LALO High Proof 2026 uses traditional bagazo fermentation to create a 96-proof blanco tequila. Explore the process, tasting notes, price and availability.
LALO Tequila has changed a key step in the production of its 2026 High Proof Blanco. For the third edition of its limited release, the company has introduced bagazo fermentation, a method that keeps cooked agave fibers involved during fermentation.
The result is a 96-proof tequila bottled at 48% alcohol by volume, with a suggested retail price of $74.99.
For tequila enthusiasts, the production method is the real story. LALO says the use of agave fibers during fermentation produces a richer texture and a more pronounced agave character.
The new expression follows two earlier High Proof releases and continues the brand’s focus on unaged tequila.
What Makes LALO High Proof 2026 Different?
Bagazo is the fibrous material left after cooked agave is crushed to extract its juice.
For its 2026 High Proof, LALO incorporates these cooked fibers into a 72-hour fermentation process. The remaining sugars and microbes associated with the fibers contribute to the finished spirit’s texture and flavor.
The technique draws on traditional tequila production methods, with the goal of bringing more of the cooked agave’s character into the finished spirit.
LALO continues to identify three main ingredients in this release: fully mature agave, deep well water, and Champagne yeast. The bagazo comes from the agave itself.
The 2026 edition is bottled at 48% ABV, making it stronger than LALO’s standard 40% ABV Blanco.
How Does Bagazo Fermentation Affect the Flavor?
LALO describes the new expression as richer and more earthy than its conventional Blanco, with greater emphasis on cooked agave.
The company’s published tasting notes identify:
- Aroma: Cooked agave, warm spice, and subtle buttery notes.
- Palate: Pronounced cooked-agave sweetness, allspice, and a rounded texture.
- Finish: Lingering agave sweetness and an extended finish.
These are the producer’s tasting descriptions, rather than an independent assessment.
The use of bagazo is significant because fermentation plays a role in developing the compounds that contribute to a spirit’s aroma and flavor.
LALO attributes the added texture and agave character of its new release to the traditional method.
A Third High Proof Release From LALO Tequila
LALO was founded by Eduardo “Lalo” González and David “R” Carballido, who grew up together in Guadalajara, Mexico.
The company has built its identity around blanco tequila, using mature Highland agave, deep well water from Jalisco, and Champagne yeast.
Its standard production process includes cooking agave in brick ovens and extracting juice with a roller mill before fermentation and distillation.
The High Proof series gives the company room to explore variations within that blanco-focused approach.
For the 2026 edition, the variation happens during fermentation rather than through barrel aging.
LALO High Proof 2026 Price and Availability
LALO announced the release on November 5, 2026, with the following specifications:
| Detail | LALO High Proof 2026 |
|---|---|
| Tequila style | Blanco |
| Alcohol | 48% ABV |
| Proof | 96 |
| Fermentation | 72 hours with bagazo |
| Bottle size | 750 mL |
| Suggested price | $74.99 |
| Distribution | 41 U.S. states, according to LALO |
| Release | Limited edition |
The company says the expression is available in limited quantities. Retail pricing and inventory may vary by location.
Additional information about the brand and its production process is available at LALO Tequila.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is bagazo fermentation in tequila?
Bagazo fermentation involves retaining cooked agave fibers during fermentation. For its 2026 High Proof, LALO says these fibers contribute additional sugars and microbes during a 72-hour fermentation, influencing the tequila’s texture and flavor.
How strong is LALO High Proof 2026?
The tequila is bottled at 96 proof, equivalent to 48% alcohol by volume. LALO’s standard Blanco is bottled at 80 proof, or 40% ABV.
How much does LALO High Proof 2026 cost?
The suggested retail price is $74.99 for a 750 mL bottle. The release is limited, and individual retailers may charge different prices.
Does LALO High Proof 2026 contain additional ingredients?
LALO lists fully mature agave, deep well water, and Champagne yeast as its three ingredients. Bagazo refers to the cooked agave fibers used during fermentation, rather than an additional ingredient.
