Every Bottle of Mezcal Tells a Story

Mezcal is a traditional Mexican spirit with a rich cultural heritage and a unique production process. Each bottle of mezcal tells its own story, from the selection of the agave plant to the artisanal production method to the region where it was made.

Mezcal is typically made from the maguey (agave) plant, which is native to Mexico. There are many different species of agave, each with unique characteristics that contribute to the flavor and aroma of the mezcal. The mezcal production process is usually done by hand, using traditional techniques passed down from generation to generation. This gives mezcal a distinct character and flavor that sets it apart from other spirits.

The region where mezcal is produced also plays a role in determining its flavor and characteristics. For example, mezcal from Oaxaca is known for its smoky flavor, while mezcal from Durango is known for its fruity and floral notes.

So every time you taste a bottle of mezcal, you are experiencing a unique blend of history, culture, and tradition woven into this special spirit's fabric.

Every Bottle of Mezcal is a Story

Mezcal 101: A Journey Through Taste and Tradition

The world of Mezcal is a complex and diverse landscape, with numerous types, styles, and brands available for consumers to choose from. For those new to this spirit, the sheer number of options can be daunting, making it difficult to know where to begin. To help navigate this exciting and ever-evolving world, let's dive deeper into the key factors that can impact the quality and flavor of a Mezcal.

First and foremost, the flavor profile of a Mezcal is a critical aspect to consider when selecting a bottle. Some Mezcals are smoky, while others are sweet, herbal, or earthy. The flavor profile is largely influenced by the type of agave plant used, the distillation process, and the aging methods.

Another important factor to consider is terroir, which refers to the unique environmental conditions in which the agave plants are grown, including soil, climate, and altitude. This, in turn, affects the flavor, aroma, and texture of the Mezcal.

Aging is another critical aspect of Mezcal production that can impact the quality of the final product. Aging in oak barrels can add new layers of flavor and complexity, while younger Mezcals tend to have a fresher, more straightforward flavor profile.

The variety of agave species used in the production of Mezcal, numbering over 30, adds an extra layer of complexity to its flavor profiles. In contrast, Tequila is limited to a single type of agave, the Blue Webber agave, resulting in a less diverse range of flavors. Some of the most popular species in Mezcal production include Espadín, Tobalá, Tobaziche, and Tepeztate.

Production and distillation are two additional important aspects of Mezcal that can impact the final product. Mezcal is traditionally produced in small batches using traditional methods, such as roasting the agave in a pit oven, which can affect the flavor and aroma of the Mezcal. The distillation process also has a significant impact, with traditional Mezcal typically distilled in copper or clay pots, while more modern Mezcals are distilled in stainless steel.

Finally, the brand and the mezcalero, or the person who produces the Mezcal, can also impact the quality of the final product. Some Mezcaleros have generations of experience and a deep connection to their craft, while others focus on commercial production.

When selecting a Mezcal, it is important to consider the flavor profile, terroir, aging, agave species, production and distillation methods, brand, and mezcalero. By understanding these key factors, you can make an informed decision and find a Mezcal that perfectly suits your taste preferences.

Flavor profiles

Mezcal has a wide range of flavor profiles, which can be influenced by factors such as the type of agave used, the production methods, and the aging process. Some common Mezcal flavor profiles include:

Earthy and Smoky: This is the classic mezcal flavor profile and is often described as having notes of smoke, earth, and a hint of sweetness. This type of mezcal is often made from Espadín agave, which is known for its balanced flavor and is the most commonly used agave for mezcal production. Here are some mezcal brands that are known for having an earthy and smoky flavor profile:

Del Maguey: This brand is known for producing high-quality, single-village mezcals that showcase the unique terroir of each region. The Del Maguey Vida is a good place to start for those seeking an earthy and smoky flavor profile.
Mezcal El Silencio: This brand uses sustainable, traditional methods of production and is known for producing mezcals with an earthy and smoky flavor profile.
Los Danzantes: This brand is known for its commitment to preserving traditional mezcal-making methods and producing mezcals with a distinct smoky flavor profile.
Alipus: This brand produces mezcals from single villages and is known for its smoky and earthy flavor.
Ilegal Mezcal: This brand is known for producing mezcals with a smoky and rich flavor profile, thanks to its traditional production methods and high-quality agave.

