Hearst Magazine Media, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Read on to find out. For sipping, I can't recommend5 Sentidos Papalometlenough, says mezcal ambassador and consultant Carmen Lopez Torres, a food chemist who founded her own mezcal brand in Zacatecas, Mexico. Last Updated on December 29, 2022 by Lydia Martin. Tequila and mezcal are both between 38% and 55% alcohol by volume , which is around 76 to 110 proof. The brand is about embracing joy and community, so this is a great mezcal to share with others. In general, though, mezcal is likely to be slightly stronger than vodka. They're called jicaras, and they're the Calabash tree's fruit. Whether youre a traditionalist or brand new to the world of mezcal, youre likely to find a preparation method that suits your taste. The savory taste of the mezcal complements the earthy honey in this cocktail beautifully. It is usually stronger than tequila since most mezcals have an ABV of around 50%. It's quite a bit stronger than other bubbly brunch cocktails thanks to the vodka, but that shouldn't stop you from giving it a try! The mezcal variation replaces the vodka with mezcal, a smoky, earthy spirit made from agave. As a result, they all contain the same amount of alcohol. Internationally, mezcal has been recognized as an Appellation of Origin since 1994. If youre looking for a smoke-forward mezcal with dried fruit, spice, and wild turkey qualities, look no further thanGracias a DiosPechuga. Factory employees are paid 250 percent above minimum wage and are also provided healthcare. The Nahuatl term mexcalmetl (the most prominent and significant language spoken by Mexican civilizations such as Aztec), which means "oven-roasted agave plant," is the source of the name "mezcal." "The tequila region, when they understood [mezcal's popularity], they were like, Let's make our own little thing here," Gaston says. Again, Gaston's mission with IZO was to stray from the gimmicky mezcals and bring something sophisticated to the U.S. You can find a list of stores (include Costco!) What's Your State's Favorite Super Bowl Dip? This gives Mezcal its charac. Is tequila stronger than vodka? Mezcal can be made from any type of agave plant, although the large majority of mezcal 80 to 90% is made from the Espadin . Pour about 1 cup of the margarita mixture into a cocktail shaker half-filled with ice. (the most prominent and significant language spoken by Mexican civilizations such as Aztec), which means "oven-roasted agave plant," is the source of the name "mezcal." The Naked and Famous drink is as striking as its name from the first sip! There are six varieties, and each one has flavors that showcase the differences of each village, while still adhering to the brand as a whole. This is not your typical mixed drink. Their unique production processes and whether or not the liquor was aged also greatly influence the taste. It has an herb and citrus aroma and has flavors of honey, peanut, brown sugar, wood, chocolate, and fruit notes. There are many great tequilas on the market and it can be hard to choose just one. It used to be a sort of outlawed spirit, much like moonshine in the American south. The spirit is derived from the state of Oaxaca, and it is believed to be the spiritual successor to tequila. To merit the name, mezcal must be at least 90 proof and is often distilled even stronger than that. Mezcal does not get you drunker than tequila since tequila and mezcal technically have the same ABV (alcohol by volume). They have always been dedicated to preserving the culture and heritage of mezcal, as well as the unique characteristics that each producer contributes.. Mezcal and tequila bottles usually have the same alcohol content or ABV percentage printed on their labels. Mezcal is usually from about 38-55% ABV (76-110 proof), so basically some mezcals are stronger than some tequilas and some tequilas are stronger than some mezcals. Paul Kushner Everything You Need To Know About This Spirit. You're invited to a party, and you don't know what drinks to bring. Finally, mezcal is often smoky in flavor, while tequila is not. But is tequila a depressant or a stimulant? The taste of tequila will vary according to where it was grown as well as the age at which it was distilled. In 2017, approximately 3 million liters of mezcal were exported to 60 different countries. When it comes to mezcal, the spirit always has a certain smokiness to it. It's one of Mexico's most southern areas, featuring a lengthy stretch of Pacific Ocean shoreline. Many see mezcals potency and smokiness as enticing, thus the increase in its production directly competing with tequila, another strong Mexican spirit. Tequila and mezcal are both in the range of about 38% to 55% ABV (Alcohol by Volume), which is 76-110 proof.It just has a reputation as one of the stronger spirits. Mezcal aficionados insist this is the only way to truly enjoy and savor its full flavor. By clicking on Accept you are agreeing to our terms of service and privacy policy. There may be more agave breeds used in making mezcals, but these are made in small batches. One vodka brand can make much stronger vodka than the other. That's m-e-s-c-a-l. (In Spanish, z's sound like s's. Mezcal mules have a smoky, earthy flavor that pairs well with the ginger beer and lime. Cooking the agave in pits in the ground gives it a strong smoky flavor. This article, Drinking alcohol on an empty stomach can worsen the side effects of alcohol consumption and bring them on faster than usual. Many people find that the taste of mezcal is usually stronger than that of tequila, but that's another matter. When it comes to mezcal, the spirit always has a certain smokiness to it. Top 6 Inexpensive Mezcal Bottles Everyone Will Love, 6 Types of Sparkling Wine to Drink at Your Next Celebration, The Ultimate Guide to Baltimore Happy Hour, Cleveland Happy Hour Specials You Dont Want to Miss. Tequila, on the other hand, has an alcohol content of 35-40% ABV. . 