{"id":269982,"date":"2026-06-24T12:47:22","date_gmt":"2026-06-24T10:47:22","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/?p=269982"},"modified":"2026-06-25T05:50:08","modified_gmt":"2026-06-25T03:50:08","slug":"tequila-mexico-guide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/tequila-mexico-guide\/","title":{"rendered":"Tequila vs. Mezcal: How to Drink Them and Where to Taste in Mexico"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>You know that feeling when you think back to your student days and the wild parties where everyone tossed back cheap shots with salt and lime, wincing the whole time? For most of us, our first encounter with this Mexican national treasure is tied up with a hangover and downing it as fast as possible. But once you start planning a trip and dive into the local culture, you discover that the whole salt-and-lime ritual is actually one big marketing myth. The real Mexico drinks its agave spirits in a completely different way \u2014 and with enormous respect.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you&#8217;re curious about <strong>tequila in Mexico<\/strong> and its older, smokier brother <strong>mezcal<\/strong>, you&#8217;re in the right place. I&#8217;ve put together a guide that shows you the true face of these legendary drinks. Inside you&#8217;ll find a detailed comparison of both spirits, you&#8217;ll learn the key <strong>difference between tequila and mezcal<\/strong>, and above all I&#8217;ll show you <strong>how to drink tequila<\/strong> and mezcal like a true local. We&#8217;ll look at which regions to head to for the best tasting and how to spot real quality in the shop \u2014 the kind that won&#8217;t leave you feeling rough the next morning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure data-wp-context=\"{&quot;imageId&quot;:&quot;6a3ccde3f1acc&quot;}\" data-wp-interactive=\"core\/image\" data-wp-key=\"6a3ccde3f1acc\" class=\"wp-block-image size-full wp-lightbox-container\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1600\" height=\"1067\" data-wp-class--hide=\"state.isContentHidden\" data-wp-class--show=\"state.isContentVisible\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\" data-wp-on--load=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on-window--resize=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/agave.jpg\" alt=\"Field of blue agave near the town of Tequila\" class=\"wp-image-229644\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/agave.jpg 1600w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/agave-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/agave-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/agave-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/agave-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/agave-696x464.jpg 696w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/agave-1392x928.jpg 1392w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px\" \/><button\n\t\t\tclass=\"lightbox-trigger\"\n\t\t\ttype=\"button\"\n\t\t\taria-haspopup=\"dialog\"\n\t\t\taria-label=\"Enlarge\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-init=\"callbacks.initTriggerButton\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--right=\"state.imageButtonRight\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--top=\"state.imageButtonTop\"\n\t\t>\n\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"12\" height=\"12\" fill=\"none\" viewBox=\"0 0 12 12\">\n\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#fff\" d=\"M2 0a2 2 0 0 0-2 2v2h1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 1 .5-.5h2V0H2Zm2 10.5H2a.5.5 0 0 1-.5-.5V8H0v2a2 2 0 0 0 2 2h2v-1.5ZM8 12v-1.5h2a.5.5 0 0 0 .5-.5V8H12v2a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H8Zm2-12a2 2 0 0 1 2 2v2h-1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 0-.5-.5H8V0h2Z\" \/>\n\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t<\/button><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo: Eduardo Rodriguez \/ Pexels<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_85 ez-toc-wrap-left counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/tequila-mexico-guide\/#TLDR\" >TL;DR<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/tequila-mexico-guide\/#Tequila_vs_Mezcal_Whats_the_Difference_and_Why_It_Matters\" >Tequila vs Mezcal: What&#8217;s the Difference and Why It Matters<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/tequila-mexico-guide\/#How_to_Drink_It_Forget_the_Lime_and_Salt\" >How to Drink It: Forget the Lime and Salt<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/tequila-mexico-guide\/#Types_of_Spirits_From_Clear_to_Aged_Gems\" >Types of Spirits: From Clear to Aged Gems<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/tequila-mexico-guide\/#Where_to_Taste_It_The_Town_of_Tequila_and_Magical_Oaxaca\" >Where to Taste It: The Town of Tequila and Magical Oaxaca<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/tequila-mexico-guide\/#What_to_Bring_Home_and_How_to_Spot_Real_Quality\" >What to Bring Home and How to Spot Real Quality<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/tequila-mexico-guide\/#Cocktails_What_to_Order_at_the_Bar_When_You_Dont_Fancy_Neat_Spirits\" >Cocktails: What to Order at the Bar When You Don&#8217;t Fancy Neat Spirits<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/tequila-mexico-guide\/#Where_to_Next\" >Where to Next<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/tequila-mexico-guide\/#Frequently_Asked_Questions\" >Frequently Asked Questions<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/tequila-mexico-guide\/#Whats_the_main_difference_between_tequila_and_mezcal\" >What&#8217;s the main difference between tequila and mezcal?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/tequila-mexico-guide\/#Does_tequila_have_to_have_a_worm_in_the_bottle\" >Does tequila have to have a worm in the bottle?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/tequila-mexico-guide\/#What_does_the_label_100_Agave_mean\" >What does the label 100% Agave mean?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/tequila-mexico-guide\/#How_to_properly_drink_mezcal\" >How to properly drink mezcal?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/tequila-mexico-guide\/#Where_is_the_best_place_in_Mexico_for_a_tasting\" >Where is the best place in Mexico for a tasting?