Discover the best Tequila, Mezcal and Sotol from the specialist

All our Tequila, Mezcal et Sotol

Explore our selection of Tequila, Mezcal, and Sotol on Excellencerhum. Discover renowned brands such as Del Maguey, Ocho, and Los Siete Misterios, as well as information on the properties and manufacturing process of these Mexican alcohols.

Mexican spirits are at Excellence Rhum

Whether you're looking to enjoy a premium Tequila or to explore the diversity of Mezcal, our team of experts is here to guide you in your selection.

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What Are the Differences Between Tequila, Mezcal, and Sotol?

Enthusiasts of Mexican alcohol often know about tequila and mezcal, but sotol is also an intriguing spirit to explore. In this article, we introduce the characteristics of these three beverages and their key differences.

Tequila: The Iconic Mexican Spirit

Tequila is undoubtedly the most internationally recognized Mexican alcohol. It derives its name from the town of Tequila, located in the state of Jalisco. This spirit is made from blue agave (Agave tequilana Weber), a succulent plant that primarily grows in this region of Mexico. Tequila has a protected designation of origin (PDO) since 1974, meaning it can only be produced in certain Mexican states.

How Is Tequila Made?

The preparation of tequila begins with the harvest of blue agaves. Their core, called "piña," is extracted and then cooked to convert complex sugars into fermentable simple sugars. After cooking, the piñas are crushed and mixed with water to extract the sweet juice, which is then fermented. Fermentation typically lasts from 24 to 72 hours, depending on the process used. Finally, the fermented liquid is distilled twice to obtain tequila.

Mezcal: An Ancient Tradition

Mezcal is another Mexican spirit, its name originating from the Nahuatl word "mexcalli," which means "cooked agave." Unlike tequila, mezcal can be produced from different agave varieties, although the Agave angustifolia species (also known as espadín) is the most commonly used. Mezcal is primarily produced in the state of Oaxaca, but its production extends to other regions of Mexico as well.

Artisanal Production of Mezcal

The mezcal production process is similar to that of tequila, with a few notable differences. First, agaves are cooked in underground stone ovens and covered with earth, imparting mezcal's characteristic smoky flavor. Additionally, fermentation usually takes place in wooden or clay vats and can last up to four weeks, following traditional methods. Finally, distillation occurs in copper or clay stills.

Sotol: The Hidden Treasure of Northern Mexico

Less known than tequila and mezcal, sotol is a spirit originating from the arid regions of northern Mexico, particularly the states of Chihuahua, Durango, and Coahuila. It is made from the Sotol plant (Dasylirion wheeleri), which belongs to a different family from agave. Sotol also has a long history of consumption in Mexico, dating back over 800 years.

A Unique Production Process

The preparation of sotol begins with the harvest of the plants, which are stripped of their leaves to retain only the core or "quiote." This core is then cooked in similar underground ovens as used for mezcal, crushed, and mixed with water to extract fermentable sugars. Fermentation can last up to two weeks and often takes place in stainless steel tanks. Finally, the fermented liquid is distilled two or three times to obtain sotol.

Comparison Among Tequila, Mezcal, and Sotol

The main differences among these three spirits lie in the raw materials used, production methods, and production regions. Here's a summary of each one's distinctive features:

  • Tequila: blue agave, industrial process, limited PDO mainly to the state of Jalisco.
  • Mezcal: various agave varieties, artisanal process, primarily produced in the state of Oaxaca.
  • Sotol: Sotol plant, unique process, originating from the arid regions of northern Mexico.

In terms of taste, tequila is generally sweeter and has a less complex aromatic profile than mezcal, which is known for its smoky character. Sotol, on the other hand, offers more herbaceous and mineral flavors, reflecting the desert terroirs from which it originates.

How to Enjoy These Mexican Spirits?

To fully appreciate the taste nuances of tequila, mezcal, and sotol, it's recommended to enjoy them neat, at room temperature, using a tasting glass or a "veladora" (candle-shaped glass) to honor the South American tradition. They can also be consumed in cocktails, such as the famous Margarita for tequila or the Mezcal Mule for mezcal. For sotol, original recipes like the Sotol Sour or the Desert Shandy are also worth exploring.

The Great Tequila & Mezcal Brands

At Excellence Rhum, we offer a selection of the finest tequila and mezcal brands. Discover exceptional spirits, crafted following Mexican traditions, delivering a unique aromatic richness and an authentic immersion into the art of artisanal distillation: