Restaurant
For decades, Mexican cuisine has amazed us with its vibrant flavors and exceptional quality. But it’s not all about the food; the drinks are a key element, too! That’s why, today, we are celebrating the wide selection of Mexican mezcal we offer at Rreal Tacos.
As an authentic Mexican street food restaurant, we are proud to provide a wide and varied selection of one of the most popular Mexican drinks. The best part? We promote not only well-known brands but also artisanal ones so that our customers can experience more authentic options.
Would you like to know the difference between mezcal and tequila? We’ll mention that topic, too. Join us to explore the origins, cultural significance, and wide selection of Mexican mezcal available at Rreal Tacos.
Let’s start by addressing the history of mezcal. We are not exaggerating when we say that this drink dates back centuries. Its origins are linked to the indigenous people of Mesoamerica, who used agave for multiple reasons, including making alcoholic beverages.
In fact, the earliest known drink based on agave was pulque, a fermented raw agave sap consumed as early as 200 AD. Eventually, that drink evolved into a distilled spirit made from cooked agave: mezcal. Its name comes from the Nahuatl word “Mexicali,” which means “oven-cooked agave.”
Let’s move a bit forward in time. During colonization, mezcal production began spreading throughout Mexico, where each region developed its own version of mezcal based on available agave species and local traditions. In this context, the most important regions were Oaxaca, Jalisco, Durango, and Guerrero, which are still notable for their mezcal production today.
In the late 17th Century, a Spanish nobleman named Pedro Sánchez de Tagle was the first person to mass-produce mezcal in Tequila, Jalisco. Although tequila production became industrial during the 20th Century, mezcal remained a rustic and artisanal beverage that is heavily consumed in Mexico.
Now, what are the actual differences between mezcal and tequila? In simple terms, tequila can only be made using blue agave, while mezcal is more versatile, as it can be produced from over 30 different types of agave.
courtesy of welovemezcal.com
Another key difference lies in their production techniques. On the one hand, mezcal is made using artisanal techniques, including underground pit roasting, to add a distinctive smoky flavor. On the other, producing tequila often involves more industrial processes like steaming in brick ovens.
Another distinctive characteristic is that mezcal is usually distilled twice, while tequila is often distilled up to three times. In terms of aging, mezcal is aged less than tequila, which is generally consumed after the spirit has aged to add more complexity and smoothness.
What about flavor? As it can be produced with a wide range of agave species, mezcal is prized for its smoky and complex flavors, depending on the plant. Tequila’s taste is often smoother and more straightforward.
We cannot speak about Mexican mezcal without mentioning its cultural significance among Mexican people. This beloved drink holds a special place in the heart and soul of Mexico, serving not just as a beverage but also as a symbol of heritage, community, and tradition.
In this sense, its importance goes beyond its consumption, as it plays a key role in several aspects of Mexican life, including rituals, celebrations, and gatherings. Moreover, the fact that it was first introduced by indigenous people adds another layer of significance to mezcal.
When it comes to Mexican festivities, mezcal occupies a central role, as it is commonly served at weddings, birthdays, and national holidays. For example, during Mexican Independence Day, drinking mezcal brings people together to share stories and evoke fond memories.
Given its artisanal characteristics, mezcal has the power to reflect local traditions and practices that have been passed through generations. Undeniably, each bottle tells a story of where it comes from, the agave used to make it, and the methods employed by the mezcalero (mezcal producer).
Lastly, mezcal’s significance also lies within Mexican cuisine. This drink is usually paired with traditional dishes to enhance any culinary experience, just like we do at Rreal Tacos. Pairing mezcal with our dishes is always a great choice.
Next, we’ll dive right into the wide selection of mezcal available at Rreal Tacos. If you’d like to explore tequila options, you’ll find them by clicking here.
Are you ready to visit any of our locations in Atlanta and enjoy delicious Mexican mezcal along with authentic Mexican street food? Then you know what to do!
Now you know; mezcal is more than just a drink. Through its ancient historical roots, cultural significance, and artisanal craftsmanship, it represents the heart and soul of Mexico.
At Rreal Tacos, we love to honor our Mexican roots, and our main goal is to extend that to our beloved customers. Check out our wide selection of tequila & mezcal now!
