Is mezcal stronger than tequila?

Not always. Both tequila and mezcal commonly sit around 40% ABV (80 proof), though some artisanal mezcals can be higher proof. Mezcal may taste stronger because of its smoky character.

Many mezcals are smoky because the agave is roasted in underground pit ovens over wood and charcoal, which can create a signature smoke flavor.

Is tequila made from mezcal?

No. Tequila and mezcal are both agave spirits, but tequila is a regulated category made only from Blue Weber agave in approved regions, while mezcal can use many agave varieties and methods.

What’s better for margaritas: tequila or mezcal?

Tequila is the classic choice for a clean, bright Margarita. Mezcal makes a bolder, smoky Margarita if you want more depth.

Is mezcal always smoky?

No. Smoke levels vary by producer and method. Some mezcals are lightly smoky, while others are more intense.

What does “100% agave” mean?

It means the spirit is made entirely from agave sugars with no added sugars—generally a sign of higher quality tequila.

Shetland Reel: The Spirit of Scotland’s Northern Edge

In the world of craft spirits, authenticity matters. More than ever, drinkers are looking beyond flashy branding and searching for bottles with a genuine sense of place, story, and craftsmanship.

That’s exactly what makes Shetland Reel stand out.

Produced on the remote island of Unst in the Shetland Islands, Shetland Reel captures the rugged beauty, maritime climate, and adventurous spirit of one of the most remote distilling locations in the United Kingdom. More than just a gin brand, it represents a modern Scottish distilling story rooted in location, character, and innovation.

Distilled at the UK’s Most Northerly Distillery

Shetland Reel is produced at Saxa Vord Distillery, located on the island of Unst, the northernmost inhabited island in the UK. The distillery itself is recognized as the most northerly distillery in Britain. (Shetland Distillery Company Ltd)

Founded in 2014 by Stuart and Wilma Nickerson alongside Frank and Debbie Strang, the distillery was created with a vision of producing spirits that truly reflected Shetland’s landscape and identity. (Wikipedia)

At the time, craft gin was only beginning to emerge across Scotland. Shetland Reel quickly distinguished itself not only through quality, but through its extraordinary location and island-driven identity.

A Gin Inspired by the Islands

What makes Shetland Reel unique is its connection to the environment surrounding it.

The distillery incorporates carefully selected botanicals inspired by Shetland itself, including locally grown apple mint, which helps create the fresh, clean profile the gin has become known for. (Distiller - The Liquor Expert)

The result is a spirit that feels unmistakably coastal and Scottish:

Crisp juniper
Bright citrus
Herbal freshness
Subtle maritime character

Rather than overpowering complexity, Shetland Reel focuses on balance, clarity, and drinkability.

More Than Just a Gin

Over the years, Shetland Reel expanded beyond its original London Dry-style gin into a broader collection of island-inspired releases.

Among the most notable are:

Ocean Sent Gin
Simmer Gin
Limited seasonal editions
Up Helly Aa commemorative bottlings inspired by Shetland’s famous Viking fire festival (The Gin Cooperative)

These limited releases have developed a loyal following among both gin enthusiasts and collectors looking for something with genuine regional identity.

Why Shetland Reel Stands Out in a Crowded Market

The gin category has become increasingly competitive over the past decade. Yet Shetland Reel continues to stand apart because it offers something many brands cannot manufacture:

👉 Authenticity.

Everything about the spirit is tied to its location:

Distilled on a remote island
Inspired by local botanicals
Influenced by harsh northern weather and coastal conditions
Produced by a small team deeply connected to Shetland itself

In a market saturated with generic “craft” branding, Shetland Reel feels real.

The Growing Appeal of Place-Driven Spirits

One of the biggest trends in premium spirits today is the rise of place-driven products—spirits that genuinely reflect where they come from.

Much like Islay Scotch carries maritime smoke and coastal salinity, Shetland Reel reflects the freshness and rugged beauty of the northern islands.

Collectors and enthusiasts increasingly value bottles that:

Have a clear origin story
Use local ingredients
Represent a specific culture or region

Shetland Reel fits perfectly into this movement.

A Modern Scottish Craft Success Story

Shetland Reel also represents a larger shift happening within Scottish spirits.

While Scotland has long been associated with whisky, the country’s craft gin movement has exploded in recent years, bringing innovation and creativity to the global spirits scene. (Condé Nast Traveler)

Shetland Reel helped lead that movement by proving that remote, small-scale distilling could compete on quality and identity with much larger brands.

Final Thoughts

Shetland Reel is more than just another craft gin.

It is a spirit shaped by geography, climate, and culture—a bottle that captures the essence of Scotland’s northernmost islands in every pour.

For those who appreciate authenticity, craftsmanship, and spirits with a real sense of place, Shetland Reel offers something increasingly rare in today’s market:

👉 Character you can genuinely taste.

Explore premium and craft spirits at:

👉 FindGoodSpirits.com

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