Here are the best mezcals on the market that you can buy. It is a popular spirit for cocktails such as the Negroni, as well as the Margarita and the Martinez. Is mezcal stronger than regular tequila? Higher alcohol concentration mezcals are made by distilling the mezcal twice, which results in a higher alcohol content. Contact at [emailprotected]or learn more about us here. On the surface, tequila and mezcal are similar; tequila has a smooth, sweet flavor, whereas mezcal is savory and smoky on the inside. There are several differences between mezcal and tequila, including taste and how and where theyre produced. The process of making mzar is more complicated than that of tequila, which is made from the same ingredients. A cocktail with tequila, triple sec, and lime juice in it is commonly served with salt on the rim. Mezcal and tequila are made via distinct production methods. Can modern paleo practitioners drink alcohol. However, that's not necessarily correct. Third, it is important to take a small sip of mezcal, let it sit in your mouth for a moment, and then exhale through your nose. Among its many community and ecological efforts, Gracias a Dios is highly prolific when it comes to planting agave, and they pay their workers 25 percent higher than the local standard daily salary in Matatln. Mezcal producers have a more savory and potent product that is now slowly competing against tequila. Its clear color makes it perfect for any mixed drinks and cocktails. Yep, they're a bit more interesting and offer more variety than tequila! Tequila and mezcal are both in the range of about 38% to 55% ABV (Alcohol by VolumeAlcohol by VolumeAlcohol by volume (abbreviated as ABV, abv, or alc/vol) is a standard measure . Stir everything together thoroughly, then cover and chill for at least 2 hours. The pias are roasted in an underground pit filled with hot rocks for many days. Depending on the type of agave plant used, it can influence the taste and produce either floral, vegetal, or smoky flavor. When we caught up on the phone, he debunked more myths and shared more intel. The outer leaves of the agave plant are chopped away from the pia or the heart of the agave plant, which the distillers utilize to manufacture mezcal. Whats unique about this mezcal, she says, is that the producer ferments the agave juice in the skin of a cow, giving the spirit an interesting lactic, floral flavor. Both drinks have a high alcohol content, with an average of 40% ABV, but mezcal has a higher alcohol concentration - 55% ABV, 15% stronger than regular tequila. This gives Mezcal its characteristic smoky flavor. Mezcal has a very strong smoky flavor, with lingering rich and sweet notes. Our top pick is the Del Maguey Vida Mezcal (view at Drizly) because of its versatile nature. The agave has matured 15-18 years before harvesting creating the perfect mix of jalapeno and green bell pepper tastes on the nose with a light mint finish. Ti Ph Printing l n v hng u v dch v cung cp my in vn phng, mc my in. There are more than 200 types of agave plants, 45 to 50 of which are used to make mezcal, Gaston says. Devil Springs Vodka. Both of thee drinks are pretty strong, with at least 40% ABV, but mezcal has a stronger concentration of alcohol. "The tequila region, when they understood [mezcal's popularity], they were like, Let's make our own little thing here," Gaston says. This mix hits it perfectly. My restaurant experience began in 1997 at the age of 14 as a bus boy. How to drink mezcal Mezcal can be enjoyed in a cocktail but is best served neat without ice. Some brands also make it from other . I was born and raised in Mexico, and my passion for food began at a young age. A certain mezcal can be stronger than a specific tequila, but the opposite can also be true. Tequila is a type of mezcal produced by roasting agave in industrial furnaces before distilling it 2-3 times in copper pots. productslearn more about Mezcal and tequila bottles usually have the same alcohol content or ABV percentage printed on their labels. Its a great brand to get behind, and this bottle is as approachable as it is versatile. Mezcal is a distilled alcoholic beverage that is made from the agave family, often the maguey plant. Kings County Distillery Chocolate Whiskey. Gin is most suitable to make a great vodka cocktail but you can also substitute gin to add its bold taste to your recipes. Mezcal, on the other hand, is earthy and smokey in flavor because of the roasted Agave fruit. Mezcal is often made is small batches, too, another contributing factor to its expense. Encompassing sweet, spicy, floral, and numerous other tasting notes, mezcals offer a diverse collection of flavors that can appease even the pickiest of drinkers. Tequila can only be made from blue agave plants. MyBartender The mezcal sour features the perfect blend of flavors to make it an unforgettable experience like no other - with its lovely frothy mouthfeel in tow for added enjoyment on top off everything