She believes you can never go wrong with a Moscow Mule or a classic Daiquiri anywhere you go. Mezcal can also be described by its class. Many people find that the taste of mezcal is usually stronger than that of tequila, but that's another matter. Is mezcal stronger than vodka? Del Maguey has the same strong relationships with the same producers [after] more than 25 years," he says. However, there are a few that stand out above the rest. Encompassing sweet, spicy, floral, and numerous other tasting notes, mezcals offer a diverse collection of flavors that can appease even the pickiest of drinkers. As a marketing gimmick, he began putting "worms" in all of his bottles. These states are where the lands topography produces the sweetest blue agave plant (agave pia) used to produce a fine tequila. This same plant can be used in making mezcal. The word "mezcal" literally means "roasted agave," Gaston shares. 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. Read: That stuff's expensive. While it is a flexible element in a cocktail, it is recommended to test mezcal on its own before making a drink with it. However, the flavor of alcohol in a mezcal may be stronger than in tequila. However, that's not necessarily correct. When you visit the site, Dotdash Meredith and its partners may store or retrieve information on your browser, mostly in the form of cookies. Please check settings. is mezcal stronger than vodka. 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. Can You Drink Alcohol on a Low-Carb Diet? is a flavored or infused mezcal, such as those with the iconic maguey worm, which is actually a moth larva. However, there are some vodka brands that are much higher in alcohol content (up to 50% ABV), so it really depends on the specific products being compared. Between the first two is mezcal artisanal, which follows traditional procedures but is more lenient when it comes to the time-consuming process of grinding the agave. - means rested. Where does agave come from? My mezcal hack would be to . Just like different types of alcohol have different percentages of alcohol by volume (ABV) or alcohol content, so can different brands. There are at least 200 species of agave (maguey) but less than 50 are actually used in mezcal production. It just has a reputation as one of the stronger spirits. .css-13cdu9y{display:block;font-family:GTHaptikBold,Helvetica,Arial,Sans-serif;font-weight:bold;margin-bottom:0;margin-top:0;-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;}@media (any-hover: hover){.css-13cdu9y:hover{color:link-hover;}}@media(max-width: 48rem){.css-13cdu9y{font-size:1.18581rem;line-height:1.2;margin-bottom:0.625rem;}}@media(min-width: 40.625rem){.css-13cdu9y{line-height:1.2;}}@media(min-width: 48rem){.css-13cdu9y{font-size:1.23488rem;line-height:1.2;margin-bottom:0rem;}}@media(min-width: 64rem){.css-13cdu9y{font-size:1.23488rem;line-height:1.1;margin-bottom:-0.5rem;}}People Are Losing It Over Tipping, How I Lost 10 Pounds For My High School Reunion, The History Of King Cake And The Plastic Baby. Should you go with the classic wine or beer? Some tequilas are so silky and delicate that they can stand in for vodka in any drink. 2005-2023 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. The group fell in love and ultimately convinced Del Maguey to bring it to the United States. Beer before liquor, never been sicker; liquor before beer, youre in the clear is a well-known saying, but you may wonder whether it holds any, Kombucha tea has become quite popular and is linked to several benefits, but you may be concerned about its potential alcohol content. A blend of agaves is mixed for this alcoholic beverage. ), Mezcal is a distilled spirit derived from the agave plant, which is also how we get tequila. The types of agave plants used to make mezcal take a long time to reach maturity; anywhere from seven to 35 years, depending on the type of plant. Mezcal is the general category for any distilled alcoholic beverage made from the agave plant, so tequila is technically a type of mezcal. Youll find it featured in trendy, innovative recipes, as well as in remixed versions of classics like old fashioned, margaritas, negronis, and palomas. Mal Bien Espadin Mezcal is produced using ancient methods to create a mezcal that is true to its roots. What if your friends want tequila shots instead of whiskey sours? The savory taste of the mezcal complements the earthy honey in this cocktail beautifully. Last Updated on December 29, 2022 by Lydia Martin. During the late 1800s, a man named Don Agustin Fuentes Casares, who wanted to create a lighter and more refreshing version of the heavy sherry-based drinks that were popular at the time, came up with the term tejo. He created tequila from mescal, a traditional fermented drink from the Agave plant, which was distilled by him. Your email address will not be published. Tequila and mezcal are both between 38% and 55% alcohol by volume , which is around 76 to 110 proof. They are a bit more complex than the vodka version, and make a great cocktail for winter months. They are made in different regions using distinct methodologies and have unique flavor profiles. Tequila is distilled into five different types, while vodka only has one form. If you're looking to impress someone at the bar, memorize these facts: 1. 