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. Designed by Elegant Themes | Powered by WordPress, The Rise of Vegan Coffee in the USA (& Its Health Benefits), How To Choose The Right Tequila: Rested Vs Unrested, Kirkland Tequila: The Best Bang For Your Buck, Sparkle Donkey A Deliciously Unique Tequila, El Toro Tequila: A Smooth Mellow Tequila With A Vanilla Caramel And Citrus Flavor, Requesting More Chorizo: The Popularity Of Mas Chorizo Duro Por Favor. Svedka 100. Distillers make tequila by distilling blue weber agave, while tequila's difference between mezcal is the distillation of any variety of agave. Mezcals are more concentrated than tequilas because they are distilled and bottled in their pure form. It is also called little water because of its appearance. However, Tequila is made using only the blue agave plant and is typically produced in the state of Jalisco, Mexico. The difference between tequila and mezcal in price value is almost threefold. As mentioned, mezcal can be made from at least 40 types of agave plant. Ultimately, the higher alcohol content is what makes gin stronger than vodka . Taste: Mezcal has a warm smokiness and the flavor will depend on the type of agave used to produce it. Sign in When mezcal came to the United States, it did so with a little kitsch, and Gaston wanted to prove it could be sophisticated, elegant, and chic. This list of the best mezcals is not exhaustive, but it serves as a guideline for brands with unique flavor profiles that are easy to sip and enjoy. In general, mezcal is typically around 40% alcohol by volume (ABV), while vodka is usually around 35% ABV. The history of the Mezcal drink is still unknown, despite being one of the most popular drinks in recent times. Tequila can only be labeled tequila if it is made from 100% Blue Weber agave produced in the Mexican state of Jalisco, as well as some municipalities like Nayarit, Colima, and Aguascalientes. When you add in the smokiness of mezcal, you've got yourself a match made in heaven. Mezcal can give you the euphoric and energized feeling the same way that stimulants do. Vodka in the United States must have a minimum alcohol content of 40%. "Made from Tepeztate and Tobal agaves, this is an excellent firsthand taste of the high Oaxacan Sierra as these wild agave plants are very closely tied to their terroir," he notes. Mezcal is one of the most versatile types of tequila, despite the fact that there are several other types. Agave Nectar vs. Honey: Which Is Healthier? It brings a new, exciting flavor profile to the well-established selection of spirits that have graced cocktail menus for generations. Similar to vodka, gin is clear, colorless, and has minimal difference in the flavor profile. At $7.3 billion in revenue, vodka is still selling roughly $2 billion more annually than tequila and mezcal, but agave-based spirits could be on track to outstrip it in just a few years.. However, that's not necessarily correct. Many people find that the taste of mezcal is usually stronger than that of tequila, but that's another matter. This typically leads most people to believe that mezcal is stronger than tequila. Mezcal El Silencios Espadn expression is an excellent introductory mezcal, offering subtle smoke and salinity surrounding notes of citrus, dried fruit, and sweet potatoes, to name a few. The Espadin is double distilled in copper pots and made from 100% espadin agave. This leaves a more concentrated spirit with a stronger flavor compared to tequilas. It has a more complex and fruitier flavor than other tequilas. Many people find that the taste of mezcal is usually stronger than that of tequila, but that's another matter. However, drinking it in moderation is still advised despite being a healthier choice. So, which is stronger? Mezcal Negroni also really easy to do, so you'll be able to relax in no time. Cline Bossart has spent the past seven years writing about all things wine and spirits, and mezcal has become a personal favorite of hers along the way. by Mezcal is a distilled spirit made from cooked and fermented agave plants. This will help you determine if you want something light and fruity or deep and full-bodied. Tequila is a type of mezcal, but not all mezcals are tequila. The outer leaves of the agave plant are chopped away from the pia or the heart of the agave plant, which the distillers utilize to manufacture mezcal. Mezcals do not have more alcohol content than tequila. In New York City, Casa Mezcal has three levels of bar space, each designed to evoke Oaxaca in the Big Apple. Agaves are roasted in the roasting