Often referred to as the “soul of Mexico,” mezcal is a traditional Mexican spirit with a rich history dating back centuries. Unlike its popular cousin tequila, which is made specifically from the blue agave plant, mezcal can be distilled from a variety of agave species, each contributing unique flavors and characteristics to the final product. Deeply rooted in Mexican culture and craftsmanship, mezcal is celebrated for its complex smoky flavors and artisanal production methods.
What is Mezcal?
Mezcal is a distilled spirit made from the agave plant, which is grown primarily in the Mexican states of Oaxaca, Guerrero, Durango, San Luis Potosí, Zacatecas, and Michoacán. Unlike tequila, which is made exclusively from blue agave, mezcal can be made from a variety of agave species, including espadín, tobala, and tepeztate. The production process involves roasting the agave hearts (piñas) in underground pits, which gives mezcal its distinctive smoky flavor. Mezcal is known for its earthy, vegetal notes and varying levels of complexity depending on the agave species and production techniques.
Types of Mezcal
Mezcal is divided into several categories based on aging:
Joven (young): Unaged or minimally aged mezcal, typically bottled immediately after distillation to preserve its raw flavors.
Reposado (Rested): Mezcal aged in oak barrels for several months to a year, resulting in a smoother and more complex spirit.
Añejo (aged): Mezcal aged in oak barrels for over a year, developing rich aromas of wood, spice and vanilla.
Each type of mezcal offers a distinct drinking experience, from the vibrant and fiery Joven to the nuanced and refined Añejo.
How Mezcal is made
The production of Mezcal is a labor-intensive, artisanal process. It begins with the harvesting of mature agave plants, which are then roasted in underground pits filled with hot rocks and covered with soil and agave fibers. The cooked agave is then crushed, fermented and distilled in clay or copper stills. This traditional method gives mezcal its signature smoky flavor and complex character, reflecting the terroir and craftsmanship of the region.
Tasting and appreciating mezcal
To fully appreciate mezcal, follow these steps:
Choose the right glass: Use a copita or small tulip-shaped glass to concentrate the aromas.
Smell the aromas: Inhale gently to capture the earthy, smoky and fruity notes of the mezcal.
Sip slowly: Take a small sip and let it linger on your palate to appreciate the flavors, which can range from herbal and spicy to sweet and smoky.
Pair with Traditional Snacks: Enjoy mezcal with traditional Mexican snacks such as chapulines (grasshoppers), mole, or Oaxacan cheese to enhance the tasting experience.
Mezcal Cocktails and Mixology
Mezcal’s bold and smoky profile makes it a versatile spirit for cocktails. Popular mezcal cocktails include the Mezcal Margarita, made with mezcal, fresh lime juice, and agave syrup; the Mezcal Negroni, made with mezcal, Campari, and sweet vermouth; and the Smoky Mezcal Old-Fashioned, a mezcal twist on the classic cocktail with muddled sugar, bitters, and a smoky mezcal finish.
Pairing Mezcal with food
Mezcal’s smoky and complex flavors pair beautifully with a variety of foods. Enjoy mezcal with traditional Mexican dishes like mole poblano, grilled meats, seafood ceviche, or spicy tacos to complement its earthy undertones and enhance the dining experience.
Mezcal Cocktails and DIY Recipes
Mezcal’s smoky and complex flavor profile makes it an excellent base for a variety of creative cocktails. Whether you prefer a classic mezcal margarita or a unique mezcal concoction, here are some DIY recipes to try at home:
1. Mezcal Margarita
Ingredients:
2 oz mezcal
1 oz fresh lime juice
1/2 oz agave syrup
Salt for rim (optional)
Instructions:
Rim a glass with salt (optional) by running a lime wedge along the rim and dipping it in salt.
Fill the glass with ice.
In a shaker, pour the mezcal, fresh lime juice, and agave syrup over ice.
Shake well and strain into the prepared glass.
Garnish with a lime wedge or slice.
2. Spicy Mezcal Mule
Ingredients:
2 oz mezcal
3/4 oz fresh lime juice
1/2 oz agave syrup
4 oz ginger beer
Sliced jalapeño (optional)
Lime wheel to garnish
Instructions:
Fill a copper tumbler with ice.
Add the mezcal, fresh lime juice, and agave syrup.
Top with ginger beer and stir gently.
Garnish with a lime wedge and sliced jalapeño for a spicy kick.
3. Mezcal Old-Fashioned
Ingredients:
2 oz mezcal
1/4 oz agave syrup
2 dashes Angostura bitters
Orange peel for garnish
Instructions:
In a mixing glass, pour the mezcal, agave syrup, and bitters over ice.
Stir until well chilled.
Strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube.
Garnish with an orange peel oil squeezed over the drink.
Oh! Mexico in Miami: A Mezcal Experience
Oh! Mexico in Miami offers an authentic and immersive mezcal experience for enthusiasts. With a curated selection of mezcal varieties, including artisanal joven, reposado, and añejo expressions, Oh! Mexico invites guests to explore the diverse flavors and aromas of this revered Mexican spirit.
Oh! Mexico Locations
Oh! Mexico invites you to experience the vibrant flavors and warm hospitality of Mexico at our various locations, including Ocean Drive, Española Way, and Lincoln Road. Each location offers a unique dining atmosphere where you can enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine amidst the vibrant energy of Miami.
Drinking Mezcal is not just about enjoying a spirit – it is about embracing a rich cultural tradition and celebrating the craftsmanship of Mexican artisans. Whether sipped neat, enjoyed in a cocktail, or paired with flavorful cuisine, mezcal offers a sensory journey that captures the essence of Mexico’s vibrant spirit and heritage. Raise a glass of mezcal, toast to tradition, and embark on a flavorful adventure through the world of agave spirits.