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.. Overall, vodka can be a good substitute for Everclear, but it's important to keep these things in mind before using it. , it can be hard to decide! Mezcal is one of the most versatile types of tequila, despite the fact that there are several other types. is mezcal stronger than vodka. Maestro Dobel Tequila, an 11th generation distillery, launched Humito, a smoked silver tequila. Many people find that the taste of mezcal is usually stronger than that of tequila, but that's another matter. Price at time of publish: From $37 for 750ml Bottle, "Sustainability is at the heart of Banhez, says Mariah Kunkel, Brand Development Director forBanhez Mezcal Artesanal. In addition to corn syrup or other fillers, there may be another type of sweetener available. Serve immediately with 1/4 teaspoon orange zest in each glass. Both mezcal and tequila are agave-based spirits that contain high alcohol. Tequila is also a distilled alcoholic beverage made from the agave plant. Not all mezcals are tequilas, but all tequilas are mezcals. Whatever type of tequila you prefer, there is sure to be one that will suit your taste. Finally, mezcal is best enjoyed with food. Yes, mezcal is stronger than tequila. While this isn't the typical old-fashioned, the components create a timeless classic. Gin. In 2012, after a decade and a half of learning all facets of the industry, I opened my first restaurant/bar. Where is Mezcal Made? Serve with or without ice in old-fashioned double glass or a bucket glass. You may also come across mezcals with flowery, fruity, or earthy scents. Youve seen honey and agave at the store, but which one is healthier? 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. The sweetness of mezcals is from the ripe fruit of the agave plant. A new TikTok trend is sweeping college campuses across America and its certainly turning heads. June 29, 2022 . . Mezcal ( / mskl /, American Spanish: [meskal] ( listen) ), sometimes spelled mescal, [1] is a distilled alcoholic beverage made from any type of agave. Since mezcal is made with various wild and rare agaves, sustainability is an important cause for many mezcal brands and enthusiasts. Creating this distilled spirit is similar to how wine grapes are made. Harvesting the agave, cooking the pia, fermenting the agave, and distilling the agave are the four basic stages in the traditional technique of producing mezcal. Since the 1890s, standard vodkas have been 40% alcohol by volume (ABV) (80 U.S. proof). Final Thoughts #logo img{width:155px}@media only screen and (max-width:47.5em){#logo img{width:120px}}. 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. However, there are many different types of tequila, and some are stronger than mezcal. To offset their harvest of 673 Tobala agaves, Sombra planted 20,000 in their place. Agave is removed from the ground by hand using traditional tools (think machete and manpower). Greengos Cantina' website is all about Mexican cuisine. This article, Drinking alcohol on an empty stomach can worsen the side effects of alcohol consumption and bring them on faster than usual. Rey Campero means King of the Countryside in Spanish, and the brand is about presenting the culture of the small towns in Oaxaca that inspire them. The brand produces three types of mezcal, reposado, anejo, and joven, each made by using 100% Espadin agave. Is Jack Daniels stronger than tequila? In fact, there is a particular tequila brand with 75% ABV, stronger than a regular mezcal. Mezcal is made from a variety of Agaves, including rojo, amarillo, oro, and falcone, whereas tequila is made from 100% blue Agave. 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. Now, are you feeling adventurous enough to try this? At 42 percent ABV and consistently under $50, the Ensemble expression is made from 90 percent Espadn and 10 percent Barril agave. (Think of it like the farmers market version of produce, versus what you get at the grocery store.). Tequila, on the other hand, has four types. These brands are known for their smooth taste and high quality. Distillers make tequila by distilling blue weber agave, while tequilas difference between mezcal is the distillation of any variety of agave. There are over 200 species of agave, but not all of them contain enough fermentable sugar to be made into mezcal (3). Instead of whiskey, this Mexican version relies on agave spirits to deliver a powerful punch. Often described as a smokier version of tequila, mezcal is a type of distilled drink made from a variety of different agaves. Whats unique about this mezcal, she says, is that the producer ferments the agave juice in the skin of a cow, giving the spirit an interesting lactic, floral flavor. This will help you determine if you want something light and fruity or deep and full-bodied. (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. This gives Mezcal its characteristic smoky flavor. It's a perfectly proportioned velvety, smoky and acidic pleasure that will leave you wanting more! The stronger the proof, the stronger the aroma and tasting notes will be. Then add your favorite ginger beer to finish it off. Tobal is referred to as "the king of mezcals" because the agave plant is more scarce and harder to harvest. 