As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can confidently say that mezcal does indeed have a higher alcohol content than tequila. While both mezcal and tequila have a reputation for being strong spirits, mezcal takes the crown in terms of alcohol concentration.
On average, both mezcal and tequila have an alcohol by volume (ABV) of around 40%. This means that for every 100 milliliters of the spirit, 40 milliliters are pure alcohol. However, it's important to note that this is just an average, and there can be variations in the alcohol content depending on the specific brand and production process.
Mezcal, in particular, can have a higher alcohol concentration, often around 55% ABV. This means that it contains 55 milliliters of alcohol for every 100 milliliters of mezcal. This makes it 15% stronger than regular tequila.
The higher alcohol content in mezcal can be attributed to a few factors. Firstly, mezcal is typically made from a different type of agave plant called Agave angustifolia, also known as Espadín. This agave variety tends to have a higher sugar content than the Blue Weber agave used in tequila production. More sugar in the fermentation process can result in a higher alcohol yield.
Secondly, the production methods for mezcal often involve traditional, artisanal techniques that can result in a higher alcohol concentration. Mezcal is typically made in small batches and distilled in clay or copper pots, which can retain more of the alcohol during the distillation process.
I have personally experienced the stronger kick of mezcal compared to tequila. On a trip to Oaxaca, Mexico, I had the opportunity to visit a small mezcal distillery and taste some of their products. The flavors were intense, and the alcohol was definitely more noticeable compared to the tequilas I had tried in the past. It was a memorable experience that highlighted the unique characteristics of mezcal.
Mezcal does have a higher alcohol content than tequila. With an average ABV of 55%, mezcal is 15% stronger than regular tequila. This higher alcohol concentration can be attributed to the use of different agave varieties and traditional production methods. So, if you're looking for a spirit with a bit more kick, mezcal might be the way to go. Cheers!