Discover the Rich Traditions Behind Artisanal Alacrán Mezcal

An Introduction to Alacrán Mezcal

Mezcal has been produced in Mexico for centuries, but in recent years it has been gaining popularity internationally. One brand that has been receiving attention is Alacrán, an artisanal mezcal made in Durango, Mexico.

The History Behind Alacrán Mezcal

Alacrán mezcal is produced by a small, family-owned distillery located in the city of Canatlán in the state of Durango. The distillery uses traditional methods to make mezcal that dates back over 200 years.

The blue agave plants used to make Alacrán mezcal grow on small farms surrounding the village. The farmers use sustainable, organic techniques to cultivate the agaves until they reach maturity at 8-10 years of age. The piñas (hearts) of the mature plants are then harvested by hand and transported to the distillery.

Production Process and Distillation

At the Alacrán distillery, the piñas are cut into smaller pieces and slowly smoked for several days using oak and mesquite woods. This imbues the agave sugars with a delicate smokiness.

The smoked agave hearts are then crushed and mashed using both mechanical mills and a traditional stone tahona wheel pulled by horses. The fibers are fermented with water for 7-10 days allowing the sugars to convert to alcohol.

The fermented agave liquid is finally distilled twice in small, copper alembique stills. Each batch of Alacrán mezcal is distilled by hand in batches of just 60-80 liters. This artisanal approach allows the master distiller to control every step of the process.

The Flavor Profile of Alacrán Mezcal

Each bottle of Alacrán mezcal offers a truly unique flavor experience. As it is an artisanal product made in small batches, there is variation between different bottlings. However, some tasting notes commonly associated with Alacrán mezcal include:

• Citrus - Hints of lime, lemon or grapefruit
• Smoke - Subtle smokiness from the oak and mesquite
• Agave - Sweet, honeyed flavors from the blue agave
• Herbs & Spice - Notes like black pepper, cloves or cinnamon
• Vanilla - Sweet vanilla accentuates the agave
• Minerals - A dry, stony minerality

Best Serving Methods

There are several popular ways to serve Alacrán mezcal:

• Neat - Served straight at room temperature to best appreciate the flavors
• On the rocks - Poured over ice to open up notes as it dilutes
• In cocktails - Adds depth and smokiness to cocktails like the mezcal margarita

A pinch of orange zest or a slice of dehydrated orange can complement the citrus hints. Alacrán mezcal also pairs nicely with orange, coffee or classic Mexican flavors.

The Maguey Worm in Mezcal Bottles

Some bottles of mezcal contain a maguey worm inside, which is said to show the purity and quality of the mezcal. The worm is actually a form of caterpillar known as the Hypopta agavis that feeds on the hearts of certain agave plants used to produce mezcal.

The Myth and Tradition

Including a maguey worm in the mezcal started from myths that the acid in the worm was hallucinogenic and consuming the worm would have psychoactive effects. However, modern studies show the worm has no psychedelic substances.

Today the tradition of adding maguey worms continues, though it has become primarily a marketing technique. Locals claim that including the worm proves the bottle contains quality, artisanal mezcal as worms could only come from plants harvested in the wild.

Eating the Maguey Worm

The maguey worm is eaten both as a daring challenge and for supposed health benefits. When it is included in bottles of Alacrán, the worm is typically red in color after being preserved in the alcohol.

Those who eat the worm describe it as tasting earthy and herbal with an agave flavor. It has a chewy, crunchy texture. Some claim that benefits of eating the worm include increased libido, protein, and fiber as well as an ability to lower cholesterol.

Where to Buy Alacrán Mezcal

Alacrán mezcal can be difficult to find outside of Mexico, but the brand does export limited quantities internationally. Currently it is available for purchase online and at some specialty liquor stores in the United States, Canada, parts of Europe and Australia.

Buying Considerations

There are a few things to look for when buying Alacrán mezcal:

• NOM certification - Shows the mezcal meets standards and is authentic
• Type of agave - Alacrán uses Espadín and Tobalá agave varietals
• ABV - Typically 40-45% alcohol by volume
• Batch numbers - Displays uniqueness of each production lot

Reputable sellers should provide details about the distillery location, agave type, alcohol content and production batch. Always look for bottles with clear NOM certification numbers as this prevents counterfeits.

Expect to Pay

As a premium artisanal mezcal, Alacrán is more expensive than mass-produced commercial brands. Pricing typically ranges from $75-$300 USD per bottle depending on the agave varietal used. Tobalá mezcal, made from rarer wild agaves, commands the highest prices.

Sipping a Mexican Tradition

Savoring Alacrán mezcal is a wonderful way to experience an authentic Mexican tradition that dates back generations. Each sip embraces centuries of distilling knowledge passed down in rural Durango family workshops. With the growing interest in high quality, artisanal agave spirits, mezcals like Alacrán let people discover Mexico's deep cultural heritage in every flavorful drop.

FAQs

What type of agave is used to make Alacrán mezcal?

Alacrán uses Espadín agave and Tobalá agave. The Espadín is cultivated on small farms near the distillery while the rarer Tobalá grows wild and must be harvested from the steep hillsides.

Does the mezcal worm have any psychoactive effects?

No, modern studies have shown the maguey worm found in some mezcal bottles has no psychedelic substances. The tradition of adding it emerged from myths about its effects, but eating it today is primarily for the novelty.

What is the alcohol content of Alacrán mezcal?

A typical bottle of Alacrán mezcal ranges between 40-45% alcohol by volume (ABV). This is on par with other high-quality artisanal mezcals which are generally in the 40-50% ABV range.

Where can you buy Alacrán mezcal outside Mexico?

Alacrán exports limited quantities internationally. It can currently be found online and at some specialty liquor stores in the United States, Canada, parts of Europe, and Australia. Because it is produced in small batches, bottles are not always easy to find.