The world of agave: flavour camps from The Whisky Exchange
Tequila and mezcal differ in many ways, but they share a common origin: the heart of the agave. From this remarkable plant, the people of Mexico derive their two national spirits, each one with its own qualities and nuances
Published: Tuesday 27th June 2023
Mezcal is the wider term for Mexican spirits distilled from the fermented juice of the agave plant. Tequila is one type of mezcal, made using only blue Weber agave in the state of Jalisco – where the vast majority of Tequila is made – and certain designated areas elsewhere in the country. These twin spirits vary enormously, sharing numerous commonalities as well as points of difference. There’s a wide world of Mexican spirits out there, which is why The Whisky Exchange has developed agave flavour camps, to help you find a delicious bottle. See below to learn more.
Agave flavour camps by The Whisky Exchange
Green and grassy
Easy-drinking and refreshing, filled with vibrant notes of cut grass and green peppers.
Try: Fortaleza Blanco Tequila
Fresh and fruity
Packed with bright, fruity flavours, these spirits provide a bold character that will excel on its own and stand up in cocktails.
Try: Del Maguey Vida Mezcal
Fruit and vanilla
These spirits are full of juicy fruit and soft spices, providing depth and warmth, but still vibrant and fruity.
Try: Ocho Reposado Tequila
Mineral and funky
These spirits have a wide range of often unexpected flavours from stony minerality to hints of funky exotic fruit.
Try: Madre Mezcal Ensamble
Woody and spicy
This is all about the flavours of maturation with layers of warming spices and rich woody notes.
Try: Storywood Reposado Tequila – Speyside Cask Aged
Intense and smoky
These spirits have a bold, smoky backbone with warming, peppery spice and hints of fruity agave.
Try: Los Siete Misterios Pechuga Mezcal
The perfect margarita
The diverse range of flavours found in agave spirits has made them a gift for bartenders the world over. Of the countless recipes inspired by tequila and mezcal over the years, one towers above all others, the iconic margarita. This canonical cocktail was first made by Mexican bartenders in the early 20th century and remains little-changed to this day.
Ingredients
- 50ml of your favourite tequila or mezcal
- 20ml orange liqueur
- 20ml lime juice
- Sea salt
Run a lime wedge around the top of a cocktail glass or tumbler. Roll it in flaky sea salt to get a good layer on the outside of the glass. Shake your choice of tequila or mezcal, orange liqueur and lime juice with plenty of ice until it's cold. Strain it into your glass and serve – margaritas are equally good in a cocktail glass or on the rocks, it’s really just a matter of preference.
The Whisky Exchange is the UK’s leading specialist retailer for fine spirits, with three stores in the heart of London in Covent Garden, London Bridge and Great Portland Street. Head to the stores to browse, or shop the range on the award-winning website thewhiskyexchange.com