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/tequila-mexico-guide\/#Is_it_safe_to_drink_alcohol_in_Mexican_bars\" >Is it safe to drink alcohol in Mexican bars?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/tequila-mexico-guide\/#What_is_the_most_popular_tequila_cocktail_in_Mexico\" >What is the most popular tequila cocktail in Mexico?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"TLDR\"><\/span>TL;DR<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>The basic difference:<\/strong> Every tequila is actually a mezcal, but not every mezcal is tequila. Tequila may only be made from a single type of agave (Weber blue agave), while mezcal uses more than 30 different varieties.<\/li>\n\n<li><strong>Production and flavour:<\/strong> The agave hearts for tequila are cooked in steam ovens, giving the drink a clean, sharper taste. Agave for mezcal is roasted in underground pits lined with hot stones, which gives it that signature earthy, smoky aroma.<\/li>\n\n<li><strong>How it&#8217;s drunk:<\/strong> Forget downing shots. The local rule is &#8220;besos, no tragos&#8221; (kisses, not gulps). The spirit is sipped slowly from small bowls, ideally at room temperature.<\/li>\n\n<li><strong>Where to taste it:<\/strong> For tequila you head to the state of Jalisco (to the town of Tequila itself), while a full 90% of mezcal production comes from the magical southern state of Oaxaca.<\/li>\n\n<li><strong>What to watch out for:<\/strong> Always buy only bottles clearly labelled &#8220;100% Agave&#8221;. If it&#8217;s not on the label, it&#8217;s so-called mixto (often topped up with cane sugar) \u2014 a guaranteed hangover.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Tequila_vs_Mezcal_Whats_the_Difference_and_Why_It_Matters\"><\/span>Tequila vs Mezcal: What&#8217;s the Difference and Why It Matters<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure data-wp-context=\"{&quot;imageId&quot;:&quot;6a3ccde3f1ef8&quot;}\" data-wp-interactive=\"core\/image\" data-wp-key=\"6a3ccde3f1ef8\" class=\"wp-block-image size-full wp-lightbox-container\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1600\" height=\"1067\" data-wp-class--hide=\"state.isContentHidden\" data-wp-class--show=\"state.isContentVisible\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\" data-wp-on--load=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on-window--resize=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/mexicka-kuchyne-tequila.jpg\" alt=\"Tequila\" class=\"wp-image-227850\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/mexicka-kuchyne-tequila.jpg 1600w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/mexicka-kuchyne-tequila-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/mexicka-kuchyne-tequila-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/mexicka-kuchyne-tequila-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/mexicka-kuchyne-tequila-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/mexicka-kuchyne-tequila-696x464.jpg 696w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/mexicka-kuchyne-tequila-1392x928.jpg 1392w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px\" \/><button\n\t\t\tclass=\"lightbox-trigger\"\n\t\t\ttype=\"button\"\n\t\t\taria-haspopup=\"dialog\"\n\t\t\taria-label=\"Enlarge\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-init=\"callbacks.initTriggerButton\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--right=\"state.imageButtonRight\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--top=\"state.imageButtonTop\"\n\t\t>\n\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"12\" height=\"12\" fill=\"none\" viewBox=\"0 0 12 12\">\n\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#fff\" d=\"M2 0a2 2 0 0 0-2 2v2h1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 1 .5-.5h2V0H2Zm2 10.5H2a.5.5 0 0 1-.5-.5V8H0v2a2 2 0 0 0 2 2h2v-1.5ZM8 12v-1.5h2a.5.5 0 0 0 .5-.5V8H12v2a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H8Zm2-12a2 2 0 0 1 2 2v2h-1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 0-.5-.5H8V0h2Z\" \/>\n\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t<\/button><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo: Pexels<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Say &#8220;Mexico&#8221; and most travellers immediately picture sun-drenched beaches, <a href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/mexican-food-dishes-try\/\" rel=\"noopener\">Mexican cuisine<\/a> bursting with colour and, of course, a glass of something good. But what exactly is the key difference between tequila and mezcal? Think of it like the relationship between Champagne and sparkling wine, or Cognac and brandy. Mezcal is the umbrella category for all spirits distilled from the agave plant. Tequila is simply one very specific, strictly regulated type of mezcal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The single biggest difference is the plant itself. For a bottle to call itself tequila, the spirit must be made exclusively from blue agave (Agave tequilana Weber var. azul), and only in five permitted Mexican states, with Jalisco being the absolute heartland. Mezcal, by contrast, is far wilder and more diverse. It&#8217;s made from more than thirty different agave varieties, the most common being Espad\u00edn. Each type of agave brings completely different flavour notes to the final drink, so tasting mezcal can feel more like exploring complex single-vineyard wines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The second crucial factor is the production process. When agave is harvested, its spiky leaves are hacked away, leaving just the huge heart known as the pi\u00f1a, which looks like a giant pineapple. For tequila, these huge cores are cooked in above-ground industrial steam ovens, resulting in a cleaner, sweeter and gentler taste. Traditional mezcal, however, is made in a far more rustic way. The pi\u00f1as are roasted in deep earthen pits lined with lava stones and wood, where they smoke away for several days. It&#8217;s this ancient process that gives mezcal its characteristic, unmistakable smoky aroma \u2014 one that reminds a lot of people of peaty Scotch whisky.