In a glass, in a jícara, in a votive candle holder or in a shot glass?

Mezcal was drunk from tecomate jícara, a small wooden vessel, which helps to oxygenate and maintain the temperature of the distillate. It was also used to be drunk in a votive candle holder, and then it was served in restaurants and bars in shot glasses (caballito). The tasters or those who know and like to exploit to the maximum what the mezcal gives, take it in balloon glasses (cognac type), or in a snifter (glasses for distillates). But which is the best way?

Mezcal will not cease to be delicious by the way we drink it, nor is there a rule that says that it should only be made in a certain way. However, this is a distillate rich in aromas and flavors and can be more appreciated in glasses that distribute the alcohol on the glass walls. Thus, protecting the essence that cooking, fermentation, aggregates or reserve, have given it in complicity.

The votive candle holder, the jicara, and the shot glass do not have a neck; therefore, the aromas disperse quickly, without giving enough time to appreciate them. In this untimely escape go the ethylic smells which, when they reach the nose, come to limit their perception.

That is why, since October 22, 2009, there is officially a mezcal glass, and is considered ideal for enjoying this distillate because of its elongated shape and wider bottom.  It was thought by a group of mezcal connoisseurs and lovers, who beyond modifying the mezcal tradition, seek to enhance and position the drink.

It’s just a matter of knowing that there are glasses that allow you to enjoy more of what this Mexican distillate has to offer. The only truth is that mezcal is created to hydrate the soul, and this can be taken in a votive candle holder, jícara, or wherever you choose. What is really important is to drink mezcal, toast with it, cry with it, laugh with it, and live with it.