Tequila and Mezcal tasting in an educational tasting room

Discover the Flavors of Mexico through a Tequila & Mezcal Tasting in an Educational Setting

Exploring Mexico’s iconic spirits often means visiting bustling distilleries or lively bars, but this experience offers something a bit different. Hosted in a cozy, private space called the El Tapatio Educational Tasting Room, this tour promises an intimate, relaxed introduction to the world of tequila and mezcal—with a local guide sharing stories and insights that elevate the tasting beyond just sipping.

What makes this tour stand out? First, we love how it combines high-quality, additive-free spirits from small producers with a genuine educational focus. Second, the setting—a hidden speakeasy in a neighborhood with over 150 years of history—brings authenticity and atmosphere. Lastly, the inclusion of a traditional Mexican dinner and a signature cocktail makes it a well-rounded, flavorful experience.

One potential consideration? The tour’s location is a private space that requires you to get there on your own, so transportation isn’t included. This is something to keep in mind if you’re relying on public transit or planning your evening around it.

This experience suits curious travelers who want to deepen their understanding of Mexico’s spirits culture, enjoy authentic flavors, and share a relaxed, meaningful evening with others. It’s especially ideal for those who appreciate small-group settings and personalized attention.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Authentic small-group experience in a private, speakeasy-like space.
• Educational focus on the history, production, and appreciation of tequila and mezcal.
• High-quality spirits from family-owned, sustainable producers, with no additives.
• Local guide sharing personal insights and cultural stories.
• Delicious Mexican dinner paired with spirits and a signature cocktail.
• Limited to 6 participants for an intimate atmosphere.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Setting: A Hidden Speakeasy

The El Tapatio Educational Tasting Room is not your typical bar. It’s a private space that only opens on demand, evoking an air of exclusivity and curiosity—like discovering a secret in Mexico City’s traditional neighborhood. This is a significant plus for those who prefer a relaxed, unpretentious vibe over commercial, crowded venues. The ambiance encourages conversation, making it easier to connect with the guide and fellow travelers.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The experience kicks off at Degollado 139, a location that’s easy to find and close to the city’s cultural heartbeat. Once inside, the focus turns to learning and tasting, blending education with enjoyment. The 2.5-hour duration strikes a balance—it’s long enough to explore six different tequilas and five mezcals, yet not so lengthy that it feels overwhelming.

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Learning about Tequila and Mezcal

The guide, Mickey Marentes, is praised for his knowledgeable and engaging approach. He explains the differences between tequila and mezcal, emphasizing that all spirits offered are 100% additive-free, which speaks to their quality. You’ll learn about the production processes—from the traditional methods to the regional variations—and how these influence taste.

The tequila tasting features six selections from Cascahuin, a family-owned distillery founded in 1904 and now run by the fourth generation. You’ll sample a variety including blanco, reposado, añejo, extra añejo, and innovative styles like Tahona and Plata 48%. As Emilie from Denmark noted, “We got to taste many different types of tequila and mezcal, while also learning about the history and production,” highlighting how educational and diverse the tasting is.

The Spirit Tasting

The spirits are served in specialized glassware designed to enhance aroma and flavor, which adds a layer of sophistication to the tasting. The guide’s personal favorites are carefully curated, and no mass-produced brands are included—only small-batch, sustainable producers.

The mezcal tasting follows a delicious break with a traditional Mexican dinner, which provides a welcome palate cleanser and adds a hearty element to the evening. The selection rotates based on new findings, ensuring returning guests might encounter different agave varieties and brands.

Food and Drink Pairings

The included dinner complements the spirits perfectly. Though the menu isn’t detailed, the focus on traditional Mexican cuisine and a signature cocktail means you’ll enjoy familiar flavors served in a cozy, authentic setting. Many reviewers have appreciated the food as part of the experience, making it more than just a tasting—it’s a full culture.

The Signature Cocktail

The experience wraps up with a signature cocktail crafted from the spirits tasted during the evening, which guests can learn to replicate at home. This not only extends the enjoyment beyond the event but also provides a practical takeaway.

Practical Details and Value

Price and Duration

At $125 per person for 2.5 hours, this tasting offers good value considering the quality of spirits, the personalized guidance, and the included dinner. The small group size (limited to 6 people) ensures personalized attention, making it feel more like a shared discovery than a commercial tour.

Accessibility and Logistics

The tasting is in a private space, so transportation is not included. You’ll need to arrange your own way to Degollado 139. The experience is wheelchair accessible and conducted in English, ideal for international visitors.

Booking and Flexibility

With a full refund available up to 24 hours before the tour, booking is flexible—perfect if your plans change unexpectedly. You can reserve now and pay later, allowing you to lock in your spot without immediate commitment.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for spirits enthusiasts, curious travelers eager to learn about Mexican culture, and admirers of small-batch, high-quality alcohol. It’s ideal for those who prefer intimate, relaxed environments and enjoy more than just the tasting—appreciating the stories behind each bottle.

While it’s not suited for children or pregnant women, adults interested in authentic, educational, and flavorful experiences will find plenty to love here. If you’re looking for a fun, informal way to deepen your appreciation of Mexican spirits, this tour ticks all the boxes.

Final Thoughts

This tequila and mezcal tasting in the private El Tapatio Educational Tasting Room offers more than just sipping spirits—it’s an immersive journey into Mexico’s drink culture, led by a passionate guide. The focus on small producers, sustainable practices, and educational storytelling creates a memorable and meaningful experience that elevates a simple tasting into a cultural exchange.

The inclusion of a hearty Mexican dinner and a signature cocktail makes it a well-rounded outing that balances education, flavor, and conviviality. Its intimate size and exclusive setting make it stand out from larger, commercial tours, offering genuine connection and personalized insights.

If you’re a traveler who values quality over quantity, appreciates authentic experiences, or simply wants to understand what makes Mexican spirits so revered, this tour is an excellent choice. It’s a superb way to spend an evening in Mexico City, truly savoring the flavors and stories behind each sip.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
No, transportation to the tasting location is not included. You’ll need to make your own way to Degollado 139.

What is the duration of the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 2.5 hours, providing enough time to taste six tequilas, five mezcals, and enjoy dinner.

Is the space accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tasting room is wheelchair accessible.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to a small group of 6 participants, ensuring a personalized and relaxed environment.

Is this experience suitable for children?
No, it’s designed for adults 18 and over. Pregnant women are also advised against participating due to alcohol consumption.

What languages is the tour offered in?
The tour is conducted in English, making it accessible for international travelers.

Are the spirits included?
Yes, the tasting includes six tequilas and five mezcals, all selected for their quality and sustainability.

What makes the spirits special?
All spirits are 100% additive-free, sourced from family-owned, sustainable producers, and are high quality.

What should I wear?
Comfortable casual attire is suitable, but consider bringing a jacket or layers if the space gets cooler in the evening.

This tour is a must-do for anyone wanting an authentic, educational, and flavorful introduction to Mexico’s iconic spirits, set in an intimate, welcoming environment that fosters connection and discovery.

You can check if your dates are available here: