Clase Azul has launched an innovative new tequila, Clase Azul Tequila Blanco Ahumado, known for its lightly smoky flavor. The brand says this tequila is “infused with the essence of Los Altos de Jalisco,” the region in Mexico where Clase Azul is made.
Unique Roasting Process Creates Distinctive Flavor
The tequila’s smoky character comes from a traditional roasting method. Blue agave rhizomes are cooked in an ancient oven— a pit dug into the ground and fired with wood and volcanic stones. The heat comes from heated rocks rather than direct flames. This slow roasting method gives the tequila its delicate smoky notes.
After roasting, agave juice and fiber are mixed with Clase Azul’s special proprietary yeast. This yeast is developed from wild strains carefully selected from the brand’s own agave fields. The liquid is then double distilled in custom-made copper stills.
Master Distiller Shares Inspiration
Viridiana Tinoco, head distiller at Clase Azul México, explained the vision behind the new tequila.
“To give this tequila a smoky flavor, I wanted to capture the spirit of traditional mezcal-making,” she said. “We reinterpreted every stage to highlight the unique qualities of the blue agave — but in a deliberate, refined way.”
Flavor Profile and Presentation
The tequila offers aromas of smoky agave, fresh plums, and red apples, with subtle notes of lemon. It has a mineral-forward finish and a smooth, smoky aftertaste.
The 700 ml bottle is designed to reflect the spirit’s traditional production methods. Translucent glass represents the smoke from roasting, while the dark ceramic base mimics volcanic rock. The copper-colored cap and logo honor the copper stills used during distillation.
Availability and Pricing
Clase Azul Tequila Blanco Ahumado has an alcohol volume of 45%. It will be available in the UK at Selfridges starting next week. The suggested retail price is £325 (approximately $436).
This first release comes in an exclusive box, marking it as Clase Azul’s “newest icon.”
Brand Evolution and Expansion
In 2022, Clase Azul transitioned from Clase Azul Spirits to Clase Azul México. The brand also opened Clase Azul La Terraza Los Cabos, a luxury destination in San José del Cabo. The venue includes a boutique, a restaurant with a bar featuring expert mixologists, and a culinary experience called “A Taste of Culture.”
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