Tequila & Mezcal Tasting Experience

If you’re considering a tequila and mezcal tasting in Baja California Sur, this experience from Santos Destilados offers a solid option. It’s a chance to explore Mexican spirits without the crowds of big-group tours, and at just $35 per person, it’s pretty accessible. Based on reviews and what the tour offers, I’d say this is a solid pick for anyone curious about Mexico’s iconic drinks but wanting a more personal touch.

What really caught my eye about this experience are two things: First, the knowledgeable guides who walk you through the process and traditions behind each drink—this isn’t just about tasting, but understanding what makes each one special. Second, the customized experience with a private guide means you get to ask questions and really get into the details, which can turn a simple tasting into a memorable educational moment.

One thing to keep in mind is that, since it’s a relatively short, 1.5-hour tour, it’s best suited for those who want a concise, focused introduction rather than an extensive tasting session. Also, this tour isn’t suitable for children under 18, so if you’re traveling with minors, you’ll need to consider other activities.

If you love discovering local flavors, appreciate good storytelling, or are just curious about Mexican spirits, this tasting could be a great addition to your Cabo trip. It’s especially fitting for travelers looking for something relaxed yet enriching—no heavy commitments, just a friendly, informative session that leaves you with new knowledge and a few delicious samples.

Key Points

• Personalized experience: Guided by a private guide, not a crowd.
• Authentic spirits: Handcrafted tequilas and mezcales, exclusive to the shop.
• Informative: Learn about the process, traditions, and history of tequila and mezcal.
• Tasting with pairing: Each sip is thoughtfully paired with snacks like dark chocolate, shrimp, cheese, and even grasshoppers.
• Accessible location: Near center of Cabo San Lucas, walking distance from hotels and shopping.
• Value for money: At $35, it offers quality education and tastings in a compact session.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point: Santos Destilados

The tour begins at the Tequilera Santos Destilados shop in central Cabo San Lucas. This means no need to worry about transportation—it’s conveniently close to top hotels and shopping districts. The location itself feels cozy, more like visiting a friend’s well-curated liquor cabinet than a busy tourist trap.

What You’ll Taste

You’ll sample six varieties of handmade tequilas and three types of mezcal. The emphasis on craft spirits is a real highlight. These are artisanal drinks, often only sold in this shop, so you’re tasting flavors that aren’t mass-produced or widely available elsewhere. Our reviews highlight the value of this—”handcraft tequilas and mexcalez, sold only in our shop”—which makes the experience feel unique and authentic.

The Guide and Education

The guide, often praised as passionate and knowledgeable, will walk you through the entire process of making tequila and mezcal, from agave to bottle. One reviewer specifically called the guide “The Mexican Johnny Cash,” which hints at a charismatic, engaging personality that makes the session enjoyable. You’ll learn about the traditions and methods behind each spirit, which turns tasting from a simple sip into an educational journey.

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Tasting and Pairings

Each artisanal drink is paired with Mexican snacks, such as dark chocolate, meat, cheese, shrimp, and even grasshoppers. These pairings aren’t just for fun—they’re designed to enhance the flavors and give you a more rounded tasting experience. One reviewer loved how the guide taught them to swish the spirits in their mouth, developing a deeper appreciation for the complex flavors.

Atmosphere and Group Size

Unlike large group tours, this is a more intimate experience. Reviews emphasize the personalized attention, which makes it easier to ask questions and really understand what you’re drinking. The group size tends to be small, creating a friendly, relaxed environment.

Duration and Flexibility

At 1.5 hours, it’s a manageable session, often available in the morning, afternoon, or evening. Plus, with free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand, you can plan with confidence. This flexibility is great if your schedule is still taking shape.

Accessibility

The tour is wheelchair accessible, which is a thoughtful touch, making sure more travelers can enjoy it. It’s also all conducted in English and Spanish, accommodating a range of visitors.

What Could Be Better?

While the experience excels in education and tasting quality, the short duration might leave some wanting more depth or additional tastings. For true aficionados, this is an introduction rather than an exhaustive exploration. Also, it’s not suitable for children, so families with minors will need to look elsewhere for entertainment.

How Do Reviews Reflect the Experience?

Multiple reviews rave about the guide’s responsiveness and enthusiasm. One reviewer mentioned, “Luis is so passionate about his business,” highlighting the warmth and dedication of the staff. Others appreciated the fun and informative nature of the tasting—”we learned so much about this incredible drink” and “the pacing was perfect, so we didn’t leave tipsy or hung over.”

The snacks and pairing are also a hit, with some saying it added to the enjoyment and flavor exploration. And the exclusive nature of the handcrafted spirits makes this tasting feel special—you’re not just drinking typical brands but getting a taste of Mexico’s artisan craftsmanship.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $35, this experience offers good value, especially considering the quality of the spirits and personalized guidance. For a quick, educational, and flavorful introduction to tequila and mezcal, it’s a reasonably priced way to deepen your understanding of Mexican culture.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tasting is perfect for travelers who enjoy learning about local traditions, appreciate good spirits, or want an authentic experience without the hassle of large tours. It’s particularly suited for those who like small-group settings and are looking for a memorable, casual activity in Cabo. If you’re traveling with children or looking for a long, in-depth tasting, this might not be the best fit.

If you’re after a friendly, engaging introduction to the world of Mexican spirits, this tequila and mezcal tasting from Santos Destilados hits the mark. The guides’ passion, combined with exclusive handcrafted drinks and thoughtful pairings, makes it more than just a tasting—it’s a mini cultural lesson you get to enjoy firsthand. It’s affordable, accessible, and ideal for travelers who want a taste of authentic Mexico without the crowds.

That said, if you’re already a tequila aficionado or prefer longer, more comprehensive tastings, this might feel a little brief. Still, for most visitors looking to add a fun, educational activity to their Cabo trip, it’s a solid choice that offers genuine insight and memorable sips.

Overall, I’d recommend this experience for anyone curious about Mexico’s iconic spirits, especially if you enjoy a more intimate, personal setting. It’s a chance to not just drink but learn—and that’s what really makes it stand out.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not suitable for travelers under 18, as it involves alcohol tasting.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Santos Destilados in central Cabo San Lucas, within walking distance from hotels and shops.

How long does the experience last?
It lasts approximately 1.5 hours, making it a quick but comprehensive session.

What’s included in the price?
You’ll taste four different tequilas, three mezcales, and enjoy pairings with snacks like chocolate, shrimp, cheese, and grasshoppers.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance is available, offering flexibility.

Is the guide bilingual?
Yes, the tour is conducted in both English and Spanish, accommodating a wide range of guests.

Do I get to buy the spirits after the tasting?
Yes, the handcrafted tequilas and mezcales are sold only at the shop, offering a chance to take some home or try more later.

This tequila and mezcal tasting experience offers a friendly, authentic look into Mexico’s famed spirits. Whether you’re a casual sipper or a curious learner, it’s worth considering as part of your Cabo adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: