Premium Mezcal Tasting and Class

A detailed look at the Premium Mezcal Tasting and Class in Huatulco

If you’re considering trying your hand at the world of mezcal or simply want to explore this iconic Mexican spirit in a more immersive way, the Premium Mezcal Tasting and Class offered by Mezcal la reliquia might catch your eye. This tour promises a deep dive into the art of mezcal-making, with tastings of everything from aged varieties to adventurous infusions like scorpion and agave worm.

What we like about this experience is the focus on learning as well as tasting—it’s not just about sipping but understanding the cultural significance and craftsmanship behind each glass. Plus, the chance to sample mezcals from different regions of Mexico adds a nice touch of variety. On the flip side, one consideration is the variable nature of the experience—some travelers have reported issues with the operator, which might impact the flow of the tour.

This tour seems best suited for those who are genuinely interested in the nuances of mezcal, whether you’re a novice wanting to learn or a seasoned enthusiast eager to taste unique varieties. It caters well to curious travelers looking for a relaxed, educational activity that fits conveniently into a day in Huatulco.

Key Points

• Educational focus: The tour offers insights into mezcal’s history, cultural importance, and production process.
• Diverse tastings: Expect to sample a broad spectrum of mezcals, including aged, infused, and wild agave varieties.
• Private experience: A personal tasting session enhances the opportunity for questions and tailored attention.
• Local pairing: Tastings are complemented by local snacks, enriching the experience.
• Variety of tour times: Flexibility to pick a schedule that suits your day.
• Price point: At around $36 per person, the experience offers good value for the depth of tasting and education, though it doesn’t include additional costs or extras.

The Experience: What You Can Expect

The tour begins at a convenient meeting point in Crucecita, where you’ll meet your guide and start with a brief overview of mezcal’s origins. From there, you’ll learn about the traditional and modern methods of making this spirit, why it’s so integral to Mexican culture, and how it differs from tequila. It’s a chance to hear some insider info that you wouldn’t easily find on your own, making this more than just a tasting.

Once the educational part wraps up, the real fun begins: tastings. You’ll get to sample several mezcals, each with its own story and flavor profile. Here’s what you might encounter:

• A silver triple distillation mezcal, showcasing pure, clean flavors.
• An agave worm infused mezcal, a classic for those curious to try something more daring.
• A scorpion-infused mezcal, which has gained notoriety for its boldness.
• Coffee-infused mezcals, perfect for those who enjoy a hint of roastiness.
• Fruit-infused options, offering sweet, tangy, and aromatic variations.
• Wild agave varieties like Tobala, Cuishe, and Tepextate—each with unique characteristics that highlight the diversity of mezcal.
• Aged mezcals: 3, 7, and even 12-year-old versions that develop complex, nuanced flavors.

Throughout the tasting, you’ll enjoy pairing the spirits with local snacks, which adds a nice flavor contrast and helps cleanse your palate. The private setting lends itself to a more personalized discussion, so don’t be shy about asking questions or sharing your impressions.

The Downside and Realities

While the experience is generally promising, it’s worth mentioning that some reviews have highlighted issues with the operator. One traveler shared that the operator never showed up, which was attributed to pandemic-related disruptions. This suggests that sometimes, the experience might not go as planned, so keep this in mind.

Another point worth considering is that, according to a review, the tour doesn’t necessarily offer more than what you could get by just walking into a local shop and sampling on your own. If your main goal is simply tasting, this might feel a bit limited. However, for those wanting context and a guided breakdown of each spirit, the class adds educational value.

The duration, about 1 hour 15 minutes, is enough to savor multiple tastings without feeling rushed but doesn’t overextend your day. The private aspect ensures a quieter, more intimate setting, but it also means that the overall experience might depend heavily on your guide and the day’s organization.

The Value for Your Money

At approximately $36 per person, this tasting offers a solid look into the world of mezcal. You’re paying not just for the drinks but also for the educational component and the relaxed setting. However, the reviews suggest that if you’re just after quantity, you might find that a walk-in tasting could yield more drinks for less money—though without the context or curated experience.

The inclusion of a wide variety of spirits—from fresh, young mezcals to aged treasures—means you’re tasting a good cross-section of what mezcal can offer. Plus, the opportunity to learn the story behind each sip elevates the experience from a casual tasting to something more meaningful.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal if you’re genuinely interested in learning about mezcal’s cultural background, production, and different styles. It’s a good pick for those who appreciate a more intimate, guided experience and enjoy pairing drinks with local snacks.

However, if your main goal is to maximize the number of tastings or you’re on a tight schedule, you might want to compare this experience with other options. Keep in mind that some reviews recommend considering whether the operational issues have been addressed before booking.

Practical Details and Tips

• Meeting point: C. Carrizal 601, Crucecita. Confirm your exact start time when booking.
• Duration: Around 1 hour 15 minutes, enough to savor and learn without feeling rushed.
• Price: $35.63 per person, a fair price considering the variety and personalized attention.
• Booking: Mobile ticket, with the flexibility to choose a time slot.
• What to bring: Willingness to try new flavors and ask questions. No need to worry about extra costs—everything included in the price except possibly extra snacks or souvenirs.

Final thoughts

If you’re in Huatulco and looking for a laid-back, educational activity that offers a taste of Mexico’s rich mezcal tradition, this class could be a worthwhile choice. You’ll get a chance to try a variety of spirits, from traditional to infused, and learn about the cultural significance behind each one.

That said, be aware that operational hiccups can happen, and if you’re after a more extensive tasting experience, you might find better value just exploring local shops. Still, for a relaxed, guided look into mezcal’s world paired with local snacks, this tour delivers a decent, approachable introduction.

Overall, it’s a good pick for curious spirits lovers who want to understand what makes mezcal unique—and for travelers seeking an authentic, personal experience during their time in Huatulco.

FAQ

Is this a guided tour or a self-guided tasting?
It’s a guided, private tasting experience where you’ll learn about mezcal while sampling different varieties.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes, enough to enjoy multiple tastings and some educational commentary.

Are there different times I can choose from?
Yes, several tour times are available to fit your schedule.

What spirits will I try?
Expect a range including silver, aged, infused, wild agave, and experimental options like scorpion and worm infusions.

Is it suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The tour is designed to educate and introduce you to mezcal, making it perfect for beginners.

What if the operator doesn’t show up?
This has happened before, so check recent reviews or contact the provider for confirmation before booking.

Is it family-friendly?
The experience involves alcohol tasting, so it’s not suitable for children or those avoiding alcohol.

What’s included in the price?
All tastings and local snacks are included. You only need to bring your willingness to try something new.

Can I buy additional drinks or souvenirs?
The tour price covers the tasting, but you might find opportunities to purchase souvenirs or extra snacks locally.

Is transportation provided?
No, but the meeting point is near public transportation, making it relatively easy to access.

Overall, if you’re after a relaxed, educational way to explore mezcal and can handle potential logistical hiccups, this tour offers a decent introduction to the spirit and its culture. Just balance your expectations and consider how much you want to learn versus just tasting. Happy sipping!