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\ud83d\udca1 <strong>Tip:<\/strong> If you want to dig deeper into the rules and history, I recommend checking out the official site of the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.crt.org.mx\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Consejo Regulador del Tequila<\/a>, the body that strictly oversees all production and quality in Mexico and guarantees that what you&#8217;re drinking is the real deal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_Drink_It_Forget_the_Lime_and_Salt\"><\/span>How to Drink It: Forget the Lime and Salt<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure data-wp-context=\"{&quot;imageId&quot;:&quot;6a3ccde3f229b&quot;}\" data-wp-interactive=\"core\/image\" data-wp-key=\"6a3ccde3f229b\" class=\"wp-block-image size-full wp-lightbox-container\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1600\" height=\"898\" data-wp-class--hide=\"state.isContentHidden\" data-wp-class--show=\"state.isContentVisible\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\" data-wp-on--load=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on-window--resize=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/margarita.jpg\" alt=\"Margarita cocktail\" class=\"wp-image-229645\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/margarita.jpg 1600w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/margarita-300x168.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/margarita-700x393.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/margarita-768x431.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/margarita-1536x862.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/margarita-696x391.jpg 696w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/margarita-1392x781.jpg 1392w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px\" \/><button\n\t\t\tclass=\"lightbox-trigger\"\n\t\t\ttype=\"button\"\n\t\t\taria-haspopup=\"dialog\"\n\t\t\taria-label=\"Enlarge\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-init=\"callbacks.initTriggerButton\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--right=\"state.imageButtonRight\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--top=\"state.imageButtonTop\"\n\t\t>\n\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"12\" height=\"12\" fill=\"none\" viewBox=\"0 0 12 12\">\n\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#fff\" d=\"M2 0a2 2 0 0 0-2 2v2h1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 1 .5-.5h2V0H2Zm2 10.5H2a.5.5 0 0 1-.5-.5V8H0v2a2 2 0 0 0 2 2h2v-1.5ZM8 12v-1.5h2a.5.5 0 0 0 .5-.5V8H12v2a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H8Zm2-12a2 2 0 0 1 2 2v2h-1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 0-.5-.5H8V0h2Z\" \/>\n\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t<\/button><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo: Roy Muriithi \/ Pexels<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>When you arrive at an authentic Mexican bar and order a premium agave spirit, don&#8217;t expect the bartender to slam down a shot, a salt shaker and a dried-out slice of lime. That ritual was apparently invented mainly to mask the unpleasant aftertaste of the cheap, low-quality alcohol that gets exported around the world. In Mexico, quality spirits are drunk with enormous respect, and there&#8217;s a beautiful culture built around it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The basic rule you&#8217;ll hear from every local is &#8220;besos, no tragos&#8221; (give it kisses, not gulps). Good spirits are drunk at room temperature and never knocked back in one go. With mezcal you&#8217;ll often find it served in a so-called copita \u2014 a small, wide clay or hollowed-out bowl, shaped a little like a tea bowl. That wide shape lets the drink breathe and gives you room to take in all those complex smoky and earthy aromas before you even take a sip.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It gets interesting when you look at what&#8217;s served alongside the drink. Traditionally, mezcal comes with a little plate of fresh orange slices dusted with a powder called sal de gusano. It might sound a touch exotic, but it&#8217;s salt mixed with chilli and crushed dried worms that live on the agave plants. To locals it&#8217;s a huge delicacy that supposedly draws out the drink&#8217;s flavour notes perfectly. But if, like Luk\u00e1\u0161 and me, you&#8217;re vegetarian, you can happily skip the worm ritual with a smile. For slow sipping we always prefer to order a hearty portion of homemade guacamole with crunchy corn nachos \u2014 which, by the way, is a combination that works absolutely brilliantly with agave spirits.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\ud83d\udca1 <strong>Tip:<\/strong> In selected venues, tequila is often served with so-called sangrita. It&#8217;s a non-alcoholic &#8220;chaser&#8221; made of tomato and orange juice, lime and fiery chilli. You drink it by taking a small kiss of tequila and then a sip of sangrita right after. The two flavours come together wonderfully in your mouth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Types_of_Spirits_From_Clear_to_Aged_Gems\"><\/span>Types of Spirits: From Clear to Aged Gems<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure data-wp-context=\"{&quot;imageId&quot;:&quot;6a3ccde3f25f3&quot;}\" data-wp-interactive=\"core\/image\" data-wp-key=\"6a3ccde3f25f3\" class=\"wp-block-image size-full wp-lightbox-container\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1600\" height=\"1067\" data-wp-class--hide=\"state.isContentHidden\" data-wp-class--show=\"state.isContentVisible\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\" data-wp-on--load=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on-window--resize=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/mezcalbar.jpg\" alt=\"Mezcal tasting\" class=\"wp-image-229646\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/mezcalbar.jpg 1600w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/mezcalbar-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/mezcalbar-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/mezcalbar-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/mezcalbar-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/mezcalbar-696x464.jpg 696w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/mezcalbar-1392x928.jpg 