Mezcal
With Mezcal you can make
Ultima Palabra
Closing Argument
Naked & Famous
Smoked Pear
Smoky Islay Old Fashioned
Mezcal Margarita
Division Bell
Oaxaca Old-Fashioned
Tia Mia
M & M
We've got 19 cocktails that can be made with Mezcal.
Find out what to make with Mezcal
Q&A
What is the historical significance of Mezcal?
Mezcal boasts a rich history deeply intertwined with Mexican culture, dating back over 400 years. Originally consumed during religious rituals and special celebrations, mezcal has evolved into a symbol of Mexican heritage and craftsmanship. The spirit's complexity and variety are a testament to the artisanal methods passed down through generations, with the traditional production method of cooking the agave in earthen pits contributing to its distinctive smoky flavor. Mezcal's historical significance is not just rooted in its production, but also in its role in Mexican society as a drink that embodies the geographic and cultural diversity of the country.
How does the type of agave affect Mezcal's flavor?
The type of agave used in mezcal production plays a crucial role in determining the final flavor profile of the spirit. With over 30 types of agave permitted for mezcal production, variations in flavor can be substantial. Agaves like Espadín, which is the most commonly used, tend to produce mezcals that are approachable, with a balanced sweetness and smokiness. In contrast, wild agaves such as Tobalá or Tepeztate yield mezcals that are often more complex, presenting a range of flavors from floral and fruity to earthy and spicy. The diversity of agave types, combined with regional soil and climate conditions, allows mezcal to offer a broad spectrum of tastes and aromas, making it a uniquely versatile spirit for mixology.
What is the traditional method of producing Mezcal?
Mezcal is traditionally produced using a method that has remained largely unchanged for centuries. This process begins with the harvesting of mature agave plants, which can take anywhere from 7 to 30 years to reach maturity. The harvested agaves are then prepared by removing their leaves to extract the core, or 'piña.' These piñas are cooked in earthen pits lined with lava rocks and filled with wood and charcoal, which imparts the spirit's signature smoky flavor. After cooking, the piñas are crushed (traditionally with a stone wheel) to extract the juice, which is then fermented naturally with airborne yeast. The fermented juice undergoes a double distillation process in copper or clay stills, resulting in the final mezcal spirit. This artisanal approach contributes significantly to mezcal's depth of flavor and high quality.
What are some classic cocktails that use Mezcal?
Mezcal has gained popularity in the cocktail world for its unique smoky flavor and versatility, making it an exciting base for a variety of classic and innovative cocktails. Some of the most popular mezcal cocktails include the Mezcal Margarita, where mezcal provides a smoky twist on the traditional tequila-based drink; the Mezcal Paloma, which enhances the grapefruit soda's citrus notes with mezcal's depth; and a smoky version of the Negroni, substituting gin with mezcal for a deeper flavor profile. Other favorites include the Oaxaca Old-Fashioned, which incorporates mezcal with agave syrup and bitters, and the Mezcal Mule, a variation of the Moscow Mule that uses mezcal instead of vodka. These cocktails showcase mezcal's ability to elevate drinks with its complex flavors.
How is Mezcal traditionally consumed in Mexico?
In Mexico, mezcal is traditionally savored neat, without the addition of mixers or ice, allowing its full flavor profile to be appreciated. It is often served with a side of oranges sprinkled with sal de gusano, a unique salt made from ground chili peppers, salt, and dried and ground worms (larvae) that feed on the agave plant. This traditional complement enhances the mezcal tasting experience by adding tangy and spicy notes that balance the spirit's smokiness. Mezcal is more than just a drink in Mexico; it is a cultural emblem, frequently enjoyed during celebrations, gatherings, and moments of reflection, embodying the spirit of Mexican hospitality and the rich biodiversity of the region. Drinking mezcal is an experience steeped in tradition, offering insight into the country's artisanal heritage and communal values.
Ingredients like Mezcal
Other Tequila and Mezcals
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