But it’s not an agave. But, mezcal requires about 20 different varieties of agave to make it. This particular kind of agave is primarily grown in Oaxaca, Mexico, a region known as the home of mezcal (2). But as in most things, when it comes to the brand, you get what you pay for. In terms of differences in flavour, tequila tends to be lighter – both in body and taste, as well as % alcohol by volume – than mezcal. Mezcal can be made from any number of agave species, including the blue variety. The Differences Between Tequila and Mezcal, Explained. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. In the 1940s, a distiller named Jacobo Lozano Páez found that leaving the worms in his mezcal changed the flavor. These can be mixed to create different flavours. These can be mixed to create different flavours. There is such as thing as a super Anejo that’s aged for more … Le mezcal et la tequila sont des spiritueux fabriqués à partir d’une eau-de-vie d’agave ; à ce titre, il font indubitablement partie de la même famille d’alcools. © 2005-2021 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. Mezcal must only be bottled in Mexico, the maximum size of containers for export is 5 litres. Can modern paleo practitioners drink alcohol…. And here’s a thing about sotol: people tend to include it when they are talking about agave spirits. Mezcal vs Tequila. But what is Sotol and what's the difference to Tequila Both spirits utilize a basic method of cooking, fermenting, and distilling agave hearts, but the similarities end there. Tequila and mezcal are two kinds of distilled spirits that are made in Mexico from the agave plant. Their unique production processes and whether or not the liquor was aged also greatly influence the taste. The number one difference between mezcal and tequila is simple… All Tequilas are a specific sub-variety of Mezcal. Mezcal can be produced anywhere in Mexico, although it's typically produced in the Oaxaca region. “Aren’t tequila and mezcal the same thing?” is an often asked question. It's then distilled twice—to increase the percentage of alcohol—and either aged in barrels or bottled right away. But do you know what makes them distinct liquors and the reasons why you might choose one over the other? 2. Mezcal Vs. Tequila – Know the Basic Differences. You’ll find it featured in trendy, innovative recipes, as well as in remixed versions of classics like old fashioned, margaritas, negronis, and palomas. Tequila is produced using the Blue Agave Mezcal can be produced from up to 30 different species of Agave. Thus, the products are unique, depending on where they’re from. As mentioned, mezcal has a distinct smoky nature with a mildly oily texture. Although both are made from the agave plant, mezcal, and tequila are distinct Mexican spirits with different production methods and flavors.. What are Mezcal and Tequila? While it’s often confused with tequila because they’re both from Mexico and made from agave plants, the similarities end there. Most Tequila is bottled (and aggregated alcohol) outside of Mexico. Related Reading: Mexican Crafts Beers That Are Way Better Than Corona But, adds Jimenez, the process for creating mezcal requires a bit more. Tequila can only have blue agave. Half of this quantity went to the United States (1). We can’t say that they’re completely different, but … "Technically all tequila is a type of mezcal, but not all mezcal is a tequila," explains Natalia Garcia Bourke, brand director for Silencio Mezcal." The number one difference between mezcal and tequila is simple… All Tequilas are a specific sub-variety of Mezcal. Both the tequila and mezcal are beverages extracted from the same plant and have a similar production process.Although both come from the Agave fermentation they have many differences.. Just remember to drink responsibly. The Difference Between Tequila & Mezcal 1. Tequila is a type of mezcal, but not the other way round. The original fermentation is 104 to 106 proof but is reduced to 80 to 86 proof for shipment to the United States. Tequila may be made only from the blue agave in five Mexican states, with the majority produced in Jalisco. A village can contain dozens of production houses, called fábricas or palenques, each using methods that have been passed down from generation to generation, some using the same techniques practiced 200 years ago. Agaves or magueys are found in different areas of Mexico. Mezcal & Tequila. The Difference Between Mezcal And Tequila. Andrew Friedman - July 1, 2016. Mezcal vs. Tequila: Much like Whiskey is a main category of any spirit distilled from grain, Mezcal is the main category of any spirit distilled from agave. There are over 200 species of agave, but not all of them contain enough fermentable sugar