the Mezcalero mezcal tasting

Experience the Art of Mezcal in Puerto Vallarta: A Detailed Review of the Mezcalero Tasting Tour

When we think of Mexico’s iconic spirits, tequila often takes the spotlight. But if you’re looking to explore something a bit more mysterious and artisanal, the Mezcalero mezcal tasting tour in Puerto Vallarta offers a compelling alternative. For $78 per person, you’ll spend roughly one hour and thirty minutes immersed in the world of small-batch mezcal, visiting four distinct distilleries directly in the heart of Puerto Vallarta. Led by passionate guides—one reviewer mentioned Edgar as both knowledgeable and entertaining—this tour provides more than just tasting; it’s a genuine insight into the craftsmanship behind this ancient drink.

What we really love about this experience is how intimate and authentic it feels. Visiting small distilleries means sampling mezcals crafted from family recipes and often unavailable in stores, ensuring you get a true taste of local tradition. The tour’s compact size, capped at 12 participants, guarantees a friendly, conversational atmosphere—great for questions and personal interaction. One highlight is the chance to learn the differences between mezcal, tequila, and raicilla, giving you valuable context for appreciating each sip.

A possible consideration is that transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to arrange your own way to and from the starting point. Also, the tour is on the shorter side, which is perfect if you’re after a quick but meaningful experience—just keep in mind it’s primarily tasting-focused, not a comprehensive tour of production.

This experience suits travelers who are curious about Mexican spirits, especially those keen to explore beyond tequila. It’s perfect for adventurous foodies, spirits enthusiasts, or anyone wanting an authentic look at local artisanship without long hours or complex logistics.

Key Points

• Authentic tasting experience at four small, family-run distilleries
• Learn the difference between mezcal, tequila, and raicilla from knowledgeable guides
• Sample artisanal, small-batch mezcals often unavailable outside Mexico
• Short duration makes it easy to fit into a busy Puerto Vallarta itinerary
• Group size capped at 12 creates a friendly, personalized atmosphere
• Good value for the experience and knowledge packed into 1.5 hours

A Closer Look at the Tour

The Meeting Point and Duration

Starting at Hamburgo 150 in the Versalles neighborhood, the tour is designed for ease of access—near public transportation and easy to find. The total length of the tour, about 90 minutes, makes it manageable for those with tight schedules but still rich in content and flavor. The tour concludes back at the starting point, so you can seamlessly continue exploring Puerto Vallarta afterward.

Visiting Four Small Distilleries

What makes this tour stand out is the visit to small, artisanal distilleries, often run by families who have perfected their recipes over generations. Unlike large commercial operations, these places offer a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the craftsmanship that goes into each bottle. Expect to sample multiple types of mezcal, each with distinct flavors, aromas, and stories.

What You’ll Taste and Learn

The mezcals featured tend to be small-batch products, often made with traditional methods—sometimes roasted in underground pits, using natural fibers, and distilled in small copper stills. As one reviewer put it, “Edgar is very knowledgeable and entertaining. You will learn the history of mezcal, tequila, and raicilla and taste amazing mezcal.” This indicates that the guides do more than pour drinks—they share insights into the history, production techniques, and regional differences.

The Authentic Flavor of Small-Batch Mezcal

Because these mezcals are crafted from families and not mass-produced, each sip tells a story. Some might have smoky notes from traditional roasting, while others might be fruitier or earthier based on the type of agave used. The cost of these artisanal spirits can be slightly higher, but many feel there’s great value in tasting products you couldn’t easily find elsewhere.

The Experience and Atmosphere

Reviews highlight how engaging and entertaining the hosts, particularly Edgar and Corinna, make the tasting. Expect a relaxed, friendly vibe with lots of opportunities to ask questions. The small group size enhances this sense of intimacy, allowing for more personalized guidance and stories.

The Value of This Tour

At $78, this tasting offers a comprehensive look into mezcal—not just a few sips but an educational experience. When you consider the cost of tasting premium artisanal spirits in upscale bars, this tour provides excellent value for a chance to sample multiple small-batch mezcals, learn their stories, and appreciate a less commercial side of Mexico’s spirit culture.

The duration is perfect for travelers wanting a focused experience without exhausting an entire day. Plus, the free cancellation policy gives peace of mind if your plans change unexpectedly.

Who Will Most Benefit?

This tour is ideal for spirits lovers, curious travelers, or anyone interested in authentic Mexican culture. It’s also great for small groups who enjoy interactive experiences and learning. If you’re not a big fan of spirits or prefer larger, more commercial tours, this might feel a bit too intimate or specialized.

The Sum Up

The Mezcalero mezcal tasting tour in Puerto Vallarta offers a rare window into the world of artisan mezcal, directly from small distilleries with a rich family heritage. Its small-group setting and knowledgeable guides make it a memorable, educational experience that balances flavor, culture, and craftsmanship. Whether you’re a spirits aficionado or just curious about Mexico’s hidden gems, you’ll likely find this tour both valuable and enjoyable.

While it’s a tasting-focused experience without transportation included, the quality of the spirits and storytelling makes it well worth the price. It’s especially suited for those wanting an authentic, intimate peek into Mexican traditions—perfect for a short cultural and culinary adventure in Puerto Vallarta.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
No, transportation isn’t provided. The meeting point is centrally located, so you’ll need to arrange your own way to and from Hamburgo 150.

What is the tour duration?
The whole experience lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a great quick option if you’re short on time but want a meaningful taste of mezcal.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 12 travelers, ensuring a more personal and engaging experience.

Are children allowed on this tour?
No, participants must be 18 or older to partake, respecting local alcohol laws.

What is included in the price?
The tour price covers all the mezcal tastings at four small distilleries. Transportation or food are not included.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour starts, receiving a full refund.

What if I prefer tequila instead?
This tour is specifically focused on mezcal, but the organizers also offer a tequila tasting. If you’re more interested in tequila, you might want to look for that option on their site.

Embark on this authentic journey into Mexico’s spirit-making tradition. You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for mezcal’s rich flavors—and perhaps a new favorite to share with friends back home.