What Can You Substitute for Mezcal? to Alternatives
Discover all the best substitutes for mezcal including tequila, smoky scotch, and non-alcoholic alternatives. Learn which options work best for different uses.
Quick Answer
The best substitutes for mezcal are tequila, smoky scotch, sotol, and non-alcoholic options like Lapsang Souchong tea or liquid smoke. Choose based on whether you need the smoky flavor, alcohol content, or both.
Best Substitutes
Tequila
1:1Most accessible substitute with similar alcohol content and agave base, just without the heavy smoke
Best for:
Same agave base as mezcal, provides alcohol content and agave flavor. Add smoked salt for more smoky character.
Smoky Scotch Whisky
1:1Provides the smoky flavor profile of mezcal with similar alcohol content and complexity
Best for:
Choose Islay scotch for maximum smokiness. Works well in savory dishes and adds depth to cocktails.
Sotol
1:1Agave spirit with complexity similar to mezcal but without the heavy smoke
Best for:
Another agave spirit with similar complexity but different flavor profile. Good middle ground between tequila and mezcal.
Raicilla
1:1Traditional Mexican agave spirit with earthy, complex flavor similar to mezcal
Best for:
Less common but excellent substitute. Has similar complexity and earthy notes to mezcal.
Lapsang Souchong Tea
1 cup strong tea per 1 oz mezcalNon-alcoholic alternative that provides the smoky, earthy notes of mezcal
Best for:
Brew extra strong and let cool completely. Add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor profile.
Liquid Smoke + Apple Cider Vinegar
1/2 tsp liquid smoke + 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar per 1 oz mezcalNon-alcoholic alternative that mimics mezcal's smoky acidity and complexity
Best for:
Perfect for non-alcoholic cooking. Add a pinch of smoked salt for extra depth.
Cooking Tips
- 💡For cocktails, choose substitutes based on whether you want smoky flavor or just alcohol content
- 💡In cooking, consider whether the recipe needs the smoky flavor or just the alcohol
- 💡For non-alcoholic options, use liquid smoke combinations or smoky teas
- 💡When substituting, taste and adjust other ingredients to balance the flavor change
- 💡For marinades, most substitutes work equally well for tenderizing meat
- 💡In sauces, add substitutes gradually and taste as you go
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best substitute for mezcal in cocktails?
Tequila is the most accessible substitute, but smoky scotch provides the closest flavor profile. Choose based on whether you want the smoky character or just the agave flavor.
Can I use non-alcoholic substitutes in all recipes?
Non-alcoholic substitutes work best in cooking and mocktails. For flambéing or when you need the alcohol content, use tequila or smoky scotch instead.
Which substitute is most similar to mezcal?
Smoky scotch whisky provides the closest flavor profile, especially Islay scotches. Raicilla is also very similar as it's another agave spirit with complex, earthy notes.
Do I need to adjust ratios when substituting?
Most substitutes work at a 1:1 ratio, but you may want to adjust other ingredients in your recipe to balance the flavor change.
What's the most affordable substitute for mezcal?
Tequila is typically the most affordable substitute, followed by smoky scotch. Non-alcoholic options like liquid smoke are also very cost-effective.
Summary
Discover all the best substitutes for mezcal including tequila, smoky scotch, sotol, and non-alcoholic alternatives. Learn which options work best for cocktails, cooking, and different uses.