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Forbes

The World's Best Tequila—According To Three Top Bartenders

Tequila has never been more popular in the US than it is right now. Since 2002, exports of the celebrated Mexican spirit have grown 180%; an average rate of 6.2% per year, according to the latest numbers from the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States. There are currently more than 2000 different brands crowding domestic shelves. Yes, it's an exciting time for agave aficionados. But with such a dizzying array of options at your disposal, it becomes increasingly challenging to separate the wheat from the chaff. Or more accurately, the well-matured, masterfully-distilled 100% blue weber agave from the rushed-to-market swill. Fret not. We're here to help, with some valuable insight from the experts. In this case, we've queried three top bartenders from different corners of the country who are all unified in their choice of the top tequila label on shelves today. That honor belongs to Tequila Ocho Plata, an earthy, aromatic blanco distilled from a single estate--meaning all of the agave used was grown in one designated location, not unlike a cru in wine. It also means that the master distiller behind the liquid, legendary 3rd generation tequilero Carlos Camarena, is able to enjoy tight quality control over his supply chain. To make Ocho, he relies exclusively on extra-matured agave grown in the rich volcanic soils of the Jaliscan Highlands, 'Los Altos.' This enviable base ingredient is then readied for wood-vat fermentation using roller mill extraction and then slowly distilled, twice, in a series of copper pots. It's been done this way since the brand was founded back in 2008. Camarena's attention to detail results in a lively spirit that noses soulfully with white pepper and fresh citrus zest. The palate is a medium-bodied balance of earthiness, minerality and menthol. In the finish, all that herb and earth gives way to a subtle serving of tropical fruit. It fades slowly, with purpose. And it's widely available for $43 a bottle. So there's a lot to love. But in case you're still not convinced, here's what the experts have to say… Tequila Plata Single Estate Tequila Ocho