Mezcal Pulquero vs. Destilado de Pulque: Key Differences Explained

Mezcal Pulquero vs. Destilado de Pulque: What’s the Difference?

There’s often confusion around different agave spirits, and one debate that keeps surfacing is whether destilado de pulque can be considered mezcal. Let’s break it down and explore the key differences between mezcal pulquero and destilado de pulque.

The Origins: What is Mezcal?

The term mezcal comes from the Nahuatl word mexcalli, meaning “cooked agave.” Historically, indigenous peoples were fermenting agave long before the Spanish introduced distillation techniques. Mezcal is produced by cooking the agave, extracting its sugars, fermenting them, and then distilling the resulting liquid.

What is Destilado de Pulque?

Unlike mezcal, destilado de pulque does not involve cooking the agave piña. Instead, it is made by fermenting aguamiel—the sweet sap extracted from the quiote (the tall flowering stalk of the agave). The fermented aguamiel, known as pulque, is then distilled, creating a unique spirit with a distinctly lactic, slightly sweet profile.

Key Differences Between Mezcal and Destilado de Pulque

Examples of Destilado de Pulque and Mezcal Pulquero

One excellent example of destilado de pulque is Tapui Destilado de Pulque, produced in Joco Tepec, Estado de México by Jesús Hernández Sánchez. You can find selections like this at Mezcalia in Mexico City, a must-visit shop for agave enthusiasts.

Another unique expression of destilado de pulque is Miske, a spirit distilled from pulque in Ecuador. While not classified as mezcal, Miske has a protected denomination of origin in Ecuador, highlighting the regional importance of pulque-based spirits.

Tasting Notes

Destilado de Pulque (Tapui Reposado)

• Aroma: Lactic, reminiscent of dulce de leche and condensed milk
• Taste: Sweet with caramelized sugar and flan-like flavors
• Mouthfeel: Smooth, with a slight minerality

Mezcal Pulquero (Agave Salmiana)

• Aroma: Fresh, herbaceous, and fruity (green apple, tropical notes)
• Taste: More structured, with fibrous agave and cooked agave notes
• Mouthfeel: Crisp, clean, with a higher alcohol presence

Final Thoughts

Both mezcal pulquero and destilado de pulque have fascinating histories and distinct flavors. While destilado de pulque may not fit the traditional definition of mezcal, it remains an important part of agave spirit culture. If you want to continue the debate, drop a comment below!

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