Fortaleza Tequila Añejo

Nose

Roasted agave leads with warm caramel, vanilla bean, and toasted oak. Subtle dried fruit notes of apricot and fig emerge alongside a faint hint of cinnamon and dark chocolate.

Palate

Rich and layered, with cooked agave sweetness balanced by American oak tannins. Flavors of butterscotch, candied orange peel, and baking spice — clove, nutmeg, and a touch of allspice — develop steadily. The tahona-crushed agave lends a slightly earthy, mineral quality that keeps the sweetness grounded.

Finish

Long and warming, with lingering oak, vanilla, and roasted agave. A gentle peppery spice carries through to the end, characteristic of high-quality Jalisco highland agave.

1. Neat: Pour 2 parts Fortaleza Añejo into a wide-mouthed glass and allow it to rest for a minute before sipping to let the aromas fully open.
2. Tequila Old Fashioned: Stir 2 parts Fortaleza Añejo with 1/2 part agave nectar and 2 dashes Angostura bitters over ice. Strain into a rocks glass over a large cube. Garnish with an orange twist.
3. Añejo Sour: Shake 2 parts Fortaleza Añejo, 1 part fresh lemon juice, and 1/2 part agave syrup with ice. Strain over fresh ice. Garnish with a dehydrated lemon wheel and a pinch of chili salt on the rim.
4. Oaxacan-Style Manhattan: Stir 2 parts Fortaleza Añejo with 1 part sweet vermouth and 2 dashes mole bitters over ice. Strain into a coupe and garnish with a brandied cherry.
5. On the Rocks: Pour 2 parts Fortaleza Añejo over a single large ice cube in a rocks glass. The gradual dilution opens up the agave and oak notes beautifully.