SPECIAL SECTION
MIXING WITH MEZCAL
Mezcal 1 01
Mixing wi th Mezcal
Tequila visionary and Del Maguey founder Ron Cooper, along with business partner Steve Olson, share their insights into mixing with the fastest growing spirit in the world. WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN MIXING WITH MEZCAL VERSUS TEQUILA?
Although they are both agave spirits and closely related, mezcal and tequila are completely different animals, especially when mixing in a cocktail. In general terms, mezcal will usually be more earthy and rustic—perhaps with a more smoky flavor—plus it is, at least by definition and tradition, higher in alcohol, making it richer and often more texturally complex. This does not, however, make mezcal more difficult to
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work with, but on the contrary, perhaps even more versatile. Tequila, however, may run the risk of being overpowered by stronger or more potent ingredients if the bartender is
not cautious. Mezcal will stand up to almost all mixers and retain its intrinsic qualities regardless of the power or potency of its accompaniments. While mezcal often is mixed with fruit or juice
