Tour of Mezcalerias in the City

Exploring the Mezcalerias in Oaxaca City: An In-Depth Review

If you’re planning a trip to Oaxaca and intrigued by the world of mezcal, this tour of mezcalerias promises an enriching peek into the spirit that defines the region. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, reviews and the detailed itinerary give us a clear picture of what to expect from this 2.5-hour adventure with Etnofood Experiencias. It’s a chance to go beyond just sipping mezcal and truly understand its roots, production, and flavor nuances.

What we love about this experience? First, the chance to visit three different mezcalerias, each offering unique insights and tastings. Second, the emphasis on knowledgeable guides who explain the nuances of each drink, enhancing your appreciation for mezcal. Third, the inclusion of pairings with local foods at the end, which elevates the tasting to a culinary experience. A possible consideration is that, with only 2.5 hours, the tour is fairly quick, so if you’re a true connoisseur, you might want additional tastings on your own.

This tour suits travelers who are curious about mezcals and their cultural significance, those eager to learn from experts, and anyone looking for an engaging, authentic activity in Oaxaca. If you prefer leisurely, in-depth tastings or have mobility issues, it’s worth considering the physical requirements and timing.

Good To Know

• Authentic Mezcal Experience: Visit three different mezcalerias for diverse tastings.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance understanding of mezcal’s history and nuances.
• Cultural Insight: The tour offers more than tasting; it explores the tradition behind mezcal.
• Food Pairings: Includes local snacks and pairings to complement the spirits.
• Affordable Price: At around $56 per person, the tour offers good value for the quality and insight.
• Small Group: Max of 10 travelers ensures a more personalized experience.

What to Expect from the Tour

This mezcal-focused journey begins in Centro Oaxaca, starting at Expendio Cuish Díaz Ordaz at 5:00 pm. You’ll be greeted and introduced to the world of mezcal, a spirit deeply woven into Oaxaca’s identity. The tour lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, with a maximum of 10 people, making for an intimate atmosphere—ideal for asking questions and engaging with guides.

Stop 1: Cuish Mezcaleria – Artisan Tasting & Craft Market Walk

Your first stop is Cuish Mezcaleria, where you’ll enjoy a 45-minute tasting session that includes admission. Reviewers mention that the guides here are particularly passionate and knowledgeable, making complex topics about mezcal’s production accessible. Expect at least one artisan mezcal tasting, emphasizing traditional methods and flavor profiles.

While the visit to the craft market is brief, it’s an excellent opportunity to see local artisans and maybe pick up a souvenir or two. The outside market view provides context about the vibrant community behind Oaxaca’s crafts scene, complementing the spirit-rich experience.

Stop 2: Mezcalería COZOBI – Extensive Tasting & Sensory Experience

Next, you’ll head to Mezcalería COZOBI for a 35-minute tasting session. This part of the tour is praised for its “extensive tasting”—a real treat for those wanting a deeper dive into mezcal varieties. The tasting is free, but the knowledge imparted is priceless, with guides explaining flavor nuances, production techniques, and regional differences.

Reviewers highlight that the guides here are particularly good at sharing their expertise in a friendly manner, making complex tasting notes understandable even to newcomers. Expect to sample a variety of mezcals, possibly including some lesser-known or artisanal options.

Stop 3: Foodlab at Teolab – A Brief Culinary Interlude

After the spirits, the tour makes a quick 15-minute visit to a Foodlab in Oaxaca, which adds a culinary dimension to the experience. While brief, this stop offers a glimpse into local food innovation and how ingredients pair with mezcal—adding depth to your understanding of Oaxacan cuisine.

Stop 4: Etnofood – Mezcal Pairing with Local Food

The final stop, Etnofood, is where the tasting truly rounds out with pairings of mezcal and local cuisine. Lasting about 45 minutes, this part is highly praised for its delicious combinations and focus on local products. Reviewers mention the pairing elevates the tasting, making it more than just drinking—it’s experiencing the culture through flavor. It’s a fitting conclusion, bringing together the spirits and the food that inspired them.

Inclusions and Practical Details

The tour includes alcoholic beverages, snacks, and bottled water (served without single-use plastic). The guide emphasizes sustainability by not providing disposable bottles, which is a nice touch for eco-conscious travelers.

The meeting point is at Díaz Ordaz 712, in downtown Oaxaca, accessible by public transport, which makes planning your day easier. The tour begins at 5:00 pm, perfect for enjoying the city’s evening ambiance.

The tour is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, as it involves some walking and standing. It’s not recommended for travelers with knee, hip, or walking problems, or those requiring special walking accommodations.

Pricing at $55.65 per person offers solid value, especially considering the guided expertise and multiple tastings. For those interested in learning about mezcal’s history, production, and cultural significance, the experience is well worth the cost.

The Authenticity and Value of the Experience

Based on the reviews, the guides are frequently praised for their knowledge and friendliness. One reviewer states, “Rodrigo was a great tour guide, as were the guys who explained the mezcal at each tasting room,” highlighting the importance of a skilled guide to truly appreciating the spirit.

While one reviewer mentioned they already knew a lot about mezcal, they still learned new things and enjoyed some excellent mezcals, which suggests the tour offers value even to those with prior knowledge. The inclusion of pairings and local snacks means you’re not just sipping spirits but engaging your palate and learning about pairing traditions.

The tour’s small group size enhances the experience by allowing more personalized attention, making it ideal for those who want a relaxed, informative outing without feeling rushed.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect for first-time visitors wanting a broad introduction to mezcal and its cultural significance. It also suits those interested in learning from passionate guides and enjoying local food pairings. If you’re on a budget but still want a meaningful experience, the price offers good value for the depth of knowledge and variety of tastings.

However, it might not suit travelers with mobility issues or those seeking longer, more in-depth tastings. It’s also a daytime activity, so night owls looking for a late-night experience might want to schedule accordingly.

Final Thoughts

Exploring mezcal in Oaxaca through this guided tour offers a well-rounded blend of education, tasting, and cultural insight. The stops at artisan mezcalerias and the focus on expert guides make this a truly valuable experience for anyone wanting to understand and appreciate this iconic drink.

You’ll leave with more than just a few sips—you gain a deeper understanding of mezcal’s craftsmanship, history, and role in Oaxacan culture. Whether you’re a casual drinker or a budding connoisseur, this tour is a delightful way to spend an evening in Oaxaca.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is designed to be accessible for all levels, with guides explaining flavor notes and production processes clearly.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, starting at 5:00 pm.

Are drinks included?
Yes, the tour includes multiple tastings of mezcal, snacks, and local pairings.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is transportation provided?
The meeting point is within walking distance from public transportation, but transportation is not provided as part of the tour.

How many people will be in the group?
The maximum group size is 10 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Absolutely, reviews frequently praise the guides’ expertise in explaining mezcal’s nuances and cultural importance.

In summary, this tour offers a balanced mix of education, tasting, and culture, making it a standout activity for those eager to explore Oaxaca’s spirit in a relaxed, informative setting.