Perlas: The Mark of a True Mezcal
- David Reva
- Feb 26
- 2 min read
Updated: Mar 7
In the world of mezcal, there’s a ritual—small, almost unspoken, but sacred. A mezcalero draws a thin straw, dips it into the spirit, and lets the liquid fall into a jicara. The moment the mezcal touches the surface, bubbles rise and dance—perlas, they call them. Pearls.
But these aren’t just any bubbles. They tell a story, one that can’t be faked or forged. The size, shape, and longevity of perlas reveal the very soul of the mezcal. Larger bubbles that linger speak of a high-proof spirit, usually in the revered 45-55% ABV range—exactly where Wild Ones Mezcal thrives. Smaller, weaker bubbles mean a lower proof, a diluted experience. In the hands of a master mezcalero, perlas are the original hydrometer, an ancient way of ensuring purity and strength without the need for modern tools.
The tradition of using perlas as a proof of authenticity dates back generations. Before glass bottles, ABV measurements, and modern distilling equipment, mezcaleros relied on their trained eyes and deep understanding of their craft. They would pour the mezcal from a height, watching closely as the bubbles formed. The right amount of froth, the right size of pearls—it was an unspoken signature of quality. If the bubbles didn’t appear, the spirit was weak. If they faded too fast, something was off.
This is why many in Oaxaca and beyond believe that mezcal below 45% ABV simply isn’t mezcal at all. It’s not just a matter of alcohol content—it’s about integrity. A watered-down spirit loses its complexity, its depth, and its fire. Wild Ones Mezcal refuses to compromise. We craft our mezcal in small batches, ensuring that every drop meets the standard set by generations before us. Our perlas aren’t just bubbles—they are proof of purity, of dedication, of a mezcal that is bold, untamed, and true to its roots.
So the next time you pour yourself a glass, give it a shake. Watch the perlas rise. That’s not just alcohol—that’s history, tradition, and rebellion in liquid form. Because real mezcal doesn’t just whisper—it roars.