LALO Tequila Original Review | Where It All Began | The Liquor Connoisseur
- connoisseurofliquo
- Apr 26
- 3 min read
Updated: 4 days ago
LALO Tequila Original is where the Liquor Connoisseur's tequila journey began — and it's where many of their viewers' tequila journeys begin too. This is the review of the bottle that started it all.
Bottle Specs
Spirit: LALO Tequila Blanco (Original)
NOM: 1466 — San Matías Highlands, Jalisco
Production: 100% Blue Weber Agave, Highlands — additive-free
ABV: 40% (80 proof)
Price: ~$45
Additive-free: Verified — no glycerin, no caramel, no vanillin
Named for: Founder's grandfather Eduardo 'Lalo' González
Why LALO Was the Right Place to Start
Crystal and Roger chose LALO as one of their first serious tequila reviews because it represents what the category can be when additives aren't used to mask or enhance. Highlands Jalisco agave has more natural sweetness and floral character, and LALO's processing preserves that character rather than homogenizing it.
Tasting Notes — Nose, Palate, Finish
Nose: Clean and immediate — cooked agave, citrus blossom, a fresh green note, and floral sweetness signaling Highlands provenance. Palate: Smooth and agave-forward with natural sweetness. Complexity comes from the citrus and floral notes deepening. Finish: Clean, medium-length, with agave and gentle warmth.
LALO's Place in the Additive-Free Movement
When LALO launched, additive-free was still counterculture. The brand built its identity entirely on production integrity. Today it's industry common sense, and LALO deserves credit for being part of that conversation early.
🥃 Crystal & Roger's LC Recommendations
Start here: LALO Blanco teaches you what tequila tastes like without shortcuts. If you want to understand tequila, this is the bottle.
For the additive-free journey: Once you taste LALO, taste a mass-market tequila you've been drinking. The difference will be immediately apparent.
Gift it: LALO is the gateway tequila gift — accessible, high quality, and it comes with a story worth sharing.
LC Verdict
The bottle that started a journey. LALO Original is exactly what it promises — clean, honest, and excellent.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is LALO Tequila actually additive-free?
Yes — LALO Tequila is certified additive-free. It contains no glycerin (used to fake smoothness), no caramel color, no oak extract, and no vanillin. The smoothness and sweetness you taste come entirely from quality Highlands Blue Weber agave and the distillation process.
How does LALO compare to Casamigos Blanco?
LALO is generally considered the better bottle for the price. LALO is additive-free with more authentic agave character; Casamigos is known to use additives to achieve its smooth, sweet profile. LALO also costs $5–10 less in most markets. For drinkers who want to taste actual agave, LALO wins clearly.
What is the difference between LALO Blanco and LALO High Proof?
LALO Blanco is bottled at 40% ABV — the standard proof. LALO High Proof is bottled at approximately 55% ABV with no water added after distillation. The high proof preserves more agave intensity and heat. Start with the standard Blanco; graduate to High Proof once you understand the house style.
Is LALO Tequila good for margaritas?
Yes, but it's almost too good to mix. At ~$45, LALO Blanco makes an exceptional Tommy's Margarita (tequila, lime, agave syrup) where the agave character shines. For large-batch margaritas at parties, a less expensive tequila is more practical. Save LALO for when you're paying attention.
Where is LALO Tequila made?
LALO is produced at NOM 1466 — the San Matías distillery in the Highlands (Los Altos) region of Jalisco, Mexico. Highlands agave grows at higher elevation and produces a sweeter, more floral tequila character compared to Lowlands (Valley) agave.
Drink To Remember, Not To Forget. 🥃
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