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Are Tequila and Mezcal the same as Agave Spirit?

Alright, let’s talk about Tequila and Mezcal. These are seriously the rockstars of the spirit world, with a rich history and a flavor that packs a punch. We’ll start by covering the basics, learn about the differences, and then get to the fun part: tasting!

Mezcal and tequila, both made from agave plants, have distinct profiles worth exploring, and we will explore them in part 3. Consumption of these spirits and craft cocktails has surged, with growing interest from fans and casual drinkers alike. It’s not just for shots anymore!

RELATED: Types of Tequila and how California is doing Agave Spirits Right.

Tequila 101

Tequila is made exclusively from the tequila blue agave plant and undergoes a more modern method of cooking agave, often in autoclaves or ovens. Production is limited to specific regions, primarily Jalisco, Mexico. Think of it like champagne – it can only come from Champagne, France.  The Mexican government has strict regulations about where tequila and mezcal can be produced to protect its authenticity. If an agave spirit is made outside of Mexico, it can’t be called tequila or mezcal – it has to be labeled as “agave spirit.”

RELATED: Mulholland Estate Agave Spirit

Mezcal: The Smoky Cousin

Mezcal is often confused with tequila, but they’re different spirits. While tequila is made exclusively from blue agave, mezcal can be made from various agave plants in any region in Mexico. Regulations for mezcal are less stringent, which allows for more significant variation in flavor and production methods. This diversity contributes to mezcal’s unique smoky flavor, setting it apart from its more famous cousin.

Mezcal is genuinely handmade. It’s a labor-intensive process that relies entirely on human touch. Every step is done by hand, from cooking the agave hearts in underground pits to crushing and fermenting the plant. No machines are involved. That’s why people often describe mezcal as an artwork – it’s a product of skill, patience, and passion.

There are four main types of Tequila and Mezcal:

  • Blanco (Silver): This is the fresh-faced spirit of the tequila world. It’s clear and has a bright, agave flavor.
  • Reposado: This one’s spent some time in oak barrels, giving it a smoother taste with hints of vanilla and caramel.
  • Añejo: Aged for at least a year, this tequila has a deeper, richer flavor with notes of oak, chocolate, and spice.
  • Extra Añejo: The VIP of tequila, this guy is aged for over three years and is super smooth with complex flavors.

Sure, there are other variations; these are touched upon in Part 2.

Let’s Get Tasting!

In Part 3, we’re tasting six different tequilas and mezcals. The prices range from around $40 to $55 a bottle, which is pretty standard for good stuff. Get ready to explore a world of flavors and find your new favorite drink.

But next up, we will do a progression tasting with a Blanco tequila, Lalo. We start from straight out of the bottle and work our way up to a full-on cocktail. It’ll be interesting to see how our preferences change along the way. Grab your favorite Blanco and follow along. You’ll be surprised by what you discover, just as we are! Also, check out the video for this post on YouTube for a good laugh!

Cheers!

Priti