Black Sheep’s “Year of the Horse” is a smokysweet mix of mezcal, bourbon vanilla simple syrup and espresso, garnished with jalapeno. Photo: Duane Tinkey
Remember that geometry lesson that taught us all squares are rhombuses, but not every rhombus is a square? Follow that same logic at the bar: All tequilas are mezcals, but not every mezcal is a tequila. Both come from Mexican agave, but tequila — made specifically from blue agave in and around Jalisco — is typically brighter, with notes of citrus and pepper.
You’ll find both spirits at Black Sheep, the underground tequila bar in the East Village, where we asked founder Frank Farrell for a few recommendations.
Ilegal Reposado Mezcal is a classic, approachable mezcal that’s a go-to at Black Sheep for its balanced smokiness. “It’s incredibly versatile in cocktails when you want smoke without overwhelming the drink,” Farrell said. It’s also good neat, with a citrus twist.
Chamucos Añejo Tequila is another house favorite. Notes of vanilla, spices and roasted agave give it a richness that’s perfect on its own and “stands up beautifully in spirit-forward cocktails like margaritas, palomas and other classic Cinco de Mayo cocktails.”
Ilegal Caribbean Cask is a bit more adventurous, with an unexpected sweetness that comes from aging in Caribbean rum casks. It softens the mezcal smoke and has a unique finish when served neat with a citrus garnish. “This one is a little more playful,” Farrell said. “It’s also a fun way to elevate cocktails when you want something a bit off the beaten path.”
