If you've ever been shopping for a high-end spirit and wondered about the difference between mezcal and tequila, you're not alone! These iconic Mexican spirits share a common origin - the agave plant - but they couldn't be more different when it comes to production processes and flavors.
Whether you're a cocktail master, a neat sipper, or curious about what mezcal and tequila have to offer, this guide is here to help.
We'll explore all of the major differences (and the few similarities) between these agave spirits. Plus, we'll discuss how to enjoy them to the fullest and get the most out of their flavor profiles for the best spirit-drinking experience.
What Are Tequila And Mezcal?
From the outside, mezcal and tequila may seem like the same spirit. After all, they're both made from the agave plant. However, they're not exactly the same thing.
So, what exactly is the difference between these two agave spirits? Well, there's a common saying among mezcal drinkers and spirits enthusiasts that sums up the difference between tequila and mezcal perfectly: 'All tequila is mezcal, but not all mezcal is tequila'.
If you're still a little confused as to what this means, let's take a closer look at their definitions:
Mezcal
Mezcal is the umbrella term for all agave-based spirits. You can think of it as the 'family' of agave drinks. This means that traditional mezcal can be made from different types of agave (over 30 different types, to be exact!), each bringing its unique flavor.
From the smoky flavor of Espadín to the complex notes of rarer varieties like Tobala, mezcal is a spirit with a ton of variety. It's also made across Mexico, with each region adding its own twist to the spirit.
Tequila
On the other hand, tequila is a specific type of mezcal. It's only made from the Blue Weber agave plant and mostly comes from the state of Jalisco.
Since it's only made from a specific plant of the agave species, tequila tends to be a more polished and cleaner spirit compared to mezcal. And, while mezcal has a signature smoky taste (thanks to the agave being roasted in pits), tequila is usually brighter and sweeter.
Origins: Where Mezcal And Tequila Are Made
When it comes to where these two agave spirits are from, the regions couldn't be more different. Mezcal is produced across a broad stretch of Mexico, but its heart and soul are undeniably tied to Oaxaca.
This mountainous region is actually the birthplace of artisanal mezcal, where more traditional, small-scale production methods have been passed down through generations. But it's in Oaxaca that you'll find the iconic smoky flavor that sets mezcal apart. This is thanks to the ancient technique of roasting agave in open-pit fires.
While Oaxaca is the most famous mezcal producer, it's also prominent in other states, including Durango, Guerrero, and Puebla.
Tequila is much more closely associated with one specific region: Jalisco. Although tequila is produced in a few other areas, Jalisco reigns supreme. This is especially true for the town of Tequila, which is where the spirit gets its name.
Production Processes
The biggest difference between tequila and mezcal is their production.
Mezcal
Mezcal is made using methods passed from generation to generation, and the production is a time-honored process. The hearts of the agave plants (known as the piñas) are harvested and roasted in earthen fire pits. This process is what gives mezcal its smokiness.
After they're roasted, the piñas are crushed using a tahona, which is a large stone wheel. Then, they're fermented in wooden vats and distilled. The final product is a bold yet rustic spirit that has earthy, floral, and sometimes fruity notes.
Tequila
In contrast, tequila is made from the Blue agave plant and relies on industrial rather than traditional methods. The piñas are steamed in large ovens, which is what produces a smoother and more refined flavor profile.
Generally, this process is more consistent than mezcal production. As a result, tequila has a cleaner and less smoky taste than mezcal. After the piñas have been steamed, the agave is shredded, fermented, and distilled in stainless steel or copper stills.
Aging Classifications
The aging process is also crucial in shaping the flavor of both tequila and mezcal. And, with such different flavor profiles, there's no wonder there's a clear difference between tequila and mezcal.
In both spirits, aging brings a lot of balance and depth. However, its impact is more dramatic in tequila.
Tequila
For tequila, there are several aging categories that dramatically influence the flavors of the spirit.