else magnificent about this particular drink recipe (we're talking flavor!). Good Ol' Sailor. This allows you to enjoy the flavor and aroma of the mezcal without being overwhelmed by it. However, that's not necessarily correct. She's originally from the Bay Area, has an unhealthy affinity for the Real Housewives of Anywhere, and harbors strong feelings about fruit salad. It is more enjoyable with the smokiness of mezcal in the background and a salt rim. Some people may find that mezcal tastes stronger than tequila while others may not notice a difference. Agave can be made from a variety of different types, giving it a much broader flavor range. is a flavored or infused mezcal, such as those with the iconic maguey worm, which is actually a moth larva. It used to be a sort of outlawed spirit, much like moonshine in the American south. Many people find that the taste of mezcal is usually stronger than that of tequila, but that's another matter. It measures at 55% ABV, 15% stronger than regular tequila. Stolichnaya 100. It's great for both sipping and mixing, and we love the brand's dedication to preserving the culture and heritage of Mezcal. While this isn't the typical old-fashioned, the components create a timeless classic. So, tequila is a type of mezcal, since any spirit made from agave is classified as such. Factory employees are paid 250 percent above minimum wage and are also provided healthcare. Mezcal gets its smokiness from the extensive roasting process. Agave tequilana weber is used in this spirit, which is made with botanicals, additives, and water. Tobal is referred to as "the king of mezcals" because the agave plant is more scarce and harder to harvest. If you're not sure where to start exploring this fantastic drink, don't worry, we have you covered. First is the Joven or Gold Tequila, a mix of, Reposado or rested is aged between two months to a year, aejo aged between one to two years, and the. If you're not the biggest fan of tequila, perhaps it's time you venture into the more diverse world of mezcals. This particular kind of agave is primarily grown in Oaxaca, Mexico, a region known as the home of mezcal (2). Distillers began inserting a worm, known as a gusano, at the bottom of the mezcal bottle in the mid-twentieth century, which became a well-known curiosity across the globe. Celine Bossart is a New York-based freelance journalist and photographer specializing in wine and spirits. So, he created IZO. For starters, tequila is made from the blue agave plant, while mezcal can be made from any type of agave. The vast majority of mezcal comes from the Mexican state of Oaxaca, but it can be produced in any of the following regions (2): On the other hand, tequila has more limitations regarding where it may be produced. IZO is made with only wild agave, which tends to have a much stronger flavor. Larvae really do find their way into agave plants (and therefore the spirits produced from them), but many American bars add the little guys to bottles just to boost sales. Svedka 100. If you order a mezcal or a tequila in a bar, either neat or on the rocks, chances are you'll get a spirit that's about 40% ABV, which is the same strength as the vast majority of spirits sold around the world. Instagram. Traditionally, mezcal is sipped neat, so its flavors can tend to overpower a mixed drink. This mezcals distiller, Amando Alvarez, is known for his collaborations with a local foundation aiming to reforest indigenous agave species and protect the biosphere in the process. Mezcal is stronger than tequila if you base it on its alcohol concentration. Many people believe that mezcal has a more robust flavor than tequila. However, mezcal is technically not stronger than tequila because tequila and mezcal are bottled with the same ABV (alcohol by volume) per bottle. Tequila and mezcal are both in the range of about 38% to 55% ABV (Alcohol by Volume), which is 76-110 proof.It just has a reputation as one of the stronger spirits. Mezcal ( / mskl /, American Spanish: [meskal] ( listen) ), sometimes spelled mescal, [1] is a distilled alcoholic beverage made from any type of agave. Lisa is a freelance lifestyle writer specializing in nightlife, leisure, and celebration. The brand produces three types of mezcal, reposado, anejo, and joven, each made by using 100% Espadin agave. Absolut 100. Mezcal, the definitive agave distillate (tequila is technically a type of mezcal) is having its moment in the U.S. Our shop uses cookies. Where does agave come from? It just has a reputation as one of the stronger spirits. The young mezcal is called Joven, and for tequila, it is Blanco. has all the ingredients for a straightforward and spirited mezcal cocktail. The taste of mezcal is distinguished by its smoky flavor, which comes from cooking the agave hearts in stone pits in the ground. Vodka, is a type of alcohol, tend to be higher in calories. While mezcal may display the earthy, rustic taste in a mezcal margarita, this