Mexico’s wonderfully smoky contribution to the drinking world, “MEZCAL” IS MORE than just a spirit, it’s a way of life, the transfer of knowledge handed down through generations.

To understand Mezcal, you have to go back centuries to understand the Ancient culture in Mexico. The traditional methods of making the drink are still respected. “It’s about family and keeping a centuries-old tradition alive” that nowadays is enjoyed worldwide as a great base for cocktails or simply as a straight sipper.

A better understanding of MEZCAl World starts with some facts like its history´s name and artisanal process:

1.- The word Mezcal comes from the rich heritage of Aztec’s culture, where its literal translation is “cooked agave”.

2.- Mezcal is not a type of tequila—tequila is a type of mezcal. Mezcal refers to any spirit destilated from agave. Actually Mezcal comes from several varieties of Agaves and Tequila is only made from one type of Agave -Weber’s blue agave-. 

3.- Actually Mezcal could be made from any type of agave, but most popular type of agave used to produced Mezcal is Espadín, but is not the only one. Wild agaves as Tobalá and Tepextate are highly regarded worldwide for its unique aromas and flavors too. These types of agaves grow wild in canyons at extremely high altitudes and extreme conditions, from there its exclusive tastes and higher prices. 

4..- Since 1994 Mezcal is protected under “Protected Origin Denomination Region” as champagne, on several territories in Mexico according with the Mezcal Regulatory Council (CMR). This regulation gives certainty and security to worldwide consumers about Mezcal quality and process. 

5.- Mezcal gets its smoky taste and smell from the way agave breaks down before fermentation. The agave is placed in a pit dug into the ground and filled with hot coals, where it sits for two to three days, acquiring its signature smoky essence.

6.- Contrary to popular belief, the worm in mezcal isn't a worm at all, it's actually a larva. There are two types of larvae that are often added to mezcal: white-and-gold or red. The white-and-gold larvae live in the agave root, and the red larvae reside in the long leaves of the plant. Despite the worms’ prevalence among mezcal brands, the larvae are not necessary and not add any value on flavor to mezcal final taste. 

7-. According to legend, mezcal was created when a lightening bolt struck an agave plant, cooking and opening it, then releasing the liquid inside. That is why people often refer to it as the “elixir of the gods.”

8.- Every year, Oaxaca as the most important mezcal producer region in Mexico sponsors an International Mezcal Festival. The festival starts July 18, and for under $5 you can drink to your heart’s desire as you explore a maze of traditional mezcal vendors. Don’t miss it and join with us….

THE MEXICAN HERITAGE TO THE SPIRITS WORLD