Casa Mexico Blanco

Casa Mexico Blanco is an unaged tequila-style blanco from Mexico, bottled at 40% ABV (80 proof). Blancos are bottled without barrel maturation, so the spirit's own character shows: cooked-agave sweetness, fresh citrus peel, black pepper and a green, herbal edge are the notes to expect from the style. At 40%, it should have enough weight to hold its flavor when shaken, stirred or diluted with ice. For sipping, serve it neat at room temperature or lightly chilled, in a small tulip-shaped glass such as a copita or a Riedel-style tequila glass. The narrow rim concentrates the aroma and softens the alcohol on the nose. A single large ice cube in a short tumbler also works if you want to slow the dilution and draw out sweeter, rounder notes. Chilling a blanco heavily mutes the agave and pepper, so a brief chill is better than a freezer-cold pour. Mixing is where a blanco usually earns its place. It suits a classic Margarita (tequila, fresh lime juice and orange liqueur, shaken and served in a rocks glass over ice, with a salted rim if you like). It also makes a clean Paloma, built over ice in a highball with grapefruit soda and a squeeze of lime, and a Tommy's Margarita, which replaces the orange liqueur with agave syrup so the spirit stays at the center. For a simpler long drink, try it with soda water, lime and a pinch of salt. A Ranch Water-style serve in a tall glass lets the agave come through without much sweetness. At the table, blanco tequila pairs well with food that has acidity or heat. Ceviche, fish tacos with lime and cilantro, grilled shrimp, carnitas with salsa verde and fresh goat cheese all work. The spirit's peppery brightness cuts through fat and chili without competing with it.