How to Tell a Good Mezcal

1. Mezcals priced below USD 35 are generally of lower quality. The cost of agave and the labor-intensive process of making Mezcal make it highly unlikely to find a good option at a lower price point.
2. Avoid purchasing Mezcal or any spirit that contains a dead animal inside. These products are often of poor quality, taste like acetone, and are designed to attract unsuspecting buyers.
3. Ensure that the Mezcal you choose is labeled as 100% agave. Never consume Mezcal or Tequila that is not marked as such. Authentic agave spirits are less likely to cause hangovers.
4. Steer clear of low-proof mezcals. With very few exceptions, mezcals with alcohol content below 90 (ABV 45%) are generally of lower quality as they have been diluted.
5. Look for mezcals that feature the name of the master distiller or maestro mezcalero who crafted the bottle. This indicates a level of responsibility and accountability for the quality of the product.
6. Quality Mezcals indicate the specific production location. If no location is provided, it usually means that the bottle is a blend and is generally of lower quality.
7. Give the bottle a gentle shake and observe the resulting bubbles. Large bubbles indicate a higher alcohol content. You can try this with other spirits and impress your friends at your next gathering.
8. Look for Mezcals that include a batch number and the number of liters produced per lot. Lower production numbers are typically associated with higher quality.
9. Before tasting, take a moment to smell the Mezcal. A good Mezcal will have a pleasant aroma, while a bad one may smell like nail polish.
10. Rub a small amount of Mezcal between your hands and take note of the scent. It is likely a worthy choice if you smell the distinctive aroma of agave. If it smells like nail polish, it’s best to avoid it.
11. Finally, don’t hesitate to try it. A good Mezcal should have a distinct flavor of roasted agave.
12. When in doubt, it’s best not to make the purchase.

Picking a good mezcal

“Finding a quality Mezcal among the vast array of options is not as challenging as it may seem. While the market may be filled with mediocre offerings, these 10 tips will assist you in discovering a truly exceptional mezcal.”, mentions Mezcal expert Neil Coleman.

Also read: The 7 Best Affordable Mezcals