process, distilled liquor is then aged in oak barrels, and the final step is aging. Should you go with the classic. While the regular mule is delicious, this variation is much better since the mezcal adds a degree of depth that the ordinary vodka base lacks. It's a truly artisanal product, before that term became fashionable. Mezcal, a spirit with different flavors and has an interesting history, originated in Mexico and has been consumed there for generations. All content on this website is for informational and educational purposes only. What is the origin of Mezcal? Is mezcal stronger than regular tequila? It may be served with a pinch of chili salt and a slice of orange on the side to complement and enhance its natural flavor. Tequila has a sweeter flavor than Mezcal and is often used in mixed drinks. Some tequilas are so silky and delicate that they can stand in for vodka in any drink. The third is mezcal ancestral, which uses the olden ways where the agaves are cooked underground and distilled in clay pots. Everything special about this bottling stands on top of the foundation of all thats great about Sombra as a company," he says. 4.12 What happens if you eat the worm in mezcal? You may also come across, Toggle submenu Beer Accessories & Supplies, Standard ground shipping is free for all US orders, What Is Mezcal? In this type of mezcal, extra tastes or ingredients are added during a second distillation. Often described as tequilas smoky-tasting cousin, mezcal is a unique type of alcoholic beverage thats making waves in the global liquor industry. In fact, there is a particular tequila brand with 75% ABV, stronger than a regular mezcal. Which is better tequila or mezcal? The vodka-margarita combination is ideal for anyone who enjoys vodka or dislikes the taste of tequila. Tequila and mezcal are both between 38% and 55% alcohol by volume (ABV), which is around 76 to 110 proof. I come from a family of passionate cooks, and I learned early on that cooking is a great way to show your love for others. Mezcal and tequila are often confused for one another, as theyre both Mexican spirits made from similar ingredients. Some drinkers enjoy sipping more Agave-forward unaged expressions of aejo or extra aejo, whereas others prefer to sip them. Larvae really do find their way into agave plants (and therefore the spirits produced from them), but many American bars add the little guys to bottles just to boost sales. Oaxaca makes more than 90 percent of the world's mezcal supply; Durango is also famous for its mezcal production. Second, vodka is typically filtered more than Everclear, so it may not be quite as strong. While it is a flexible element in a cocktail, it is recommended to test mezcal on its own before making a drink with it. Espadin is the most common among these plants, which is also a common mezcal variant. By law, the spirit can only be made in nine States of Mexico. Tequila and mezcal are both in the range of about 38% to 55% ABV (Alcohol by Volume), which is 76-110 proof. Get easy-to-follow, delicious recipes delivered right to your inbox. Is mezcal stronger than tequila? is already a bittersweet cocktail. Now, are you feeling adventurous enough to try this? This is why gin typically has an ABV of around 40%, while vodka's ABV averages closer to 35%. Mezcal is a type of distilled alcoholic beverage made from the cooked and fermented hearts, or pias, of agave plants (2). Of course, there's a lot more to the spirit than just thatand we caught up with Gaston Martinez, founder of IZO Mezcal, to learn more. Is mezcal stronger than vodka? In Mexico, mezcal is traditionally consumed straight. While the regular mule is delicious, this variation is much better since the mezcal adds a degree of depth that the ordinary vodka base lacks. The result is an award winning vodka with a rich and smooth mouth feel. The mule is a cocktail made with ginger beer, vodka, and lime juice. No, not necessarily. Leave a comment and mention your favorite mezcal product! You can sip it on its own or add it to your favorite cocktail. fresh from the bottle at ambient temperature. Pechuga is often used for special occasions, such as an offering for Dia de los Muertos altars. This is likely because Mezcal is pure, 100% agave, and free of any additives or sweeteners (like the different flavors infused into other alcohols, like vodka). I started my blog as a way to share my love of Mexican food with the world, to show people that Mexican food can be healthy, delicious, and easy to make. They are made in different regions using distinct methodologies and have unique flavor profiles. In a Negroni, any mezcal may be substituted for, taking the center of attention. Mezcal has a higher alcohol content than Tequila, typically between 40-50% ABV. