Appropriately referred to as "the mother of tequila," mezcal is enjoying a groundswell in popularity and demand in the USA; growing in tandem with a fascination for classic cocktails and artisanal spirits, the stuff is showing up on shelves and menus pretty much everywhere. While countless bars offer it, those singled out here have been chosen based on their passion, expertise, and perhaps most of all, their efforts to use the spirit to craft clever and excellent cocktails. This is only the beginning.
- Scott Crane