Although tequila sales may have dipped ever so slightly in 2024, the meteoric rise of agave spirits in general over the past few decades has shown they’re not leaving our lives anytime soon. And these days, there’s more options on the market than ever before.
Of course, with more options comes harder decisions when it comes time to pick out a bottle — especially for someone else. In mezcal’s case, it doesn’t help that it can be made with roughly 40 different species of agave in nine different Mexican municipalities. To say it’s a broad spirits category is an understatement, but rather than be overwhelmed, we see this as a reason to get excited about the spirit and perhaps seek out a few bottles to give to friends and family as the holidays draw near.
For those who don’t feel like rolling the dice on a bottle, we’ve put together this guide of the best mezcals to gift this holiday season. Whether it’s for the seasoned agave nerd or the friend who’s just warming up to Mezcal Margaritas, there’s something here for everyone.
Best Budget Mezcal: Sueño de Alden Mezcal Espadín
Best Splurge Mezcal: Mezcasiarca Destilado de Agave Ensamble Ancestral
Best Mezcal for Beginners: Mezcal Vago Ensamble en Barro by Tío Rey
Best Mezcal for Geeks: Espina Negra Tepeztate Joven Mezcal Artesanal
Best Mezcal for Cocktail Lovers: Palomo Mezcal Espadín Joven
Best Mezcal to Impress: Mezcal Ultramundo Maguey Lamparillo
Best Limited-Edition Mezcal: NETA Tequilana Capón
Best Budget Mezcal Sueño de