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission. Mezcal is mostly produced in Oaxaca, Mexico. In addition to corn syrup or other fillers, there may be another type of sweetener available. It is not a shot to be taken all at once. Del Maguey is a widespread favorite among bartenders everywhere, and its Vida expressionan organic, double-distilled mezcal made from the Espadn maguey (agave plant) out of the San Luis del Rio villageis an all-around excellent spirit for sipping or mixing in cocktails. It is more enjoyable with the smokiness of mezcal in the background and a salt rim. All tequila is mezcal, but not all mezcal is tequila! There are several differences between mezcal and tequila, including taste and how and where theyre produced. It's made with only four components, yet they're perfectly balanced: smokey, citrus, bitter, and sweet. Serve with or without ice in old-fashioned double glass or a bucket glass. How much does mezcal cost? When we caught up on the phone, he debunked more myths and shared more intel. On the other hand, tequila is only required to have at least 51% blue agave plant juice, and the rest can be additives. Her work can be found in her cookbook, Tasting Pennsylvania, and her site, the Dharma Kitchen. The sweetness of mezcals is from the ripe fruit of the agave plant. The smoky flavor of the mezcal pairs well with grilled meats or spicy dishes. If you're looking to try something new, mezcal might be just the thing! queensland figure skating. Mezcal is made from a variety of Agaves, including rojo, amarillo, oro, and falcone, whereas tequila is made from 100% blue Agave. This article, The paleo diet is based on eating foods similar to those eaten by the first humans millions of years ago. This drink also has a distinct flavor that is enjoyed by all. is a flavored or infused mezcal, such as those with the iconic maguey worm, which is actually a moth larva. This particular kind of agave is primarily grown in Oaxaca, Mexico, a region known as the home of mezcal (2). is mezcal stronger than vodka. Ted's Bio; Fact Sheet; Hoja Informativa Del Ted Fund; Ted Fund Board 2021-22; 2021 Ted Fund Donors; Ted Fund Donors Over the Years. If we're talking ABV content, it mostly depends on the bottle of vodka or tequila you choose. It is made in the artisanal method using a copper pot still and has tasting notes of quine, anise, and a strong minerality. Mezcal, on the other hand, has an earthy and smokey flavor because of the roasted agave ingredient. This typically leads most people to believe that mezcal is stronger than tequila. Lisa is a freelance lifestyle writer specializing in nightlife, leisure, and celebration. Because of the pia's cooking method, mezcal has a stronger taste than tequila. Perfect for your martinis or even on the rock Serve with or without ice in old-fashioned double glass or a bucket glass. Mezcal is made in a variety of ways, but the most common method is to roast the agave plant in a pit oven. Both spirits utilize a basic method of cooking, fermenting, and distilling agave hearts, but the similarities end there. When the Spanish conquistadors came in the 16th century, they started distilling the agave liquids to manufacture mezcal. You can add mezcals in cocktails, too, such as the mezcal margarita, but mezcals are not very affordable for cocktails. The new BORG trend, which stands for blackout rage, Different alcohol blood tests may be used depending on your reason for being tested. It is a refreshing, sipping alcohol that is perfect for any time of the year! Mezcal and tequila are made via distinct production methods. . Should you go with the classic wine or beer? Producing mezcal is easier since it can be sourced from over 150 maguey species, including wild varieties. Unlike the wider mezcal category, which encompasses spirits made from upwards of 30 different types of agave, tequila can be made only with blue agave in just five Mexican states. Final Thoughts The pias are roasted in an underground pit filled with hot rocks for many days. As a representation of its region (Ejutla, Oaxaca), it is a light-bodied and highly-nuanced mezcal offering tropical notes such as banana and pineapple alongside sultry smoke. El Silencio is a strong advocate for fair wages and labor practicesfor example, the brand works directly with local farmers to support their businesses and distillery. The level of booziness they display is roughly the same as that of the general population. Kunkel highly recommends either trying Ensemble in cocktails or sipping it on its own. The other factor pertains to harvesting, which is a labor-intensive process. The quality of the Agave is usually attributed to the smoky odor created by the underground ovens used to cook it. Many people find that the taste of mezcal is usually stronger than that of tequila, but that's another matter. While mezcal may display the earthy, rustic taste in a mezcal margarita, this liquor has won over so many admirers. Is mezcal stronger than vodka? Tequila is made from the blue agave plant and vodka is made from a starch or sugar rich plant. Tequila is made specifically from the Blue Weber variety of agave plant. Some bartenders feel the descriptor undercuts the spirit: Mezcal can taste a little charred because of the way it's produced, but you might also find some with floral, fruity, or earthy notes. From sweet and spicy to earthy, you can easily find a flavor profile that will suit many different tastes. Is Tequila The Same As Rum? Both drinks have a high alcohol content, with an average of 40% ABV, but mezcal has a higher alcohol concentration - 55% ABV, 15% stronger than regular tequila. It just has a reputation as one of the stronger spirits. With a 47% ABV, you should sip this refreshing Oaxacan mezcal. - means rested. Most bartenders will serve mezcal or tequila neat or on the rocks, and you will . As for the larvae's hallucinatory powers? Mezcal has a very strong smoky flavor, with lingering rich and sweet notes. This spirit is from agave tequilana weber, mixed with botanicals, additives, and water. We tell you more about this below, so keep reading! Tequila Is Being Touted as a Health Drink But Read This Before You Say Cheers!. Is Mezcal Stronger Than Vodka There is no simple answer to this question as the strength of mezcal can vary greatly depending on the producer and the specific batch. 