If you've been browsing the liquor aisle lately, you've probably spotted el recuerdo mezcal sitting there with its bold yellow labeling and that famous worm floating at the bottom of the bottle. It's one of those spirits that seems to be popping up everywhere, from high-end cocktail bars to your buddy's home bar setup. But beyond the cool branding and the celebrity association, there's a lot to unpack about what's actually inside the glass.
For a long time, mezcal was this mysterious, almost "too intense" cousin of tequila that most people were a little intimidated to try. It was the drink you'd have a bad experience with at a party and then swear off for a decade. But brands like El Recuerdo have really helped change that narrative by making the spirit more accessible without stripping away its soul.
What Exactly Is This Spirit?
To understand el recuerdo mezcal, you've first got to understand that it's a product of Oaxaca, Mexico. If you didn't know, Oaxaca is basically the holy land for mezcal. While tequila is limited to just one type of agave (Blue Weber), mezcal can be made from dozens of different varieties. El Recuerdo specifically uses Agave Espadín, which is the most popular choice for a reason—it's reliable, it's got a great sugar content, and it delivers a flavor profile that most people find really pleasing.
One thing I really appreciate about this brand is that they stick to traditional methods. They cook the agave hearts, or piñas, in overground stone pits using certified wood. This is where that signature smokiness comes from. If you've ever wondered why mezcal tastes like a campfire while tequila tastes more like bright citrus and earth, it's all in the cooking process. El Recuerdo manages to hit that smoky note without it feeling like you're licking an ashtray, which is a common complaint for some cheaper brands.
The Whole "Worm" Situation
Let's address the elephant in the room—the worm. Or, to be more accurate, the gusano. When you pick up a bottle of el recuerdo mezcal Abocado con Gusano, you're getting a piece of Mexican tradition. Now, I've heard people say the worm is just a marketing gimmick from the 1950s, and while there's some truth to how it was marketed, it actually serves a purpose.
In this specific mezcal, the larvae (which live in the agave plant) actually change the flavor profile. It gives the liquid a bit of a silkier mouthfeel and adds a savory, almost umami quality to the finish. It's not just there for show or to dare your friends to eat it at the end of the night—though let's be real, that's usually what ends up happening anyway. If the idea of a bug in your drink weirds you out, they do make a "Joven" version without it, but I'd argue you're missing out on the full experience if you don't at least try the gusano version once.
Tasting Notes and What to Expect
When you pour a glass of el recuerdo mezcal, the first thing that hits you is the aroma. It's definitely smoky, but there's a sweet, cooked agave smell underneath it that reminds me of caramelized sugar.
On the palate, it's surprisingly smooth. Some mezcals can be "hot," meaning they have a harsh alcohol burn that hits the back of your throat, but this one is fairly balanced. You get those herbal notes, maybe a bit of mint or wet grass, followed by that deep, smoky wood flavor. If you're drinking the one with the worm, you'll notice a slightly saltier, earthier finish. It's a complex drink, but it doesn't feel like you need a PhD in spirits to enjoy it.
Is It a Sipper or a Mixer?
This is a bit of a debated topic among mezcal fans. Some purists will tell you that if you aren't sipping it neat out of a traditional copita (a small clay bowl), you're doing it wrong. Personally, I think el recuerdo mezcal is versatile enough to do both.
If it's a Friday night and I want to really taste the craftsmanship, I'll pour it neat and have some orange slices sprinkled with sal de gusano (worm salt) on the side. The citrus cuts through the smoke perfectly. But if I'm hosting people and want to make a killer cocktail, this is my go-to. It stands up really well in a Mezcal Margarita (or Mezcalita). The smoke adds a layer of depth that a standard tequila just can't match.
The Connection to Jorge Masvidal
You can't really talk about this brand without mentioning its partnership with UFC fighter Jorge "Gamebred" Masvidal. Usually, when a celebrity gets involved with a spirit, I get a little skeptical. Often, it's just a way to slap a famous name on a mediocre product.
However, in this case, the partnership feels a bit more authentic. Masvidal has talked about his heritage and how important it was for him to represent a brand that stayed true to the traditional Oaxacan process. It's helped bring el recuerdo mezcal to a much wider audience, especially among sports fans who might have never reached for a bottle of mezcal before. It's definitely given the brand a "tough" and "authentic" image, which fits the spirit perfectly.
Why It's Great for Beginners
If you're just starting your journey into the world of agave spirits, I'd honestly recommend starting here. Some artisanal mezcals can be incredibly funky—I'm talking flavors that range from blue cheese to gasoline (in a good way, somehow). But those can be a bit much if you're used to drinking light beer or vodka.
El recuerdo mezcal acts as a perfect bridge. It's approachable enough that it won't scare you off, but it's authentic enough that you're getting a real taste of what Oaxacan mezcal is supposed to be. It's priced reasonably, too. You don't have to drop a hundred bucks to get a bottle that tastes like it belongs on the top shelf.
Tips for the Best Experience
If you're going to give it a shot, here are a few things I've learned:
- Don't shoot it. I know, I know—the impulse is to take it like a tequila shot with lime and salt. But try to resist. Sip it slowly and let it coat your tongue. You'll catch way more of those subtle flavors.
- Temperature matters. I wouldn't drink it ice cold. Room temperature is usually best for tasting the nuances, though a large ice cube is fine if you prefer it chilled.
- Try the Mezcal Mule. Swap out the vodka in a Moscow Mule for el recuerdo mezcal. The ginger beer and lime play incredibly well with the smoky notes. It's a total game-changer.
Final Thoughts on the Experience
At the end of the day, el recuerdo mezcal is about memory—which is literally what "el recuerdo" means in Spanish. It's designed to be a drink that stays with you. Whether you're intrigued by the history of the gusano, the celebrity backing, or you just want a solid bottle for your bar cart, it's hard to go wrong with this one.
It's got character, it's got history, and most importantly, it tastes great. It doesn't try to be something it's not, and there's something really respectable about that. So next time you're in the mood for something a little different, grab that yellow bottle. Just don't be surprised if it becomes a permanent fixture in your collection. It's one of those spirits that has a way of growing on you until suddenly, tequila starts to feel a little bit boring.