Mezcal vs. Tequila: What’s the Difference—And Where Should You Start?

Shopping for mezcal or tequila should feel exciting—not overwhelming. At The Bourbon Concierge, we specialize in sourcing standout agave spirits that are equal parts collectible, giftable, and pour-worthy. Whether you're new to the category or looking to deepen your collection, we’re here to help you navigate with confidence.

This guide will break down the essential differences between mezcal and tequila, how to enjoy each the professional way, and which bottles to reach for—whether you're easing in or ready to go all-in on something rare.

Mezcal vs. Tequila: A Quick Primer

Both spirits come from agave and are deeply tied to Mexican culture and craftsmanship—but they’re far from interchangeable.

• Tequila is made only from Blue Weber agave, primarily in Jalisco. It’s typically steamed in ovens and distilled in stainless steel, creating a smooth, crisp, and citrusy profile.

• Mezcal can be made from dozens of agave varietals—often wild—and is slow-roasted in underground pits before distillation in clay or copper. That traditional method imparts earthy, smoky notes that have come to define mezcal’s bold character.

The Bourbon Concierge tip: If you prefer refined, bright flavors, tequila might be your go-to. If you enjoy smoke, terroir, and funk in your spirits, mezcal will win you over.

How to Enjoy Tequila and Mezcal the Professional Way

Whether you're exploring a small-batch Espadín or a luxurious extra añejo, how you sip matters.

Sip neat, in the right glass.

The best agave spirits are meant to be savored straight. For tequila, reach for a Glencairn or small wine glass. For mezcal, opt for a traditional copita or veladora to fully experience the aroma and nuance.

Let it breathe.

Agave opens up over time, revealing layers of character as it rests in the glass. Swirl gently and sip slowly—you’ll notice the evolution with each taste.

Minimal mixers only.

While a crisp blanco or young mezcal can play well in cocktails, high-end bottles are best enjoyed without distraction. A splash of mineral water or a twist of citrus is fine—but anything more risks masking the spirit’s depth.

For mezcal: try it with orange and sal de gusano.

In Oaxaca, mezcal is traditionally served with orange slices sprinkled with sal de gusano (a savory chili-salt blend). It’s a beautiful, authentic pairing—skip the lime and sugar.

Where to Start with Tequila: From Crisp to Collectible

If you’re new to agave spirits, tequila is often the easiest entry point. The flavors are clean and familiar, and the range—from fresh blancos to rich, aged añejos—makes it easy to find your style.

Entry-Level Tequila Picks: Smooth, Elegant, and Gift-Ready

These tequilas are approachable without sacrificing quality—perfect for first-time sippers or thoughtful gifting.

Cierto Reserve Collection (Blanco or Reposado)
Award-winning and endlessly sippable. The Reserve line balances crisp agave with soft floral and vanilla notes, presented in sleek bottles ready for any occasion.

Tequila Ocho Extra Añejo
Single estate and vintage-labeled, this tequila brings oak and spice to the forefront. A refined pick for bourbon lovers transitioning into agave.

Arette Fuerte 101 Proof Blanco
A bold, high-proof blanco with serious character. Expect grassy minerality and citrus zest—great for purists and cocktail enthusiasts alike.

High-End Tequila: Luxe Bottles That Turn Heads

When you’re ready to go deeper—or make an unforgettable impression—these tequilas deliver craft, rarity, and flavor worth savoring.

Fortaleza Reposado Winter Blend 2024
Traditional tahona extraction, seasonal release, and beloved by collectors. This is a rich, round tequila that speaks volumes with every pour.

Clase Azul Day of the Dead 2024 Limited Edition
One of the most iconic bottles on the market, and not just for looks. Inside the hand-painted ceramic is an ultra-premium tequila that’s creamy, warm, and nuanced.

Dos Artes Reserva Especial Extra Añejo
A velvety aged tequila presented in hand-painted ceramic. With its honeyed oak and long finish, it’s perfect for special celebrations—or just showing off.

Cierto Private Collection Extra Añejo
Smooth, dark, and deeply expressive, this extra añejo leads the Cierto lineup with elegance. A prestige bottle that rewards slow sipping.

Discovering Mezcal: From Approachable to Exceptional

If tequila is about clarity and polish, mezcal is about depth and soul. It’s smoky, earthy, and often hyper-local—made by small producers using ancestral techniques passed down through generations.

The key? Start simple, then go deeper.

Entry-Level Mezcal Picks: A Gateway to Smoke and Flavor

For those new to mezcal, starting with a softer, more balanced expression helps ease into the category without overwhelming the palate. This bottle delivers just enough smoke to spark intrigue, while keeping things smooth and sippable.

Los Siete Misterios Espadín Mexicanito Artesanal
A classic Espadín mezcal made with traditional methods, this bottle offers gentle smoke, fresh agave sweetness, and mineral depth. It’s a welcoming introduction to mezcal’s complexity—perfect for sipping neat or pairing with citrus and sal de gusano.

High-End Mezcal: Rare Bottles with a Story

These mezcals are rooted in place and tradition—each one an invitation to explore a region, a process, and a craft few get to taste.

Palenqueros Alberto Ortiz Tobalá Mezcal
Crafted from wild Tobalá agave and distilled by hand, this mezcal is deeply aromatic with notes of wildflowers, spice, and smoke. Its complexity and craft make it a standout among serious agave collectors.

Clase Azul St. Luis Potosi Mezcal
Rare, elegant, and slightly floral—this mezcal bridges the gap between tradition and refinement with Clase Azul’s signature flair. It’s a striking expression with a sophisticated finish, perfect for those who appreciate beauty in both flavor and form.

Shop Mezcal and Tequila That Make an Impression

Whether you’re new to agave spirits or building a top-shelf collection, the right bottle should feel like a discovery. That’s where The Bourbon Concierge comes in.

We specialize in rare and remarkable spirits—bottles with a story, a sense of place, and a reason to pour. From elegant tequilas to adventurous mezcals, every item in our collection has been handpicked to impress.

Browse our tequila and mezcal selections today and find the one that speaks to your palate—or your next perfect gift.

Preview image by Los Muertos Crew.