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. Mezcal is a distilled spirit derived from the agave plant, which is also how we get tequila. Strain into two 6-ounce martini glasses after shaking. It is more enjoyable with the smokiness of mezcal in the background and a salt rim. Substitutes: mezcal (similar, but stronger-tasting) OR gin OR white rum OR vodka vodka Notes: This flavorless, colorless liquor is a great mixer, since it blends unobtrusively with other ingredients. Agave can be made from a variety of different types, giving it a much broader flavor range. Thus, the products are unique, depending on where theyre from. If you want a trademark cocktail that's simultaneously sweet, tangy, salty, and smoky, then the Mezcal Paloma is the drink for you. Kings County Distillery Chocolate Whiskey. They have always been dedicated to preserving the culture and heritage of mezcal, as well as the unique characteristics that each producer contributes.. Some brands also make it from other . In Mexico, mezcal is traditionally consumed straight. Mezcal has a smoky flavor, but it also has a fruity, floral, and earthy aroma. "They are at the forefront of sustainable mezcal production in terms of what they do for local communities, like theiradobe brick initiative, along with countless community outreach and sustainability efforts.. The mule is a cocktail made with ginger beer, vodka, and lime juice. It is usually stronger than tequila since most mezcals have an ABV of around 50%. Agave is a large, flowering succulent that thrives in the desert climates of Mexico and Southwestern parts of the United States. Mezcal, on the other hand, is earthy and smokey in flavor because of the roasted Agave fruit. This co-op implements a host of different sustainability efforts, such as planting three times as many agave plants as they harvest. This same type of plant is also used to make mezcal. It's a truly artisanal product, before that term became fashionable. Tequila is a type of mezcal, but not all mezcals are tequila. Mezcal has been around for more than 400 years, and is the first known distilled spirit in Latin America and on the Americas Continent. Tequila, which is a type of mezcal, contains additives. Herein, Is mezcal stronger than tequila? Tequila is a distilled spirit made only from the blue agave plant. But mezcal is more distinct and is used in, or as a substitute for a powerful spirit like, The pias are allowed to rest for a month while the juice ferments within the pia husk. 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. It has an herb and citrus aroma and has flavors of honey, peanut, brown sugar, wood, chocolate, and fruit notes. But she also likes to get a bit fancy every now and then. Yes, mezcal is healthier than tequila because it is purer and cleaner. A cocktail with tequila, triple sec, and lime juice in it is commonly served with salt on the rim. While on a tour of the Del Maguey partner palenques (distilleries) in Oaxaca with some industry friends, he was introduced to Rogelio Martinez Cruz, who let the group taste something hed been working on but was not yet for sale. The taste of mezcal is distinguished by its smoky flavor, which comes from cooking the agave hearts in stone pits in the ground. Some of the best tequilas include Casamigos, Don Julio, and Herradura. The taste of it may be strongerit's more assertive in some ways than tequila, because it tends to be smokierbut in terms of the alcohol by volume (ABV), there's no real discrepancy between mezcal and tequila, or mezcal and most other distilled spirits. Delish editors handpick every product we feature. Agave plants can only be grown in one species, making tequila from only that type of plant. Tequila is created from a unique kind of agave called blue weber agave. Our shop uses cookies. Think of it this way mezcal is the overarching term for . I also wanted to educate and inspire others to cook Mexican food at home. If youre looking for a great tequila to enjoy, any of these would be a great choice. Well, we have a suggestion for you: Because of the pia's cooking method, mezcal has a stronger taste than tequila. There's also mezcal ancestral, made with exclusively ancient processes, such as clay pot distillation instead of stainless steel. It has a more intense, deeper flavor profile with a slight spice. There is no simple answer to this question as the strength of mezcal can vary greatly depending on the producer and the specific batch. Mezcal may be manufactured from 40 to 50 different species. Is mezcal stronger than vodka? However, that's not necessarily correct. If you want it to taste differently, you'll need to mix it into a cocktail. Modern craft cocktail culture utilizes this drink in a variety of classic and new recipes. It just has a reputation as one of the stronger spirits. "In a business traditionally dominated by men, Doa Vega Mezcal was not only founded by a woman, but the producers of the agave and mezcal are women as well, says Maximilian Caraballo, owner and bartender at Boys Don't Cry in New York City. It is considered organic since it is from the agave plant with no additives included. For Lisa, theres nothing better than an ice-cold drink after a rough day (shes not fussy). First is the Joven or Gold Tequila, a mix of tequila Blanco and Reposado. The pias are allowed to rest for a month while the juice ferments within the pia husk. 