Mezcal is a unique spirit that originates from Mexico. It is made from the agave plant, and yes, yes, it IS similar to tequila, but it has a distinct smoky flavor that sets it apart from any other liquor. Mezcal is produced in different ways than tequila, and it can be made with different types of agave plants. In the past, it has been called “the poor man’s tequila,” but it is so much more than that. It is also growing in popularity in the United States so we will discuss the origins of mezcal, its distinctive features, and why you might want to try it!
Mezcal is the oldest liquor in Latin America, and its origins can be traced back to the Aztecs. The Aztecs were skilled in the art of distillation, and they carried recipes for mezcal down through the generations. Mezcal has always been made from the hearts of the agave plants, and it was consumed as a ceremonial drink by the Aztecs.
The agave plant is native to Mexico, and it has been used to make mezcal for centuries. The process of making mezcal is very similar – but not the same! – to the process of making tequila. The agave plants are cooked in ovens, and then crushed to extract the juice. The juice is then fermented and distilled to create the liquor. Mezcal can be made with different types of agave plants, and it can be distilled in different ways. Mezcal is also often made in small batches, which gives it a unique flavor profile.
Distilling mezcal is a very delicate process, and it takes a lot of skill to produce a high-quality product. Mezcal is distilled in clay pots, and it is often distilled twice to ensure that the liquor is smooth and flavorful. This distillation process also helps to give mezcal its distinctive smoky flavor.
So what are some of the things that make mezcal distinct from tequila? First, mezcal is made from the agave plant in general, while tequila is made only from the blue agave plant. Second, mezcal is distilled in clay pots, while tequila is distilled in copper pots. Third, mezcal is often made with a wild yeast, while tequila is made with a cultivated yeast. It is typically bottled without aging, while tequila is aged in oak barrels. Mezcal is also lower in sugar than tequila, and it has a higher alcohol content.
Mezcal’s distinct flavor sets it apart from tequila, and from any other liquor. Some connoisseurs believe it to be a kindred spirit to scotch whisky. Mezcal has been growing in popularity in the United States, and it is starting to gain a following among whiskey drinkers. Its smoky flavor is reminiscent of scotch whisky, and it is a great choice for those who want to explore the wide world of Mexican spirits. So, there you have it! Be sure to give this unique spirit a try the next time you are looking for something different!