1392w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px\" \/><button\n\t\t\tclass=\"lightbox-trigger\"\n\t\t\ttype=\"button\"\n\t\t\taria-haspopup=\"dialog\"\n\t\t\taria-label=\"Enlarge\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-init=\"callbacks.initTriggerButton\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--right=\"state.imageButtonRight\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--top=\"state.imageButtonTop\"\n\t\t>\n\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"12\" height=\"12\" fill=\"none\" viewBox=\"0 0 12 12\">\n\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#fff\" d=\"M2 0a2 2 0 0 0-2 2v2h1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 1 .5-.5h2V0H2Zm2 10.5H2a.5.5 0 0 1-.5-.5V8H0v2a2 2 0 0 0 2 2h2v-1.5ZM8 12v-1.5h2a.5.5 0 0 0 .5-.5V8H12v2a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H8Zm2-12a2 2 0 0 1 2 2v2h-1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 0-.5-.5H8V0h2Z\" \/>\n\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t<\/button><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo: Viridiana Rivera \/ Pexels<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>So you don&#8217;t get lost in the menu of a local cantina, it&#8217;s worth knowing the basic terminology. Tequila is divided into several categories depending on how long it aged in barrels after distillation, which fundamentally affects not only its colour but, above all, its final flavour profile. It&#8217;s not that one type is necessarily better than another \u2014 each simply suits a different occasion and a different kind of drink.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The base is <strong>Blanco<\/strong> (often labelled Silver or Plata too). This tequila doesn&#8217;t age in barrels at all, or at most for just a few weeks in stainless steel tanks. It&#8217;s completely clear and offers the purest, sharpest taste of the agave itself. Blanco is the ideal choice for mixing quality cocktails. The next step up is <strong>Reposado<\/strong> (&#8220;rested&#8221;), which has spent anywhere from two months to a year in oak barrels. It has a lovely golden colour, and thanks to the wood the flavour mellows and gains notes of vanilla or caramel. It&#8217;s probably the most popular choice among locals for everyday sipping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For true connoisseurs there&#8217;s <strong>A\u00f1ejo<\/strong> (&#8220;aged&#8221;), which rests in barrels for one to three years, and <strong>Extra A\u00f1ejo<\/strong> (aged more than three years). These bottles have a rich amber colour and taste incredibly close to premium Cognacs or old whiskies. They&#8217;re very smooth and sweet, and it would honestly be a sin to mix them with anything. With mezcal the situation is a little different. Although it can also be aged, the vast majority (estimated at over 90%) of the finest artisanal mezcal is drunk as <strong>Joven<\/strong> (young, unaged). Local master distillers believe that wood from barrels would only mask the beautiful, complex and subtly smoky taste of the roasted agave itself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\ud83d\udca1 <strong>Tip:<\/strong> When you&#8217;re choosing a bottle in a shop or at the bar, remember that colour can be deceptive. Cheaper brands sometimes just add caramel colouring to their &#8220;gold&#8221; tequila (labelled Joven or Gold) to make it look older. So always look for the words Reposado or A\u00f1ejo right there on the label.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_to_Taste_It_The_Town_of_Tequila_and_Magical_Oaxaca\"><\/span>Where to Taste It: The Town of Tequila and Magical Oaxaca<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure data-wp-context=\"{&quot;imageId&quot;:&quot;6a3ccde3f29a2&quot;}\" data-wp-interactive=\"core\/image\" data-wp-key=\"6a3ccde3f29a2\" class=\"wp-block-image size-full wp-lightbox-container\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1600\" height=\"1067\" data-wp-class--hide=\"state.isContentHidden\" data-wp-class--show=\"state.isContentVisible\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\" data-wp-on--load=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on-window--resize=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/tequilatown.jpg\" alt=\"The town of Tequila in Jalisco\" class=\"wp-image-229647\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/tequilatown.jpg 1600w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/tequilatown-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/tequilatown-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/tequilatown-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/tequilatown-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/tequilatown-696x464.jpg 696w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/tequilatown-1392x928.jpg 1392w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px\" \/><button\n\t\t\tclass=\"lightbox-trigger\"\n\t\t\ttype=\"button\"\n\t\t\taria-haspopup=\"dialog\"\n\t\t\taria-label=\"Enlarge\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-init=\"callbacks.initTriggerButton\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--right=\"state.imageButtonRight\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--top=\"state.imageButtonTop\"\n\t\t>\n\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"12\" height=\"12\" fill=\"none\" viewBox=\"0 0 12 12\">\n\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#fff\" d=\"M2 0a2 2 0 0 0-2 2v2h1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 1 .5-.5h2V0H2Zm2 10.5H2a.5.5 0 0 1-.5-.5V8H0v2a2 2 0 0 0 2 2h2v-1.5ZM8 12v-1.5h2a.5.5 0 0 0 .5-.5V8H12v2a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H8Zm2-12a2 2 0 0 1 2 2v2h-1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 0-.5-.5H8V0h2Z\" \/>\n\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t<\/button><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo: Amar Preciado \/ Pexels<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>If you want to go straight to the source and see all this beauty with your own eyes, Mexico offers you two completely different worlds. For tequila you&#8217;ll head to the central part of the country, specifically the state of Jalisco. About an hour&#8217;s drive from the big city of Guadalajara lies the eponymous <a href=\"https:\/\/www.rutadeltequila.org.mx\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">town of Tequila<\/a>, surrounded by endless fields of blue agave. This cultural landscape is even on the list of protected <a href=\"https:\/\/whc.unesco.org\/en\/list\/1209\/\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">UNESCO<\/a> sites. Here you can visit huge historic distilleries with famous names, walk among the spiky plants and watch the so-called jimadores skilfully strip away the agave leaves with special sharp tools called coa.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For mezcal, though, your steps must take you much further south, to the colourful and culturally rich state of Oaxaca. If you want to plan a trip to this region, be sure to read our detailed article <a href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/oaxaca-mexico-travel-guide\/\" rel=\"noopener\">Oaxaca, Mexico: a city guide<\/a>. This is where the overwhelming majority of the world&#8217;s mezcal comes from. But forget giant industrial factories. Here mezcal is made in small, family-run distilleries called palenques, which often look like nothing more than a shed in the back garden, with a smoking pit in the ground and a draft horse turning a giant stone wheel that crushes the roasted agave.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The absolute heart of this craft is the unassuming little town of Santiago Matatl\u00e1n, which proudly calls itself the world capital of mezcal. A trip here with a local guide will cost you roughly 50 to 85 \u20ac and it&#8217;s a once-in-a-lifetime experience. You can taste spirits straight from the stills and chat with families who have been practising this craft for generations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\ud83d\udca1 <strong>Tip:<\/strong> Oaxaca is currently going through a huge gastronomic boom, especially after the Michelin Guide arrived in 2024 and awarded local restaurants such as Los Danzantes and Levadura de Olla. If you want to combine a premium mezcal tasting with a luxury dinner (there are plenty of vegetarian specialities featuring their famous mole sauces), be sure to book a few weeks ahead.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_to_Bring_Home_and_How_to_Spot_Real_Quality\"><\/span>What to Bring Home and How to Spot Real Quality<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure data-wp-context=\"{&quot;imageId&quot;:&quot;6a3ccde3f2ddd&quot;}\" data-wp-interactive=\"core\/image\" data-wp-key=\"6a3ccde3f2ddd\" class=\"wp-block-image size-full wp-lightbox-container\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1600\" height=\"1067\" data-wp-class--hide=\"state.isContentHidden\" data-wp-class--show=\"state.isContentVisible\" data-wp-init=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\" data-wp-on--load=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" data-wp-on-window--resize=\"callbacks.setButtonStyles\" src=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/palenque.jpg\" alt=\"Mezcal distillery in Oaxaca\" class=\"wp-image-229446\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/palenque.jpg 1600w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/palenque-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/palenque-700x467.jpg 700w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/palenque-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/palenque-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/palenque-696x464.jpg 696w, https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/palenque-1392x928.jpg 1392w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1600px) 100vw, 1600px\" \/><button\n\t\t\tclass=\"lightbox-trigger\"\n\t\t\ttype=\"button\"\n\t\t\taria-haspopup=\"dialog\"\n\t\t\taria-label=\"Enlarge\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-init=\"callbacks.initTriggerButton\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-on--click=\"actions.showLightbox\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--right=\"state.imageButtonRight\"\n\t\t\tdata-wp-style--top=\"state.imageButtonTop\"\n\t\t>\n\t\t\t<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"12\" height=\"12\" fill=\"none\" viewBox=\"0 0 12 12\">\n\t\t\t\t<path fill=\"#fff\" d=\"M2 0a2 2 0 0 0-2 2v2h1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 1 .5-.5h2V0H2Zm2 10.5H2a.5.5 0 0 1-.5-.5V8H0v2a2 2 0 0 0 2 2h2v-1.5ZM8 12v-1.5h2a.5.5 0 0 0 .5-.5V8H12v2a2 2 0 0 1-2 2H8Zm2-12a2 2 0 0 1 2 2v2h-1.5V2a.5.5 0 0 0-.5-.5H8V0h2Z\" \/>\n\t\t\t<\/svg>\n\t\t<\/button><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Photo: Ricardo Olvera \/ Pexels<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>When it&#8217;s time to buy souvenirs and you&#8217;re standing in the shop in front of a wall of hundreds of different bottles, it can be a little overwhelming. But there&#8217;s one absolutely golden, unbreakable rule you must follow. Always \u2014 and I mean always \u2014 look on the tequila label for the clear, large words &#8220;100% Agave&#8221; (or 100% Puro de Agave).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If those words are missing from the bottle, you&#8217;re looking at so-called mixto. Under Mexican law, the spirit only needs to contain 51% agave sugars, and the remaining 49% can be made up by the producer with cheap cane or corn sugar. It&#8217;s exactly this mixing of different sugars and alcohols that&#8217;s the main reason people feel so dreadful the day after cheap tequila. With mezcal, the mixto label is almost never seen \u2014 the artisanal producers of Oaxaca would consider something like that an insult to their work \u2014 so your choice there is a bit safer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Another thing to be careful about in Mexico is alcohol safety in tourist resorts. Unfortunately, reports of adulterated alcohol do occasionally surface (in some places it&#8217;s estimated to be as high as 36% of poured drinks), mainly in cheap <a href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/all-inclusive-mexico-resorts\/\" rel=\"noopener\">all-inclusive<\/a> resorts or in bars during wild student spring breaks. So it&#8217;s always best to buy bottles in specialised shops, the so-called licorer\u00edas, directly at distilleries, or to enjoy your drinks in established, well-reviewed venues that care about their reputation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\ud83d\udca1 <strong>Tip:<\/strong> Watch out for card payments in souvenir shops. Terminals in Mexico will very often offer to settle the bill in your home currency (GBP or USD instead of Mexican pesos, MXN). Always decline this option and pay in local pesos. This practice, known as DCC, is a tourist trap, and the unfavourable exchange rate adds 8 to 9% to your purchase.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Cocktails_What_to_Order_at_the_Bar_When_You_Dont_Fancy_Neat_Spirits\"><\/span>Cocktails: What to Order at the Bar When You Don&#8217;t Fancy Neat Spirits<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Even though slowly sipping a neat spirit is a wonderful experience, in the hot Mexican climate you sometimes simply fancy something longer, refreshing and on the rocks. If you want to know what else is worth tasting and what treasures there are to see, check out our guide to <a href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/best-places-visit-mexico\/\" rel=\"noopener\">what to see in Mexico<\/a> \u2014 the cocktail culture is definitely not something you should miss.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Most tourists immediately blurt out the word Margarita. This world-famous classic \u2014 blending blanco tequila, fresh lime juice and orange liqueur in a salt-rimmed glass \u2014 is excellent, but for Mexicans themselves it&#8217;s not the number one choice. The true king of the local bars is a drink called the Paloma. It&#8217;s an incredibly refreshing and simple drink made of tequila, fresh lime and grapefruit soda (most often the local Squirt brand), topped up with plenty of ice. It&#8217;s a light, slightly bitter and very sneaky drink, because it goes down almost like lemonade \u2014 but after a while in the sun you&#8217;ll definitely feel the alcohol in it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For beer lovers, trying a Michelada is an absolute must. There&#8217;s no distilled spirit in it, but it&#8217;s an iconic Mexican beer cocktail in which a light lager is mixed with lime juice, spicy sauces and often tomato juice. The rim of the glass is coated in Taj\u00edn chilli seasoning, and it&#8217;s the best possible cure for any tiredness after a long journey.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\ud83d\udca1 <strong>Tip:<\/strong> When you&#8217;re sitting at the bar and fancy a Margarita, try asking the bartender to mix you a so-called Mezcalita instead. It&#8217;s basically the same drink, but using mezcal gives the whole combination with lime a fantastic, subtly smoky touch that&#8217;s guaranteed to win you over.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_to_Next\"><\/span>Where to Next<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>If Mexican culture has captivated you and you&#8217;re planning a trip \u2014 or you simply love their food \u2014 be sure to take a look at our other articles, where we&#8217;ve gathered loads of practical tips from our travels:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/best-places-visit-mexico\/\" rel=\"noopener\">What to See in Mexico<\/a><\/strong> \u2013 our big guide to the most beautiful places you shouldn&#8217;t miss.<\/li>\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/mexican-food-dishes-try\/\" rel=\"noopener\">Mexican Cuisine<\/a><\/strong> \u2013 a complete rundown of what to eat on the street and in fine-dining restaurants.<\/li>\n\n<li><strong><a href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/oaxaca-mexico-travel-guide\/\" rel=\"noopener\">Oaxaca, Mexico: a City Guide<\/a><\/strong> \u2013 detailed tips for visiting the cultural and gastronomic heart of Mexico.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>You can book guided tequila and mezcal tastings on <a class=\"thirstylink\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"GetYourGuide\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/doporucujeme\/getyourguide\/\" data-shortcode=\"true\">GetYourGuide<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<!-- LKM_GYG_CARD start q=\"tequila mezcal\" lang=\"en\" rendered=\"2026-06-25T01:48:13+00:00\" v=\"1\" -->\n<style id=\"lk-gyg-styles\">\n@import url(\"https:\/\/fonts.googleapis.com\/css2?family=Playfair+Display:wght@700&family=DM+Sans:wght@300;400;500;600&display=swap\");\n\/* === LK GYG karty \u2014 CRO redesign 2026-05 (namespace .lkx-) ===\n   C\u00edl: vy\u0161\u0161\u00ed CTR (hero + v\u00fdrazn\u00fd social proof + ak\u010dn\u00ed CTA, m\u00e9n\u011b \"reklamn\u00ed\").\n   Injektuje se inline do prvn\u00edho markeru postu (refresh_cards.py --inline-css). *\/\n.lkx-module, .lkx-module *{box-sizing:border-box;margin:0;padding:0}\n.lkx-module{\n  font-family:'DM Sans',-apple-system,Segoe UI,Roboto,Georgia,sans-serif;\n  max-width:860px;margin:2.5rem auto;color:#1f2328;\n}\n\n\/* HEADER \u2014 lehk\u00fd editorsk\u00fd, \u017e\u00e1dn\u00fd bannerov\u00fd blok; nadpis + popisek pod n\u00edm *\/\n.lkx-head{margin-bottom:16px}\n.lkx-head-main{display:flex;align-items:center;gap:10px}\n.lkx-head-accent{width:26px;height:3px;border-radius:2px;background:#c39f76;flex-shrink:0}\n.lkx-head-title{font-family:'Playfair Display',Georgia,serif;font-size:21px;font-weight:700;color:#1a1a1a;line-height:1.25}\n.lkx-head-meta{display:block;font-size:11px;letter-spacing:.3px;color:#9aa0a6;margin-top:4px;margin-left:36px}\n\n\/* HERO *\/\n.lkx-hero{display:grid;grid-template-columns:300px 1fr;background:#fff;border:1px solid #ece7df;border-radius:14px;overflow:hidden;text-decoration:none!important;color:inherit;box-shadow:0 6px 20px rgba(0,0,0,.06);transition:box-shadow .2s,transform .2s;margin-bottom:14px}\n.lkx-hero:hover{box-shadow:0 12px 30px rgba(0,0,0,.12);transform:translateY(-2px)}\n.lkx-hero-img{position:relative;min-height:230px;background-size:cover;background-position:center;background-color:#eee}\n.lkx-hero-body{padding:22px 24px;display:flex;flex-direction:column}\n.lkx-pick{position:absolute;top:12px;left:12px;background:#1a1a1a;color:#fff;font-size:11px;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:.5px;padding:5px 11px;border-radius:20px}\n\n\/* TITLE *\/\n.lkx-title{font-size:19px;font-weight:700;color:#161616;line-height:1.3}\n.lkx-title-sm{font-size:14.5px;line-height:1.35;display:-webkit-box;-webkit-line-clamp:2;-webkit-box-orient:vertical;overflow:hidden}\n\n\/* SOCIAL PROOF \u2014 v\u00fdrazn\u011b, naho\u0159e *\/\n.lkx-proof{display:flex;align-items:center;gap:7px;margin-top:12px;font-size:15px;color:#3a3a3a}\n.lkx-proof b{font-size:16px;color:#161616}\n.lkx-stars{color:#f5a623;letter-spacing:1px}\n.lkx-proof-sm{font-size:12.5px;margin-top:8px;gap:5px}\n.lkx-proof-sm