Mexican liquor like tequila?

Are you itching for some tequila and want to learn more about other Mexican liquors that can ease your thirst? Look no further! We’ve compiled the ultimate list of everything you need to know about Mexican liquor, so buckle up amigos!

What is Mezcal?

If there’s one other drink besides tequila that comes close to being as popular among Mexicans, it would be Mezcal. You might have even heard someone say ‘Tequila’s cousin’. But hold on – what even is a mezcal?

Explanation of Mezcal

Mezcal (pronounced may-scahl) is a distilled alcohol made from the agave plant – but not just any type of agave plant- only certain varieties work with this special recipe.

It’s often described as smoky and intense with hints of earthiness, making it an excellent alternative for whiskey lovers who love their drinks woody. It’s also perfect when enjoyed straight-up or added in cocktails.

How does it differ from Tequila?

Well, technically all mezcal is classified as tequila but not all tequilas are classified as “mezcall.” Confused yet?

To put things clearly: A mezcal is produced solely in nine states across Mexico while the production of tequila belongs exclusively to designated areas like Jalisco(), Michoacán ,Nayarit(), Guanajuato() and Tamaulipas().

Is Jenkem a family member too?

Sotol: Another Beer-Like Drink from Chihuahua!

Didn’t we tell you there were many options aside from good old’ Tequili-Tilla ? This desert-friendly liquor is gaining popularity outside its native land state due to its similarity with fruit brandy by way fuller body than gin or vodka-like drinks.

It has been said that when the Spanish conquistadors came and saw indigenous people drinking it, they quickly believed its roots were unholy since pre-Hispanic alcohol is nothing like their previously experienced flavours. Little did the Conquistadors know about all of Mexico’s perfectly safe hallucinogens on offer!

What Does Sotol Taste Like?

Sotol carries a slightly bitter taste with notes of citrusy sweetness. It can be enjoyed neat, in a cocktail or mixed with different types of fruit juices for a refreshing take.

Raicilla Elusive Spirit

For those who prefer flavors that are more robust & pungent than your average liquor; perhaps there’s no better fit than Raicilla.

Explanation Of Raicilla

Produced in southwestern states such as Jalisco() and Nayarit(), this home-brewed moonshine(^) is typically made from Agave Lechuguilla which isn’t allowed to be used for Tequila production but classified as wild agaves hence labelled raicillas during distillation.

Unlike the other Mexican liquors we’ve spoken about here so far – Mexican law requires “raicilleros” to produce their spirits using traditional methods only. Perhaps it’s all thanks to how rare these ingredients are compared to just any type you find lying around? Worried though, these rules lead some producers (clandestinely) producing questionable quality product without proper-quality-catch backing them up.

Nevertheless-raicillas do have many supporters rallying behind them due their one-of-a-kind flavor profile which has notes similar to tequilas yet unique too!

Bacanora – The Boozy Secret Hailing From Sonora

Imagine if mezcal was created by the same batch of ingredients listed above but actually follows state laws? Well then you’d end up having something called Bacan-o-ara!

Explanation / Origin Story

This spirit has been produced since 17th century and is legally produced in Sonora. The plant utilized for Bacanora is a wild version of agave Tucsonensis, which grows only in very specific conditions.

Due to the comparisons often drawn between mezcal and bacanora, producers of latter are striving to set themselves apart from their existing competition by embracing and promoting this unique spirit with new traditions like serving it chilled or mixing it up with some spicy Margarita

Pulque – A Mesoamerican Party Starter

Let’s pause on all distilled liquors we’ve been discussing here so far; perhaps there’s space for introducing you folks to something traditionally called brewed alcohol?

Y’all listening? Well, then let us introduce you to “Mezcalito’s older brother,” known as Pulque.

Explanation of Pulqu-e

A cloudy & thick drink made using fermented agave plant sap served without carbonation – almost exactly like potato vodka whose trademark mustiness that can leave those unfamiliar getting thrown off!

It was once consumed during religious ceremonies but now its popularity has led commercial brewers into the game where different types flavors are trialled such as pistachio pulques or fruit-infused one.

Charanda – Authentic Sugar Cane Distilled Rum

Did someone say rum? No no…we said Char-anda!.

