Oaxaca: Mezcal Distillery Tour with Tastings

If you’re heading to Oaxaca and have a soft spot for spirits or simply want to learn more about Mexico’s iconic drink, this Mezcal Distillery Tour with Tastings could be a highlight of your trip. We haven’t personally taken this tour, but from what’s shared and reviews we’ve read, it seems like a solid way to get a taste of authentic mezcal while soaking in local traditions.

What draws us in are two main things: First, the chance to visit family-owned distilleries—these small producers often have stories and methods that big brands can’t match. Second, the opportunity to taste a variety of premium mezcals, from well-known types like Espadín to rarer varieties like Tobalá. On the flip side, one thing to consider is that the tour is quite structured and time-packed, so if you’re looking for a more relaxed experience, it might feel a bit quick.

This tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy tasting local spirits, appreciate learning about traditional craft methods, or simply want to deepen their understanding of Mexico’s agave culture. It’s also well-suited if you’re curious about other traditional drinks like pulque or agua miel, which are included in the experience. If you’re traveling with friends, a partner, or even solo but interested in authentic artisanal products, this could be a great fit.

Key Points

• Authentic experiences with family-owned mezcal distilleries.
• Tastings of a variety of premium mezcals like Espadín, Cuishe, Madrecuishe, Tobalá, and Tepextate.
• Insight into traditional methods of production, including clay and copper stills.
• Learn about agave cultivation and taste pulque and agua miel.
• A delicious traditional lunch in Santiago Matatlán to round out the day.
• Small group setting limits to 9 participants, ensuring personalized attention.
• Transportation and guide included, making logistics hassle-free.
• Price point ($125) offers quite a rich experience considering the tastings, visits, and lunch.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Oaxaca Mezcal Tour

Getting There and Meeting Up

The tour kicks off at Casa de las Bugambilias B&B, a cozy starting point that sets a relaxed tone. From there, you’ll take a scenic drive southeast along the Pan-American Highway 190, which takes just about an hour from Oaxaca City. The short travel time is perfect; you won’t spend the entire morning or afternoon in transit, leaving more time to enjoy the tasting and sights.

Visiting Family-Owned Distilleries

Once in Santiago Matatlán, known as the “World Capital of Mezcal,” you’re in the heart of artisanal production. The key here is the visit to small, family-run palenques where traditional methods are still very much alive. Watching how they harvest the agave and distill it using clay pots and copper stills offers a genuine look at the craft. These aren’t commercial factories—more like workshops where passion and heritage drive the process.

The reviews echo this sentiment, with travelers describing the visits as “very comprehensive” and emphasizing the authenticity. One reviewer from Spain noted that Mr. René, presumably the guide, made the experience especially memorable, highlighting the informal, friendly atmosphere of the stops.

Tasting Premium Mezcals

The tasting component is undeniably one of the tour’s biggest draws. You’re encouraged to sample a variety of mezcals, each with distinct flavors depending on the agave used and the production style. From familiar Espadín to rarer kinds like Tobalá and Tepextate, the diversity helps you understand why mezcal has become so appreciated worldwide.

You’re free to purchase bottles directly from the producers if something strikes your fancy—something many find tempting after tasting the high-quality spirits. The fact that the tastings are free and occur in an intimate setting makes it feel more like a true exchange than a commercial pitch.

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Learning About Agave and Pulque

Beyond mezcal, you’ll visit agave plantations, gaining insight into how farmers cultivate these hardy plants that take years to mature. It’s a chance to appreciate the effort behind each bottle. Plus, you’ll get to taste pulque, a traditional fermented drink made from the sap of the Salmiana agave. The inclusion of pulque and agua miel provides a broader picture of local beverages and their cultural significance.

Lunch in Santiago Matatlán

No experience would be complete without sampling the local cuisine. After the morning’s visits and tastings, you’ll enjoy a traditional lunch at a local restaurant. While the specifics of the menu aren’t detailed, you can expect familiar Mexican flavors, possibly with a regional twist, providing a satisfying break after a busy morning.

Practicalities and Value

The $125 price covers transportation, a knowledgeable guide fluent in English and Spanish, soft drinks, and the tastings. For a full day of culture—visits, tastings, and lunch—that’s quite reasonable. It’s worth noting that lunch isn’t included in the price but is part of the package as a highlight of the experience.

The tour runs for around 8 hours, usually in the morning, which fits nicely into a sightseeing day. The small group size (up to 9 people) ensures a more personalized, less rushed experience. Plus, the option for drop-off back in downtown Oaxaca adds convenience.

What Could Be Better?

Some travelers might find the schedule somewhat tight, especially if they prefer a more relaxed pace or wish to linger longer at each stop. Also, since the tour is focused on small producers, it might not showcase larger commercial distilleries or more industrialized processes—if that’s what you’re after, you’ll want a different tour.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re genuinely interested in artisanal mezcal, want to support small producers, or enjoy tasting a variety of spirits while learning about traditional techniques, this tour is a winner. It’s ideal for those who appreciate cultural experiences tied to local craftsmanship. Travelers with a curiosity about other traditional drinks like pulque will also find it rewarding.

It’s also suitable for people comfortable with walking and standing, as you’ll be visiting plantations and distilleries, but it’s not overly physically demanding. The limited group size and guided format make it perfect for those wanting a more intimate, educational outing.

Final Thoughts

For a well-rounded introduction to Oaxaca’s mezcal scene, this tour offers authenticity, variety, and a friendly atmosphere. It balances education with tasting and supports local families, making it a meaningful experience. While it may feel a bit brisk for those who prefer a leisurely pace, the value for the price is clear, especially when you consider the quality of the tastings, the cultural insights, and the included lunch.

It’s best suited for curious travelers eager to learn, spirit enthusiasts, or anyone who loves discovering local craft traditions. If you’re after a taste of real Oaxaca—the people, the produce, the spirits—this tour will serve you well.

FAQs

What is included in the tour?
Transportation, an English-speaking guide, soft drinks, and free tastings of various mezcals are included. Lunch is not included but is part of the experience at a traditional restaurant.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Casa de las Bugambilias B&B, which is a convenient meeting point before heading to Santiago Matatlán.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 8 hours, typically in the morning, leaving plenty of time for tasting, learning, and enjoying lunch.

Is there a limit on group size?
Yes, the tour is limited to 9 participants, ensuring a more intimate experience.

What types of mezcal will I taste?
You’ll have the chance to taste a variety of premium mezcals, including Espadín, Cuishe, Madrecuishe, Tobalá, and Tepextate.

Can I buy mezcal during the tour?
Yes, you can purchase certified mezcal directly from the producers if something appeals to you.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The information doesn’t specify, but generally, it’s a cultural experience involving walking and tasting. It’s best suited for adults or older children with interest in the subject.

Do I need to prepare anything?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, and your camera to make the most of the day.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
Details aren’t specified, but since it involves visiting plantations and distilleries, some walking and standing are involved.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility.

This tour is a solid choice if you’re looking to understand and taste the authentic side of mezcal while supporting traditional producers. It’s a day that mixes education, flavor, and culture—perfect for those wanting a authentic, memorable experience in Oaxaca.

You can check availability for your dates here: