Premium Tequila Tasting Puerto Vallarta Distillery

If you’re heading to Puerto Vallarta and have even a modest interest in tequila or Mexican spirits, this tour might be worth considering. The Premium Tequila Tasting at Oscars Distillery offers a focused, engaging experience that takes you right to the heart of Mexico’s iconic drink. We’ve looked into what makes this tour stand out—and what might give you pause—so you can decide if it’s right for your trip.

What really drew us in are the fact that it’s a beachfront, small-batch distillery—a rare find in PV—and the chance to learn directly from knowledgeable guides about the different types of tequila, mezcal, and raicilla. Plus, the tasting of seven spirits alongside some helpful tips on how to enjoy them best makes for a fun, educational experience. That said, at $18 per person, it’s not the cheapest tour out there, but considering what you get, the value isn’t bad.

One caveat to keep in mind: this isn’t a sprawling, lengthy tour. It’s roughly an hour, which is perfect if you’re short on time or want a quick cultural fix. However, if your main goal is a comprehensive deep dive into Mexican spirits, you might find it somewhat limited. Still, for those who want an enjoyable, somewhat intimate tasting with a focus on quality over quantity, this could be just the ticket.

This tour is best suited for curious travelers who enjoy spirits and want a relaxed, informative experience. It’s especially good if you’re staying near the Malecon, appreciate ocean views, or simply want a taste of local Mexican craftsmanship without needing a full-day commitment.

Key Points

• Beachfront location offers a scenic, relaxed atmosphere.
• Includes tasting of 4 tequila types (white, rested, aged, extra aged) plus 3 flavor variations.
• Tastes mezcal from Guerrero and raicilla from Cabo Corrientes—a nice regional touch.
• Informative guides teach about the process, do’s, and don’ts of Mexican spirits.
• Price is quite reasonable at $18 per person, especially considering the variety.
• Tour runs daily, with bookings often made about a month in advance.

What to Expect at the Distillery

The tour kicks off at Oscar’s Restaurant, conveniently within walking distance from the Puerto Vallarta Malecon. Once you arrive, you’ll be guided into a small, lively beachfront distillery—a setting that makes the tasting feel more intimate and special. The environment is casual, making it easy to relax and engage.

The Tasting Experience

Your host will lead you through a masterclass that covers seven spirits: four classic tequilas across different aging styles and three flavored tequilas tailored to your preferences. You’ll learn how to recognize the differences between white, rested, aged, and extra-aged varieties—which is fascinating if you’re new to tequila or want to heighten your appreciation.

Along With tequila, you’ll sample mezcal from Guerrero and raicilla from Cabo Corrientes. These are lesser-known but increasingly popular Mexican spirits, offering a glimpse into regional varieties. The tasting includes bottled water and a welcome drink, so you can cleanse your palate and stay hydrated.

The Value of the Tasting

Considering the $18 fee, the tour offers a solid value for money. You get a decent amount of spirits, along with insightful commentary from knowledgeable guides. Multiple reviews highlight how fun and educational the experience is, and some mention that the host’s personality makes it even more enjoyable. For example, one reviewer said, “The host was fun and informative,” indicating it’s not just about tasting, but also about learning.

The Atmosphere and Group Size

With a maximum of 100 travelers, the tour remains manageable, but most reviews suggest it’s much smaller and more intimate—ideal for conversations and questions. The environment is casual, with the opportunity to order food afterward if you’re hungry—something many appreciated, especially after sampling multiple spirits.

The Experience and Its Highlights

Authentic Mexican Spirit Education: Guides talk about the process behind small-batch tequila, emphasizing quality and craftsmanship. One reviewer stated, “Saul was our guy, and if you do this tasting you have to ask for him. He was the best conductor on our tequila journey,” highlighting the importance of a knowledgeable guide.

