Is mezcal just fancy tequila?

Tequila is a type of mezcal, much like how scotch and bourbon are types of whiskey. According to spirits writer John McEvoy, mezcal is defined as any agave-based liquor. This includes tequila, which is made in specific regions of Mexico and must be made from only blue agave (agave tequilana).

Is mezcal just tequila?

Both mezcal and Tequila are made from agave, so what's the difference between them? Basically, Tequila is a type of mezcal. While mezcal can be produced from up to 50 species of the agave plant, Tequila can be made from just one: agave tequilana Weber, or Weber blue agave.

Does mezcal taste the same as tequila?

They have different flavors

On the most basic level, tequila tends to have a smooth, sweet flavor, whereas mezcal is often described as savory and smoky. The smoky quality is usually attributed to the underground ovens used to cook the agave.

Which is better tequila or mezcal?

It just has a reputation as one of the stronger spirits. Many people find that the taste of mezcal is usually stronger than that of tequila, but that's another matter. Tequila and mezcal are both in the range of about 38% to 55% ABV (Alcohol by Volume), which is 76-110 proof.

What is more expensive tequila or mezcal?

As a result of its production method, whereby small distilleries make small batches, mezcal is generally more expensive than tequila. Additionally, it is more costly to export in smaller quantities when compared with tequila because of its higher production costs.

What is MEZCAL? (It's Better Than Tequila!)

Why do they put the worm in mezcal?

So, why is there a worm in mezcal? Larvae began appearing in mezcal bottles in the 1950s, when a mezcal maker discovered a moth larvae in a batch of his liquor and thought the stowaway improved its taste. He started adding “worms” to all his bottles as a marketing strategy.

Why does tequila not give you a hangover?

Why Does Tequila Not Give You A Hangover? Silver, 100% agave tequila has a low sugar content, which does not lead to a hangover. In-the-know drinkers swear by silver agave tequila, which is known for its low sugar content. It does not hold up when it is mixed into a cocktail—say, a sweet margarita made with triple sec.

Is mezcal inferior to tequila?

It's quickly gone from behind-the-bar curiosity to top shelf spirit. A quick note to remember as we talk mezcal: Technically, all tequila is a mezcal, but not all mezcal is tequila. (It's the boozy version of the old math adage "All squares are rectangles, but not all rectangles are squares.")

Can you drink mezcal straight?

The best way to drink mezcal straight is without ice. Serving mezcal straight at room temperature is the best way to experience its colorful flavors and aromas. Take a sip and swish it around in your mouth. This will open your palate and allow your taste buds to adjust to the initial burning sensation.

Is mezcal and agave the same?

What it is: Mezcal is a Mexican spirit made from the agave plant, just like tequila. So tequila is a type of mezcal, but not all mezcal is tequila. Mezcal is made from 50 different varieties of agave, but only one type of agave plant (blue agave) makes tequila.

Which is healthier mezcal or tequila?

Mezcal can be considered cleaner and more pure than tequila, especially if the later is mixed with artificial sugar and way to many margarita mixers. When it comes to health, wellness, and alcohol, consider balance and sip in moderation – mezcal included.

What is the top tequila?

Is mezcal illegal in the US?

Is Mezcal Tequila Illegal? There is no such thing as an illegal act. The practice wasn't legal at one point. (It would not be legal to export mezcal until 2006, when John Rexer, owner of Illegal Mezcal, had decided to sell mezcal in his Antigua, Guatemala, bar.

Is mezcal sweeter than tequila?

Mezcal traditionally has a very unique, smoky flavor that makes it fairly easy to distinguish from tequila. It also tends to taste sweeter, or richer, than tequila. Some mezcal producers have adopted production processes similar to tequila, and the resulting mezcal has flavor profile similar to tequila.

How does mezcal make you feel?

Mezcal can give you a euphoric and energized feeling. Some sources point to its mild hallucinogenic properties as a primary cause for this elation. A more likely reason for this is that mezcal is pure. There aren't any additives or sweeteners, and it has zero carbs.

What does mezcal taste like?

What does mezcal taste like? Because mezcal is made from roasted agaves, it has a smoky taste that can be overpowering, a smoke bomb or very subtle, depending on the brand. The cheap mezcal that made its way to the U.S. years ago gained a reputation for tasting like gasoline or diesel fuel.

What alcohol is best for no hangover?

“Vodka is known to be the best alcoholic beverage for the most minimal hangover. Gin, light rum and white wine are runner-ups—with brandy and whiskey being at the bottom of the list.

Why does mezcal taste like bandaids?

The agave plant can be used for making mezcal anywhere in Mexico. It's because of this that there is such a stark contrast between mass-produced mezcals made in China that can taste like burnt rubber and come with worms in their bottles and the artisanal mezcals made in Oaxaca villages.

What is a good mixer for mezcal?

Is mezcal always smoky?

When it comes to mezcal, yes, there is always some level of smoke flavor to the spirit. Sometimes, that smoke can be light, and at other times it can be rather heavy, like licking an ashtray. When it is on the heavier side, some spirits experts say the smoke flavor could be a coverup for other faults in the liquid.

What is the smoky tequila called?

In a nutshell, mezcal is a distilled alcohol made from the agave plant — much like tequila. It's smoky, earthy, and complex with a touch of sweetness. Mezcal is not necessarily tequila though.

What is the difference between Anejo and mezcal?

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.

Is tequila the healthiest liquor?

Conclusion. The evidence is in. Tequila is the healthier choice of alcohol compared to other distilled spirits like vodka, rum, or whiskey. Unlike these types of liquor, tequila has lower levels of impurities and has agavins, making it a better option.

Is tequila an anti inflammatory?

Reduces pain and inflammation

According to an older study , Mexican traditional medicine has used Agave tequilana, Agave americana, and Agave angustifolia as an anti-inflammatory for centuries.

What does tequila do to a woman?

As well as impacting your blood sugar levels, it can increase the risk for mouth, colon, and breast cancers. You and your loved ones may suffer devastating consequences if you drink too much. Tequila should only be consumed in moderation and in moderation only if you choose to drink it.