b{font-size:13px}\n.lkx-proof-new{color:#3685fc;font-weight:600}\n\n\/* PRICE \u2014 n\u00edzk\u00e1 kotva *\/\n.lkx-price{font-size:14px;color:#6b7280}\n.lkx-price b{font-size:20px;color:#161616;font-weight:700}\n.lkx-price-sm b{font-size:15px}\n\n\/* CTA \u2014 tepl\u00e9 ak\u010dn\u00ed tla\u010d\u00edtko *\/\n.lkx-cta{display:inline-flex;align-items:center;justify-content:center;text-decoration:none!important;font-weight:700;color:#fff!important;background:linear-gradient(135deg,#f6743f,#e8552a);border-radius:10px;box-shadow:0 6px 16px rgba(232,85,42,.32);transition:box-shadow .2s}\n.lkx-cta-hero{font-size:15px;padding:13px 22px}\n.lkx-hero:hover .lkx-cta-hero{box-shadow:0 8px 22px rgba(232,85,42,.45)}\n.lkx-cta-sm{font-size:12.5px;padding:9px 14px;width:100%;margin-top:2px}\n.lkx-hero-bottom{margin-top:auto;padding-top:18px;display:flex;align-items:center;justify-content:space-between;gap:14px;flex-wrap:wrap}\n\n\/* BADGE \u2014 jeden v\u00fdrazn\u00fd na fotce *\/\n.lkx-badge{position:absolute;top:12px;right:12px;font-size:10.5px;font-weight:700;letter-spacing:.3px;padding:5px 10px;border-radius:16px;color:#fff}\n.lkx-badge.badge-urgency{background:rgba(214,40,40,.92)}\n.lkx-badge.badge-new{background:rgba(54,133,252,.92)}\n.lkx-badge.badge-top{background:rgba(195,159,118,.95)}\n.lkx-badge.badge-info{background:rgba(40,40,40,.78)}\n\n\/* SECONDARY GRID *\/\n.lkx-grid{display:grid;grid-template-columns:1fr 1fr;gap:14px}\n.lkx-card{background:#fff;border:1px solid #ece7df;border-radius:14px;overflow:hidden;text-decoration:none!important;color:inherit;box-shadow:0 4px 14px rgba(0,0,0,.05);display:flex;flex-direction:column;transition:box-shadow .2s,transform .2s}\n.lkx-card:hover{box-shadow:0 10px 24px rgba(0,0,0,.1);transform:translateY(-2px)}\n.lkx-card-img{position:relative;aspect-ratio:16\/10;background-size:cover;background-position:center;background-color:#eee}\n.lkx-card-body{padding:14px 16px 16px;display:flex;flex-direction:column;gap:7px;flex:1}\n.lkx-card-bottom{margin-top:auto;padding-top:10px;display:flex;align-items:center;justify-content:space-between;gap:8px}\n\n\/* DISCLOSURE \u2014 drobn\u00e1, kv\u016fli d\u016fv\u011b\u0159e\/z\u00e1konu *\/\n.lkx-disclosure{font-size:11px;color:#a7adb3;text-align:center;margin-top:14px;line-height:1.6}\n.lkx-disclosure a{color:#c39f76;text-decoration:none}\n\n@media(max-width:680px){\n  .lkx-hero{grid-template-columns:1fr}\n  .lkx-hero-img{min-height:180px}\n  .lkx-grid{grid-template-columns:1fr}\n  .lkx-head-meta{margin-left:0;width:100%}\n  .lkx-head-title{font-size:19px}\n}\n\n<\/style>\n<div class=\"lkx-module\" data-query=\"tequila mezcal\">\n  <div class=\"lkx-head\">\n    <div class=\"lkx-head-main\">\n      <span class=\"lkx-head-accent\"><\/span>\n      <span class=\"lkx-head-title\">Experiences &amp; tickets<\/span>\n    <\/div>\n    <span class=\"lkx-head-meta\">traveler-rated \u00b7 <a class=\"thirstylink\" rel=\"nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" title=\"GetYourGuide\" href=\"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/doporucujeme\/getyourguide\/\" data-shortcode=\"true\">GetYourGuide<\/a><\/span>\n  <\/div><a class=\"lkx-hero\" href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/en-us\/guadalajara-l677\/premium-tequila-route-with-professional-tasting-t850766\/?partner_id=MKZ64IS&amp;utm_medium=online_publisher&amp;cmp=tequila-mexico-guide\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"sponsored noopener nofollow\">\n    <div class=\"lkx-hero-img\" style=\"background-image:url('https:\/\/cdn.getyourguide.com\/img\/tour\/f5f13e162188df27b8fe246aaabefb93f7350145b59d8f8bd89aac47e605baea.jpeg\/132.jpg')\" role=\"img\" aria-label=\"Premium Tequila Route with Professional Tasting\">\n      <span class=\"lkx-pick\">\u2605 Our pick<\/span><\/div>\n    <div class=\"lkx-hero-body\">\n      <div class=\"lkx-title\">Premium Tequila Route with Professional Tasting<\/div>\n      <div class=\"lkx-proof\">\n      <span class=\"lkx-stars\">\u2605\u2605\u2605\u2605\u2605<\/span>\n      <b>4.9<\/b> \u00b7 318 reviews\n    <\/div>\n      <div class=\"lkx-hero-bottom\"><div class=\"lkx-price\">from <b>\u20ac55<\/b><\/div><span class=\"lkx-cta lkx-cta-hero\">I want this experience \u2192<\/span>\n      <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n  <\/a><div class=\"lkx-grid\"><a class=\"lkx-card\" href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/en-us\/guadalajara-l677\/tequila-tour-from-guadalajara-t49539\/?partner_id=MKZ64IS&amp;utm_medium=online_publisher&amp;cmp=tequila-mexico-guide\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"sponsored noopener nofollow\">\n      <div class=\"lkx-card-img\" style=\"background-image:url('https:\/\/cdn.getyourguide.com\/img\/tour\/3fb4432ad71285d28095e350e0123878521d7d7af0ef825e3fa2aaeb1224258e.jpg\/132.jpg')\" role=\"img\" aria-label=\"Guadalajara: Tequila Day Trip with Jose Cuervo Option\"><\/div>\n      <div class=\"lkx-card-body\">\n        <div class=\"lkx-title lkx-title-sm\">Guadalajara: Tequila Day Trip with Jose Cuervo Option<\/div>\n        <div class=\"lkx-proof lkx-proof-sm\">\n      <span class=\"lkx-stars\">\u2605<\/span>\n      <b>4.7<\/b> \u00b7 82\n    <\/div>\n        <div class=\"lkx-card-bottom\"><span class=\"lkx-price lkx-price-sm\">from <b>\u20ac70<\/b><\/span><span class=\"lkx-cta lkx-cta-sm\">See dates \u2192<\/span>\n        <\/div>\n      <\/div>\n    <\/a><a class=\"lkx-card\" href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/en-us\/guadalajara-l677\/private-guadalajara-tequila-tasting-tour-world-cup-edition-t1319256\/?partner_id=MKZ64IS&amp;utm_medium=online_publisher&amp;cmp=tequila-mexico-guide\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"sponsored noopener nofollow\">\n      <div class=\"lkx-card-img\" style=\"background-image:url('https:\/\/cdn.getyourguide.com\/img\/tour\/983fbae585cc5257880ba9895044f06b5ab92451807a9bff0a2a5e9b65f4e18f.jpg\/132.jpg')\" role=\"img\" aria-label=\"Private Guadalajara Tequila Tasting Tour World Cup Edition\"><\/div>\n      <div class=\"lkx-card-body\">\n        <div class=\"lkx-title lkx-title-sm\">Private Guadalajara Tequila Tasting Tour World Cup Edition<\/div>\n        <div class=\"lkx-proof lkx-proof-sm\">\n      <span class=\"lkx-stars\">\u2605<\/span>\n      <b>0.0<\/b> \u00b7 0\n    <\/div>\n        <div class=\"lkx-card-bottom\"><span class=\"lkx-price lkx-price-sm\">from <b>\u20ac939<\/b><\/span><span class=\"lkx-cta lkx-cta-sm\">See dates \u2192<\/span>\n        <\/div>\n      <\/div>\n    <\/a><\/div><div class=\"lkx-disclosure\">\ud83d\udd17 These are affiliate links \u2014 they don&#39;t change your price and help us create content. \u00b7 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.getyourguide.com\/en-us\/s\/?q=tequila+mezcal&amp;partner_id=MKZ64IS&amp;utm_medium=online_publisher\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"sponsored noopener nofollow\">All experiences \u2192<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<!