About Blanco Mezcal

About Blanco Mezcal
Blanco mezcal is a spirit from Mexico that can be made from as many as 18 different types of the agave plant, some cultivated and some wild. Most are produced in the Mexican state of Oaxaca. A blanco mezcal is distilled in a copper still (sometimes double distilled) and is not aged in oak, thus preserving a clear appearance.

Mezcal is often confused with tequila, as both are made from agave. But while tequila must be made from one specific blue agave, mezcal can be produced from eighteen different types of agave (maguey). There are two types of mezcal, those made exclusively from maguey and those made from at least 80% maguey mixed with other ingredients. Mezcal has similar aging terms as tequila, such as reposado and añejo, but generally mezcal is more of an artisanal product, so examples of mezcal vary more than tequila.

Most are double-distilled, while some are triple-distilled and then aged for several years in oak barrels. Flavors range from smoked herbs and pepper to tobacco and charred fruits. Serve these on their own, in an adventuresome cocktail, or with a cigar.

Top Picks for Blanco Mezcal

Del Maguey San Pablo Ameyaltepec Single Village Blanco Mezcal
97 points
$124
Funky and fruity with light smoke and nice heat, this is exceptionally delicious.
Mezcal de Leyendas Verde San Luis Potosi Mezcal
97 points
$49.99
A sweet, savory, salty, juicy display of complexity and finesse; enjoy this Blanco Mezcal liberally.
Awards: 2021 Best Mezcal
97 points $49.99
Mezcal Vago Mezcal Ensamble En Barro
96 points
$69
Sweet and herbaceous and surprisingly subtle for the higher proof with a very warming roasted nut sweetness on the palate; enjoy frequently.
Del Maguey Minero Single Village Blanco Mezcal
96 points
$99
Cocoa nibs, smoked leather, citrus, roasted berries, grilled nuts... so much complexity and deliciousness; nom nom nom.
Lobos 1707 Blanco Mezcal Artesenal
96 points
$54
An delightfully rich, complex Mezcal for all manner of occasions.
Salvadores 70 400 2020 Artesanal Espadín Joven Mezcal
96 points
$73
A complex and interesting Mezcal with a wonderful balance of spice, smoke, and sweet that keeps you coming back to the glass.
Patatús Mezcal Ancestral Joven
95 points
$148
Aggressively funky, smoky, and delectably different, with an intense and rich nose.
Montelobos Espadín Joven Mezcal
95 points
$39
A sweet, savory, and funky fun Mezcal that will surprise and delight your palette with every sip.
Mezcal de Leyendas Cenizo Durango Mezcal
95 points
$99.99
A savory and deeply satisfying Mezcal with excellent food affinity.
95 points $99.99
Mina Real Blanco Mezcal
94 points
$39
Fruity, savory, and sweet in a super tasty menagerie; something about this makes you want a smoky pulled pork sandwich.