Fruity and Sweet: Mezcals made from agave varieties like Tobalá, Tepeztate, or madrecuixe often have a sweet and fruity flavor profile with notes of tropical fruit, banana, and pineapple.

Here are some Mezcal brands known for their fruity and sweet flavor profiles:

Del Maguey Vida
Mezcal Tosba
Montelobos
Wahaka Mezcal
El Jolgorio
Siete Misterios
Mezcalero
Mezcal El Jolgorio
Mezcal Union

Peppery and Spicy: Mezcals made from the agave Espadín, Tobalá, or Tepeztate can have a peppery and spicy flavor profile with notes of black pepper, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

Here are some Mezcal brands known for their peppery and spicy flavor profiles:

El Tinieblo
Mezcal Vago
Mezcalero No. 13
Sombra Mezcal
Los Javis
Mezcal Alipus
Mezcal Por Siempre
Mezcal El Jolgorio
Mezcal Real Minero

Herbal and Floral: Mezcals made from agave varieties like cuixe or Tobalá can have a herbal and floral flavor profile, with notes of rose, jasmine, and herbs like mint and basil.

Here are some Mezcal brands known for their herbal and floral flavor profiles:

Mezcal Vago
Mezcal El Jolgorio
Mezcal Unión
Wahaka Mezcal
El Tinieblo
Los Javis
Mezcal Alipus
Del Maguey
Siete Misterios

Nutty and Woodsy: Mezcals made from the agave variety Coyote or Tepeztate can have a nutty and woodsy flavor profile, with notes of almonds, hazelnuts, and cedar.

Here are some Mezcal brands known for their nutty and woodsy flavor profiles:

Mezcal Vago
Mezcal Unión
El Tinieblo
Mezcal El Jolgorio
Wahaka Mezcal
Siete Misterios
Del Maguey
Mezcal Alipus
Los Javis

It's important to note that the flavor profile of a Mezcal can vary widely between producers and brands, so it's always best to taste and try different Mezcals to find the one that best suits your personal preferences.

Agave Forward

"Agave forward" is a term often used in the Mezcal industry to describe a style of Mezcal that focuses on showcasing the flavors and characteristics of the agave plant instead of using Mezcal as a base for other flavors or ingredients.

Mezcal, made in an "agave forward" style, typically emphasizes the natural flavors and aromas of the agave variety used, such as its sweetness, earthiness, or fruitiness, without overwhelming the drink with spices, smoke, or other flavors. This allows the true character of the agave plant to shine through, making it an ideal option for those who appreciate the unique taste of Mezcal.

However, it is important to note that not all Mezcal is created equal, and the definition of "agave forward" can vary between producers, so it's always best to taste and try different Mezcal to find the one that best suits your personal preferences.

Terroir

One of the unique characteristics of mezcal is its diversity of flavors and aromas, which are influenced by the type of agave used, the production methods, and the terroir (the physical and environmental factors) where the agave is grown.

There are 10 states in Mexico that are officially recognized as producing mezcal: Oaxaca, Guerrero, Durango, San Luis Potosi, Zacatecas, Guanajuato, Tamaulipas, Michoacan, Puebla, and State of Mexico. Each state has its unique characteristics that influence the flavor profile of the mezcal produced there.

