The Best Mezcal Tasting, Mezcal Tasting in Oaxaca

A Mesmerizing Mezcal Experience in Oaxaca: What You Need to Know

If you’re in Oaxaca and eager to dive into the essence of Mexican spirits, this Mezcal Tasting Tour is worth every peso. For just $38 per person, you get a two-hour journey into the world of mezcal, including a tasting of more than six different varieties and a cocktail demonstration. Guided by passionate locals Fernando and Maryori, who bring years of industry experience, this experience promises an authentic, friendly atmosphere just steps from Oaxaca’s lively Andador Turístico.

What we really love about this tour are the detailed explanations about the mezcal’s elaboration process, which turn a simple tasting into a meaningful cultural experience. Plus, the opportunity to try your hand at making a cocktail adds a fun, interactive dimension that elevates the evening from just tasting to truly participating. That said, if you’re traveling with very young children or seeking a more casual, less educational outing, this may not be the best fit. But for curious travelers eager to learn, taste, and connect, this tour hits the spot.

This tour is perfect for culture seekers, curious spirits enthusiasts, and those wanting a memorable night in Oaxaca. With limited spots — only 10 participants maximum — it feels intimate, personalized, and well-paced. It’s also a fantastic value considering the quality of the tasting, the depth of information provided, and the friendly, knowledgeable hosts.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Learn about mezcal’s tradition, production, and regional differences from local experts.
• Variety & Quality: Taste over six different mezcal varieties from various regions, gaining insight into agave types and categories.
• Interactive & Fun: Try your hand at making a mezcal cocktail and enjoy accompaniments like “Sal de Gusano.”
• Affordable & Accessible: At just $38, it offers great value for a comprehensive tasting and educational experience.
• Ideal for Travelers: Small group size ensures personalized attention, making it perfect for those wanting a relaxed, engaging evening.
• Convenient Location: Close to Oaxaca’s main tourist areas, easy to reach on foot.

Exploring the Heart of Oaxaca’s Mezcal Scene

When we first arrived at the meeting point, just in front of building #900 at the top of the Modelorama, we immediately felt the intimate, welcoming vibe. It’s clear that Fernando and Maryori’s goal is to share their passion and educate while making sure everyone has a good time. Their familiarity with Oaxaca’s mezcal scene shines through in their stories and explanations.

The tour begins with a friendly introduction and audiovisual material that helps set the scene. From there, we moved into the tasting phase, sampling more than six mezcals — a generous amount. Each sip was paired with explanations about the different types of agave, the specific regions they come from, and how the production process influences flavor and aroma. Several reviews echo this, with travelers praising guides like Gerardo and Francesco for their knowledgeable, passionate approach. One reviewer from Germany said, “We tried over 10 different mezcals, starting with Espadín and ending with other varieties I didn’t know. I felt like taking 2 or 3 different bottles home.”

The tasting included some traditional accompaniments, such as crudités and snacks, which enhance the experience without overwhelming the palate. What really sets this tour apart is the opportunity to create your own cocktail using mezcal. It’s a playful way to wrap up the evening, and many guests enjoy trying their hand at mixing — a feature mentioned enthusiastically in reviews, with one traveler noting, “You can also make your own cocktail if you wish.”

Throughout, the hosts keep the atmosphere friendly and relaxed. As one reviewer from the United States commented, “M went above and beyond to answer questions and make us feel welcome.” This warmth makes the experience memorable, especially for those new to mezcal or eager for a deeper understanding.

Detailed Breakdown of the Tour

Meeting & Introduction

The experience begins outside the designated meeting point, easily accessible on foot. Fernando and Maryori, or sometimes alternate hosts like Gerardo or Francesco, greet you warmly. They speak both English and Spanish, ensuring everyone can follow along comfortably. The audiovisual presentation offers a concise overview of mezcal’s history, which sets a good foundation for what’s to come.

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Tasting & Learning

The core of the tour is the tasting of more than six mezcals. These are carefully selected to showcase different regions, agave varieties, and styles. Expect to sample familiar types like Espadín as well as less common favorites, which keeps the tasting exciting and educational. The guides explain the elaboration process—from harvesting the agave to roasting, milling, fermenting, and distilling—giving you a real appreciation for the craftsmanship involved.

