Sango African Agave is Bringing African Craftsmanship to the World of Agave Spirits
When one thinks of agave spirits, tequila often comes to mind, and Africa is certainly not the first place associated with these spirits. However, this is precisely the gap in the market that inspired Spearhead Spirits’ co-founders, Chris Frederick and Damola Timeyin, to bring a taste of Africa to bars worldwide.
Frederick and Timeyin embarked on a journey across the continent, seeking high-quality African-grown ingredients. Their efforts have resulted in a collection of award-winning and distinctive spirits, distilled amidst the scenic hills of KwaZulu-Natal. Sango African Agave is handcrafted in KZN using the meticulous techniques of traditional Mexican tequila production, delivering an authentically African agave experience.
Sango’s mission is to bring the time-honoured craft of agave farming and production, perfected in Mexico, to the fertile grounds of KZN, where agave has been flourishing for over a century. The process begins with hand-harvesting Agave Americana and Agave Salmiana, which are naturalised in South Africa. Only the finest piñas (the core of the plant) are selected, ensuring optimal ripeness and sweetness. The piñas, aged 5-8 years with a BRIX level of 24-36, are carefully chosen for production.
The agave is then slow-cooked using a combination of oven and pit roasting methods to unlock its natural sweetness. The cooked piñas are hammered with wooden mallets to extract their precious juice, which is then fermented and copper distilled to create a rich, elevated liquid with a refined palate, mouthfeel, and finish.
Sango African Agave offers two exquisite variations: Sango Blanco, with a clean and floral finish and a light aroma of sweet agave, and Sango Reposado, aged in South African red wine barrels, imparting a delicate oak finish with hints of vanilla, butterscotch, and caramel. This innovative range merges traditional Mexican practices with African soul, marking a new chapter for Spearhead Spirits.
Sango African Agave Blanco (R599) and Reposado (R699) are available for purchase at selected TOPS at SPAR, Makro, Bar Keeper, Norman Goodfellows, and online at Takealot and Port2port.
Sango African Agave is not for sale to persons under the age of 18. Drink responsibly.
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