liquor has won over so many admirers. They are a bit more complex than the vodka version, and make a great cocktail for winter months. One vodka brand can make much stronger vodka than the other. Is mezcal stronger than tequila? To merit the name, mezcal must be at least 90 proof and is often distilled even stronger than that. Espadin is the most common among these plants, which is also a common mezcal variant. The agave plant is native to Mexico and has been used to make alcoholic beverages for centuries. Mezcal comes in varying colors that alter the flavor, similar to pale and dark rums. In short: You can blame agave for endless fun nights, and all the drunken texts you never meant to send. They have always been dedicated to preserving the culture and heritage of mezcal, as well as the unique characteristics that each producer contributes.. Sign in There's only one type of agave plant that makes tequilathat's blue agavebut mezcal can be made from about 30 different varieties of agave. Often described as a smokier version of tequila, mezcal is a type of distilled drink made from a variety of different agaves. Taste: Mezcal has a warm smokiness and the flavor will depend on the type of agave used to produce it. 34-35 Dronningens Gade Hibiscus Alley, Charlotte Amalie, US Virgin Islands. 10, 15 years ago, much less mezcal around. Creating this distilled spirit is similar to how wine grapes are made. As a marketing gimmick, he began putting "worms" in all of his bottles. While the regular mule is delicious, this variation is much better since the mezcal adds a degree of depth that the ordinary vodka base lacks. You may also come across mezcals with flowery, fruity, or earthy scents. Soon after, other mezcal producers followed suit. The Nahuatl term mexcalmetl (the most prominent and significant language spoken by Mexican civilizations such as Aztec), which means "oven-roasted agave plant," is the source of the name "mezcal." The brand is a collection of agave spirits from many small producers throughout Mexico. A negroni is already a bittersweet cocktail. That is why tequilas are considered mezcal [2] but not all mezcal is tequila. However, there are some vodka brands that are much higher in alcohol content (up to 50% ABV), so it really depends on the specific products being compared. Mezcal is made from a variety of Agaves, including rojo, amarillo, oro, and falcone, whereas tequila is made from 100% blue Agave. Spirytus vodka. Tequila and mezcal are both between 38% and 55% alcohol by volume , which is around 76 to 110 proof. The brand focuses on providing quality mezcal while staying as sustainable as possible. Is mezcal a vodka? There are different strengths of tequila and mezcal, but the standards for each drink are 40% and 55% ABV. I started my blog as a way to share my love of Mexican food with the world, to show people that Mexican food can be healthy, delicious, and easy to make. With a 47% ABV, you should sip this refreshing Oaxacan mezcal. By clicking on Accept you are agreeing to our terms of service and privacy policy. Simply pour a shot of Mezcal and a splash of lime juice into an ice-filled. Forgot your password? Mezcal can taste stronger than tequila because it has a more savory and richer flavor. The types of agave plants used to make mezcal take a long time to reach maturity; anywhere from seven to 35 years, depending on the type of plant. Distillers began inserting a worm, known as a gusano, at the bottom of the mezcal bottle in the mid-twentieth century, which became a well-known curiosity across the globe. The two have the same strength and can get a person drunk if consumed fast. Gin is one of the best vodka substitutes and it offers lemon, juniper, and vanilla flavor. The vodka-margarita combination is ideal for anyone who enjoys vodka or dislikes the taste of tequila. These brands are known for their smooth taste and high quality. Pechuga is often used for special occasions, such as an offering for Dia de los Muertos altars. Beer before liquor, never been sicker; liquor before beer, youre in the clear is a well-known saying, but you may wonder whether it holds any, Kombucha tea has become quite popular and is linked to several benefits, but you may be concerned about its potential alcohol content. Many people find that the taste of mezcal is usually stronger than that of tequila, but that's another matter. When you visit the site, Dotdash Meredith and its partners may store or retrieve information on your browser, mostly in the form of cookies. Mybartender.com | Privacy. Our recipes are curated and written by some of the best in the business from around the world. The mezcal variation replaces the vodka with mezcal, a smoky, earthy spirit made from agave. Tequila is produced in a way similar to mezcal but it is not smoked and it is twice distilled to produce an 80-proof liquor no stronger than gin or vodka. January 23, 2023, 3:45 pm Her preferred agave spirit cocktail is a Tommys Margarita