Guy Fieri and Sammy Hagar Roll Out High Proof Tequila Blanco, the Latest in a Scorching Agave Spirits Trend

(Photo: Santo Spirits)

Van Halen frontman Sammy Hagar is once again teaming up with “Mayor of Flavortown” Guy Fieri to expand their tequila brand’s footprint across the U.S., this time in the form of a high-proof blanco expression.

On Tuesday, Santo Spirits announced the national availability of Santo 110 Proof Blanco, previously found only in limited markets. Said to balance flavors of prickly pear, candied jalapeño, vanilla lime cream and jackfruit, the release represents another bold step from a brand eager to appease die-hard agave spirits fans.

Here’s how it differs from the competition:

The vast majority of commercially available agave spirits are cut down to 80 proof — the legal minimum in the United States and Canada — with the addition of water. The technique maintains a consistent profile and approachability across various tequila brands, though arguably dilutes the concentration of fresh agave flavor.

In contrast, still strength spirits veer in the opposite direction. Typically bottled at upwards of 90 proof, expressions within the category boast a purer vegetal profile alongside a blistering bite. A small handful of brands, including Santo Tequila, push the concept to its limits at the legal maximum of 110 proof.

Over the past few years, still strength tequila has become a calling card for acclaimed cult-favorite distillers. Imprints like Cazcanes, Pasote, Fortaleza, Tequila Ocho and Suerte have all tossed their hats into the market, usually in the form of limited releases quickly snatched up and resold by collectors.

In contrast, Santo 110 Proof Blanco appears to be a permanent addition to the brand’s portfolio.

Santo first came to market in 2017 with a headline-grabbing Mezquila expression that boasted a “first of its kind” 50:50 blend of tequila and mezcal. From the brain behind “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives,” we’d expect nothing less. Despite the sour reputation surrounding celebrity-backed agave spirits, the distiller has since developed a reputation for authentically made, confirmed additive-free releases well regarded within the category.

If you’d like to taste its latest experiment, Santo 110 Proof Blanco is now available online at $59.99.

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