What Is Mezcal? 8 Things To Know About It

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Credits: Unsplash

1. Mezcal Is Not Just Tequila

While all tequila is mezcal, not all mezcal is tequila. Tequila is a specific type of mezcal made exclusively from Blue Weber agave.

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2. It’s Made Using Traditional Methods

Unlike tequila, which is often mass-produced, mezcal is typically handcrafted using ancestral techniques.

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3. Oaxaca Is The Heart Of Mezcal Production

Although mezcal can be made in nine states of Mexico, Oaxaca produces nearly 90% of the world’s mezcal.

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4. It Has A Smoky And Complex Flavour Profile

Mezcal’s flavour can range from earthy and smoky to fruity and floral, depending on the agave variety, terroir, and production process.

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5. Mezcal Can Be Made From Different Agave Varieties

Unlike tequila, which is restricted to one agave species, mezcal can be crafted from a variety of wild and cultivated agaves, such as Espadín, Tobalá, and Madrecuishe.

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6. It’s Traditionally Sipped, Not Shot

In Mexico, mezcal is savoured slowly, much like fine whisky or cognac. To enhance its flavours, it’s often served with orange slices and sal de guano.

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7. Mezcal Has An ABV Similar To Tequila

Mezcal typically contains 40-50% alcohol by volume (ABV), similar to tequila, but some artisanal batches can be stronger.

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8. Smoky Flavour

The characteristic smokiness of mezcal comes from the agave being roasted in traditional stone pits over wood and charcoal.

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Mezcal is a must-try for any spirits enthusiast!