Review: Santo Tequila Blanco, Reposado, and 110 Blanco

By Robert Lublin | June 11, 2023 |

Santo was launched by rocker Sammy Hagar and foody Guy Fieri in 2019 as a blend of tequila and mezcal. While the celebrity backing may raise eyebrows, it’s been a success, and the brand has since extended into various straight tequila expressions. These tequilas hail from El Viejito Distillery and is made with no additives from 100% Blue Weber agave from the highland region. Today we will be trying all three of their available releases.

NOM 1107.

Santo Tequila Blanco – The gentle nose offers slightly sweet, fresh agave along with a little grass, and a touch of lemon pith. A good start. Taking a sip, the palate follows suit and is perhaps a bit more complex. Roasted agave and lemon are joined by peach notes as well as a bit of black pepper. There is the slightest whisper of a hospital note, but otherwise, there are no harsh edges. This is good enough to sip neat and will shine in cocktails as well. 80 proof. B+ / $45 [BUY IT NOW FROM TOTAL WINE]

Santo Tequila Reposado – Although it is aged for an average of 5 months, this reposado shows surprisingly little color in the glass. The nose, however, is expressive with notes typical of a rested tequila. Gently sweet roasted agave rolls together with light milk chocolate and a bit of banana. The palate is similar but includes some added complexity. Along with the roasted agave, the tequila opens with a floral note as well as a touch of bubble gum that I didn’t particularly like, but which was fleeting. Milk chocolate and banana appear midpalate and are joined by a touch of black pepper for the finish. This is a light, pleasant tequila, and very drinkable. 80 proof. B+ / $50 [BUY IT NOW FROM TOTAL WINE]

Santo Tequila 110 Blanco – As expected, the overproof abv makes this is a much brasher experience than the blanco. The nose offers a rush of herbal agave and alcohol. Giving it a moment to settle in the glass, fresh green pepper, jalapeño, and lime notes appear as well. The palate follows suit beautifully with sweet roasted agave roaring forward, followed by light lime citrus. Some jalapeño, mango, and alcohol burn follows. This is hot, but it is bursting with flavor. I’m not sure I can recommend this as a sipping tequila to the casual tequila drinker, but it will find a devoted following among serious fans of blanco tequila. For many a little water or an ice cube will soften the bite and let this tequila shine. 110 proof. A- / $70

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