4.11 Is mezcal stronger than vodka? A Moscow mule has all the ingredients for a straightforward and spirited mezcal cocktail. Yes, mezcal is stronger than tequila. Gin is most suitable to make a great vodka cocktail but you can also substitute gin to add its bold taste to your recipes. is mezcal stronger than vodka. It has a 46% ABV and finishing notes of mango and cinnamon flavor for a perfectly smooth finish. Belvedere Intense 100 Proof. Wild yeast is normally added to the blue agave during fermentation. For starters, it's not even a worm, it's a larvaand it's a giant gimmick. Both mezcal and tequila are agave-based spirits that contain high alcohol. Tequila is produced in a way similar to mezcal but it is not smoked and it is twice distilled to produce an 80-proof liquor no stronger than gin or vodka. Is mezcal a whiskey? Overall, both spirits are relatively low in calories, but mezcal will be the higher of the two. Mezcal is made by distilling agave. Mezcal is a distilled spirit that has recently experienced a sharp rise in popularity. Meanwhile, Jalisco is the epicenter of tequila production. Don't have an account yet?Create account, 2023 Advanced Mixology, Powered by Shopify. Its traditionally consumed on its own, but its also making a name for itself in the world of craft cocktails. Ilegal Mezcal is a brand created by a bar owner in Guatemala. This mezcal is made from 100 percent Espadn agave and has an ABV of 43 percent. However, mezcal is technically not stronger than tequila because tequila and mezcal are bottled with the same ABV (alcohol by volume) per bottle. This mezcal is made from wild Tepextate agave. Many people believe that mezcal has a more robust flavor than tequila. Serve immediately with 1/4 teaspoon orange zest in each glass. Not all mezcals are tequilas, but all tequilas are mezcals. It will then be distilled and filtered before the agave spirit is bottled. I was born and raised in Mexico, and my passion for food began at a young age. Tequila is a type of drink normally served in shot glasses because Mexicans enjoy them straight or in shots to enjoy its full taste and strength. The agave for tequila is steamed in ovens that are above ground, while mezcal producers use in-ground fire pits filled with wood and charcoal. It is a darker mezcal that's been matured in wood for at least two months but less than a year. To make mezcal, the liquids within the pia are distilled twice. Encompassing sweet, spicy, floral, and numerous other tasting notes, mezcals offer a diverse collection of flavors that can appease even the pickiest of drinkers. The longer and traditional process produce higher quality mezcals as the flavors are more defined. This means that gin will have a higher alcohol content than vodka because the flavoring and redistilling process allows more of the alcohol to be extracted from the grain. This mezcal is made with maguey Tobala, which is a type of agave, and the flavor profile is sweet with fruity notes. I have always had a deep interest in the restaurant and bar industry. One of the key differences between these spirits is the place of origin they could be made. Simply pour a shot of Mezcal and a splash of lime juice into an ice-filled glass. That smoke can be mild at times and strong at other times. Mezcal is a distilled spirit derived from the agave plant, which is also how we get tequila. In 2015, a second location followed, the latter being featured on The Food Networks Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives. - a term which means vintage. The Incas used the juices of the maguey plant, a relative of the agave, to manufacture an undistilled alcoholic beverage called pulque, which dates back to roughly the year 250 CE. Yes, mezcal is healthier than tequila because it is purer and cleaner. Producing mezcal is easier since it can be sourced from over 150 maguey species, including wild varieties. It has a more intense, deeper flavor profile with a slight spice. (2023), Casamigos Anejo Tequila Bottle Review (2023 Edition), 22 Most Popular Tequila Brands (2023 Edition), Angels Envy Bourbon Bottle Review (2023 Edition), https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fsufs.2022.832532/full, https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-sciences/mezcal. Enjoy and imbibe with hundreds of cocktail creations within our archives. Vodka, is a type of alcohol, tend to be higher in calories. The word "mezcal" literally means "roasted agave," Gaston shares. The Pechuga process typically involves suspending a raw chicken or turkey breast along with local fruits and nuts over the mezcal during final distillation, which mixes with the liquids vapors and imparts a subtle flavor to the final product.