When it comes to the colors of mezcal, there is a wide range of possibilities. Mezcal can have a soft yellow hue or a deep amber color, depending on various factors such as the type of agave used, the region it is produced in, and the aging process it undergoes. The color of mezcal can also be influenced by the type of wood used in the barrels during aging.
One of the popular choices for aging mezcal is American oak, particularly barrels that were previously used for aging whiskey. These barrels have a unique effect on the mezcal, imparting not only color but also additional flavors. The aging process in oak barrels tends to mellow out the base mezcal and add notes of vanilla and caramel.
I have had the opportunity to taste mezcal that has been aged in American oak barrels, and the color transformation is quite remarkable. The once clear and transparent liquid takes on a beautiful golden hue, reminiscent of a warm summer sunset. It is truly a sight to behold and sets the stage for the sensory experience that follows.
In addition to American oak, mezcal can also be aged in barrels made from other types of wood, such as French oak or even local Mexican woods like mesquite or pine. Each type of wood imparts its own unique characteristics to the mezcal, resulting in different colors and flavors.
It is important to note that not all mezcal is aged in barrels. In fact, many traditional mezcals are bottled directly after distillation, without any aging process. These mezcals are often referred to as joven or “young” mezcals, and they tend to be clear in color, allowing the natural flavors and aromas of the agave to shine through without any influence from wood aging.
To summarize, the colors of mezcal can vary from a soft yellow to a deep amber, with the potential for additional colors and flavors from the type of wood used in aging. American oak barrels, in particular, are known for mellowing the mezcal and adding notes of vanilla and caramel. Whether aged or unaged, mezcal offers a diverse range of colors and flavors that can be appreciated by any enthusiast.