Mezcal

Mezcal is a traditional Mexican spirit that is distinct from tequila due to its production process and the varieties of agave that can be used. Richard Betts, during an interview with Tim Ferriss, explains that mezcal includes a variety of agave species, unlike tequila which is primarily made from blue agave. The production of mezcal involves roasting the agave hearts in a pit, which gives it a unique smoky flavor. This process can be compared to the smokiness found in some scotches due to the use of peat during the malting process 1.

In the specific context of his mezcal brand "Sombra," Richard Betts chose the name because mezcal often exists in the "shadow" of tequila, and the term "sombra" captures this notion of being somewhat hidden or mysterious. Betts described mezcal as embodying "intellectual value" and reflecting the geography, history, and culture of its region, particularly Oaxaca, Mexico, where it is prominently produced 2.