to be made into mezcal (3). It's a common urban legend that tequila comes with a worm in the bottle. Tequila is made of Agave tequilana while Mezcal can be made of over 50 different types of agave. Añejo: tequila or mezcal that's been "aged" for between one and three years in oak barrels; Extra Añejo: "extra aged" tequila or mezcal that's been aged for a minimum of three years in oak barrels Taste. Mezcal is often produced on a smaller scale at family farms and sold under different brand names, many of which are now owned by larger drinks companies. The biggest difference is the taste of mezcal when compared to tequila. Now that you’ve had a more formal introduction with both drinks, let’s have a look at what makes the difference between Mezcal and Tequila. Mezcal and tequila are two different spirits, although they both originate from Mexico, that’s just about it for the similarities between the two. DESOLAS MEZCAL IS MADE FROM THE SALMIANA AGAVE. Lastly, tequila and mezcal taste different because of the ways in which they are prepared. This article gives you the best…. Tequila may be labeled as blanco (up to two months of age), reposado (2 months - one year of age), or anejo (1-3 years of age). Tequila is not smoky because the agave hearts are steamed or kilned during production; it can only be produced in Jalisco, and designated areas in four other Mexican states. Because of their sweet taste, they make a wonderful dessert liquor. When driving through the deserts connecting the regions in Mexico where mezcal and tequila are produced, the landscape shows many similarities between the two areas, including the cacti dotting the rolling desert hills into the distance. This doesn’t really tie in to the episode or the whole tequila-vs.-mezcal thing, but it felt like it needed a punchline, and Clowner deserved his shot. That agave was also turned into a brandy known in old Mexico as vino mezcal. It examines both the pros and cons, helping you make an informed decision. There are differences in the production and distillation processes as well. While similar on some levels, these two Mexican spirits are very different in quite a few ways. Facebook. This is an important difference with tequila which is nowadays mostly produced industrially. Mezcal must be bottled in Mexico. Worms are not put in Tequila only in Mezcal. Mezcal is a distilled spirit that has recently experienced a sharp rise in popularity. What Is the Difference Between Tequila and Mezcal? While there are exceptions to this procedure, depending on location and mezcal style, these are the basics. Mezcal producers, however, often follow the traditional method of using in-ground pits. Tequila and mezcal primarily come from Mexico. The main differences that make each one a significant drink lie mainly in its origin and elaboration. Mezcal is a national spirit of Mexico which means oven-cooked agave. Tequila prices have risen steadily during … Originally from Mexico, mezcal has recently experienced a huge surge in popularity, and it’s not showing any signs of slowing down. “The one overall characteristic we can use to differentiate the two is the smokiness found in mezcal. These pits are lined with rocks. Modern craft cocktail culture utilizes this drink in a variety of classic and new recipes. Within the category there are other agave distillates including Tequila, Mezcal (Both a category and a subcategory), Sotol which we covered a few weeks and another agave based spirit called Bacanora. Mezcal generally has a higher alcohol content, and a richer, oilier texture than tequila. Tequila is a type of mezcal produced under strict regulations as to how and where it can be made. Check out the table below for a clear comparison: Mezcal: Tequila: It can be made from 30 types of Agave, but most commonly Espadin. Agave is a large, flowering succulent that thrives in the desert climates of Mexico and Southwestern parts of the United States. Whether you’re a traditionalist or brand new to the world of mezcal, you’re likely to find a preparation method that suits your taste. Tequila is a type of mezcal, but mezcal is not always tequila. Most hangover cures are unproven, with a few exceptions. On the most basic level, tequila tends to have a smooth, sweet flavor, whereas mezcal is often described as savory and smoky. But, mezcal requires about 20 different varieties of agave to make it. Tequila can only be made from blue agave plants. The debate of mezcal vs tequila has been fought in bars across the world for a very long time, but knowing the difference is important!. Both, Mezcal and Tequila are made of agave. Can You Drink Alcohol on a Low-Carb Diet? According to spirits writer John McEvoy, mezcal is defined as … Mezcal can be made up of a blend of