Part 2 of our interview with Master Tequilero Bruno Barba
(Part 1: Cultivating Agave |Part 3: Marcado 28 Premium Reposado)
For tequila enthusiasts, Blanco is the purest expression of agave—the foundation of any great tequila. Marcado 28 Blanco embodies this purity with a smooth, authentic flavor that highlights the best qualities of the agave plant. From careful agave selection to a meticulous production process, Marcado 28 Blanco stands out as a small-batch, premium tequila crafted without shortcuts or additives. Join us as we explore what makes Marcado 28 Blanco unique and why it’s a must-try for those who appreciate artisanal tequila.
Marcado 28 Blanco: The Purest Expression of Premium Tequila
Why Blanco? Celebrating the True Essence of Agave
Bruno Barba, Marcado 28’s master tequilero, believes that Blanco is the best way to taste the unadulterated character of agave. Unlike aged tequilas, Blanco is clear, unaged, and unaltered by wood, allowing the natural flavors of the agave to shine. According to Bruno, “The Blanco lets you taste the agave’s earthiness and sweetness, almost as if you’re standing in the fields where it was grown.”
Marcado 28’s Blanco honors this raw expression, offering a smooth, clean taste that tequila purists will appreciate.
The Craft of Slow Cooking: Bringing Out Natural Sweetness
Marcado 28 Blanco’s journey begins with a traditional slow-cooking process, an essential step that distinguishes it from many mass-produced tequilas. Using autoclaves (modern ovens), Bruno and his team carefully slow-cook the agave at low temperatures for 24-48 hours, a method inspired by traditional brick ovens. This approach allows the natural sugars in the agave to develop more fully, producing a rich, complex flavor that shines in every sip.
Instead of relying on high-pressure or fast cooking methods, Marcado 28’s slow cook honors the agave’s natural sweetness, preserving its unique taste and aroma. “We keep the temperature low and the pressure steady, just like my great-grandmother’s methods. It’s about letting the agave flavors come through, not overpowering them,” Bruno explains.
Pure Ingredients, Pure Flavor
Marcado 28 Blanco is crafted with just three ingredients: 100% blue Weber agave, volcanic spring water, and yeast. No artificial enhancements, the final product is pure and reflective of Jalisco’s terroir. Marcado 28’s adherence to a simple, time honored recipe makes it a standout in a market where many tequilas rely on sweeteners or flavor enhancers.
This commitment to purity and natural flavor is evident in the Blanco’s smooth profile, which has been described by many as balanced and fresh, with floral and citrus notes enhancing its character.
The Art of Open Fermentation and Pot Distillation
Once the agave is slow-cooked, it goes through an open fermentation process, a method that allows natural flavors to develop without excessive control over temperature. This open environment allows the agave’s natural yeasts and the climate of Jalisco to influence the fermentation, adding subtle complexity to the Blanco’s taste.
After fermentation, Marcado 28 Blanco undergoes two rounds of pot distillation, a traditional method that keeps the spirit smooth while preserving the agave’s original flavors. Bruno explains that by distilling twice, they remove unwanted compounds while retaining the essence of the agave. “Pot distillation is about balance—keeping the depth and character without sacrificing smoothness,” he says
Tasting Notes: A Smooth, Authentic Blanco
Marcado 28 Blanco opens with fresh, floral aromas and a touch of citrus, delivering a complex nose that’s both earthy and inviting. On the palate, expect pure agave flavor, accented by hints of sweet kafir lime and a touch of spice, creating a smooth but vibrant experience. This balance makes Marcado 28 Blanco a versatile tequila that’s perfect for sipping neat, on the rocks, or as the base for premium cocktails.
Bruno describes it as “well-balanced,” noting that it’s the result of a careful process aimed at delivering a smooth and approachable taste. “People say it’s smooth because it’s consistent—you taste what you smell, and nothing is overpowering,” he shares
Marcado 28 Blanco is more than just a tequila; it’s a tribute to traditional craftsmanship, the pure taste of agave, and the spirit of rebellion. With its smooth, balanced flavor and commitment to purity, Marcado 28 Blanco offers a premium experience that showcases the artistry behind small-batch tequila.
Ready to explore more of Marcado 28? Stay tuned for our next post, where we’ll dive into the aging process that transforms Blanco into the bold and complex Reposado and Añejo.
