If you were asked to name a Mexican alcoholic drink, which one would you say? It would surely be tequila, right? While this is probably the most well-known around the world as Mexican, there is another distillate that is quite similar although less popular called mezcal.
These 2 drinks have several characteristics that differentiate them. Some of these are the plants they come from and their distillation processes. On one hand, tequila can only be produced with blue agave and cooked in steam ovens, while mezcal can be produced with up to 20 different types of maguey and is cooked in wood or stone ovens, hence its flavor has the characteristic of being a bit smoky.
Mezcal dates back to the first inhabitants of what is now Mexico, around the years 1000 to 1500 B.C. These ancient peoples already used the maguey plant for various activities such as building houses, medicinal properties, and producing distillates among others.
Thanks to the fact that this distillate has existed for so many years, it also has a family tradition in its roots. This arises from the fact that mezcal producers, better known as maestro mezcaleros, tavern keepers, or vinateros, pass this title to their children and grandchildren. These new generations learn to make mezcals in family palenques from childhood as a way to support their families financially. As a result of this tradition and their unique knowledge in production, the cultural richness of this drink is maintained.
Another characteristic that makes it unique is that, like tequila, it has a Denomination of Origin from the states of Durango, Guerrero, Guanajuato, Michoacán, Puebla, San Luis Potosí, Tamaulipas, and Zacatecas, although 90% of the total production occurs in the state of Oaxaca.
When you try this drink, it may seem a bit strong, as to be considered Mezcal it must have an alcohol content of between 35% and 55%. Hence this saying arises: For every bad, mezcal; for every good, also, since after a few mezcalitos you forget any sorrow, and at the same time, it is so rich that it is enjoyed in every happy moment.
How is Mezcal taken?
If you don't know how to taste this drink, here are some ideas on how to do it:
In Mexico, we say that mezcal is not taken in shots, but in 'kisses", to start getting fond of it. In other words, you should take little sips from the glass to enjoy its flavor. The most traditional way to do this is 'straight' in a tequila glass or shot, with slices of orange and worm salt.
If the kisses don't work for you and still seem too strong, you can also mix a little mezcal with hibiscus water and you'll have a smoother cocktail but still with the unique flavor of mezcal.
