Mezcal is a storied Mexican spirit, has woven its way into glasses worldwide, bringing a touch of the agave-rich landscapes of Mexico to cocktail lovers everywhere.
Mezcal, a distilled alcoholic beverage, shares its roots with tequila as both are crafted from agave plants. However, mezcal distinguishes itself by its diverse production methods, regional variations, and unique smoky flavor profile.
How is Mezcal Made?
The crafting of mezcal involves a straightforward yet essential process that encapsulates the flavors of agave.
- Agave Harvest:
- The journey begins with the harvest of agave plants, often the espadin variety. The agave piñas, the heart of the plant, are harvested and prepared for the next steps.
- Cooking:
- The agave piñas undergo a cooking process, traditionally in earthen pits lined with lava rocks and filled with wood and charcoal. This underground roasting imparts a distinctive smokiness to the mezcal.
- Crushing:
- Once cooked, the agave piñas are crushed, traditionally with a stone wheel turned by horse or mule, or in modern facilities using mechanical crushers. This step extracts the sweet juice or aguamiel from the fibers.
- Fermentation:
- The extracted juice is transferred to fermentation vats, often made of wood or animal hide. Wild yeast or cultivated strains are added to initiate the fermentation process, converting sugars into alcohol.
- Distillation:
- The fermented liquid is distilled in pot stills made of clay or copper, concentrating the alcohol and flavors. This process is often repeated to achieve the desired purity and strength.
- Aging (Optional):
- Some mezcals undergo aging, either in glass or wooden barrels. This optional step imparts additional flavors and complexity to the spirit.
History of Mezcal
Mezcal’s origins are deeply intertwined with the ancient traditions of Mexico’s indigenous people. The production of fermented agave beverages dates back over two thousand years. The Aztecs revered the agave plant, associating it with various deities.
Mezcal production methods have evolved over centuries, with each region in Mexico contributing its unique touch. The spirit’s popularity grew, and by the 17th century, it became a significant part of Mexican culture and traditions.
In recent years, mezcal has experienced a global resurgence, capturing the attention of connoisseurs seeking authentic and diverse expressions of agave spirits.
Popular Mezcal Cocktails
- Mezcal Margarita:
- Ingredients: Mezcal, triple sec, lime juice, agave syrup.
- Method: Shake mezcal, triple sec, lime juice, and agave syrup with ice. Strain into a glass with a salted rim. Garnish with a lime wedge.
- Mezcal Paloma:
- Ingredients: Mezcal, grapefruit soda, lime juice, agave syrup.
- Method: Mix mezcal, grapefruit soda, lime juice, and agave syrup in a glass with ice cubes. Stir gently and enjoy the refreshing citrus notes.
- Oaxaca Old Fashioned:
- Ingredients: Mezcal, reposado tequila, agave syrup, bitters.
- Method: Stir mezcal, reposado tequila, agave syrup, and bitters with ice. Strain into a glass with a large ice cube. Garnish with an orange twist. Full Oaxaca Old Fashioned recipe.
Popular Mezcal Brands
- Del Maguey:
- Del Maguey, founded by Ron Cooper, is renowned for its commitment to traditional production methods and single-village mezcals. Each expression in the Del Maguey range reflects the unique terroir and agave varieties of specific villages.
- Montelobos:
- Montelobos, made by renowned mezcalero Iván Saldaña, focuses on sustainability and traditional production. This brand is known for its commitment to preserving agave biodiversity and crafting mezcals with distinct character.
- Illegal Mezcal:
- Illegal Mezcal, founded by John Rexer, has gained popularity for its approachable and accessible mezcals. The brand’s name refers to its origins, where the production and distribution of mezcal were considered “illegal” activities.
Mezcal – A Versatile Mexican Drop
From the agave fields to the smoky notes imparted during traditional cooking, mezcal is a testament to tradition.
Whether sipping a Mezcal Margarita or exploring the selections of Del Maguey, Montelobos, or Illegal Mezcal, we raise our glasses to the enduring charm of mezcal and it’s addition to many great cocktail recipes.
Here’s to the agave-rich landscapes of Mexico, the whispers of history in each bottle, and the shared moments that make mezcal a cherished part of our drinkies traditions. Salud!