A key highlight is the visual aids that help you understand the intricate steps. Many reviews applaud the guides’ ability to answer detailed questions — from flavor profiles to production techniques. One guest from Slovakia shared, “Francesco’s passion about mezcal was evident, and he gave a lot of information about the different types and their origins.”

Accompaniments & Cocktail Making

Along With tasting, you’ll enjoy crudités and snacks, which serve as palate cleansers and enhance the tasting experience. The option to make your own mezcal cocktail is a fun twist, giving you a hands-on experience that’s rare in typical tastings. This is especially appreciated as a memorable ending, making your evening active rather than passive.

Closing & Additional Perks

The tour wraps up in a nearby bar, where you can enjoy your crafted cocktail. The hosts often extend their hospitality, chatting with guests throughout, sharing recommendations, or answering lingering questions. Many reviews mention the generosity of the samples — guests consistently note that the pours are more than enough and that the experience feels sincere and un rushed.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At just $38, this experience includes more than six tastings, snacks, a cocktail you can make yourself, and educational material. For a two-hour, small-group tour, that’s an excellent deal. It’s not just a tasting but a comprehensive culture that’s perfect for those who want to understand mezcal, not just sip it.

The fact that the guides are experienced professionals with links to Oaxaca’s mezcal industry gives this tour authenticity. Many travelers have praised their passion, which translates into a more engaging and insightful experience than a generic tasting.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for adventurous spirits lovers and curious travelers eager to learn something new about Mexico’s iconic drink. If you’re interested in local traditions, regional differences, and craft, you’ll find this tour enriching. It also suits those who prefer a small, intimate group where questions are encouraged.

However, if you’re traveling with very young children or seeking a purely social, casual evening, you might find the educational content a bit intense. But for anyone interested in a friendly, authentic, and value-packed introduction to mezcal, this is a standout choice.

Final Thoughts

This Mezcal Tasting Tour in Oaxaca offers genuine value and memorable experiences. It combines education, tasting, and fun in a relaxed setting, guided by hosts who clearly love sharing their knowledge. The focus on regional varieties and production methods helps deepen your appreciation for this iconic spirit, making it more than just a tasting — it’s a cultural journey.

If you’re visiting Oaxaca and want to gain insight into mezcal, enjoy delicious tastings, and connect with friendly locals, this tour is undoubtedly worth your time and money. It’s especially suited for those who seek quality over quantity, a meaningful experience over superficial sightseeing, and a chance to taste Oaxaca’s spirit with genuine guides.

FAQ

What is the cost of the tour?
It costs $38 per person, which includes tastings, snacks, a cocktail you can prepare, and educational material.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, mostly in the evening, making it a perfect after-dinner activity.

What is included in the experience?
You’ll taste more than six mezcals, enjoy crudités or snacks, make your own cocktail, receive a drink to stay hydrated, and benefit from audiovisual explanations.

Where do we meet?
The meeting point is outside building #900, at the top of the Modelorama (Beer Store), a very straightforward location in downtown Oaxaca.

Is the tour suitable for non-Spanish speakers?
Yes, the hosts speak both English and Spanish, ensuring clear communication for international visitors.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and you can reserve now and pay later.

Is the group size small?
Yes, groups are limited to 10 participants, which helps keep the experience intimate and personalized.

Is it appropriate for children?
No, the experience is not suitable for children under 18.

Are the hosts knowledgeable?
Absolutely. Guest reviews highlight the hosts’ passion and expertise, making the learning process enjoyable and informative.

Can I arrange this for a special event?
Yes, they offer services for pre-weddings, corporate events, or parties — just contact them in advance.

In the end, this tour isn’t just about drinking mezcal; it’s about understanding a tradition that’s woven into Oaxaca’s identity. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned spirit enthusiast, you’re likely to walk away with a new appreciation—and perhaps a new favorite.

You can check availability for your dates here: