Best mezcals to try 2025

Since 1994, a protected denomination of origin has been granted for mezcal; an international recognition that certifies that only products made in a specified area of Mexico can be called mezcal, similar to that for champagne. This status limits the production of agave spirits called mezcal to certain Mexican states (although this is always changing).

Mezcal is similar to tequila, but whereas tequila can only be made from blue agave, mezcal can be made from many types of agave. It gets its characteristically smoky flavour from how it’s made – the agave is traditionally slow roasted in underground pits to convert the starch in the plant into sugar that can be fermented into alcohol and distilled.

The influence of terroir on the flavour of the agave is hugely important and contributes to producing complex and intricate differences from expression to expression. Different regional techniques play a part as well as generational learnings, location and climate.

The knowledge and techniques used in mezcal production are passed down through generations. Production methods are sacred pieces of a producer's identity, their individual techniques form the integrity of their family’s mezcal. Communities are built on mezcal production and so the traditions and rituals of the process are essential to community life.

Best mezcals to buy at a glance

• Best triple-distilled mezcal: Dangerous Don, £49.52
• Best infused mezcal: Mezcal Vago Elote, £66.95
• Best vegetal mezcal: Mezcal Amores Cupreata, £71.53
• Best mezcal for cocktails: QuiQuiRiQui Espadin, £43.50
• Best small batch mezcal: Sin Gusano Tobalá, £58.75
• Best tropical mezcal: Koch Espadin San Baltazar Guilavila Mezcal, £52.98
• Best luxury mezcal: Lalocura Tobasiche, £136

How to enjoy mezcal

Mezcal is best enjoyed straight-up at room temperature in order to appreciate the intricate and complex flavour profiles of each different expression. Never ‘shoot’ mezcal, sip it and take your time.

If you have never drunk mezcal before I would start simple and explore espadín, which is the most common agave varietal. Mezcal is so vast in flavour profiles and complexity and so ordering the most expensive, rare variety may not be the best place to start.

It is important to read the label and avoid any industrially produced mezcals. If it simply says ‘mezcal’ on the bottle I would stay away, go for the labels which say ‘mezcal artesenal’ or ‘mezcal ancestral’. These are made using traditional methods and practices.

Best mezcals to buy 2025

Dangerous Don joven mezcal espadín

• Available from Master of Malt (£43), Whisky Exhange (£46.50)

Best triple distilled mezcal

The olive team love Thea's own brand of ethically-sourced, artisan mezcal, so we are adding it to her guide. It’s triple distilled to make extra smooth, exclusively using espadín agave for a complex blend of aromatic smokiness, bright grassy notes and a citrusy edge. Look out for the coffee and mandarin flavoured varieties, too.

Available from:

Master of Malt (£43)

Mezcal Vago Elote

• Available from Master of Malt (£66.95)

Best infused mezcal

A really interesting mezcal where roasted corn is added during production between the second and third distillation – this imparts toasty, buttery popcorn flavours that the complement the sweet agave character of the spirit.

Available from:
Master of Malt (£66.95)

Mezcal Amores Cupreata

• Available from Amazon (£60), Master of Malt (£71.53)

Best vegetal mezcal

Made using organic Cupreata agave, this is bold and vegetal in character, with notes of spice, pumpkin, cocoa and leather.

Available from:
Amazon (£60)
Master of Malt (£71.53)

QuiQuiRiQui Espadin

• Available from Master of Malt (£43.50), Amazon (£38.99), The Whisky Exchange (£43.50)

Best mezcal for cocktails

This mezcal is the go-to for an excellent quality espadín. Great to sip and also excellent for cocktails. QuiQuiRiQui should be a staple in every drinks cabinet.

Quiquiriqui Mezcal Espadin 70cl

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Koch Espadin San Baltazar Guilavila Mezcal

• Available from Amazon (£52.98)

Best tropical mezcal

Koch mezcal is a great brand which works with many different producers all over Oaxaca and beyond. The mezcal is exceptional. This espadín is a great place to start in their range and is tropical with a peppery finish.

Available from:
Amazon (£52.98)

Lalocura Tobasiche

• Available from The Whisky Exchange (£136)

Best luxury mezcal

A true legend in the mezcal world, Eduardo Javier Ángeles Carreño (Lalo), creates exceptional mezcals and this tobasiche is no exception. This one packs a punch but the craftsmanship of Lalo shines through every bottle.

Available from:
The Whisky Exchange (£136)

About the expert

Thea Cumming is the founder of Dangerous Don, a UK drinks brand working with producers in Mexico to create premium mezcal. Thea owns and runs Doña, a Stoke Newington-based, female-led cocktail bar, that offers a short agave-based cocktail list as well as an extensive range of mezcals.

dangerousdon.com // @dangerousdon // @theacumming // @bardonalondon

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