Contrary to popular belief, tequila does not contain the worm in its actual composition.A special place in the heart of the table was prepared for mezcal, which is recognized as tequila’s older brother.So, what exactly is the distinction?Tequilas must include at least 51 percent agave, whereas mezcal must contain 100 percent agave to be considered authentic ( read more on the difference between tequila vs.mezcal ).
What is the Mexican spirit that has a worm in it?
Mezcal, the Mexican alcohol with a worm at the bottom, is really, as you’ve undoubtedly figured by now, a type of liquor from Mexico.Because tequila and mezcal are quite similar in flavor, it is understandable if they are confused.Despite the fact that both tequila and mezcal are manufactured by distilling the agave plant, mezcal can be prepared from a mix of any one of more than 250 different species of the cactus-like succulents.
What are the worms in mezcal bottles?
Despite the fact that it appears to be a worm, the larva of the Hypopta agavis moth is in fact visible in the bottle. GUANO ROJO (red) and GUANO DE ORO (white or gold) are agave plant parasites that can be found in different areas of the plant. Although these larvae have long been used as food, they were first included into mezcal bottles in the 1950s.
What is the origin of the worm in the bottle?
Some believe that the worm in the bottle was first used as a marketing technique in the 1940s and 1950s to encourage consumers to drink more mezcal. Tequila was overtaking the American market, and mezcal needed to find a method to distinguish itself.