5 stops for one special drink

Destinations on the mezcal crawl, each featuring at least a dozen producers and a wide variety of agaves and regions.

Guelaguetza: One of the first L.A. institutions to expand its mezcal bar eight years ago, it now stocks 60 bottles at any given time, including multiple expressions from Los Javis, which has roots in L.A. and Oaxaca.

Info: 3014 W. Olympic Blvd., Los Angeles, (213) 427-0608, www.ilovemole.com.

Petty Cash Taqueria: The restaurant’s mezcal bar is fast approaching 100 bottles, with 17 brands and dozens of ensembles and single-agave expressions to choose from, including extensive offerings from well-respected producers Real Minero and Rey Campero.

Info: 7360 Beverly Blvd., Los Angeles, (323) 933-5300, pettycashtaqueria.com.

Madre: With 265 bottles and counting, Madre rivals Las Perlas for the most extensive mezcal selection in the L.A. area. The menu is as long as it is educational, with drawings of each agave and detailed explanations on their origin and flavor.

Info: 1261 Cabrillo Ave., Suite 100, Torrance, (310) 974-8005, www.madrerestaurants.com.

El Nopal: A destination for mezcal and Oaxacan classics, such as tlayudas and molotes, that offers 201 bottles and curated flights. Info: 10426 National Blvd., Los Angeles, (310) 559-4732, www.nopal-la.com.

Scopa Italian Roots: Co-owner Pablo Moix says mezcal outsells tequila at his bar, which stocks at least 60 bottles at any given time, including a one-off collaboration Moix produced with Vago Mezcal.

Info: 2905 Washington Blvd., Venice, (310) 821-1100, www.scopaitalianroots.com.