Out of Mezcal, one case
What can you substitute for mezcal?
6 options, ranked, with the exact amount
Use Tequila
Same amount as the mezcal
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.
- Verdict —
- Tweak it
- What changes —
- different taste, similar texture
- Best for —
- cocktails
One casethe full mezcal card
Every option, one card
Ranked| # | Substitute | Instead of mezcal | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tequilacocktails | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 2 | Smoky Scotch whiskycocktails | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 3 | Sotolcocktails | Same amountTweak it | Tweak it |
| 4 | Raicillacocktails | Same amountWorks | Works |
| 5 | Lapsang souchong teamocktails | 1 cup strong tea per 1 oz mezcalTweak it | Tweak it |
| 6 | Liquid smoke + apple cider vinegarmarinades | ½ tsp liquid smoke + 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar per 1 oz mezcalTweak it | Tweak it |
Tequila
different taste, similar texture
Most accessible substitute with similar alcohol content and agave base, just without the heavy smoke
- Best for
- cocktails, marinades, sauces, cooking, margaritas
Same agave base as mezcal, provides alcohol content and agave flavor. Add smoked salt for more smoky character.
Smoky Scotch whisky
similar taste and texture
Provides the smoky flavor profile of mezcal with similar alcohol content and complexity
- Best for
- cocktails, marinades, sauces, smoky drinks
Choose Islay scotch for maximum smokiness. Works well in savory dishes and adds depth to cocktails.
Sotol
different taste, similar texture
Agave spirit with complexity similar to mezcal but without the heavy smoke
- Best for
- cocktails, marinades, sauces, cooking
Another agave spirit with similar complexity but different flavor profile. Good middle ground between tequila and mezcal.
Raicilla
similar taste and texture
Traditional Mexican agave spirit with earthy, complex flavor similar to mezcal
- Best for
- cocktails, marinades, sauces, cooking
Less common but excellent substitute. Has similar complexity and earthy notes to mezcal.
Lapsang souchong tea
similar taste, different texture
Non-alcoholic alternative that provides the smoky, earthy notes of mezcal
- Best for
- mocktails, non-alcoholic drinks, cooking, marinades
Brew extra strong and let cool completely. Add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor profile.
Liquid smoke + apple cider vinegar
similar taste, different texture
Non-alcoholic alternative that mimics mezcal's smoky acidity and complexity
- Best for
- marinades, sauces, glazes, vegetarian dishes
Good for non-alcoholic cooking. Add a pinch of smoked salt for extra depth.
How it behaves in this recipe
The best substitute for mezcal depends on your specific needs. Consider whether you need the smoky flavor, just the alcohol content, or both. Also factor in availability, cost, and whether you need a non-alcoholic option.
Tips for substituting mezcal
6 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
Notes on mezcal
- Try different types of smoky spirits like peated scotch or smoked vodka
- Experiment with combinations like tequila with liquid smoke
- Use smoked ingredients like chipotle peppers or smoked salt to add smokiness
- Consider the price difference - some substitutes are much more affordable than mezcal
Questions
5 questionsWhat'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.