Tequila and mezcal: much more than shots

Tequila and mezcal - much more than shots

For many people, tequila means salt, lime and questionable decisions. That is a shame, because quality tequila and mezcal are some of the most expressive spirits in the world.

What is tequila?

Tequila is made from blue agave and must come from specific regions in Mexico, mainly Jalisco. The agave is cooked, fermented, distilled and often aged before bottling.

The main styles are:

• •Blanco - unaged, fresh and full of agave flavour
• •Reposado - lightly aged, softer with vanilla and spice
• •Añejo - longer aged, deeper with oak, caramel and dried fruit

What is mezcal?

Mezcal can be made from several agave varieties and is often produced in a more traditional way. The agave hearts are roasted in earth pits, which gives many mezcals their famous smoky character.

But mezcal is not only smoke. It can be floral, fruity, mineral, herbal and incredibly complex.

Tequila vs. mezcal

Spirit	Raw material	Flavour	Typical feel
Tequila	Blue agave	Fresh agave, citrus, pepper	Bright and clean
Mezcal	Many agave types	Smoke, herbs, fruit, minerals	Rustic and complex

How to taste it

Skip the shot glass. Use a small wine glass or tulip glass, smell gently, and sip slowly. Let the spirit open up before you judge it.

Try tasting blanco tequila next to a smoky mezcal. The difference is huge, and it quickly shows why these spirits deserve more attention.

Food pairing

Tequila and mezcal are fantastic with food. Try them with tacos, grilled seafood, spicy dishes, citrus, pineapple or dark chocolate.

---

Curious about proper tequila and mezcal? We can build a private tasting around Mexico's most exciting spirits. Contact us and we will tailor it to your group.