Tequila Ocho Tropical Barrel Select is a 91.6 Proof (45.8% ABV) exotic, small-batch aejo produced at the Tequilera Los Alambiques distillery (NOM 1474). This innovative, single-estate collaboration is the result of a partnership between Tequila Ocho Master Distiller Carlos Camarena and Maison Ferrand Master Blender Alexandre Gabriel. Maturation occurred for exactly 12 months in prized rum casks sourced from Fiji, Trinidad, and Panama, which were transported to the Jalisco highlands.
The elevated 91.6 proof, higher than the standard 80, allows the vibrant agave spirit to stand up to the robust influence of the tropical rum wood. Technical specs highlight a dense profile of fresh cherries and marzipan, balanced by a buttery mouthfeel and a lingering finish of demerara sugar, passionfruit, and white pepper. This December 2020 release marries the earthy terroir of Mexico with the spicy, fruity “hogo” characteristics of South Pacific and Caribbean rums.