Mezcal and tequila are both popular alcoholic beverages that originate from Mexico. While they share some similarities, there are distinct differences between the two, particularly in terms of their alcohol content.
In terms of strength, mezcal is generally considered to be stronger than tequila. Mezcal typically has an alcohol by volume (ABV) percentage of around 55%, whereas tequila typically has an ABV of 40%. This means that mezcal has a higher concentration of alcohol, making it slightly stronger than tequila.
I personally discovered this difference when I first tried mezcal during a trip to Oaxaca, Mexico. The bartender warned me about its potency and advised me to sip it slowly. As I took my first sip, I immediately noticed the intense and robust flavor, along with a noticeable kick from the alcohol. It was definitely stronger than the tequilas I had tried before.
It’s important to note that not all tequilas and mezcals have the same alcohol content. There are variations in strength within each category. However, the standard strength for mezcal is 55% ABV, while for tequila it is 40% ABV.
To better illustrate the difference, let’s compare mezcal and tequila using a hypothetical scenario:
Imagine you are at a bar and you order a shot of mezcal and a shot of tequila. As you take a sip of the mezcal, you can instantly feel the warmth spreading through your body. The higher alcohol content intensifies the flavors, giving the mezcal a bolder and more complex taste. You might notice hints of smokiness or earthiness, depending on the type of mezcal you are drinking.
On the other hand, when you take a sip of tequila, you still experience the strong alcoholic kick, but it might feel slightly less intense compared to the mezcal. Tequila tends to have a smoother and more refined taste, with flavors ranging from sweet and citrusy to peppery and herbal.
Mezcal is generally considered to be stronger than tequila due to its higher alcohol content. Mezcal typically measures at 55% ABV, while tequila is usually around 40% ABV. However, it’s worth noting that there can be variations in strength within each category, so it’s always a good idea to check the label or ask the bartender for specific details.