Tequila and Mezcal

[AxeSlash]

OK so I was raiding Selfridge's for some tequila earlier today; there's a mezcal there that I'm debating whether to try (think it was Real Magueyes Anejo).

Is there a vast difference between mezcal and tequila, or can I expect to enjoy a mezcal as much as an equivalent tequila?

I've never tried mezcal and am curious. It's also considerably cheaper than the Herradura repo sat next to it on the shelf.

Thanks.

[jdjohn84]

They taste quite different. Mezcal has a very smokey taste...VERY smokey. That is due to the way it is made. The agave pinas are roasted in earthen ovens, or usually fire pits, whereas tequila is steamed cooked. The roasting gives Mezcal the smokey taste. I have heard some people say it is similar to an Islay Single Malt Scotch.

So far I have tried Del Maguey Chichicapa, and just last weekend tried Ilegal reposado. They are both quite good, but the Ilegal is simply amazing. Of course both are pretty expensive as well. Maybe someone can recommend a bargain brand, but in my experience even a decent Mezcal is over $50USD, usually over $70.

[totallytequila]

Originally Posted by jdjohn84

Maybe someone can recommend a bargain brand, but in my experience even a decent Mezcal is over $50USD, usually over $70.

IMHO...Scorpion Mezcal Blanco is a nice beginner's mezcal. Good quality, flavorful and not to intense on the smoke. You can usually find it priced in the high $20/low $30 range. It would be a good springboard for moving up into the more complex offerings...Del Maguey, Sombra, Ilegal, to name just a few. There are soo many good ones out there!

[MilesDavis]

Del Maguey Minero es el numero uno para mi.