Mezcal

Mezcal is Mexico’s oldest distilled spirit, celebrated for its deep cultural heritage, artisanal production methods, and complex, often smoky flavour profile. While all tequila is technically a type of mezcal, mezcal itself is a broader category, defined as any agave-based spirit made in specific Mexican states, with production overseen by the Consejo Regulador del Mezcal (CRM).

The name comes from the Nahuatl word mexcalli, meaning “cooked agave,” a nod to the heart of the process. Mezcal is traditionally produced from the piñas (hearts) of agave plants, which are roasted in underground earthen pits lined with volcanic rock. This slow, smoky baking is one of the key distinctions between mezcal and tequila, imparting the spirit’s characteristic earthy, smoky notes.

Unlike tequila, which must be made from blue Weber agave in designated regions, mezcal can be made from more than 30 different agave species, each contributing unique flavours. The most common is Espadín, prized for its versatility and balanced profile, but others like Tobalá, Tepeztate, Arroqueño, and Madrecuixe are highly sought after for their distinctive, often more intense, characteristics.

Mezcal production is concentrated in Oaxaca, which accounts for the majority of output, but other producing states include Durango, Guerrero, Puebla, Michoacán, and San Luis Potosí. Many of the best mezcals are produced in tiny batches by maestros mezcaleros, whose knowledge has been passed down through generations.

Flavour profiles vary widely depending on agave species, terroir, cooking method, and distillation style. A classic Espadín mezcal might offer balanced smoke, roasted agave sweetness, and herbal freshness, while a wild Tobalá could bring tropical fruit, floral perfume, and minerality. Clay pot distillation often adds a softer, earthier tone, whereas copper stills tend to produce a cleaner, crisper spirit..

Mezcal is most often enjoyed neat in traditional clay copitas or small glasses, allowing the drinker to savour its evolving aromas. It also works beautifully in cocktails, from a smoky twist on the Margarita to the Mezcal Negroni or Oaxaca Old Fashioned.

Our Mezcal selection spans artisanal, single-village bottlings and accessible introductions to the category. Whether you’re a curious newcomer or a seasoned agave enthusiast, mezcal offers a unique connection to Mexican tradition, a handcrafted spirit that captures the landscape, culture, and heritage of its origin in every sip.