What is puntas tequila?

Answered by Roy Gibson

Ocho Puntas is an exceptional and unique expression of tequila that offers an elevated experience for the tequila connoisseur. Puntas tequila refers to the specific portion of the distillation process from which this expression is crafted. To truly understand what puntas tequila is, we must delve into the distillation process of tequila itself.

Tequila is made from the agave plant, specifically the blue agave variety. The heart of the agave, also known as the piña, is harvested and cooked to convert its starches into fermentable sugars. Once the piñas have been cooked, they are crushed and the resulting is extracted. This juice is then fermented, producing a low- liquid known as the must.

The next step in the tequila-making process is distillation. The must is heated in a still, separating the alcohol from the impurities and other compounds. The distillation process yields three main components: the heads, the hearts, and the tails. The heads contain volatile compounds and can be harsh and unpleasant, so they are typically discarded. The hearts, also known as the body or corazón, contain the desired flavors and aromas of tequila. The tails contain heavier compounds and are also usually discarded.

Puntas tequila is crafted from the precise moment in the distillation process when the heads transition into the hearts. This is a delicate and crucial point, as it captures the full essence of the agave plant. The distiller carefully cuts the puntas from the rest of the distillate, ensuring that only the purest and most flavorful portion is used.

The resulting tequila is a testament to the skill and expertise of the distiller. Tequila Ocho Puntas is an overproof expression, meaning it has a higher alcohol content than standard tequilas. This higher proof allows the full intensity and complexity of the agave flavors to shine through. By retaining this portion of the distillation, Tequila Ocho Puntas offers a bold and robust tequila experience.

As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of tasting puntas tequila on several occasions. The depth of flavor and intensity of agave character are truly remarkable. The higher alcohol content adds a warming sensation and amplifies the rich agave flavors on the palate.

Puntas tequila refers to the portion of the distillation process where the heads transition into the hearts. Tequila Ocho Puntas is a prime example of puntas tequila, offering an overproof expression that showcases the full essence of the agave plant. If you are a tequila connoisseur seeking a tequila that embodies the true spirit of the agave, Tequila Ocho Puntas is a must-try.