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TSI debuts whisky cask-aged agave spirit
By Rupert HohwielerTop Shelf International (TSI) has released the latest variant of Australia’s first agave spirit: Act of Treason Extra Aged.

The inaugural Act of Treason agave spirit was released a year ago, the first of its kind from Australia, and one of The Spirits Business’ top 10 innovative spirits launches of 2024.
Act of Treason Extra Aged is described as a ‘deeper and refined’ expression in the style of añejo (extra aged) Tequilas.
It is made with 100% agave tequilana (Blue Weber agave) grown in Australia – on the 374-hectare Eden Lassie farm in Queensland’s Whitsundays – and aged in ex-Australian whisky barrels.
The region’s tropical conditions, ranging from monsoon wet seasons to arid dry heat, are influential in the maturation process, which TSI said results in a ‘spirit of depth and complexity that is a product of its unique environment’.
North Queensland’s microclimate is similar to that of Jalisco and the town of Tequila in Mexico, where Tequila hails.
Of Extra Aged’s profile, TSI described it as ‘capturing the familiar backbone of cooked agave, cut grass and lime notes, which are then layered with rich vanilla, caramel and oak.
Further notes include rich vanilla fudge, light black pepper and faint chocolate brownie, with a smooth, lingering finish.
TSI CEO Trent Fraser said: “There is no doubt the spirits world has taken notice of Act of Treason in its first year. Everything we do is inspired by the traditions of Tequila but brought to life through Australian ingenuity and unique terroir that our location offers us.
“Our farm is our slice of paradise and we’re relishing the opportunity of exporting paradise to the world.”
Act of Treason Extra Aged has an ABV of 40% and can be purchased on the brand’s website for AU$130 (US$82).
TSI also produces Australian whisky Ned and Grainshaker vodka.
In August 2021, the company created the Australian Agave Project to establish a category for locally-made agave-based spirits, which would eventuate in the launch of Act of Treason three and a half years later.
In October last year, Top Shelf voluntarily suspended trading its shares on the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX). Then in December, the Melbourne-based distiller sought opportunities for the potential sale of its business or assets.
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