Here is a brief overview of the 10 mezcal producing states and their respective impact on flavor profiles:

Oaxaca: Oaxaca is the most well-known state for mezcal production, with nearly 80% of all mezcal coming from the region. Mezcal produced in Oaxaca is known for its complexity, with a smoky and earthy flavor profile. The agave used in production is usually Espadin or Tobala.
Guerrero: Mezcal produced in Guerrero is known for its fruity and floral notes, with a spicy finish. The agave used in production is usually the Agave Cupreata, which is indigenous to the region.
Durango: Mezcal produced in Durango is known for its mild and sweet flavor profile. The agave used in production is usually the Agave Durangensis, which is grown in the wild.
San Luis Potosi: Mezcal produced in San Luis Potosi is known for its light and refreshing flavor profile. The agave used in production is usually the Agave Salmiana, which is grown in the semi-arid region of the state.
Zacatecas: Mezcal produced in Zacatecas is known for its citrusy and herbaceous flavor profile. The agave used in production is usually the Agave Tequilana, which is also used in tequila production.
Guanajuato: Mezcal produced in Guanajuato is known for its smooth and sweet flavor profile. The agave used in production is usually the Agave salmiana, which is grown in the state's central highlands.
Tamaulipas: Mezcal produced in Tamaulipas is known for its bold and smoky flavor profile. The agave used in production is usually the Agave Americana, which is also used in the production of tequila.
Michoacan: Mezcal produced in Michoacan is known for its floral and fruity notes, with a hint of smokiness. The agave used in production is usually the Agave Cupreata, which is also grown in Guerrero.
Puebla: Mezcal produced in Puebla is known for its strong and spicy flavor profile, with notes of citrus and smoke. The agave used in production is usually the Agave Salmiana, which is also grown in San Luis Potosi.
State of Mexico: Mezcal produced in the State of Mexico is known for its complex flavor profile, with notes of smoke, earth, and spice. The agave used in production is usually the Agave Americana, which is also used in tequila production.

With those states, there are various regions that also impact flavors:

Highland (Altiplano) Mezcal: This type of mezcal is made from agave grown in the high plateaus where the climate is cool and dry. Highland mezcals tend to have a bright, floral, and fruity flavor profile, with notes of lemon, green apple, and herbaceous notes.
Lowland (Tierra Caliente) Mezcal: These mezcals are made from agave grown in the warm and humid lowlands where the climate is tropical. Lowland mezcals are sweeter, with ripe fruit, honey, and caramel notes.
Coastal Mezcal: Mezcals made from agave grown near the coast often have a briny, smoky, and maritime flavor profile, with notes of salt, seaweed, and iodine.
Wild Mezcal: Made from agave that grows in the wild, these mezcals can have a complex and diverse flavor profile influenced by the environment where the agave is grown. Wild mezcals can range from earthy and vegetal to smoky and spicy.

Agave species

Here are the top agave species used for mezcal production, in no particular order: again, flavor profiles will vary based on the type of agave used, the production method, and the specific producer.

