Whether you’re new to mezcal or a seasoned fan, you might have asked yourself: how strong is mezcal? With its bold flavor and artisanal origins, mezcal often feels more powerful than other spirits—but how does it actually compare in terms of alcohol content?In this guide, we’ll break down what “strength” really means in the world of spirits, explore mezcal proof and ABV, and compare mezcal with tequila, vodka, and whiskey to help you understand what makes mezcal such a standout.
What Does “Strong” Mean When It Comes to Spirits?
When we talk about the strength of a spirit, we’re referring to its alcohol content, measured in:
- ABV (Alcohol by Volume): The percentage of pure alcohol in the bottle.
- Proof: A scale commonly used in the U.S., where proof = ABV × 2. So a mezcal with 45% ABV is 90 proof.
While ABV and proof are just numbers on a label, they shape the entire drinking experience—from aroma and flavor intensity to how the alcohol hits your palate.
Is Mezcal Stronger Than Tequila?
Yes, in most cases, mezcal is stronger than tequila.
| Spirit | ABV Range | Typical Proof |
| Mezcal | 40–55% | 80–110 |
| Tequila | 35–40% | 70–80 |
Tequila is usually bottled at the legal minimum in Mexico (35–38% ABV), especially in mass-market brands. In contrast, mezcal—especially artisanal varieties like Del Maguey—is often bottled at higher strengths, reaching up to 55% ABV. That higher alcohol content contributes to mezcal’s robust character and mouthfeel.So if you’re wondering is mezcal stronger than tequila, the answer is usually yes—both in numbers and in taste.
Mezcal vs. Other Spirits: How Does It Compare?
Let’s see how mezcal stacks up against other popular spirits in terms of strength:
| Spirit | ABV Range | Flavor Profile |
| Mezcal | 40–55% | Smoky, earthy, complex |
| Vodka | 40% | Clean, neutral |
| Whiskey | 40–50% | Warm, oaky, spiced |
| Rum | 37.5–50% | Sweet, varied |
| Gin | 40–47% | Herbal, botanical |
While mezcal’s ABV is comparable to whiskey and higher-end rums, its flavor strength is another story. The traditional production methods—like underground roasting and wild fermentation—result in a spirit that feels bolder and more expressive than its counterparts, even at the same ABV.
Why Does Mezcal Feel So Strong?
Alcohol content tells only part of the story. The experience of drinking mezcal is often perceived as more intense because of:
- Lack of dilution: Many mezcaleros bottle their spirits close to distillation strength.
- Layered flavors: Earth, smoke, citrus, florals—all in one sip.
- Natural fermentation: Adds depth and complexity.
- No additives: Mezcal is pure, unaltered, and full-bodied.
At Del Maguey, each expression—from Vida Clásico to Chichicapa—offers a different strength and profile, but all share a common trait: authenticity that you can taste and feel.
Why Choose Del Maguey When Exploring Mezcal Strength?
Del Maguey is committed to preserving the traditional strength and character of mezcal. Our spirits aren’t just strong in ABV—they’re strong in story, origin, and soul.
Handcrafted Mezcal from Single Villages
Each bottle of Del Maguey is produced in a specific village, using ancestral techniques. The result? A mezcal that reflects both its alcohol content and its terroir, with boldness you won’t find elsewhere.
Diverse Strengths for Every Palate
From the approachable 42% ABV of Vida Clásico to the higher-proof complexity of San Luis del Rio, our collection lets you explore mezcal at your own pace—whether you’re sipping neat or mixing into a cocktail.
