What is the difference between mezcal and raicilla?

What is the difference between mezcal and raicilla?

Unlike traditional, double-distilled mezcals, raicilla is typically single-distilled. Because Jalisco has the second-greatest biodiversity of agaves outside of Oaxaca, distillers use a range of plants in its production, such as Maximilliana, Americana, pata de mule, or mule’s foot (which is similar to an espadin).

Is raicilla a Mexican spirit?

Raicilla ([raj. ˈsi. ʝa]], “little root”) is a distilled spirit originating in the south western part of the Mexican state of Jalisco. Like tequila and mezcal, it is a product of the agave plant.

Where is raicilla made?

state of Jalisco
Like its Oaxacan cousin, mezcal, raicilla is an ancient spirit distilled from pit-roasted, fermented agave piñas, the heart of the agave plant. Produced in the Mexican state of Jalisco, raicilla has a subtle smokiness, but is generally more pungently acidic, fruity and floral than either mezcal or tequila.

What does raicilla taste like?

What does raicilla taste like? More fragrant than Tequila and without the signature smokiness of mezcal, raicilla is noted for floral and vegetal overtones. But the taste comes down mostly to terroir. Carbajal Díaz points to the distinction between the dry coastal and sweeter mountainous raicillas as a perfect example.

What is the difference between tequila and raicilla?

Raicilla, otherwise known as “spiritual beverage” shares similar processing methods as mescal and tequila. The big difference is the plant , Agave Inaequidens, an endemic specie to the state of Jalisco. And unlike tequila, raicilla is developed by means of seeds.

Is mezcal smoother than tequila?

It has an agave-forward flavor and has smoother, richer flavor when aged (labeled resposado or añejo). Mezcal brings a smoky flavor to drinks. A little goes a long way! Often it’s used in combination with tequila to make smoky spins on classic drinks, like the Mezcal Margarita or Mezcal Paloma.

Is raicilla a Smokey?

Raicilla tends to be fruitier (and more tequila-like) than the deep, smoky mezcals for which Oaxaca is famed. The spirit is a favorite in Pare de Sufrir, one of the coolest bars in Guadalajara—the heart of Mexico’s tequila-producing region.

Is mezcal the same as moonshine?

Unlike tequila, mezcal doesn’t come from a gleaming factory but is made in small batches in primitive copper alembic and sometimes clay pot stills. “Mezcal is the moonshine of Mexico,” says Raul Yrastorza of the dedicated downtown L.A. mezcal and tequila bar Las Perlas.

Do they make mezcal in Jalisco?

And while true tequila can only be made in the state of Jalisco, Mexico, mezcal can be made (legally) in nine Mexican states (although most of it comes from Oaxaca), and the liquor can use a range of about 30 types of agave. Tequila, on the other hand, must come from the Jalisco region and use at least 51% blue agave.

Is mezcal like moonshine?

Unlike tequila, mezcal doesn’t come from a gleaming factory but is made in small batches in primitive copper alembic and sometimes clay pot stills. “Mezcal is the moonshine of Mexico,” says Raul Yrastorza of the dedicated downtown L.A. mezcal and tequila bar Las Perlas. “From glass to glass, it’s amazing.”

What is the best way to drink mezcal?

Sip it neat “The best way to drink mezcal will always be clean, in small sips similar to small kisses, always accompanied by a little water to cleanse the palate and hydrate,” Medina says. “In this way you can appreciate the different flavors and aromas of mezcal.”

How do you pronounce raicilla?

In contrast to the current bloom of interest, raicilla (pronounced rye-see-ya) had an inauspicious start. Originally distilled as the hooch for farmers and fishermen in the western part of the state, it was taxed by the Spanish crown during the 18th century to make way for imported liquor and wine.

Does Costco sell mezcal?

IZO Mezcal Now Available at Select Costco Locations.

Can I bring mezcal from Mexico?

As long as it’s deemed for personal consumption by the customs agent, there is no rule as to amount which can be imported. However personal consumption can mean different things to different agents.