Oaxaca: Mezcal Distillery Tour with Tastings

Experience Oaxaca’s Spirit: A Complete Guide to the Mezcal Distillery Tour with Tastings

If you’re looking to explore one of Oaxaca’s most celebrated traditions, a Mezcal Distillery Tour with Tastings might just be the highlight of your trip. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, I’ve researched it extensively and can tell you it offers a genuine, immersive look into the craft of mezcal-making, beyond the common tourist fare.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to visit family-owned distilleries rather than commercial factories, which means you get an authentic taste of artisanal production. Second, the variety of premium mezcals you’ll sample—Espadín, Cuishe, Madrecuishe, and even rare Tobalá and Tepextate, showcasing the diversity of flavors. Third, the opportunity to learn about agave cultivation and traditional methods, including tasting pulque, a classic fermented agave beverage.

The only potential downside? The tour is quite comprehensive and lasts around 8 hours, so it’s best suited for travelers with a full day free and comfortable shoes. If you’re eager to understand all aspects of mezcal, from plant to glass, this experience is perfect. It’s especially valuable for those interested in local culture, spirits, or artisanal craftsmanship.

In short, this tour suits curious travelers who want an authentic, educational, and flavorful introduction to mezcal, combined with local cuisine in a small-group setting.

Good To Know

• Authentic Experience: Visit family-owned distilleries to see traditional methods firsthand.
• Diverse Tastings: Sample a wide range of premium mezcals, from popular varieties to rare finds.
• Cultural Insight: Learn about agave cultivation, traditional production, and pulque tasting.
• Local Cuisine: Enjoy a traditional Mexican lunch in Santiago Matatlán.
• Small Group: Limited to 9 participants, ensuring personalized attention.
• Convenient Logistics: Transportation, guide, and soft drinks included for hassle-free touring.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Deep Dive into the Oaxaca Mezcal Tour

This 8-hour excursion, operated by Las Bugambilias Tours, promises an in-depth look at Oaxaca’s signature spirit—mezcal. Starting at Casa de las Bugambilias B&B, you’ll head southeast on the Pan-American Highway 190 toward Santiago Matatlán, known as the “World Capital of Mezcal”. This proximity means you’ll spend the day immersed in the heart of mezcal country, just an hour from Oaxaca City.

Visiting Family-Owned Distilleries

The core of this tour is the visits to family-run palenques, small-scale distilleries that maintain traditional methods. These visits are particularly special because they provide an inside look at how mezcal is crafted beyond commercial production. You’ll see the harvesting of agave plants, which involves skilled workers cutting and roasting the hearts of the plant—called piñas—in earthen pits or brick ovens, creating the smoky flavor characteristic of mezcal.

The tour emphasizes artisanal techniques—distillation in clay pots or copper stills—methods that you won’t find in mass-produced spirits. As one reviewer notes, “Mr. René, an excellent guide, made the experience very comprehensive,” highlighting the value of expert narration and personal storytelling during these visits.

Tasting Premium Mezcals

One of the real highlights is the tasting session, which includes a variety of premium options. You might find yourself sipping Espadín, Cuishe, Madrecuishe, Tobalá, or Tepextate. The diversity of flavors reflects the different types of agave and production techniques used, making each sip a new experience.

According to reviews, there’s no pressure to buy, but the opportunity to purchase certified mezcal directly from the producers is a plus. This means you can walk away with a genuine product, often at better prices than in souvenir shops, and support small-scale producers.

Learning About Agave and Pulque

Beyond the distillation process, you’ll visit agave plantations, where you’ll see the cultivation practices behind the spirit. The tour also introduces pulque, a traditional fermented beverage made from the sap of Salmiana agave. Tasting pulque and agua miel (honey water) offers insight into other local uses of agave, enriching your understanding of regional traditions.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Lunch Experience

After all the tasting and learning, a traditional lunch in a local restaurant provides a satisfying and flavorful break. While the menu varies, expect authentic Mexican dishes that complement the spirit-heavy morning. This meal adds great value, turning a day of tasting into a cultural feast.

Practical Details and Value

This tour costs $125 per person, which covers transportation, an English-speaking guide, soft drinks, and tastings. The small group size, limited to nine, ensures an intimate experience with plenty of opportunities for questions and personal interaction.

The tour’s duration of 8 hours makes it an ideal full-day activity, especially for those wanting to truly understand mezcal’s roots. It’s available in the morning, giving you the rest of the day to explore Oaxaca or relax.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

Unlike larger commercial tours, this experience emphasizes authenticity and education. The visits to family distilleries mean you’re seeing the real deal, not a heavily commercialized version. The inclusion of a variety of mezcals ensures you’re exposed to both popular and rare flavors, making it perfect for spirits enthusiasts.

The learning component about agave cultivation and traditional production methods sets this apart from typical tasting sessions. Plus, the chance to taste pulque and agua miel adds a cultural layer many visitors miss elsewhere.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers with a curiosity for spirits, craftsmanship, and local culture. If you enjoy tasting authentic products and learning about traditional methods, you’ll find this tour rewarding. It’s also suitable for small groups or solo travelers seeking a more personalized experience.

However, since it involves a full day of walking and standing, comfortable shoes are recommended. The tour’s focus on education and authentic craftsmanship makes it less suitable for those expecting a quick, superficial overview or those on a tight schedule.

FAQs

Is transportation included? Yes, transportation from Casa de las Bugambilias B&B to Santiago Matatlán is provided, simplifying the logistics of the day.

What is the tour duration? The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, typically offered in the morning, allowing plenty of time for tasting, visiting distilleries, and lunch.

Are tastings included? Yes, tastings of various premium mezcals are part of the experience, along with soft drinks.

Can I buy mezcal during the tour? Yes, you may have the opportunity to purchase certified mezcal directly from the family producers, often at competitive prices.

Is the tour suitable for families or children? The tour is geared toward adults interested in spirits and culture; children might find it less engaging, especially since it involves tasting.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a hat, a camera, and sunscreen are recommended for comfort and to make the most of the day outdoors.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for travelers.

Final Thoughts

This Oaxaca mezcal distillery tour offers a well-rounded experience, weaving together authentic production, flavorful tastings, and cultural insights. It’s perfect for those who want to see behind the scenes of artisanal spirits and truly understand what makes mezcal so special.

While it demands a full day and a bit of walking, the payoff is a comprehensive, engaging glimpse into Oaxaca’s beloved spirit—an experience that’s both educational and delicious. Whether you’re a spirits enthusiast, a lover of local culture, or simply after a memorable day out, this tour delivers value and stories worth bringing home.

If you’re looking for a mix of authentic craftsmanship, intimate encounters, and flavorful discovery, this tour is a top choice in Oaxaca.

You can check if your dates are available here: