifth-generation farmer and tequilero behind some of the most revered agave products in the world. With this exclusive label, he aimed to establish the world’s first single estate tequila. Each bottling is based entirely on extra-ripe agave from a specific farm in the highlands of Jalisco.
In doing so, Camarena was able to exert an unparalleled degree of control over the evolution of his spirit, from agricultural produce in the field to distilled liquid in the glass. It became an instant hit with connoisseurs and bartenders before it even caught the attention of the most casual consumer.
Fast forward to 2022. Ocho was ready to step things up for the brand, figuratively and literally. Offering a high proof mark was the way to do it. While the vast majority of tequilas on shelves today are 80 proof, the legal minimum for the category in the U.S., agave enthusiasts often prefer something closer to “still strength.” That is, an undiluted liquid after distillation. It showcases the pure essence of the plant, providing a more assertive spirit.
That’s what you get with Plata Puntas. The latest sample is redolent with herbal earth. Aloe and eucalyptus lead the way. A slow and steady sip of the drink evokes connections to rain-washed stone before creme brûlée and cocoa take hold. These sweeter threads are the result of all that ripe agave roasted and fermented with patient determination.
While all of these notes are pleasant, perhaps the most striking feature of this juice is its incredibly creamy mouthfeel. It coats the palate and keeps all of the aforementioned flavor notes in place long after each sip. Given its 108 proof bottling strength, there’s not even much heat to speak of.
This is a type of tequila that you’ll enjoy sitting in your glass for a long time. The name of the release, “puntas,” refers to the distiller’s cut that tequileros traditionally save for friends and family on special occasions. So if you’re looking, you can count yourself in Camarena’s inner circle. Just make sure you’re not too slow in your search for some. At $75 a bottle, this latest Plata Puntas will not only be high in alcohol, but it will also be in extremely high demand.
Related: The 11 Best Añejo Tequilas for Sipping and Mixing