Delicious Tasting Selection: Sampling four different tequila types and flavored variants means you’ll likely find a favorite—whether it’s the smooth aged tequila or the more vibrant flavored options. The addition of mezcal and raicilla adds regional diversity, which can be quite eye-opening for those unfamiliar.

Scenic Location: The beachfront setting isn’t just for ambiance; it’s part of the experience. Watching the waves roll in while sipping tequila creates a vibe that’s hard to beat.

Educational and Fun: Reviewers mention that guides make the tasting fun and informative. One said, “He made the experience so fun,” which is key if you want to walk away with more than just a buzz.

A Taste of Local Culture: The inclusion of mezcal and raicilla offers a broader view of Mexican spirits beyond tequila, giving you a more authentic taste of regional traditions.

Potential Downsides

While most reviews are positive, a few mention that the spirits are priced higher at the distillery—a common scenario with small-batch or craft spirits. Some guests felt the tasting was shorter than expected, but considering the price and the focus, it’s understandable. One review was less favorable, noting that for $15, “you get nothing,” but that seems to be a misrepresentation of the experience, which includes guided tastings. Clarifying costs upfront can help manage expectations.

Practical Details

The tour runs every day from 10 am to 6 pm, giving plenty of flexibility for your schedule. You’ll meet at Oscar’s Restaurant on Isla Rio Cuale in the Romantic Zone, a central and convenient location. Booking about a month in advance is typical, so plan early if you’re keen.

The experience lasts about an hour, making it a perfect activity if you want something engaging but not overly time-consuming. Gratuities are appreciated, which is standard, and service animals are allowed—good to know if you travel with your furry friend.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re a spirits enthusiast or simply curious about Mexican tequila, this tour offers a fun, accessible way to learn and taste. It’s especially good for those who enjoy a casual, social atmosphere and prefer smaller, more personal experiences. Since it’s beachfront, it’s also appealing for travelers looking to combine cultural learning with scenic views.

Travelers who appreciate value for money and don’t mind a short, engaging session will find this experience worthwhile. However, if you’re seeking a more in-depth or extensive tasting, this might feel a little limited.

Final Thoughts

The Premium Tequila Tasting at Puerto Vallarta’s Oscars Distillery offers an engaging, reasonably-priced peek into Mexico’s famous spirits. The beachfront setting, combined with knowledgeable guides and a variety of tastings, makes it a memorable experience—whether you’re a tequila novice or a seasoned sipper. You’ll come away with a better understanding of the different styles and a few new favorites.

While it’s not an all-day excursion, this tour packs a lot of value into a short time frame. It’s perfect for those who want a relaxed, enjoyable way to explore Mexican spirits with some beautiful ocean views and lively conversation.

If you’re visiting Puerto Vallarta and want a taste of local craftsmanship without a big time commitment, this tasting might just be the highlight of your day.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
This experience is centered around alcohol tasting, so it’s best suited for adults. Service animals are allowed, but children are not the target audience.

How long does the tour last?
The tasting experience lasts about an hour, making it a quick but comprehensive activity.

Can I walk to the distillery from the Malecon?
Yes, it’s within walking distance from Puerto Vallarta’s Malecon area, making it convenient to include in a day of exploring.

Are refreshments or food included?
Water and a welcome drink are included, and you can order food afterward at the location to complement your tasting.

What spirits will I taste?
Four kinds of tequila (white, rested, aged, extra aged), plus three flavored tequilas, mezcal from Guerrero, and raicilla from Cabo Corrientes.

Is the price worth it?
At $18, most reviewers agree it’s good value, especially considering the variety and learning experience. The quality of the spirits and the guides’ knowledge add to the perceived worth.

What should I ask the guide?
Feel free to ask about the differences between the spirits, the best ways to enjoy them, or regional variations—they’re there to share their expertise.

If you’re after a relaxed, educational, and tasty introduction to Mexican spirits, this tour hits the mark. Just be sure to book in advance and come prepared to sip and learn!