What’s the difference between mezcal and tequila? These Mexican spirits both start with the agave plant. Tequila must be made with the blue agave, while mezcal can be made with 30+ varieties. Depending on the region of Mexico, there are different names, such as Charanda in Michoacan or Sotol in Chihuahua. Most of the mezcals are made in Oaxaca. For both tequila and mezcal, the plants are harvested: workers cut off the spiky leaves, revealing a pineapple-like core. These are cooked in large ovens and shredded, then fermented. Artisanal mezcals are cooked in underground pits, giving them a distinctive smoky flavor.