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Blanco tequila: Blanco tequila (also known as silver or white tequila) is bottled immediately after distillation. Alternatively, it is aged for a maximum of two months. It also has a crisp, clean taste with a strong agave flavor.
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Reposado tequila: Reposado tequila, which means 'rested', is aged for two to 12 months in oak barrels. This gives it a smoother and more rounded taste with hints of vanilla and spice. A great example of this is the Cazcanes No. 7. Alternatively, Clase Azul has some of the best reposado on the market!
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Añejo tequila: Añejo tequila develops an even richer flavor with more oak influence. It's aged for between one and three years and has notes of caramel, tobacco, and even honey!
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Extra Añejo: The rare extra Añejo tequila is aged for over three years. And the result? An extremely smooth, complex tequila with even more oak and caramel flavors.
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Cristalino tequila: This tequila is an Añejo or extra Añejo that has been filtered to remove the color. However, it retains the rich, aged flavors.
Mezcal
Mezcal follows a much simpler aging structure than tequila but creates less complex flavors.
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Joven mezcal: Joven mezcal, also known as 'young' mezcal, is typically unaged. Instead, it retains the full intensity of the smoky, earthy flavors of the agave plant.
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Reposado mezcal: This mezcal is aged for two to 12 months in oak or other wood barrels, which sets it apart from aged tequila. In turn, the smokiness is much softer.
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Añejo mezcal: After being aged for at least a year, Añejo mezcal has a richer and more refined flavor. This balances the characteristic smokiness with similar yet smoother notes from the wood.
How To Drink Mezcal And Tequila
There are a few different ways to enjoy tequila and mezcal, but each spirit has its own distinct way to shine.
Tequila
Tequila is a go-to for cocktails or celebratory drinks to mark holidays like Cinco de Mayo. It also often stars in classic drinks like a Margarita or Paloma. The crisp, clean flavors of blanco and reposado tequilas mix perfectly with lime, grapefruit, or soda for an incredibly refreshing drink.
However, when it comes to high-quality Añejo, this tequila is best enjoyed neat or on the rocks. This is because the rich caramel flavors really come out when you're sipping it slowly.
If you are going to invest in high-end tequila, you'll want to keep an eye out for some of the best tequilas on the market. For example, Clase Azul or Fortaleza are fantastic brands to try!
Mezcal
While tequila is perfect for cocktails, mezcal is best enjoyed neat. This allows you to savor its signature savory flavor and taste the complex earthy and fruity notes. With that said, you can use mezcal in certain cocktails, such as a Mezcalita, which is a classic Margarita with a twist on traditional flavors.
If you want to try a mezcal for yourself, then you're in luck. We've got an incredible selection that includes options like the rich Dos Boots Mezcal or Granalta Espadín & Tobasiche Agave Mezcal, which has a more balanced flavor profile. Or, if you're in the mood for something more artisanal, then we'd highly recommend our Madre Mezcal or Grand Mezcal collections.
FAQs
Mezcal vs tequila: which is better?
This depends on personal preference. Mezcal is smoky and complex, while tequila is cleaner and more refined. While both have unique qualities in their flavors, it's all about what suits your taste.
Mezcal vs tequila: which is stronger?
Mezcal is slightly stronger than tequila. This is because mezcal generally has a higher alcohol content (around 45%), while tequila's alcohol content can range between 35% and 40%.
Is mezcal cheap tequila?
No, mezcal is its own distinct spirit. Although it may seem similar to tequila, it is made from a variety of different agave species. So, while some species may produce cheaper bottles of spirits, there are plenty of high-end mezcals that are more expensive than traditional tequilas.
Final Thoughts
If you want to become a spirit connoisseur, then knowing the difference between tequila and mezcal is essential! Fortunately, the differences are easy to spot (and taste!), which means you'll be able to impress your friends and family with your knowledge of these agave spirits.
Just remember: Tequila is purely a sub-category of mezcal, made from a specific agave plant. It's also produced in a specific region of Mexico, while mezcal is produced in multiple states, with each one having its own regional twist.
