Tequila vs Mezcal: What's Actually the Difference?

Tequila and mezcal are frequently treated as two separate spirits, but the real relationship is closer to a subset: every tequila is technically a type of mezcal, made under a stricter, narrower set of rules. Here's exactly how they differ.

The Core Relationship

Mezcal is the broad legal category covering agave spirits made across a wide designated region of Mexico, from over 30 different agave varieties. Tequila is a specific, more tightly regulated type of mezcal, restricted to one agave variety (blue Weber agave) grown in a smaller designated region centred on Jalisco.

Agave Variety

Tequila must be made from 100% blue Weber agave (Agave tequilana).

Mezcal can be made from over 30 recognised agave varieties, each contributing different flavour characteristics — espadín is the most common, but varieties like tobalá and tepeztate produce noticeably different, often more herbal or mineral profiles.

Cooking Method

Tequila producers typically steam or oven-cook the harvested agave hearts (piñas) to convert starches to fermentable sugars.

Mezcal is traditionally cooked in earthen pits lined with hot volcanic stones, and the agave is often covered with earth and left to roast for several days. This pit-roasting is the primary source of mezcal's signature smoky character — a step tequila production doesn't traditionally include.

Region

Tequila can only be produced in Jalisco and small designated zones in four neighbouring states.

Mezcal can be produced across a considerably larger designated region spanning several Mexican states, most famously Oaxaca, which produces the large majority of mezcal on the market.

Flavour Profile

Tequila tends toward bright, vegetal, peppery notes (unaged) or vanilla and caramel (aged in oak).

Mezcal is generally smokier and more earthy, though the intensity varies considerably by agave variety and individual producer — not every mezcal is aggressively smoky.

Which Should You Choose?

If you want a familiar profile for margaritas and classic tequila cocktails, tequila is the more versatile, widely applicable choice. If you're curious about a smokier, more artisanal, terroir-driven spirit — closer in spirit to a single malt Scotch than to a mixed drink base — mezcal rewards slower, more exploratory tasting. Many enthusiasts end up appreciating both for different occasions rather than choosing one over the other permanently.