History / Origin Story:

Originating from Uruapan in Michoacán(), this distillate comes about when craftsmen boil down sugar cane juice until they finally distill essence packed molasses under perfect measures & technique producing tequila-like liquor.

Doesn’t sugarcane sound refreshing compared to consuming plants dug out fresh soil? And just think how fun Tik Tok dances will be created after throwing back a couple shots of charanda (wink wink) at your next party!

But charcoal based filters needlessly strip-flavors away other brands try copying charandas making production of it seem manipulative sounding! Fret not, authentic stuff can be found in local markets across the region where it’s mostly consumed during holidays.

Tecuí: Coffee If It Was Also An Alcohol?

Fun name – yes, but what is this?

Explanation / Origin Story:

Tecuí which originates from Michoacán ()- makes use of distilled roasted corn along with anise seed and piloncillo to make a distinctive flavored liqueur that’s often described as coffee or molasses.

Although how do spirits like tecui come into being one might ask? Often by getting creative when circumstances don’t allow easy sourcing-out premium liquors. Hey at least you’re ensuring minimum waste, right?

So if you’re looking for something sweet & down-to-earth while avoiding classics (pun intended), then give a try to some-Tec-you•eayhhhhh!

Damiana: A… Love Potion?

A herbal liqueur originating from Baja California state -Damiana – has had quite the interesting history for purposes used through ages past.

Explanation/History

It was utilized on Aztec battlefields; tinkered with by Hispanic monks in 18th century who scientifically tested its aphrodisiac properties; “patented”[according to manufacturer]- serving allegedly even as an aid against influenza!

And all these medicinal claims surrounding it led legislation of Mexico putting restrictions on sale of Damiana only till they eventually lifted those laws because–#Science y’all!

But hey why worry about benefits for your body’s immune system when there are plenty of other reasons wink that justifies purchase.

Jalisco’s love for Tequila

Ah…the granddaddy of them all. The alcoholic staple well-known worldwide most considerably associated-with?- Jalisco()! But let’s take things up a notch shall we?

Tequila Variations:

We wondered if to start listing out those brands deemed best and most expensive? Naaahhhh way too generic right-now.

Instead, here are some lesser known tequila varieties that you may not know about but totally should:

Añejo

This is a refined version of the real deal we’re all used to; having gone through minimum aging process of at least 2 years slowly morphing via subtle woody notes plus Vanilla taste.

You could enjoy this offered as aperitif or attested during tastings with some sips alongside chocolate pairings!

Reposado

Sounds somewhat similar – right? The key difference between this particular spirit type comes from even less time spent waiting in oak barrels picking up slight hints-of-lemon adding wise zesty notes perceptible when drinking it neat.

If martini glasses filled-to-brim floats your boat ,the latter can be enjoyed on rocks mixed with tonic water —a summer cocktail favorite

Clamato Preparado:

Liquid vegetable salad but make it alcohoolic!

Explanation/Origin Story

Especially for fans who juice their tooth for different types of tomato juice—the next item on our list will definitely knock things off! This delightful beverage made using clam-tomato puree is called “Clamoto preparado” which serves as good fix-up after rough night outs.

Some bright soy sauce sweetness intensifies flavors gained-through its passage through stomach giving posh life sensation thereby driving further allure towards street vendors peddling them!!

So how do you like-a dem’ apples- err…clams?

About Worms In Mezcal….

The myth there’s always an actual worm (or larvae) found inside mezcal bottles has been debunked a number of times though still keeping lots people wary before tasting. But where did notice come about in-first-place?

Many speculate that it stems back to literature including protagonist devouring worm hanging out inside his cup prior to seizure or even bet-taking inspired if one could actually swallow down wriggly worm(s) sitting at bottom.

But we can firmly say that no legit mezcal manufacturers contemplate-adding-worms in their production so let’s finally put myth literally to bed-thanks.

Conclusion: Cheers To Diversity!

At the end of the day (or night, should I say), Mexican liquor provides us with an incredible selection of drinks and flavors for any taste bud! Not only are they culturally significant but they are a testament to Mexico’s rich history and unique flora.

So why not step outside your comfort zone next time you order a drink? Give some of these lesser-known liquors a try—you never know what hidden gem you might discover! Salud, amigos!

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