Mezcal y Mole with a Certified Sommelier

If you’re planning a trip to Oaxaca and want to really get a taste of its culinary soul, the Mezcal y Mole with a Certified Sommelier tour might just be your perfect introduction. This 1.5-hour experience packs in a lot — including seven different mezcals and seven traditional moles — all guided by a knowledgeable sommelier. It’s a wonderful way to start your evening, especially if you’re curious about the local flavors and want to deepen your appreciation for these iconic elements of Oaxacan cuisine.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it combines education with tasting. First, the fact that it’s led by a certified mezcal sommelier adds a layer of credibility and insight you won’t get just anywhere. Plus, tasting seven uniquely crafted mezcals paired with traditional moles offers an authentic glimpse into Oaxaca’s culinary diversity. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that this isn’t a full meal, so if you’re hungry afterward, you’ll need to plan for dinner separately.

This experience is particularly well-suited for adventurous food lovers, culture buffs, or anyone wanting to deepen their knowledge of mezcal and mole. It’s also friendly for couples or small groups, and the casual yet professional vibe makes it accessible for most travelers. If you’re after a laid-back but meaningful way to kick off an evening in Oaxaca, this tasting ticks many boxes.

Key Points

• Led by a certified mezcal sommelier, ensuring expert guidance.
• First-ever pairing of mezcal and mole, a true cultural highlight.
• Locally sourced, traditional ingredients for authentic flavors.
• Includes seven different mezcals and moles, offering variety and education.
• Perfect for starting your evening with something flavorful and insightful.
• Not a full meal, so plan for dinner afterward if needed.

You can check availability for your dates here:

About the Tour: What to Expect

This tour is designed to be a short yet rich exploration of two of Oaxaca’s most iconic culinary elements: mezcal and mole. Over approximately 90 minutes, you’ll move through a tasting journey that highlights the diversity and craftsmanship involved in making both.

The experience begins at a designated meeting point marked by a black door with a “Mezcal y Mole” sign. Once you arrive, you’re greeted with a welcome cocktail — a nice touch to get your palate ready. From there, the real fun begins: you’ll taste seven handcrafted moles, each representing a different style, and seven artisanal mezcals made from various agaves like Espadín, Cuixe, and Tepeztate.

What sets this apart is the pairing approach. Each mezcal is carefully matched with a mole, revealing how flavors complement and enhance each other. The sommelier will guide you through the unique characteristics of each agave, explaining what makes each mezcal special. You’ll get insights into the distillation process, the origins of the ingredients, and the cultural significance behind these traditional flavors.

Participants are encouraged to ask questions and share their impressions, making this both an educational and social experience. It’s a relaxed setting where curiosity is welcomed, and you’re encouraged to learn as much as you want.

The Flavors of Oaxaca: Mezcals and Moles

One of the highlights of this tour is the focus on seven different mezcals. Each is selected to showcase the variety of agaves used in Oaxaca, from the commonly known Espadín to more exotic varieties like Mexicano and Papalometl. This variety allows you to appreciate how different agave types influence flavor profiles — from smoky and earthy to sweet and fruity.

Similarly, the seven traditional moles are handcrafted using locally sourced ingredients. Moles are complex, layered sauces, and pairing them with the right mezcal enhances their flavors significantly. The tour offers a chance to taste the subtle differences between each mole — from the spiciest to the sweetest — and learn what makes each one unique.

One reviewer suggested including nachos or tortillas to dip with the moles, which might be a nice addition if you want a bit of crunch or carb alongside the tasting. But overall, the focus remains on savoring the moles and mezcals in their purest form.

The Experience and Atmosphere

This isn’t a big, bustling restaurant — it’s a more intimate setting that feels cozy and personal. The staff are described as extremely personable and knowledgeable, exuding a genuine passion for what they do. The setting is often described as quaint and relaxed, making it easy to connect with fellow tasters and really soak in the experience.

The tour is just the tasting, not a dinner, which means if you’re coming hungry, you might want to plan for after. There’s an option to have dinner afterward, but that’s separate from the tasting event.

The duration of 1.5 hours makes it a manageable, engaging activity that fits well into an evening schedule. Plus, it’s accessible, with wheelchair-friendly facilities and instructions in English, so language barriers aren’t a concern.

Pricing and Value

At $76 per person, this tour offers good value considering the quality and quantity of tastings involved. You get seven mezcals and seven moles, guided by an expert, which is quite a comprehensive introduction to Oaxaca’s culinary staples. Comparing this to other tastings, the inclusion of a certified sommelier and the focus on pairing elevates it beyond a typical tasting.

While it’s not a full meal, the tasting experience is dense with flavor and educational content, making it a worthwhile investment if you’re eager to understand local traditions more deeply.

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What Travelers Say

Reviewers highlight the professional yet relaxed atmosphere and the knowledgeable guides as standout features. One reviewer called it “one of the most unique” tastings they’d attended, praising the personal touch and local insights shared by the staff. Others appreciated the hospitality and the opportunity to ask questions about the culture behind these flavors.

However, one comment noted that the sommelier didn’t lead the tour directly, but his friend did, which might be a consideration if you’re seeking a more formal guide. Still, the overall feedback is overwhelmingly positive, emphasizing the authenticity and warmth of the experience.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This tasting is ideal for adventurous eaters, curious travelers, and those interested in Mexican culture. It’s especially suitable if you want an educational yet relaxed introduction to mezcal and mole. Since it’s not a meal, those with bigger appetites should plan for dinner afterward, but for most, this is a delightful way to start an evening in Oaxaca.

It’s also a good choice for small groups or couples, thanks to its intimate vibe. While children under 18 aren’t allowed, this isn’t a family-focused activity, so it’s best for adult travelers.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians or vegans?
Yes, the moles are vegetarian, and the experience is friendly for vegetarians and vegans, especially if you communicate your dietary preferences in advance.

How long does the tasting last?
The tour lasts about 1.5 hours, making it a compact but rich experience perfect for an early evening activity.

Can I extend my evening with dinner?
Absolutely, but dinner isn’t included in the tour. You can contact the provider for local restaurant recommendations or plan to dine after the tasting.

Is transportation included?
No, transportation to the meeting point is not included, so you’ll need to organize your own way there.

Is this experience accessible for travelers with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is noted as wheelchair accessible, making it easier for those with mobility concerns.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The experience is conducted in English, ensuring clear communication and a smooth experience for English-speaking travelers.

Final Thoughts

The Mezcal y Mole with a Certified Sommelier tour offers a thoughtfully curated taste of Oaxaca’s culinary essence. It’s a perfect introduction for those curious about local flavors, seeking a mix of education and enjoyment without the formality of a full dinner. The pairing of seven mezcals with seven moles provides ample variety, and guided by a knowledgeable professional, you’ll walk away with a deeper understanding of what makes Oaxaca’s gastronomy so special.

While it’s not suited for kids or those with a big appetite, this experience shines for adult travelers who want to learn, taste, and connect over Mexico’s rich tradition of mezcal and mole. With its cozy setting, expert guidance, and authentic flavors, it’s a tasting that’s well worth the time and price.

Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just looking for a fun, informative evening, this tour can be a highlight of your Oaxaca trip — a flavorful journey into the heart of Mexican culture.

You can check availability for your dates here: