The World’s Best Tequila, According To The New York World Spirits Competition
The New York World Spirits Competition (NYWSC) awarded Best in Class honors to five Tequilas, one Mezcal, and one Bacanora. The NYWSC is part of the Tasting Alliance’s family of international wine, beer, and spirit competitions. The event featured several hundred entries, many of whom were not well-known to American Tequila enthusiasts. Below is a brief description of the winners, along with tasting notes.
Alto Canto, Tequila Blanco, 40% ABV, 750 ml.
The top-ranked Silver/Unaged Tequila was Alto Canto, Tequila Blanco, a premium tequila brand that embodies the rich traditions of Mexican craftsmanship. "Alto Canto means "High Song," reflecting the brand's dedication to authenticity and quality in its Tequila.
Crafted in the Sierra del Tigre mountains of Jalisco, Mexico, at 9,000 feet above sea level, Alto Canto’s pinas come from some of the highest agave fields in Mexico. The company utilizes organic agave, pure mountain spring water, and a traditional stone tahona to craft its Tequila.
The Tequila is crystal clear. The nose features wet stone minerality, along with cooked agave, lime, and floral aromas. It’s smooth and complex on the palate, featuring cooked agave flavors, hints of pepper, citrus, minerals, and earthy notes. The finish is short and crisp, with a refreshing aftertaste and a lingering minerality.
The NYWSC Judging Panel described the Blanco Tequila as “crisp with herbal undertones, refreshing and slightly earthy.”
The runner-up was Siete Leguas, Blanco, 40% ABV, 750 ml. The NYWSC Judging panel described the Tequila as exhibiting “earthy and herbal notes, with a hint of sweetness on the finish.”