made with a Joven Mezcal. Tequila, which is a type of mezcal, contains additives. It has an herb and citrus aroma and has flavors of honey, peanut, brown sugar, wood, chocolate, and fruit notes. Mezcal aficionados insist this is the only way to truly enjoy and savor its full flavor. In the United States, several of these kinds are not accessible. This leaves a more concentrated spirit with a stronger flavor compared to tequilas. (For everything bad, mezcal, and for everything good, mezcal.) A blend of agaves is mixed for this alcoholic beverage. Many celebrities have been getting into the tequila game recently, but tequila With the popularity hike for Margaritas and boosted by celebrity owners and Bourbons with double maturation, especially finished in port wine barrels, are huge Possible Reasons Why Mezcal is Stronger Than Tequila, Mezcals do not have more alcohol content than tequila. But is mezcal stronger than tequila? If you want a trademark cocktail that's simultaneously sweet, tangy, salty, and smoky, then the Mezcal, Toro Bravo in Portland, Oregon, serves a mezcal-based cocktail that hits all the right notes: spicy, sour, and sweet, with just a trace of salt. There are over 200 species of agave, but not all of them contain enough fermentable sugar to be made into mezcal (3). This means that gin will have a higher alcohol content than vodka because the flavoring and redistilling process allows more of the alcohol to be extracted from the grain. It is herbaceous and has cedar-like aromatics giving it an earthy finish. Espadin agave is one of the most prevalent species of the plant, making it the most popular source of mezcal. We call it liquid silk. However, that's not necessarily correct. This brand makes its types of mezcal with 100% Espadin agave, and each variety of mezcal is reflective of the village in which it is made. . Cline Bossart has spent the past seven years writing about all things wine and spirits, and mezcal has become a personal favorite of hers along the way. However, mezcal is not always necessarily stronger than tequila. What Do You Mix With Mezcal? Tequila and mezcal are both in the range of about 38% to 55% ABV (Alcohol by Volume), which is 76-110 proof. It is considered organic since it is from the agave plant with no additives included. The brand has a revolutionary spirit and adheres to traditional ways of making smooth mezcals. Is Mezcal Stronger Than Vodka There is no simple answer to this question as the strength of mezcal can vary greatly depending on the producer and the specific batch. Mezcal, on the other hand, has a different price range. Joven: mezcal . document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); GIPHY App Key not set. This co-op implements a host of different sustainability efforts, such as planting three times as many agave plants as they harvest. This is not your typical mixed drink. Mezcal is made by distilling agave. A Moscow mule has all the ingredients for a straightforward and spirited mezcal cocktail. Mezcal may be manufactured from 40 to 50 different species. Tequila is more expensive than vodka. Ted's Bio; Fact Sheet; Hoja Informativa Del Ted Fund; Ted Fund Board 2021-22; 2021 Ted Fund Donors; Ted Fund Donors Over the Years. Is tequila stronger than vodka? When mezcal came to the United States, it did so with a little kitsch, and Gaston wanted to prove it could be sophisticated, elegant, and chic. Their unique production processes and whether or not the liquor was aged also greatly influence the taste. Because of the pia's cooking method, mezcal has a stronger taste than tequila. Mezcal and, No additives are added, not even sugar. Similar to vodka, gin is clear, colorless, and has minimal difference in the flavor profile. Mezcal is pure 100% maguey, which explains the concentrated liquid. However, to have an authentic experience with mezcal, you should pair it with Mexican dishes. A lot of it comes down to the specific agavewhere it is, what variety it is, and when and how it was harvested. If you want it to taste differently, you'll need to mix it into a cocktail. The vast majority of tequila and vodkas are aged at room temperature and bottled at room temperature at 80 proof. When you add in the smokiness of mezcal, you've got yourself a match made in heaven. What Happens When You Drink on an Empty Stomach? Mezcal and tequila are not the same Mezcal and tequila are often confused for one another, as they're both Mexican. Tequila has a sweeter taste because of the sugar and honey added to enhance the taste. This leaves a more concentrated spirit with a stronger flavor compared to tequilas. A tequila drink is the most popular beverage on the planet. Tequila and mezcal are both in the range of about 38% to 55% ABV (Alcohol by Volume), which is 76-110 proof. Abocado means semisweet. It will then be distilled and filtered before the agave spirit is bottled. Substitutes: mezcal (similar, but stronger-tasting) OR gin OR white rum OR vodka