Mezcal and Chocolate

JUNE 10TH, 2023 I MEZCAL LAUDERDALE

Indulgence Redefined: The Exquisite Harmony of Chocolate and Mezcal

In the ever-evolving landscape of gourmet experiences, few pairings capture the imagination quite like the exquisite harmony of chocolate and mezcal. This indulgent duo transcends the ordinary, melding the rich, velvety depths of fine chocolate with the complex, smoky allure of mezcal.

As connoisseurs and culinary adventurers alike delve into this sophisticated pairing, they discover a symphony of flavors that redefine indulgence, offering a luxurious journey for the senses that celebrates the art of refined taste and the pleasure of unexpected combinations.

The Art of Pairing
When it comes to pairing mezcal with chocolate, there are two primary approaches:

Complementary flavors: Combining similar taste profiles to accentuate the prominent flavors in the mezcal.
Contrasting flavors: Choosing opposing tastes to bring out hidden notes and nuances in the spirit.

Why Mezcal and Chocolate Work So Well Together
Both mezcal and chocolate share a common thread - they undergo fermentation to develop their complex flavors. This shared process creates a natural affinity between the two. The smoky, firewood, and fruity notes found in mezcal complement the rich, multifaceted flavors of chocolate, resulting in a burst of aromas and tastes that stimulate the palate.

Choosing the Right Chocolate
For the best pairing experience, I recommend opting for dark chocolate with at least 70% cacao content. This higher percentage allows the chocolate to stand up to the bold flavors of mezcal without being overpowered. Some excellent chocolate options include:

Single-origin bars from Central or South America
Artisanal chocolates with tart, citrusy, or nutty flavors
Chocolates with notes of raspberry, orange, tahini, or salted caramel

Pairing Suggestions
Here are some specific pairing recommendations to get you started:

Espadin Mezcal: Pair with 65% dark chocolate to highlight the citrus and mineral notes in the mezcal.
Cuishe Mezcal: This wild agave mezcal pairs beautifully with bitter chocolates (70% and up) featuring roasted flavors like walnut, sesame, or almond
Tobalá Mezcal: The fruity aromas of this mezcal create a circular balance with 85% dark chocolate, bringing out fermented and powerful notes
Tepeztate Mezcal: Known for its bright, spicy, and fragrant character, this variety pairs exceptionally well with richly layered roasted chocolate.

The Tasting Experience
To fully appreciate the pairing, follow these steps:

Serve the mezcal in small glasses and warm it slightly between your hands to release its aromas.
Take a small sip of mezcal and let it linger on your palate.
Follow with a bite of chocolate, allowing it to melt slowly in your mouth.
Notice how the flavors interact and evolve, creating new taste sensations.

EVENTS

Remember, tasting chocolate is similar to tasting spirits - there's a beginning, middle, and end to the flavor profile. Avoid chewing the chocolate; instead, let it melt on your tongue to fully experience its complexity.

The combination of mezcal and chocolate is more than just a pairing - it's a celebration of Mexican culture and craftsmanship. So the next time you're looking for a sophisticated and indulgent experience, reach for a bottle of fine mezcal and some high-quality chocolate. Your senses will thank you.