For those who’re an avid tequila drinker and haven’t branched out to mezcal, you’re utterly lacking out.
Like tequila, mezcal is a Mexican-made spirit crafted from agave. And whereas the 2 spirits are related, there are plenty of variations as effectively. The spirit should be comprised of Blue Weber agave to be thought-about a tequila. Mezcal, however, may be comprised of greater than forty totally different agaves. The commonest are Espadin, Tobala, Tepeztate, and Cupreata.
There are different variations as effectively (together with geography), however the factor that units the 2 spirits aside flavor-wise is the truth that whereas the agave piñas (or hearts) used to make tequila are roasted in stone or brick ovens, historically mezcal is made utilizing agave piñas which might be roasted in conical pits dug into the bottom. This system provides mezcal its patented smoky aroma and taste.
Now that you just realized a little bit bit concerning the variations between the 2 spirits, it’s time to seek out some to drink. Hold scrolling to see a few of our favourite smoky mezcals. As a bonus, they’re all underneath $100 so that you gained’t break the financial institution once you buy them.
Lobos 1707 Mezcal
This award-winning mezcal is comprised of 100% Espadín agave. It’s roasted the normal method in open, conical Oaxacan fireplace pits, and crushed utilizing an Egyptian stone mill. After distillation, your style buds are met with a fancy, memorable mezcal loaded with flavors like roasted agave, vanilla, spices, and enveloping smoke.
Los Siete Misterios Doba Yej Mezcal
Produced within the area of Sola de Vega in Oaxaca, this iconic mezcal is made with Angustifolia Haw agave that’s baked in underground pits, crushed utilizing the normal Chilean Tahona, naturally fermented, and distilled in copper pot stills in addition to clay pots. The result’s a elegant, sippable mezcal with notes of roasted agave, cracked black pepper, vanilla, and mild smoke.
Mezcal Vago Elote
For those who’re on the lookout for a novel, smoky mezcal, look no additional than Mezcal Vago Elote. It will get its title as a result of, between the second distillation, the oldsters at Mezcal Vago infuse the spirit with roasted corn earlier than a 3rd distillation. The result’s a memorable, candy mezcal crammed with flavors like roasted agave, candy corn, vanilla, honey, spices, and wealthy, candy smoke.
Bosscal Joven Mezcal
Produced by a fourth-generation Mezcalero, Bosscal Joven Mezcal is made utilizing conventional strategies. Made with wild-grown agave, this distinctive expression is thought for its nostril of citrus peels, roasted agave, vanilla beans, and mild campfire smoke. The palate is a mixture of candy, vegetal agave, tangerine, white pepper, vanilla, and even richer, memorable smoke. It’s candy, smoky, and leaves you craving extra.
Del Maguey Vida Mezcal
One of many extra widespread mezcals for cocktail, Del Maguey gives a balanced smokiness with hints of fruit and earth.