agaves (can even be a mix of 2 or more agaves still … Alcohol and Health: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly, The 6 Best Hangover Cures (Backed by Science), Keto Diet and Alcohol: The Best and Worst Drinks to Choose. Mezcal is a type of distilled alcoholic beverage made from the cooked and fermented hearts, or piñas, of agave plants (2). This underground “oven” is fueled with burning wood and covered with dirt, allowing the agave hearts to smoke and bake until they’re ready for fermentation (2). They are currently in the Asparagaceae family according to the APG III classification system. Both Tequila and Mezcal start with mature agave as it’s sugar source for fermentation. The type of agave that makes tequila is specific and is known as agave tequilana Weber (blue agave). Tequila vs Mezcal. You’ve seen honey and agave at the store, but which one is healthier? The process in which tequila is made also differs from how mezcal is made. Holger Leue / Getty Images. Mezcal is quite similar to Tequila, but there are some basic differences between the two. Holger Leue / Getty Images. The blue agave hearts are then fermented in a similar method as mezcal, however, they are not baked in underground ovens. words: Nick Hines. Ok, the only thing that tequila and mezcal have in … What's the Difference Between Tequila and Mezcal? The "natural" sweetener agave nectar is often mistakenly assumed to be healthy. Some may think there's no difference between them, however, there are some key differences between the two drinks, mainly in terms of the type of agave used, the production process, … Tequila is a type of mezcal, much like how scotch and bourbon are types of whiskey. The Agave is a genus of monocots plants, generally succulent, belonging to the ancient Agavaceae family which gave it its name. While mezcal can be … While mezcal is smoky, tequila is smoke-free. Genuine tequila is made with blue agave in Tequila, Mexico or the Jaliscan Highlands. Both tequilas and mezcal come from the same agave plant. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. Wrong. Although both spirits are made from agave, they differ in flavor, production methods, and origination. In general terms, one could consider Tequila to be a type of mezcal, since it comes from the cooking and distillation of maguey. Whether you consider yourself a connoisseur of Mexican spirits or just enjoy an occasional cocktail, you’ll likely agree that the most obvious difference between tequila and mezcal is the flavor. Mezcal and tequila are made via distinct production methods. They are then roasted and this is where the 2 spirits begin to become very different. Unlike Tequila, Mezcal can be made from a wide sweep of agave plants. Both Tequila and Mezcal have their own Domination of Origin but Mezcal has to be made with 100% agave while Tequila can be mixed with up to 49% other alcohols. Tequilas made of 100 percent agave are much more expensive and are sipped on their own so as to appreciate their high quality. The agave heads (also called agave hearts, or piñas) are roasted or grilled over hot rocks in a cone-shaped pit (called palenques or hornos). http://www.abarabove.com/tequila-vs-mezcal/ What’s the difference between Mezcal and Tequila anyway? With Sotol, there is another traditional Mexican spirit trying to conquer the bars of the world. MEZCAL VS TEQUILA . Mezcal has a rich, flavourful, savoury and smoky taste, attributed to the underground ovens used to cook the agave. This is one of the differences between Mezcal and Tequila—Tequila tends to be produced more industrially. Her recipes range from Grandma’s favorites to the latest food trends. Post-distillation, tequila and mezcal are then aged in oak barrels, though with different aging/labeling categories. While most of these beliefs are simply urban legends, many brands of mezcal have used them for marketing purposes. Tequila is made from Blue Agave or Weber Agave. Mezcal is a distilled spirit made from cooked and fermented agave plants. Mezcal can be made from over 30 different types of agave, but the vast majority is made from a variety known as Agave espadin. Well, let’s put you straight so the next time you’re sipping on a Mexican spirit while enjoying your tacos, you know the difference between the two liquors. This article provides an overview of mezcal, including how it differs from tequila and some ways to drink it. Les appellations sont strictement contrôlées : impossible de les produire ailleurs qu’au Mexique. A Difference of Place and Process. While there are exceptions to this procedure, depending on location and mezcal style, these are the basics. All mezcal… Tequila is subject to more rigid standards than mezcal. The Differences between Tequila and