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. Tequila is a type of mezcal, but mezcal is not always tequila. Instagram. The agave plant is native to Mexico and has been used to make alcoholic beverages for centuries. Isgho Votre ducation notre priorit . Mezcal is pure 100% maguey, which explains the concentrated liquid. After distillation, some distilleries would age their mezcal in wooden barrels, resulting in a darker spirit known as aejo mezcal. "The tequila region, when they understood [mezcal's popularity], they were like, Let's make our own little thing here," Gaston says. This cocktail is a very typical margarita blended with earthy mezcal and a nice amount of orange bitters for extra depth. Enjoy and imbibe with hundreds of cocktail creations within our archives. A certain mezcal can be stronger than a specific tequila, but the opposite can also be true. This particular kind of agave is primarily grown in Oaxaca, Mexico, a region known as the home of mezcal (2). Answered (2023 Updated), Which Country Consumes The Most Whiskey Overall? Traditionally, the wood used in making mezcal is used as a firestarter, and it is served neat, with a splash of water to cleanse the palate and hydrate the drink. We may earn commission from the links on this page. Mezcal can be made from any type of agave plant, although the large majority of mezcal 80 to 90% is made from the Espadin . The best way to figure out which you prefer is to try both and see for yourself! is already a bittersweet cocktail. We hope to educate and inspire others to cook Mexican food at home, and to show that it can be healthy, delicious, and easy to make. The reason many people say mezcal is healthier is that it is always made from 100% Agave Nectar (by law). Tobasiche is a type of agave that comes from the Karwinskii agave family. In general, mezcal is typically around 40% alcohol by volume (ABV), while vodka is usually around 35% ABV. The vodka-margarita combination is ideal for anyone who enjoys vodka or dislikes the taste of tequila. Yes, vodka is naturally gluten-free even though it's commonly made from wheat and other gluten-containing grains. Mezcal is not necessarily stronger than agave. Which is better tequila or mezcal? Mezcal is made in a variety of ways, but the most common method is to roast the agave plant in a pit oven. Serve in an old-fashioned glass with an orange peel garnish to keep it elegant. There is no universal ABV content for all kinds of tequila and all kinds of vodka. The level of booziness they display is roughly the same as that of the general population. So, is mezcal stronger than tequila? Ron Zacapa 23 Rum. According to Mexican law, tequila can only be produced in these five regions of Mexico (4): Variations in climate can affect the flavor and quality of the final beverage. Tequila Is Being Touted as a Health Drink But Read This Before You Say Cheers!. It means that tequilas have extenders or additives for taste enhancement. Agave plants can also be used in a mlange of styles. Distillers began inserting a worm, known as a gusano, at the bottom of the mezcal bottle in the mid-twentieth century, which became a well-known curiosity across the globe. Perfect for your martinis or even on the rock The European Union has established a minimum alcohol content of 37.5% for vodka. There is typically a stronger flavor to tequila than mezcal. Put Down That Shot Glass, Here's the. Gin is most suitable to make a great vodka cocktail but you can also substitute gin to add its bold taste to your recipes. 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. You can find out more about our use, change your default settings, and withdraw your consent at any time with effect for the future by visiting Cookies Settings, which can also be found in the footer of the site. One of the main factors that determines the strength of a spirit is the alcohol by . 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. 