Mezcal’s flavor is impacted by a large number of factors including the geography, mezcalero, distillation and fermentation process, and possibly most importantly, the type of agave it’s derived from. In this article we’ll discuss the main types of agave and the magueys they produce.

Agave angustifolia

Types of mezcal: Espadin

Maturation: 6-8 years

Agave angustifolia serves as the cornerstone of mezcal production, with more than 80% of all mezcal produced coming from the plant (called Espadin). Mezcals crafted from Espadin agave often have a balance of sweet and earthy flavors, with subtle smoky notes. Variations in geography and production techniques result in a very wide spectrum of flavors and aromas, ranging from floral and fruity to herbal and spicy.

Agave Karwinskii

Types of mezcal: Cuishe, Madrecuishe, Barril

Maturation: 8-12 years

Belonging to the Karwinskii species, Cuishe (Agave Karwinskii) encompasses several subvarieties, each contributing distinct characteristics to mezcal. Madrecuishe and Barril are among the most notable. Madrecuishe typically creates mezcal with herbal and floral notes, while Barril has a much more rich, peppery profile.

Agave convallis

Types of mezcal: Jabali

Maturation: 12-15 years

Scientifically known as Agave convallis, Jabali stands out for its rarity and wild character. Mezcal crafted from Jabali agave tends to be bold and assertive, with intense herbal and vegetal notes. Its scarcity and challenging cultivation contribute to its mystique among mezcal enthusiasts, making it a sought-after variety prized for its rarity and distinctive flavor profile.

Agave marmorata

Types of mezcal: Tepeztate

Maturation: 25-30 years

Tepeztate ranks among the most elusive and revered agave varieties used in mezcal production. Endemic to remote mountainous regions, Tepeztate agave requires decades to mature, resulting in mezcal with loads of complexity and depth. Characterized by its robust vegetal flavors, Tepeztate mezcal often has earthy undertones, complemented by subtle floral and spice notes. Its scarcity and labor-intensive production contribute to its status as a coveted and expensive mezcal.

Agave potatorum

Types of mezcal: Tobala

Maturation: 12-15 years

(Agave potatorum) occupies a revered status in the world of mezcal, celebrated for its rarity and exceptional quality. Endemic to steep, rocky terrain, Tobala agave produces mezcal renowned for its complexity and depth of flavor. With a delicate balance of sweetness, minerality, and spice, Tobala mezcal offers a sensory journey of nuanced nuances, often revealing floral, fruity, and herbal undertones. Its limited availability and labor-intensive production contribute to its status as a prized and sought-after spirit.

Agave rhodacantha

Types of mezcal: Mexicano

Maturation: 8-12 years

Mexicano represents a lesser-known yet distinctive agave variety used in mezcal production. Mezcal crafted from Mexicano agave often exhibits a unique combination of earthy, floral, and spicy notes, with a subtle sweetness underlying its complex flavor profile.

Agave americana

Types of mezcal: Arroqueno, Coyote

Maturation: 15-20 years

Arroqueno stands out for its imposing stature and bold, robust flavors. Mezcal crafted from Arroqueno comes with intense herbal and vegetal notes, with hints of smoke and spice. Its slow maturation process and limited availability contribute to its status as a prized and sought-after spirit, revered for its complexity and depth of character.

Agave salmiana

Types of mezcal: Largo

Maturation: 12-15 years

Mezcal crafted from Largo agave often exhibits very strong flavors with earthy undertones, complemented by hints of caramel and spice. Its lengthy maturation period contributes to a complex and full-bodied spirit, making it a prized choice among mezcal aficionados for its depth of character and distinctive profile.

Conclusion

the diverse world of agave encompasses a myriad of varieties, each contributing its own unique character to mezcal and tequila production. Whether sipped neat or enjoyed in cocktails, mezcal and tequila crafted from different agave varieties invite enthusiasts to savor the essence of Mexico’s vibrant landscapes and traditions.