Mezcal is Mexico's lesser-known relative of Tequila. Mezcal refers to any spirit distilled from the agave plant, and as such Tequila itself is classified as a variety of Mezcal. There are naturally many similarities between the two drinks, but the cooking method of the agave pinas in the making of Mezcal tends to impart a smokier flavour to the drink, leading some enthusiasts to make the comparison to Scotch whisky. Mezcal is perhaps most famous (or infamous) for often being served with an agave worm in it. Some legends hold that those brave enough to consume it will be imbued with strength, but even among Mezcal enthusiasts, many prefer to enjoy the drink neat without the worm.
