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Technically, all tequila is mezcal. The term mezcal refers to spirits made from the agave plant, while tequila refers to a specific type of mezcal that can only be made from blue Weber agave in five Mexican states.

Mezcal can be made from a wide variety of agave varieties in nine Mexican states. It’s best known for the smoky flavor that emerges when a mezcal is made in the traditional way – roasting agave in underground pits.

Tequila and mezcal can be sorted into different age categories.

• Blanco: Tequila or mezcal that is unaged.
• Reposado: Tequila or mezcal that is aged between two and 12 months in oak.
• Añejo: Tequila or mezcal aged for at least one year in oak (after three years aged, it becomes an extra añejo).