Mezcal. The agave heads are pu… The Spruce Eats uses cookies to provide you with a great user experience. It brings a new, exciting flavor profile to the well-established selection of spirits that have graced cocktail menus for generations. Basically, Tequila is a type of mezcal. Agave is a magical plant. People began to believe that finding one of these "tequila worms" was a sign of luck. THERE ARE AT LEAST 24 DIFFERENT TYPES OF AGAVE THAT ARE USED FOR PRODUCTION OF SPIRITS. For most drinking purposes, you can easily substitute a mezcal for a tequila without really changing the taste of a cocktail. However, they differ in the regions they are produced. Tequila must be made in the Tequila region of Mexico. WhatsApp. But no, each one is unique. Post-distillation, tequila and mezcal are then aged in oak barrels, though with different aging/labeling categories. The smoky quality is usually attributed to the underground ovens used to cook the agave. Most Tequila is bottled (and aggregated alcohol) outside of Mexico. However, in other countries, especially in the United States, mezcal is taking center stage as a craft cocktail ingredient. If you are a Scotch … Turning to alcohol, pot, or other substances to help ease feelings of stress and loneliness during the COVID-19 outbreak could do more harm than good…. This is mainly a result of the cooking process that agave undergoes before becoming mezcal… For tequila they are generally baked in brick ovens and for mezcal they are generally cooked with fire in an underground stone lined pit lending a deep smoky flavour. Mezcal labelings are slightly different, going by … Mezcal may be made from any variety of agave and in eight Mexican states, with the majority produced in Oaxaca. Tequila was originally distilled from the sap (called aquamiel , meaning honey water) and the heart (also called the pineapple) of the blue agave plant. Mezcal must be bottled in Mexico. Ingredients. https://www.townandcountrymag.com/.../drinks/a19563124/mezcal-vs-tequila One helpful thing to remember is that tequila is a type of mezcal, but mezcal is not a type of tequila. Mezcal is the primary name used to describe all types of distilled agave. Agave Nectar: A Sweetener That’s Even Worse Than Sugar? We have included a chart below to highlight the differences in production and also style differences. Unlike tequila, which is cooked with steam, mezcal … For starters, mezcal is smokier and a bit earthier and sometimes with a worm. Main differences between Tequila and Mezcal. When tequila is made, the agave head is baked in an above-ground oven. Get easy-to-follow, delicious recipes delivered right to your inbox. Mezcal is the primary name used to describe all types of … The Difference Between Mezcal and Tequila. Other types of agave can be used to produce brandies, but they're known simply as mezcals. Twitter. By using The Spruce Eats, you accept our, How to Use Agave Nectar in Drinks and Cocktails, 10 Best Tequilas for Margaritas and Shots in 2021, Learn About Some of Mexico's Edible Insects, The Well-Crafted Tequilas of Maestro Dobel. And only 51% of agave juice is needed in its elaboration to be considered tequila. For instance, 0-2 months aged makes a Blanco tequila (known as Joven for mezcal). This is one of the differences between Mezcal and Tequila—Tequila tends to be produced more industrially. Some flavor differences can be attributed to where each spirit is made and the climate in which the agave was grown. Pinterest. In Mexico, mezcal is traditionally consumed straight. So … sotol. 7 Evidence-Based Ways to Prevent Hangovers, Resist Using Pot, Alcohol to Ease Fears During COVID-19 Outbreak. Mezcal, on the other hand, can be made from many different types of agave, although the most common is espadín, and it can be produced in nine different states. Click to share on Facebook (Opens in … Tequila is Mexico’s national drink and one of the icons synonymous with the country. Mezcal vs Tequila: The difference between Mezcal and Tequila. Unsplash. After removing the agave leaves, the pinas are placed in a pit in the ground. On the most basic level, tequila tends to have a smooth, sweet flavor, whereas mezcal is often described as savory and smoky. Jalisco is the home of tequila as it was originally produced there. Mezcal labelings are slightly different, going by joven, reposado, or anejo. Tastessence provides a side-by-side comparison between Mezcal vs. Tequila. Tequila and mezcal are both distilled spirits that originated in Mexico and are made from agaves—succulent plants native to the Mexican desert. Have you met the country cousin of Tequila? And a tequila aged between 1-3 years is known as an Anejo. When making tequila, the hearts of blue agave are typically cooked in