Welcome to the world of agave spirits! If you’re reading this post, chances are you’ve wondered what the difference is between tequila and mezcal. Don’t worry; you’re not alone. Many people confuse these two spirits, but in reality, they’re very different. In this post, we’ll explore what makes each spirit unique and how to tell them apart.
What is Tequila?
Tequila is a spirit that originates from the area surrounding the town of Tequila in Jalisco, Mexico. It’s made using blue Weber agave, which is grown primarily in the state of Jalisco and some parts of Guanajuato, Nayarit, Michoacán, and Tamaulipas. Tequila is distilled twice in copper pot stills and must be made from at least 51% blue Weber agave.
There are two types of tequila: 100% agave tequila and tequila mixto. 100% agave tequila is made entirely from blue Weber agave and is considered to be of higher quality. Tequila mixto, on the other hand, is made using a combination of at least 51% blue Weber agave and other sugars. Mixto tequila is typically less expensive and is the type of tequila commonly used in margaritas and other cocktails.
Types of Tequila
Within the two categories of tequila, there are several types, each with its unique flavor and production method.
Blanco tequila: Blanco tequila, also called silver or white tequila, is the purest type of tequila and is bottled immediately after it’s distilled. It’s typically clear and has a strong taste, with notes of citrus and pepper.
Reposado tequila: Reposado tequila, also known as rested tequila, is aged in oak barrels for a minimum of two months and up to one year. The aging process gives the tequila a golden color and a smoother flavor, with hints of vanilla and caramel.
Añejo tequila: Añejo tequila is aged in oak barrels for a minimum of one year and up to three years. It has a darker color than reposado tequila and a rich, complex flavor, with notes of oak and spice.
Extra Añejo tequila: Extra Añejo tequila, also called ultra-aged or extra-aged tequila, is aged for a minimum of three years in oak barrels. It has a deep amber color, a complex flavor profile, and often has notes of chocolate, coffee, and tobacco.
What is Mezcal?
Mezcal is a spirit that comes from the agave plant, just like tequila. However, unlike tequila, it can be made using any type of agave, not just blue Weber agave. Mezcal is produced mainly in the state of Oaxaca, but it’s also made in other parts of Mexico, including Durango, Guanajuato, Guerrero, San Luis Potosí, Tamaulipas, Zacatecas, Michoacán, and Puebla.
The production process of mezcal is more rustic than tequila. The agave plants are slow-cooked in underground pits lined with lava rocks and then crushed by a stone wheel pulled by a horse or mule. The resulting juice is then fermented and distilled in copper or clay pots.
Types of Mezcal
Like tequila, mezcal comes in several types, each with its unique flavor and production method.
Joven mezcal: Joven mezcal, also called young mezcal or mezcal blanco, is bottled immediately after it’s distilled and aged for less than two months. It has a strong, smoky flavor and is often served with slices of orange and sal de gusano, a spicy mixture of sea salt and ground dried worms.
Reposado mezcal: Reposado mezcal is aged in oak barrels for a minimum of two months and up to one year. The aging process gives it a smoother flavor and a golden color, similar to reposado tequila.
Añejo mezcal: Añejo mezcal is aged in oak barrels for a minimum of one year and up to three years. It has a darker color than reposado mezcal and a more complex flavor, with hints of oak and vanilla.
Extra Añejo mezcal: Extra Añejo mezcal is aged for a minimum of three years in oak barrels. It has a deep amber color, a complex flavor profile, and often has notes of chocolate, coffee, and tobacco, similar to extra Añejo tequila.
Differences Between Tequila and Mezcal
Now that we’ve discussed the production methods and types of tequila and mezcal let’s explore the primary differences between these two spirits:
1. Agave Varieties
As mentioned earlier, tequila can only be made using blue Weber agave, while mezcal can be made using any type of agave. This difference in the types of agave used results in significant flavor differences between the two spirits.
2. Production Method
Tequila is made using a more modern and industrialized process, while mezcal is made using a more traditional and artisanal method.
3. Flavor Profile
Tequila typically has a cleaner, smoother taste than mezcal, with citrus and pepper notes. Mezcal, on the other hand, has a more complex and smoky flavor, with hints of fruit, spice and a distinctive earthy taste.
4. Region of Origin
Tequila can only be made in specific regions of Mexico, primarily in Jalisco, while mezcal can be made in several regions throughout the country.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while both tequila and mezcal are made from the agave plant, they’re very different. Tequila can only be made using blue Weber agave and is produced mainly in Jalisco, while mezcal can be made using any type of agave and is produced mainly in Oaxaca. Tequila is typically smoother and cleaner tasting, while mezcal is more complex and smoky. The next time you’re at the bar, impress your friends by ordering a mezcal neat, and you’ll see why it’s becoming increasingly popular with bartenders and spirits enthusiasts.
Image Credit: Pexels