Exploring The Regions Of Mezcal
Mezcal is more than just a spirit - it is a reflection of the land from which it comes. Deeply rooted in Mexico’s history and culture, mezcal’s unique flavours are shaped by the diverse regions where it is made. From the rugged mountains of Oaxaca to the arid deserts of Durango, each mezcal-producing region contributes its own terroir, agave varieties, and production techniques, making every bottle a distinct experience.
In this guide, we explore the key mezcal-producing regions of Mexico, their unique characteristics, and how they influence the flavours of this artisanal spirit.
What Defines A Mezcal Region?
For a mezcal to be officially recognised, it must come from one of the states designated under Mexico’s Denomination of Origin (DO). This classification protects the authenticity and regional identity of mezcal. The designated mezcal-producing states are:
- Oaxaca (the heart of mezcal production)
- Durango
- Guerrero
- Guanajuato
- Michoacan
- Puebla
- San Luis Potosi
- Tamaulipas
- Zacatecas
Each of these regions has a distinct climate, soil composition, and agave species, which all contribute to the final character of the mezcal produced there.
Oaxaca: The Epicentre Of Mezcal
The Land And Climate
Oaxaca is Mexico’s most famous mezcal-producing state, responsible for over 85% of the country’s total production. Its diverse geography includes mountains, valleys, and coastal regions, creating varied microclimates ideal for cultivating multiple agave species.
Agave Varieties
- Espadin (the most commonly used agave, known for its balanced flavour)
- Tobala (a wild, smaller agave with complex floral and fruity notes)
- Tepeztate (slow-growing with bold, herbal, and earthy flavours)
- Cuishe (woody, grassy, and minerally with a dry finish)
Mezcal Characteristics
Mezcals from Oaxaca often have a rich, smoky profile with deep earthy, fruity, and spicy notes, influenced by traditional underground pit roasting and artisanal distillation.
Want to learn more about mezcal production? Read our guide on How Mezcal Is Made.
Durango: Wild Agave And High Elevations
The Land And Climate
Durango features high-altitude plains and rugged, arid landscapes. The cooler climate and volcanic soils create mezcals with unique minerality and spice.
Agave Varieties
- Cenizo (the dominant agave in Durango, known for its herbal and peppery profile)
Mezcal Characteristics
Mezcals from Durango tend to be crisp, slightly smoky, and full-bodied, often with mineral, citrus, and floral undertones.
Guerrero: Coastal Influence And Wild Agave
The Land And Climate
Located on Mexico’s Pacific coast, Guerrero’s humid climate and mountainous terrain allow for a diverse range of wild agaves.
Agave Varieties
- Cupreata (fruity, spicy, and slightly smoky with a smooth finish)
Mezcal Characteristics
Mezcals from Guerrero are often fruit-forward with hints of tropical flavours, balancing sweetness with a touch of smoke and minerality.
Michoacan: Pine Forests And Volcanic Soil
The Land And Climate
Michoacan’s high-altitude pine forests and volcanic soils create a distinct terroir that influences its mezcals.
Agave Varieties
- Cupreata (also found in Guerrero, but with more herbal and earthy notes)
- Alto (producing mezcals with bright citrus and peppery characteristics)
Mezcal Characteristics
These mezcals are typically herbal, earthy, and complex, with a slightly resinous finish from the pine-rich environment.
Puebla: A Newcomer With Deep Roots
The Land And Climate
Puebla has only recently gained official mezcal-producing status, but its traditions date back centuries. Its varied geography includes mountains, forests, and valleys.
Agave Varieties
- Tobala (complex, floral, and fruity)
- Espadín (widely cultivated, balanced, and approachable)
Mezcal Characteristics
Pueblan mezcals often have a bright, slightly sweet profile with herbal and floral notes, making them distinct from the bolder, smokier Oaxacan mezcals.
San Luis Potosi: Desert-Dry Elegance
The Land And Climate
Located in central Mexico, San Luis Potosi’s desert-like conditions create a terroir that results in drier, more mineral-driven mezcals.
Agave Varieties
- Salmania (producing clean, fresh mezcals with subtle sweetness)
Mezcal Characteristics
Expect crisp, earthy, and dry flavours with a touch of citrus and minerality, making them a great alternative to tequila.
Tamaulipas And Zacatecas: Unique But Lesser-Known Regions
The Land And Climate
These two states have smaller-scale mezcal production, but they each bring unique characteristics to the table.
Agave Varieties
- Americana (known for its spicy and slightly smoky profile)
Mezcal Characteristics
- Tamaulipas mezcals tend to be herbal, vegetal, and grassy.
- Zacatecas mezcals are often lighter, with a profile more similar to tequila.
The Beauty Of Regional Diversity In Mezcal
No two mezcals are the same, and the region in which they are produced plays a huge role in their final flavour. From the bold smokiness of Oaxaca to the crisp minerality of Durango, exploring mezcal by region offers a fascinating journey through Mexico’s landscapes and traditions.
Ready To Experience Mezcal?
If you’re new to mezcal or want to expand your knowledge, consider trying mezcals from multiple regions to appreciate their differences. Whether you enjoy it neat or in a cocktail, mezcal is a spirit that deserves to be savoured and respected.