Mezcal Vs Tequila: What is the Difference
It's a fun night out with friends when you decide to do shots. The bartender asks if you want tequila or mezcal. You're already wondering what's the difference between mezcal and tequila. The insightful bartender at La Terrazza Da Fiola in Miami shares that while all tequila falls under the mezcal category, not all mezcal is tequila.
Indulge in an extraordinary night out with friends at La Terrazza Da Fiola Miami, where we invite you to elevate your experience with our carefully curated selection of tequila and mezcal. As enthusiasts of fine spirits, we understand the importance of choosing the perfect drink, and that's why we're here to guide you through the nuanced world of tequila and mezcal.
Mezcal: A Unique Spirit
Since the 1500s, mezcal is a spirit that's distilled using agave. Tequila is made using a blue Weber agave plant, also referred to as the agave tequila, which makes it a mezcal spirit. However, the blue Weber agave plant isn't the only agave plant used to make spirits. Some other commonly used agave plants include:
Espadín
Tobalá
Tepeztate
In fact, there are up to 40 types of agave plants that can and are used in the production of mezcal. Each of these agave plants brings their own nuanced flavors to the spirit. However, most of the mezcal served at the bar at La Terrazza Da Fiola in Miami is made from the agave angustifolia plant. We pride ourselves on offering a mezcal experience like no other, where every drink tells a story of tradition and flavor.
Mezcal takes the heart of the agave plant and cooks it in a rock-lined pit with a wood fire. This wood fire lends a smoky flavor to mezcal. The flavor of a shot of mezcal vs tequila will have a dramatically different flavor.
Tequila: Mexico's Iconic Spirit
Mexican food and margaritas are almost synonymous, and you'd be hard-pressed to find someone who hasn't heard of tequila. Many of them probably don't know that tequila is a form of mezcal because it's made using the blue Weber agave plant. All tequila is made with the same type of agave plant.
In the mid-1700s, in the town of Tequila, Mexico, the Cuervo family created the first commercial batches of tequila, and they continue to produce one of the most popular brands to this day. It was Don Cenobio Sauza who later exported tequila to the United States in 1893, although the cooking process had been refined through the years.
Key Differences Between Mezcal and Tequila
At La Terrazza Da Fiola Miami, we enjoy exploring the difference between tequila and mezcal. Some of the key differences include:
Type of Agave Plant Used
Mezcal can be created using a variety of agave plants, while the blue Weber agave plant is the only one used in the distilling of tequila. The piñas, or the heart, of the agave plant is used in both the mezcal and tequila distilling process.
Distilling Technique
Typically, the heart of the agave plant for tequila is steamed above ground in ovens, and then it's distilled using copper pots. Mezcal is cooked in a pit and distilled using a wood-burning fire.
Flavor
The wood-burning fire used during the distilling process for mezcal gives it a unique smoky flavor. You won't find this smoky flavor in tequila.
Distilling Locations
While both mezcal and tequila come from Mexico, they're distilled in different regions. Oaxaca is the location where most mezcal is made. Tequila is crafted primarily in Jalisco. Legally, the areas where these two spirits can be distilled are different and without overlap.
Explore the key differences between mezcal and tequila as you embark on a journey of flavors at La Terrazza Da Fiola Miami. From the variety of agave plants used to the distinct distilling techniques, each sip offers a glimpse into the rich heritage and craftsmanship of these Mexican spirits. Whether you're drawn to the smoky allure of mezcal or the elegant notes of tequila, our bartenders are here to ensure your choice is made with confidence.
Visit La Terrazza Da Fiola Miami to Experience the Flavors of Mexican Spirits
With a better understanding of the differences between tequila and mezcal, you can settle the mezcal vs tequila for yourself. Join us during Sunset Happy Hour, Cigar Nights, or any evening to elevate your experience with two-for-one cocktails and live music. Contact us for reservations or with your questions, and let La Terrazza Da Fiola Miami be your destination for an unforgettable night of tequila and mezcal exploration. We look forward to welcoming you at sunset!
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