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!) Stir everything together thoroughly, then cover and chill for at least 2 hours. While mezcal may display the earthy, rustic taste in a mezcal margarita, this liquor has won over so many admirers. Many people find that the taste of mezcal is usually stronger than that of tequila, but that's another matter. Depending on how contemporary or traditional the manufacturing processes are, mezcal may be divided into three types. It uses the natural sweetness of the agave, resulting in a smooth, balanced, smokey flavor. The difference between tequila and mezcal in price value is almost threefold. Traditionally, mezcal is sipped neat, so its flavors can tend to overpower a mixed drink. Stolichnaya 100. However, Tequila is made using only the blue agave plant and is typically produced in the state of Jalisco, Mexico. Tequila is one of the most popular liquors at an affordable price. In the 1950s, a mezcal manufacturer discovered larvae in a batch of his alcohol and felt the insect enhanced the flavor. These weber blue agave plants can be used with mezcal. Ever since I found it around 10 years ago, I love using it as a smoky side note especially with how popular mezcal has become. The two have the same strength and can get a person drunk if consumed fast. However, mezcal is not always necessarily stronger than tequila. No, not necessarily. The spirit is derived from the state of Oaxaca, and it is believed to be the spiritual successor to tequila. 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. Tequila has a sweeter taste because of the sugar and honey added to enhance the taste. But its origins unquestionably lie with the indigenous peoples of southern Mexico . Save higher end mezcal for sipping, and use the lower priced bottles for cocktails. Many people believe that mezcal has a more robust flavor than 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. Is mezcal stronger than regular tequila? . and restaurants and bars where IZO is sold on the brand's site here, and every bottle comes with a unique one-of-a-kind stopper. So, which is stronger? My restaurant experience began in 1997 at the age of 14 as a bus boy. Mezcal sales doubled in the first half of the 2010s. In general, though, mezcal is likely to be slightly stronger than vodka. It used to be a sort of outlawed spirit, much like moonshine in the American south. This will help you determine if you want something light and fruity or deep and full-bodied. IZO is made with only wild agave, which tends to have a much stronger flavor. A blend of agaves is mixed for this alcoholic beverage. The Liquor Laboratory is intended for adults over the age of 21 and the legal drinking age. The brand is about embracing joy and community, so this is a great mezcal to share with others. However, that's not necessarily correct. In a Negroni, any mezcal may be substituted for gin, with the vermouth and Campari taking the center of attention. Is tequila stronger than vodka? Many people find that the taste of mezcal is usually stronger than that of tequila, but that's another matter. What's Your State's Favorite Super Bowl Dip? Mezcal is an agave-based spirit, and tequila, in fact, is a type of mezcal. This typically leads most people to believe that mezcal is stronger than tequila. Serve in an old-fashioned glass with an orange peel garnish to keep it elegant. It even blends well when mixed with orange juice. It has a 46% ABV and finishing notes of mango and cinnamon flavor for a perfectly smooth finish. Often described as tequilas smoky-tasting cousin, mezcal is a unique type of alcoholic beverage thats making waves in the global liquor industry. Many people find that the taste of mezcal is usually stronger than that of tequila, but that's another matter. Its clear color makes it perfect for any mixed drinks and cocktails. By the time I turned 17 I was serving tables, and by 19 I was bartending/bar managing 6-7 nights a week. Serve with or without ice in old-fashioned double glass or a bucket glass. She has been in the field for eight years and has written articles featured in various local blogs and lifestyle magazines. Both mezcal and tequila are agave-based spirits that contain high alcohol. A tequila drink is the most popular beverage on the planet. There's ordinary mezcal, which may be crafted in any modern way. Mezcal can give you the euphoric and energized feeling the same way that stimulants do. Given the diverse nature of mezcal, no two bottles are the same. Generally speaking, the darker the shade of the mezcal, the smoother it is. Mezcal is a distilled spirit that has recently experienced a sharp rise in popularity. Simply pour a shot of Mezcal and a splash of lime juice into an ice-filled glass. 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. To merit the name, mezcal must be at least 90 proof and is often distilled even stronger than that. Kunkel highly recommends either trying Ensemble in cocktails or sipping it on its own. by Maria Jimnez | Nov 14, 2022 | Traditional Drinks. The brand is completely owned and produced by a registered non-profit cooperative of families, communities, farmers, and distillers [who] control the process 100 percent, from start to finish. As it's risen in popularity, mezcal is usually described to newcomers as .css-1es3cx1{-webkit-text-decoration:underline;text-decoration:underline;text-decoration-thickness:0.0625rem;text-decoration-color:#004685;text-underline-offset:0.25rem;color:#004685;-webkit-transition:all 0.3s ease-in-out;transition:all 0.3s ease-in-out;}.css-1es3cx1:hover{color:#595959;text-decoration-color:#595959;}tequila's smoky cousin.