The Main Differences Between Tequila And Mezcal

Are you a big fan of Mexican food? If so, then you likely enjoy Mexican drinks as well. While Mexico is known for its legendary beers like Corona and Modelo, it is also known for its spirits. Two of the most common spirits for Mexican cocktails are tequila and Mezcal, which are often confused for one another. There are some clear differences between these two spirits.

Aren’t Mezcal And Tequila Actually Almost The Same?

Yes, and no – confusing right? The short answer is that all tequila is Mezcal, but not all Mezcal is tequila. Tequila is just one type of Mezcal, while Mezcal actually incorporates a wide range of different spirits that are derived from agave. Just like how lager and beer are not the same. Lager is one type of beer, but beer incorporates a vast range of drinks made from yeast-fermented malt and flavored with hops.

Mezcal, as we mentioned above, is derived from any of over forty different types of agave plants, however, tequila is only made from one specific type of agave plant: the Blue Weber agave.

Coming from just one kind of agave, one tequila will always taste similar to another kind of tequila. There are a variety of different Mezcals that all taste unique, and may even vary from one batch to another. Of course, as with wine, connoisseur will pick up nuances of flavor differences in tequillas that a novice-sipper will not.

The Agave Are Also Cooked Differently

The reason tequilas are more common in the United States is because they are easier to produce on an industrial scale, with a more consistent taste, because of how they are cooked. The Blue Weber agave is steamed in a brick oven, while the cores (or the piña) of other types of agave used for Mezcal are roasted in small batches in piles on the ground, giving Mezcals a smoky taste, and much more varied flavor than tequila.

Join Us For Lunch & Mezcal Or Dinner & Tequila

Whether you prefer tequila or Mezcal, or even if you prefer an alcohol-free drink and just want to enjoy a delicious meal or some tasty tapas, come visit us! Take a look at our delicious drinks menu.

If you would like to reserve seating for six or more, give us a call at (831) 476-1754.

Questions for us? Send us a message and someone will respond as soon as possible.

We are Tortilla Flats, a proud Mexican restaurant Soquel Village, CA.