Espadín (Agave angustifolia) - This is the most widely grown and utilized agave for mezcal production, accounting for over 90% of all mezcal made. It is known for its bright, grassy flavor with hints of smoke and pepper.
Tobalá (Agave potatorum) - This rare agave species is highly sought after for its rich, sweet, and earthy flavor. Tobalá mezcal is often considered the finest and most flavorful mezcal available.
Tepeztate (Agave marmorata) - This agave species is known for its complex flavor profile, with fruit, spice, and smoke notes. It is often used in premium mezcal blends to add depth and complexity.
Arroqueño (Agave cupreata) - This agave species is native to Guerrero and is known for its earthy, smoky flavor profile. Arroqueño mezcal is often used in blends to add a bold, smoky flavor to the final product.
Mexicano (Agave karwinskii) – The flavor profile of Mexicano mezcal is known for its bold, complex, and smokey characteristics. It has a distinctive, herbaceous aroma with notes of green herbs and earthy undertones. On the palate, it is often described as smoky, spicy, and slightly sweet, with a smooth and long finish. The smoke flavor comes from the traditional production method of roasting the agave hearts over an open fire, which imparts a smoky flavor to the spirit. Mexicano mezcal also has a high alcohol content, sometimes resulting in a robust flavor profile.
Tobaziche (Agave spp.) - This agave species is grown in Oaxaca and prized for its sweet, tropical fruit-like flavor. Tobaziche mezcal is often considered one of the finest and most flavorful mezcals.
Coyote (Agave cyanotricha) is known to have a high level of natural sweetness, typical of many agave varieties. It also has notes of fruit and floral flavors, which can vary depending on the terroir and growing conditions. Some people describe the flavor as having a sweet and slightly grassy taste with hints of vanilla and honey. However, it is important to note that the flavor of Coyote agave can vary greatly depending on the harvesting and processing methods used and the region in which it is grown.
Todos Santos (Agave cactus) – Todos Santos is a region in the Baja California peninsula of Mexico known for producing high-quality tequila. The flavor profile of Todos Santos mezcal is typically described as smooth, with agave, citrus, and vanilla notes. Some Todos Santos may also have hints of cinnamon, black pepper, or other spices and may be slightly sweeter than other tequilas.
Cuixe (Agave karwinskii var. covillei) - The agave plant is grown in the Mexican state of Oaxaca and is considered one of the rarest and most highly prized varieties. Cuixe mezcal is known for its earthy and smoky flavor, with hints of tropical fruit, spices, and a subtle sweetness. Some people describe it as having a slightly herbal and vegetal taste, with notes of jalapeño pepper and green olive. The smoky flavor comes from the traditional process of roasting the agave hearts in underground ovens, which imparts a rich and smoky character to the final product. The flavor of Cuixe mezcal is further enhanced by its smooth and silky texture, which makes it a great option for sipping neat or in cocktails. The complex flavor profile of Cuixe makes it a popular choice for mezcal aficionados looking for a unique and premium experience.
Barril (Agave Karwinskii var. harrisoniana) - known for its rich, sweet, and fruity character. Some common flavors and aromas associated with Barril mezcal include ripe tropical fruits such as pineapple, banana, and papaya, along with vanilla, honey, and caramel notes. The sweet and fruity notes of Barril mezcal make it a popular choice for cocktails and mixing with other spirits, while its smooth and full-bodied texture makes it a great option for sipping neat.
Sierra Negra (Agave atrovirens var. Huevona) - Sierra Negra mezcal is typically described as having a bold, smoky, and earthy flavor, with hints of leather, chocolate, and tobacco. The smoky character comes from the traditional process of roasting the agave hearts in underground ovens, which imparts a rich and smoky flavor to the final product. In addition to its smoky character, Sierra Negra mezcal has a distinct sweetness and a slightly fruity flavor, with notes of ripe tropical fruit such as pineapple, mango, and papaya. The flavor profile of Sierra Negra is further enhanced by its full-bodied and smooth texture, which makes it a great option for sipping neat or in cocktails.
Madre-Cuishe (Agave mapisaga) - Madre-Cuishe mezcal is typically described as having a fruity, floral, and earthy flavor, with notes of green apple, honey, and rose petals. The fruity character of Madre-Cuishe mezcal comes from the natural sweetness of the agave plant. At the same time, the earthy and floral notes are imparted by the traditional process of roasting the agave hearts in underground ovens.
Jabalí (Agave salmiana var. crassispina) - Jabalí mezcal is typically described as having a smoky, earthy, and slightly sweet flavor, with notes of leather, chocolate, and tobacco. In addition to its smoky flavor, Jabalí mezcal has a slightly sweet and fruity character, with hints of ripe tropical fruits such as pineapple, mango, and papaya. The sweet and fruity notes add balance and complexity to the flavor profile, making Jabalí mezcal a great option for sipping neat or in cocktails.

Note that the classification of agave species can vary depending on the taxonomist and that more agave species are used for mezcal production than just these 20. The specific species used for mezcal production depends on the region, the local traditions, and the characteristics of the particular agave species.

