Bacanora, a Mexican spirit made from agave in the state of Sonora, is gaining popularity in the U.S. as an alternative to tequila and mezcal. Kilinga Bacanora, a family-owned brand, has seen significant sales growth, offering four main expressions with unique flavors. With a taste falling between mezcal and tequila, it is described as vegetal, refined, and slightly smoky, making it enjoyable neat or in cocktails.
Agave and honey are both sweeteners, but they have distinct differences. Agave syrup comes from the sap of the agave plant and has a sweet caramel-like flavor, while honey is produced by honeybees and has a floral and earthy taste. In terms of health benefits, agave has a low glycemic index and may be suitable for people with diabetes, while honey has antioxidant properties and potential benefits for gastrointestinal, neurological, and cardiovascular health. However, both should be consumed in moderation as they are sources of added sugar. Agave can be a substitute for honey in certain recipes, but the taste may differ. When substituting agave or honey for sugar, adjust the measurements accordingly. Ultimately, the choice between agave and honey depends on personal taste preferences and health goals.
A recent study has identified the species of larvae found in bottles of Mezcal, a distilled alcoholic beverage made from agave, as the caterpillars of agave redworm moths. The researchers suspect that accounts of white gusanos de maguey come from caterpillars that have been stored in alcohol for long amounts of time and have consequently leached their color. The sale of mezcal is expected to increase by 22% in the next decade, reaching $2.1 billion in profits by 2030, riding a growing wave of interest in artisanal, ethically manufactured products. However, the impact of mezcal becoming popular can have long-term negative effects on local populations because they are harvested in the wild.