vodka Notes: This flavorless, colorless liquor is a great mixer, since it blends unobtrusively with other ingredients. Mezcal is a distilled spirit that has recently experienced a sharp rise in popularity. Is mezcal stronger than vodka? The complexity of flavors differs mainly because of the ingredients and the cooking process used in making tequila and mezcal. Post author: Post published: June 8, 2022 Post category: instagram office office Post comments: barefoot water skiing world rankings barefoot water skiing world rankings There is no one answer to this question as everyones taste buds are different. Overall, tequila is sweeter, smoother, fruitier, and more complex and toasty from its oak aging. Ever since I found it around 10 years ago, I love using it as a smoky side note especially with how popular mezcal has become. If we're talking ABV content, it mostly depends on the bottle of vodka or tequila you choose. It also substitutes tequila without making it unrecognizable as a margarita. This is why gin typically has an ABV of around 40%, while vodka's ABV averages closer to 35%. In 2012, after a decade and a half of learning all facets of the industry, I opened my first restaurant/bar. The Durango mezcal is made from Cenizo agave that grows in the northern area of Mexico. A certain mezcal can be stronger than a specific tequila, but the opposite can also be true. These are also mixed in cocktails. #logo img{width:155px}@media only screen and (max-width:47.5em){#logo img{width:120px}}. Oaxaca makes more than 90 percent of the world's mezcal supply; Durango is also famous for its mezcal production. 57 100 Proof. It is an unaged mezcal. Wild yeast is normally added to the blue agave during fermentation. While mezcal may display the earthy, rustic taste in a mezcal margarita, this liquor has won over so many admirers. Second, mezcal is traditionally served in a small glass or cup. Learn more about the. Production: Mezcal is made by cooking the agave in pits underground. In a Negroni, any mezcal may be substituted for, taking the center of attention. Pour over ice, give it a good shake, yes, throw in that lime wheel, and enjoy. But mezcal is more distinct and is used in cocktails or as a substitute for a powerful spirit like whiskey. "They truly care about mezcal, its culture, and its people. This same type of plant is also used to make mezcal. The pias are allowed to rest for a month while the juice ferments within the pia husk. However, if you really want a mezcal to savor, try Sombra Ensamble Mezcal (view at ReserveBar). There are several ways to interpret "stronger" in spirits. Tequilas are sweeter with flavors that are fruitier and more complex. On the other hand, Mezcal is distilled in clay pots after being heated in earthen pits lined with lava rocks and loaded with charcoal and wood. That smoke can be mild at times and strong at other times. Ultimately, the higher alcohol content is what makes gin stronger than vodka . While it is a flexible element in a cocktail, it is recommended to test mezcal on its own before making a drink with it. tequila fares better and has fewer calories per shot than vodka. The success of this brand directly impacts the people and communities who produce it, a rarity when it comes to agave distillates.". Serve with or without ice in old-fashioned double glass or a bucket glass. One of the key differences between these spirits is the place of origin they could be made. Tequila, which is a type of mezcal, contains additives. Price at time of publish: From $37 for 750ml Bottle, "Sustainability is at the heart of Banhez, says Mariah Kunkel, Brand Development Director forBanhez Mezcal Artesanal. This mezcal is made from wild Tepextate agave. To merit the name, mezcal must be at least 90 proof and is often distilled even stronger than that. For mezcal, the traditional cooking process occurs in large underground pits lined with volcanic rock. It also substitutes tequila without making it unrecognizable as a, Fill the shaker about three-quarters full of. Mezcal is made in a variety of ways, but the most common method is to roast the agave plant in a pit oven. . However, in other countries, especially in the United States, mezcal is taking center stage as a craft cocktail ingredient. Mezcal Negroni also really easy to do, so you'll be able to relax in no time. When the Spanish conquistadors came in the 16th century, they started distilling the agave liquids to manufacture mezcal. Both liquors have the same ABV range, 35% to 55%, 75-110 proof. Mezcal brands are nowadays more sophisticated, nuanced, and interesting than ever, thanks to the improved taste they have developed. If these distilled spirits are aged inside oak barrels used for white wines for more than a year, they are labeled mezcal or tequila aejo. You can find out more about our use, change your default settings, and withdraw your consent at any time with effect for the future by visiting Cookies Settings, which