These are just a few of the many agave species that can be used to make mezcal, and a wide range of flavor profiles and styles can be explored in this traditional spirit.

Ensambles

The flavor profile of an ensamble mezcal is complex and can vary greatly depending on the type of agave used, the production methods, and the region in which it was produced.

Typically, ensamble mezcals blend two or more different types of mezcal to create a unique flavor profile. Some common flavor notes in ensamble mezcals include smoke, earthy, spicy, and sweet notes. The smoke flavor comes from the traditional production method that involves roasting the agave in underground pits with wood fires. The earthy flavor comes from the agave plant and is accentuated by the production process. The spicy notes can come from adding spices or peppers to the blend. Finally, the sweet notes come from the natural sugars in the agave plant.

It's worth noting that mezcal can have a distinct smoky flavor that can be overpowering for some people, so it may not be for everyone. However, many mezcal connoisseurs appreciate the unique flavor profile of this spirit and enjoy exploring different types of mezcal to discover new flavor combinations.

Mezcaleros

Mezcaleros are the traditional distillers of mezcal, a type of distilled spirit made from the agave plant native to Mexico. It is difficult to determine the "top" mezcaleros as it is a highly artisanal process and often varies greatly based on region, family tradition, and personal style. However, some well-known and highly regarded mezcaleros include:

Aquilino Garcia Lopez - Known for his Tobalá and Tepeztate mezcals
Damian Sada - A leading producer of mezcal in the Oaxaca region
Mezcal Tosba - A family-owned mezcal production company in the state of Guerrero
Mezcal Vago - A company founded by Aquilino Garcia Lopez's son, Rafael, that produces a wide range of mezcal varieties.
Real Minero - A family-owned mezcal production company in the state of Oaxaca.

This is by no means a comprehensive list, but these mezcaleros are recognized for their quality and traditional production methods.

Production Style

Mezcal production styles vary widely between producers and regions, but some common production methods are used to create Mezcal. Here are a few of the most common Mezcal production styles:

Traditional: Traditional Mezcal production methods are used by small-scale, family-owned Mezcaleros who have passed down the production techniques from generation to generation. Traditional Mezcal production often involves roasting the agave in underground ovens and using a horse-drawn tahona (a large stone wheel) to crush the cooked agave.
Artesanal: Artesanal Mezcal production is similar to traditional Mezcal production but may involve using modern equipment and techniques to improve the efficiency and consistency of the production process. Artesanal Mezcal production often uses traditional cooking and distillation methods and is typically produced in smaller quantities than industrial Mezcal.
Industrial: Industrial Mezcal production is used by larger-scale Mezcal producers who use modern equipment and techniques to produce Mezcal on a larger scale. Industrial Mezcal production often involves large stainless steel stills and may involve quick-cooking methods and shortcuts to reduce the production time.
Craft: Craft Mezcal production is a hybrid of traditional and industrial production methods and is used by Mezcal producers who aim to create high-quality Mezcal using traditional techniques and ingredients but with the help of modern equipment and techniques. Craft Mezcal production often involves the use of traditional cooking and distillation methods and may involve the use of aging techniques to improve the flavor and quality of the Mezcal.

It's important to note that a Mezcal's production style can significantly impact its flavor profile, so it's always best to taste and try different Mezcals to find the one that best suits your preferences.

Distillation

Mezcal distillation profiles are a crucial aspect of the spirit's production, and they play a significant role in determining the unique flavor and character of the mezcal.

Typically, mezcal distillation profiles involve the following steps:

Fermentation: The cooked agave hearts are mashed, and the resulting juice is fermented in large vats or open-air containers for several days to a few weeks.
Distillation: The fermented juice is distilled in a still to separate the alcohol from the water and other impurities. Mezcal is usually distilled twice in copper or clay stills.
Aging: Some mezcal is aged in oak barrels, while others are bottled immediately after distillation. Aged mezcal will have a smoother, rounder flavor profile compared to unaged mezcal.