industrial, above-ground ovens or autoclaves before being fermented and distilled (4). Tequila is fermented and distilled from a single type of agave plant, Agave tequilana Weber blue. The agave hearts are roasted for several days and then crushed to extract their juices. It’s traditionally consumed on its own, but it’s also making a name for itself in the world of craft cocktails. The main differences between mezcal and tequila have been outlined by a few other blogs in the past, and they were most likely first introduced to the international market by our friend Mezcal PhD in his post Tequila vs Mezcal.If you haven’t read his blog, you should. But if you feel like splurging, a pricier tequila or mezcal will generally outperform and provide a better tasting experience, especially if you want to drink it neat. Tequila comes from five main places in Mexico including Michoacán, Nayarit, Guanajuato, Tamaulipas, and Jalisco. What is the difference between Tequila and Mezcal? This distilling process leads to the main differentiation between mezcal and tequila–the tasting notes. Add 2 ounces añejo tequila or mezcal and the juice from 1 lemon or 2 limes. It’s the same with scotch and bourbon being a type of whiskey. Shutterstock. The word mezcal is rooted in the Aztec language and loosely translates to “oven-cooked agave.” This alludes to the production process agave undergoes as it’s transformed into this flavorful spirit. Tequila is subject to more rigid standards than mezcal. illustration: Danielle Grinberg Describing mezcal as tequila ’s smoky cousin is a gross oversimplification of one of the world’s most diverse spirits categories. Comparative table between Tequila and Mezcal • Tequila is made from blue agave only while Mezcal is made from any variety of the agave plant • Tequila produced only in Jalisco town and nearby areas is considered as official Tequila while, if it is produced in any other area, it is not even considered Tequila The flavor difference between tequila and mezcal. In 2017, approximately 3 million liters of mezcal were exported to 60 different countries. Tequila was originally distilled from the sap (called aquamiel, meaning honey water) and the heart (also called the pineapple) of the blue agave plant. Production. And while good tequila is 100% agave, Bank says tequila is only required to be 51% agave to be considered tequila. But […] A big difference between mezcal and tequila is how the piñas are cooked. Mezcal and tequila are often confused for one another, as they’re both Mexican spirits made from similar ingredients. Hangovers are a common side effect of alcohol consumption, but luckily, there are ways to lessen their severity. For tequila, the heart of the agave plant (called the piña, because once the spines are removed, it resembles a pineapple) is steamed before distillation, and for most mezcal the piñas are roasted in an underground pit before it is fermented and distilled, giving it a smokier flavor. Mezcal can best be comprehended by tasting it besides to Tequila. “Tequila can only use one type of agave, is steamed inside an industrial oven, and distilled two or three times in copper pots,” he says. All rights reserved. The flavor profile is very different than Tequila because it is typically smokier. Tequila can only be produced in Jalisco or the approved plantations immediately surrounding that region. Tequila may be labeled as blanco (up to two months of age), reposado (2 months - one year of age), or anejo (1-3 years of age). Peggy Trowbridge Filippone is a writer who develops approachable recipes for home cooks. Agave Nectar vs. Honey: Which Is Healthier? As mentioned earlier, tequila is only made from blue agave, while mezcal is made from one (or more, called an "ensemble") of the 200+ other agave varieties. There are several differences between mezcal and tequila, including taste and how and where they’re produced. Cultural Differences: Actually these are the differences in production scale, i.e. Here are 6 science-backed hangover…, The keto diet may aid weight loss and improve health, but you may wonder how to fit alcohol into this way of eating. As time goes on, Mezcal keeps on gaining ground on tequila, but mostly only in American bars. Tequila Vs Mezcal – What’s Different. Officially, tequila can only be produced from Blue Agaves. Tequila Is Being Touted as a ‘Health’ Drink… But Read This Before You Say ‘Cheers!’