Archive · 24 Jul 2025
Tequila vs. Mezcal: A Guide to Agave Spirits
Tequila and mezcal are both drinks made from the agave plant.
Tequila is a specific type of mezcal made from one type of agave in certain areas, and is made using a fast, industrial process, giving it a crisp and clear flavor.
Mezcal, on the other hand, is made with a variety of agave plants from many regions using a slower, traditional process that often includes cooking the agave underground, resulting in a smoky flavor.
There are also American agave spirits being made now, too.
Tequila is a type of mezcal, but mezcal can be made from various types of agave.
Tequila is made only from Blue Weber agave and in specific regions, while mezcal has a broader range of agave and geography.
Tequila production uses industrial methods; mezcal uses traditional methods, including underground cooking.
Both tequila and mezcal have unaged, aged, and extra-aged categories affecting flavor profiles.
American agave spirits are made outside of Mexico, using imported or domestically grown agave.
- Who
- Consumers and those interested in alcoholic beverages.
- What
- The differences between tequila, mezcal, and agave spirits.
- When
- N/A
- Where
- Tequila is primarily made in Jalisco, Mexico. Mezcal is produced in multiple regions in Mexico, and American agave spirits in the United States.
- Why
- To understand the characteristics and differences between tequila, mezcal, and American agave spirits.
Tequila
Mezcal
Flavor Profile
Tequila
Crisp, clean, and slightly sweet flavors, often with notes of citrus or green pepper.
Mezcal
Earthy, smoky, layered flavors ranging from roasted nuts to grilled fruit.
- Tequila Agave
- Blue Weber
- Mezcal Agave
- Multiple varieties, including espadín, tobalá, and tepeztate
- Tequila Production
- Industrial ovens, copper stills
- Mezcal Production
- Underground pit cooking, clay or copper stills
- Tequila Regions
- Mainly Jalisco, Mexico
- Mezcal Regions
- Oaxaca, Durango, Guerrero, Mexico