Tag: Agave spirits

According to recent industry data, agave spirits have soared in popularity, with tequila even surpassing American whiskey in sales value in the U.S. in recent years. This shift sparks a fundamental question for many spirits enthusiasts: which one is truly superior?

While the world's most famous "cactus" spirits—tequila and mezcal—are actually made from the agave plant, a succulent, some true cactus species do indeed produce alcohol. The versatile prickly pear, for instance, is used to create spirits like vodka, brandy, and traditional fermented beverages.

At a standard 40% alcohol by volume (ABV), or 80 proof, Casamigos is a strong liquor, on par with most other tequilas, vodkas, and whiskeys. However, its famously smooth and clean flavor profile often leads drinkers to perceive its potency as milder than its actual strength.

A standard 1.5-ounce (44 ml) shot of 80-proof Reposado tequila contains approximately 97-100 calories. The vast majority of these calories are derived directly from the alcohol content itself, and a key fact for those watching their diet is that pure tequila contains no carbohydrates, protein, or fat.

With Alcohol by Volume (ABV) ranging from 40% to 55%, the amount of alcohol in a shot of mezcal can vary significantly depending on the brand and type. Understanding a spirit's potency is crucial for responsible consumption, and this guide provides a detailed breakdown of what to expect from a pour of this smoky agave spirit.

According to the World Health Organization, there is no safe level of alcohol consumption that does not affect health. However, for those who choose to drink, the 'best' option is a highly subjective and personal choice influenced by taste, health considerations, and the social context of the occasion.

A 1.5-ounce serving of mezcal contains approximately 97 calories and zero carbohydrates, making it a lower-calorie option than many alcoholic drinks. But is mezcal healthy for weight loss, or is its reputation as a 'healthy' spirit overblown?

While many bottles of tequila sold in the United States are indeed 80 proof, it is a misconception that all tequilas are. Mexican law requires tequila to have an alcohol by volume (ABV) between 35% and 55% (70 to 110 proof), leaving a wide range for distillers to work with.

According to the Consejo Regulador del Tequila, over 300 million liters of tequila were exported in 2022, demonstrating its global popularity. However, the lesser-known mezcal offers a different experience, prompting many to ask, "what is better to drink, mezcal or tequila?".

By law, mezcal must be made from 100% agave, while some tequilas can contain up to 49% non-agave sugars and additives. This fundamental difference in production method is a key factor in determining if mezcal is healthier than tequila, though the answer isn't as simple as it seems and relies heavily on the specific brand and type of each spirit.