Review: Santaleza Tequila Blanco
Santaleza Tequila Blanco was recently released along with Santaleza Reposado. An Anejo expression is currently barrel aging. Santaleza is sold in about ten states with additional distribution to follow. Crafted as a collaboration between Chopin Brands and the Lopez-Vermouth family at Destiladora Bonanza, this small distillery also produces tequila for the Kokoro, and Libelulu tequila brands. Chopin is best known for their world famous vodka crafted in Krzesk Poland, but the Chopin Imports brand portfolio consist of over a dozen brands including Dorda Liqueur, Terralta Tequila, Kasama Small Batch Rum, Burrito Fiestero Mezcal, and Benromach Scotch. Santaleza is crafted from 100% agave grown in the Highland region. The trimmed agave is cooked in a masonry oven for 72 hours. Once cooled the agave is crushed by a 135 year old tahona that is pulled by a metal beast named Pepe with a fake Donkey head. Traditionally a real donkey would be used. Once extracted the juice is fermented in an open air roble wood vat. The spirit is distilled twice in a copper alembic still and blended with mountain spring water and rested before bottling additive free at 80 proof. Read more 