Aging

The age classification for Mezcal refers to the length of time the Mezcal has been aged in oak barrels or other containers before bottling and consumption. There are several age classifications for Mezcal, including:

Joven (Young) - This is a clear Mezcal that is unaged or has been aged for a very short period, usually less than two months. Joven Mezcal is usually bottled directly after distillation and has a fresh, agave-forward flavor profile.
Reposado (Rested) - This Mezcal has been aged in oak barrels or other containers for a period ranging from two months to one year. As a result, Reposado Mezcal has a milder flavor profile than Joven Mezcal, with some hints of oak from the aging process.
Añejo (Aged) - This Mezcal has been aged for a minimum of one year but can be aged for several years in oak barrels or other containers. As a result, Añejo Mezcal has a more complex flavor profile than Joven and Reposado Mezcal, with stronger oak, vanilla, and caramel notes from the aging process.
Extra Añejo (Extra Aged) - This is a relatively new classification for Mezcal, introduced in 2006. Extra Añejo Mezcal must be aged for a minimum of three years in oak barrels or other containers. It has a rich, smooth flavor profile with strong oak, vanilla, and caramel notes.

It's important to note that the age classifications for Mezcal are not regulated by law, so the exact length each type of Mezcal is aged can vary between producers. The age classifications listed above are general guidelines, and the actual flavor profile of each Mezcal will depend on the specific producer, agave variety, and other factors.

The Joy of Exploration

Mezcal is a unique and complex spirit that is unlike any other alcoholic beverage. This is because each batch of mezcal is unique, even within the same brand. Several factors contribute to the differences in taste and quality of mezcal, including weather conditions, the type of land where the agave plant is grown, and other factors such as the production and aging processes.

For this reason, mezcal is a drink that requires exploration and a keen palate. Mezcal connoisseurs are passionate about discovering the intricacies of this spirit and savoring each sip. They take their time to fully appreciate the complex flavors and aromas inherent in every bottle of mezcal.

Whether you are a seasoned mezcal drinker or just discovering this spirit for the first time, it is important to remember that every bottle of mezcal is a unique experience. So, open your mind and let your senses guide you as you delve into the rich and fascinating world of mezcal.

Here are some tips to help you navigate the world of Mezcal:

Start with a Joven Mezcal: If you are new to Mezcal, it's a good idea to start with a Joven (young) Mezcal. These Mezcals are unaged or only briefly aged and have a fresh, agave-forward flavor profile that can give you a good introduction to the world of Mezcal.
Experiment with different agave varieties: Many different types of agave are used to make Mezcal, each with its unique flavor profile. Try different Mezcals made from different agave varieties to get a sense of the range of flavors available in Mezcal.
Taste before you buy: Many Mezcal producers and retailers offer tastings or samples, so take advantage of these opportunities to taste different Mezcals before you buy. This will give you a better idea of what you like and don't like.
Read labels and descriptions carefully: Pay close attention to the label and descriptions of the Mezcal you are interested in. This information can tell you about the agave variety used, the production methods, and the aging process, giving you a better understanding of what to expect in terms of flavor and quality.
Try different styles: Mezcal can be made in a variety of styles, from smooth and sweet to smoky and savory. Try different styles to find the one that you like best.
Sip don't shoot: Mezcal is a complex spirit best appreciated when sipped slowly rather than shot. Sip the Mezcal to allow yourself to experience its flavor profile fully and appreciate its subtleties.

By following these tips, you can begin navigating the world of Mezcal and find the Mezcals that best suit your tastes and preferences.

We hope you enjoy exploring this one-of-a-kind spirit's unique flavors and aromas. Whether you're a seasoned mezcal drinker or are just starting your journey, we invite you to savor each sip and let your taste buds lead the way.

Cheers to discoveries and a lifetime of mezcal enjoyment!