can also be found in the footer of the site. It is usually enjoyed in a spicy margarita or bloody maria. Is mezcal stronger than vodka? The second thing to consider is that tequila is typically distilled longer than mezcal, which gives it a higher alcohol content and thus, more calories. Password* Toon Hide All content on this website is for informational and educational purposes only. Read: That stuff's expensive. Creating this distilled spirit is similar to how wine grapes are made. The level of booziness they display is roughly the same as that of the general population. The Naked and Famous drink is as striking as its name from the first sip! This drink also has a distinct flavor that is enjoyed by all. It just has a reputation as one of the stronger spirits. In the 1950s, a mezcal manufacturer discovered larvae in a batch of his alcohol and felt the insect enhanced the flavor. The famously smoky spirit seems like a prime candidate for an alcohol-softening dash of juice or soda if ever there was one. It is made in the artisanal method using a copper pot still and has tasting notes of quine, anise, and a strong minerality. The state is naturally diversified, including woods, sandy beaches, and desert topography. The Espadin is double distilled in copper pots and made from 100% espadin agave. Agave comes from the agave plant, which is only grown in the dry regions of Mexico. gemini and scorpio parents gabi wilson net worth 2021. is mezcal stronger than vodka. Mezcal can give you the euphoric and energized feeling the same way that stimulants do. You don't have to choose between Mezcal and tequila with this contemporary old-fashioned because it has both. One option is mezcala majorly trending Mexican liquor that's made from agave, like tequila, but is ultra-pure in terms of ingredients and craftsmanship. Nothing on this website should be taken as professional advice and we always encourage responsible drinking. and restaurants and bars where IZO is sold on the brand's site here, and every bottle comes with a unique one-of-a-kind stopper. To make mezcal, the liquids within the pia are distilled twice. "Made from Tepeztate and Tobal agaves, this is an excellent firsthand taste of the high Oaxacan Sierra as these wild agave plants are very closely tied to their terroir," he notes. Most tequila variants are bottled immediately after filtration. Traditionally, the wood used in making mezcal is used as a firestarter, and it is served neat, with a splash of water to cleanse the palate and hydrate the drink. is mezcal stronger than vodka. I come from a family of passionate cooks, and I learned early on that cooking is a great way to show your love for others. Tequila and mezcal are both between 38% and 55% alcohol by volume (ABV), which is around 76 to 110 proof. Many people believe that mezcal has a more robust flavor than tequila. Whether youre a traditionalist or brand new to the world of mezcal, youre likely to find a preparation method that suits your taste. This will help you determine if you want something light and fruity or deep and full-bodied. But she also likes to get a bit fancy every now and then. One of the most popular combinations is vodka and ginger beer. A Weber Agave is available in a blue hue. There's also mezcal ancestral, made with exclusively ancient processes, such as clay pot distillation instead of stainless steel. Many people find that the taste of mezcal is usually stronger than that of tequila, but that's another matter. Serve mezcal with traditional Oaxacan tlayuda. Internationally, mezcal has been recognized as an Appellation of Origin since 1994. This typically leads most people to believe that mezcal is stronger than tequila. There are three types of mezcals, the regular mezcal produced with modern and industrial technology. Just remember to drink responsibly. Please check settings. In general, mezcal is typically around 40% alcohol by volume (ABV), while vodka is usually around 35% ABV. Should you go with the classic. Pour about 1 cup of the margarita mixture into a cocktail shaker half-filled with ice. It's quite a bit stronger than other bubbly brunch cocktails thanks to the vodka, but that shouldn't stop you from giving it a try! Tequila and mezcal are both between 38% and 55% alcohol by volume (ABV), which is around 76 to 110 proof. Since mezcal is made with various wild and rare agaves, sustainability is an important cause for many mezcal brands and enthusiasts. (2023), Madeira vs Marsala Wine: Whats the Difference? Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. Overall, both spirits are relatively low in calories, but mezcal will be the higher of the two. Both mezcal and tequila fall in the range of 38 to 55 percent alcohol by volume (ABV). "Mezcal is becoming the spirit of. While it is a flexible element in a cocktail, it is recommended to test mezcal on its own before making a drink with it. Serve with or without ice in old-fashioned double glass or a bucket glass.