. Tequila has an industrialized production process, regularly with steel machinery, where it obtains a neutral flavor. If you just want to whip up a quick batch of margaritas for friends, don't sweat the price point. Unlike Tequila, Mezcal (traditional spelling: mescal) is a spirit that can be produced from upwards of 28 varieties of the agave plant from many areas of Mexico – from the city of Oaxaca to some areas of the states of Guerrero, Durango, San Luis Potosi & Zacatecas. by Austa Somvichian-Clausen. But the truth is, this sweetener is even worse than regular sugar. Low-carb diets are a popular way to lose weight and improve health, but you may wonder if alcohol fits into this way of eating. Traditionally, mezcal is consumed straight with chili salt and an orange slice. The main ingredient of tequila is the blue Tequilana Weber agave. The Difference Between Mezcal and Tequila. 2. It can be said that tequila has an industrial production process and for the mezcal is completely handmade.. According to Mexican law, tequila can only be produced in these five regions of Mexico (4): Variations in climate can affect the flavor and quality of the final beverage. mezcal is usually produced in Oaxaca. While, the smoky and earthy taste of mezcal, is due to its artisan process, to the baking in earth ovens and fermentation in wood vats, also, this one regularly is 100% agave. Thought of as more of a niche spirit than Tequila, Mezcal is really any spirit distilled from agave (hence, Tequila is a Mezcal). Also, tequila can only be made in five Mexican states. Traditionally, mezcal is handcrafted by small-scale producers. LIKE TEQUILA, MEZCAL IS MADE FROM THE AGAVE PLANT, BUT WHILE TEQUILA IS MADE ONLY WITH ONE AGAVE TYPE, THE BLUE AGAVE, MEZCAL CAN BE MADE WITH ALL OTHER DIFFERENT VARIETIES OF AGAVE. Mezcal vs Tequila. But what is Sotol and what's the difference to Tequila Different agave species. To be considered tequila, Mexican standards require the liquor to be at least 51 percent derived from agave sap sugar, with the remaining 49 percent generally being corn or cane sugar. By. Before we dive into the specifics, it’s first helpful to remember that all tequilas are technically mezcal, but not all mezcals are tequila. Others believe that the presence of a gusano is a sign of the potency of the drink. Mezcal is an alcoholic beverage. The process of mezcal production begins by harvesting the agave. The Difference Between Tequila & Mezcal 1. Rule 2. The process of mezcal production begins by harvesting the agave. This "worm" is actually the larva of a moth referred to as a gusano. The main ingredient of tequila is the blue Tequilana Weber agave. The liquid is allowed to ferment for up to a week. The vast majority of mezcal comes from the Mexican state of Oaxaca, but it can be produced in any of the following regions (2): On the other hand, tequila has more limitations regarding where it may be produced. Today, mezcal and tequila are two completely different liquors. What Is the Difference Between Tequila and Mezcal? artisanal small production for Mezcal and industrialised mass production for Tequila. Here are 7 ways to prevent hangovers that have shown potential in scientific studies. Often described as tequila’s smoky-tasting cousin, mezcal is a unique type of alcoholic beverage that’s making waves in the global liquor industry. With over 200 known species, many of which can be … Here’s a look at the nutritional value of these sugar substitutes. It’s part of the culture, people and history of Mexico. Mezcal aficionados insist this is the only way to truly enjoy and savor its full flavor. So rule 1: All Tequila is Mezcal. Mezcal is one of the fastest-growing spirits categories, but sales are much less than tequila, he says. These lower-quality tequilas are perfect for using in cocktails. Both Tequila and Mezcal have their own Domination of Origin but Mezcal has to be made with 100% agave while Tequila can be mixed with up to 49% other alcohols. This article…, The paleo diet is based on eating foods similar to those eaten by the first humans millions of years ago. Mezcal et tequila : la même famille de spiritueux . While we've established that yes, technically tequila is a type of mezcal, generally when you encounter mezcal on a bar menu, it refers to some other type of mezcal. Both mezcal and Tequila are made from agave, so what’s the difference between them? Ingredients. Tequila, Mezcal, and Pulque are traditional Mexican drinks made using agave succulent plant varieties—but each beverage is distinct and offers different taste experiences.. Tequila. A fire is started and burns for about 24 hours to heat the stones that line the pit. 1914. Mezcal can be produced anywhere suitable in Mexico. Mezcal vs Tequila. Add a couple of ounces of grapefruit juice to the mix and call it La Paloma, which means dove . For mezcal, the traditional cooking process occurs in large underground pits lined with volcanic rock. They are made in different regions using distinct methodologies and have unique flavor profiles. Two months to a year aged makes it a Reposado.