Review: Fosforo Blanco Tequila

Fosforo is joining a growing list of mezcal producers hoping to grab a piece of the much larger tequila market. It’s admittedly a bold move jumping into the overcrowded world of tequila, but brands like Fosforo seem confident that their experience with the more artisanal production methods required of mezcal will set their tequila project apart. For Fosforo, the emphasis is primarily on terroir and the belief that “geography shapes great spirits.” While most legacy tequilas source their agave from the lowlands, Fosforo has turned to the highlands of Los Altos where agave grown in red clay soils at higher elevations is known to impart fruity notes and a natural sweetness to the spirit. Presumably, we’ll get to explore aged tequila expressions from Fosforo in the future, but for now let’s check out their inaugural blanco offering.

Fosforo Blanco Tequila Review

The nose is bright and expressive, delivering crisp top notes of lemon zest, orange peel, and honey dew melon. Fragrant wildflower undertones add an unusual elegance and compliment grassy, waxy notes of freshly cut piña. Underpinning all of that is a foundation of soft, sweet agave that’s not overly cooked or vegetal but also not too syrupy. It’s a beautifully balanced and refreshing aroma.

The palate skews sweeter with a candied agave note that is well caramelized but still presents as fresh and lively. A lift of minerality creates an almost effervescent texture. The midpalate delivers a bit of creamy vanilla and cinnamon syrup accentuated by gentle florals, honeysuckle and orange blossom, all of which balances nicely with the sweet and green agave. The finish is gently warming and bright with fading notes of candied lemon peel, green pepper, and a crack of pink peppercorn. The sweet, clean profile works well in a classic tequila cocktail, but it’s complex and approachable enough to enjoy neat. A blanco that’s sure to turn heads, even in the crowded tequila space.

80 proof. NOM 1499.

A- / $40

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