Mezcal

Produced in Mexico for centuries but little known elsewhere until recent years, mezcal has captured the imagination of spirits enthusiasts with its astonishing complexities. And while big liquor is beginning to jump aboard the bandwagon, most mezcal is still artisanal in nature, produced using small-batch techniques handed down for generations and often using agave plants harvested in the wild. Join author Emma Janzen as she presents an engaging primer on all things mezcal: its long history, the craft of distilling it, and a thorough guide to many of the most common agaves used in production and how they shape the resulting spirit. In addition, top mezcal bars across the United States and Mexico contribute a selection of nearly fifty cocktails that accentuate its distinguishing qualities. Beautifully produced and authoritatively written, this is the definitive guide to exploring and unraveling the mysteries of this extraordinary handcrafted spirit.

Author Biography

Emma Janzen started writing about mezcal, cocktails, beer, and other spirits as the Liquid Austin columnist for the Austin American-Statesman in 2010. Her work has since been published in Bon Appetit, PUNCH, Food Republic, Serious Eats, and more. She’s currently Digital Content Editor for Imbibe Magazine, working from her home in Chicago. She prefers her mezcal neat, her cocktails made with gin, and her stouts served year-round.