Tequila and mezcal are both spirits made from the agave plant, but there are some key differences between them. Here are the main differences:

Agave plant used:

• Tequila can only be made from blue agave (agave tequilana Weber), while mezcal can be made from up to 50 different species of agave.

Region of production:

• Tequila can only be produced in specific regions of Mexico, including Jalisco, Michoacán, Tamaulipas, Guanajuato, and Nayarit.
• Mezcal can be produced in many regions of Mexico, but it is most commonly produced in Oaxaca.

Production process:

• Tequila is typically made by steaming the agave in above-ground ovens, while mezcal is often roasted in underground pits, which can give it a smoky flavor.

Flavor:

• Tequila is generally considered to have a more straightforward, bright flavor, while mezcal is often described as having a more complex, smoky flavor.

Uses:

• Tequila is often used in cocktails, such as margaritas, but can also be sipped neat.
• Mezcal is often sipped neat and is also used in cocktails, but its smoky flavor can make it a more challenging ingredient to work with.

In summary, while both tequila and mezcal are made from the agave plant, they differ in terms of the specific type of agave used, the region of production, the production process, and the flavor profile.