Discover Authentic Mezcal: A Taste of Mexico in Europe by Mezcaland SRL

We are a Brussels-based company dedicated to bringing traditional Mezcal to Europe. Our selection of agaves aims to explore the biodiversty of Mexico.

The word «mezcal» originates from the Nahuatl term mexcalli, meaning «cooked maguey» (metl for «maguey» and ixcalli for «cooked»). Mezcal has been an integral part of Mexican culture since pre-Hispanic times. Historically, all agave-based spirits were referred to as Mezcal. Tequila, for instance, was once known as «Mezcal wine from the Tequila region.»

Although Mezcal is produced in a large part of the Mexico, denomination of origin includes only 9 states:

Oaxaca, Guerrero, Michoacán, Guanajuato, San Luis Potosí, Puebla, Zacatecas, Durango and Tamaulipas

Ok… but what is agave?

Agave is a succulent plant native to Mexico. It thrives in arid climates and is known for its thick, fleshy leaves that store water. Mezcal is a traditional Mexican distilled spirit made from the agave plant. There are more than 270 types of agave grown in several regions of Mexico. As the piña (heart of the agave) is underground for several years, each area, soil, and altitude contributes to its own unique flavor profile.

How is Mezcal made?

Harvesting – Mature agave plants (piñas) are harvested by removing their leaves, leaving only the heart. Cooking – The piñas are roasted to convert the complex carbohydrates into fermentable sugars. Milling – The cooked agave is crushed/milled using mechanical methods to extract its juices (aguamiel). Fermentation – The agave juice ferments, turning sugars into alcohol. Distillation – The fermented liquid is double-distilled to refine and concentrate the alcohol, producing mezcal.