-- LKM_GYG_CARD end -->\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_Asked_Questions\"><\/span>Frequently Asked Questions<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n<div id=\"rank-math-faq\" class=\"rank-math-block\">\n<div class=\"rank-math-list \">\n<div id=\"faq-question-1780300500000\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Whats_the_main_difference_between_tequila_and_mezcal\"><\/span>What&#8217;s the main difference between tequila and mezcal?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>The main difference lies in the plant and production method. Tequila is made exclusively from blue agave and is steam-cooked, while mezcal can be made from over 30 types of agave, which is roasted in underground pits. This gives mezcal its characteristic smoky flavor.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1780300500001\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Does_tequila_have_to_have_a_worm_in_the_bottle\"><\/span>Does tequila have to have a worm in the bottle?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>No, that&#8217;s a common and very widespread myth. You&#8217;ll never find a worm in a bottle of real, quality tequila. The worm (gusano) was historically added only to some bottles of mezcal as a marketing gimmick, but premium mezcal producers don&#8217;t use it today.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1780300500002\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_does_the_label_100_Agave_mean\"><\/span>What does the label 100% Agave mean?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>&#8220;`html<br \/>\nIt&#8217;s the most important quality indicator. It means that all the alcohol in the bottle comes solely from the fermentation of agave. If this label is missing, it&#8217;s a so-called mixto, where part of the agave is replaced with cheap cane sugar, which causes headaches.<br \/>\n&#8220;`<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1780300500003\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_properly_drink_mezcal\"><\/span>How to properly drink mezcal?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Locals drink it neat, at room temperature and always sip it slowly (besos, no tragos), they don&#8217;t throw it back like a shot. Traditionally it&#8217;s served in small wide bowls (copitas) and accompanied by an orange slice with salt made from crushed worms and chilli.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1780300500004\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_is_the_best_place_in_Mexico_for_a_tasting\"><\/span>Where is the best place in Mexico for a tasting?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>The destination for tequila is the state of Jalisco, around the town of the same name, Tequila, where there are vast plantations of blue agave. For mezcal, it&#8217;s best to head to the state of Oaxaca in the south of the country, specifically to the small town of Santiago Matatl\u00e1n, which is known as the mezcal capital.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1780300500005\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Is_it_safe_to_drink_alcohol_in_Mexican_bars\"><\/span>Is it safe to drink alcohol in Mexican bars?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>In specialized bars, restaurants and distilleries, it&#8217;s completely safe. However, caution is advised in cheap all-inclusive resorts and during wild parties (e.g. spring break), where adulterated alcohol can occasionally appear.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1780300500006\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_the_most_popular_tequila_cocktail_in_Mexico\"><\/span>What is the most popular tequila cocktail in Mexico?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Although the Margarita is the most famous worldwide, Mexicans themselves most often drink a cocktail called Paloma. It&#8217;s a very refreshing combination of tequila, fresh lime juice and grapefruit soda, served in a tall glass full of ice.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Tequila vs. mezcal: the real difference, how to drink them properly (forget salt and lime), the types, where to taste in Jalisco and Oaxaca, and how to spot 100% agave quality.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":229644,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":"","rank_math_title":"Tequila in Mexico: How to Drink It & Where to Taste","rank_math_description":"Tequila in Mexico vs mezcal: the real difference, how to drink them like a local, the types and where to taste in Jalisco and Oaxaca. Read the full guide!","rank_math_focus_keyword":"tequila mexico","rank_math_seo_score":""},"categories":[393,374,320],"tags":[],"class_list":{"0":"post-269982","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-mexico","8":"category-north-america","9":"category-travel"},"acf":[],"featured_image_src":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/06\/agave.jpg","author_info":{"display_name":"Lucie Kone\u010dn\u00e1","author_link":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/author\/lucie-konecna\/"},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/269982","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=269982"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/269982\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":270380,"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/269982\/revisions\/270380"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/229644"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=269982"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=269982"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/loudavymkrokem.cz\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=269982"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}