It is said that for every problem, there is mezcal, and this beverage would not exist without one of the 7 species of agave mezcalero presented here.
Did you know that the Spaniards baptized the agave plant as the "tree of wonders"? This statement is not an exaggeration, as this species provides us with products such as textile fibers, forage, honey, and the exquisite mezcal that is beloved by many Mexicans. In this list, we present 7 species of agave mezcalero used to produce this beverage.
1. Angustifolia Haw
This is the scientific name for the well-known espadín agave, which is the most commonly used species in mezcal production. It is characterized by its narrow, long leaves, which give it the name "espadín," and its leaves come in shades of green and blue. Espadín agave is favored for cultivation due to its relatively short maturation period, which ranges from 6 to 8 years, compared to other agave species that take longer to mature.
2. Potatorum Zucc
This species is widely known as papalometl, a Nahuatl word meaning "butterfly" due to the characteristic shape of its leaves. It is one of the smallest agave species, measuring 30 to 40 centimeters in length. Papalometl agave produces mezcal with a subtle smoky flavor, making it one of the finest mezcals in Oaxaca.
3. Karwinskii Zucc
Known as Cuishe, this agave species is micro-endemic and primarily distributed in the central valleys of Oaxaca and the Tehuacán Valley. It is recognized by its unique cylindrical shape and is sometimes used as a "living fence." Cuishe agave takes about 12 years to mature, and its complex production process requires great respect from those who cultivate it.
4. Marmorata
This agave species has one of the longest maturation periods, taking approximately 25 years. It can only reproduce by seed, and its name comes from the Latin "marmora," meaning "marble," as it grows on marble stones. Mezcal produced from Marmorata agave has a sweet aroma, a light flavor, and provides a fresh sensation on the palate.
5. Convallis
Convallis agave, also known as Jabalí, is endemic to Oaxaca and matures over approximately 12 years. It grows in areas with temperatures above 18 degrees and is sensitive to cold weather. Its use in mezcal production can be challenging, as the agave expands after roasting, potentially damaging the distillation equipment. Only experienced master mezcaleros typically work with this agave successfully.
6. Cupreata
This agave species, also known as papalote, can only be found in the states of Guerrero and Michoacán. It grows in mountainous regions at altitudes of 1,200 to 1,800 meters. Papalote agave has green leaves and copper-colored spines. It has a long lifespan, growing up to 60 centimeters and maturing in about 12 years.
7. Americana Var Oaxacensis
Native to Oaxaca, this agave is known as arroqueño. It can live for 18 to 25 years, and in some cases, even up to 30 years. Arroqueño agave has straight, elongated leaves with green and white tones. Mezcal produced from this species exhibits intense aromas with gentle herbal flavors on the palate.
Remember that all agave mezcalero species have a long maturation and production process for making mezcal, so it is important to recognize the hard work of its producers.
This story was originally published in Mexico Desconocido.
1. [Source](https://www.mexicodesconocido.com.mx/especies-agave-mezcalero.html)
