Montreal Old Port: Tequila & Mezcal Tasting/101 Course

Explore Montreal’s Hidden Tequila & Mezcal Speakeasy in the Old Port

The Montreal Old Port: Tequila & Mezcal Tasting/101 Course offers a unique experience inside one of the city’s most discreet venues. For 2 hours, visitors can enjoy a curated selection of premium tequilas and mezcals, learn about these spirits through a comprehensive 101 course, and watch a skilled mixologist craft a signature cocktail. This tour is priced as part of an exclusive VIP package, making it ideal for those looking for a more refined, insider experience.

Located inside Mariscos Restaurant, the venue requires a bit of a treasure hunt through a hidden door—a fun detail that adds to the speakeasy atmosphere. The experience is best suited for adults, with a focus on connoisseurs or curious enthusiasts who appreciate learning about agave spirits. However, those expecting a straightforward tasting might find some challenges, as reviews mention issues with staff knowledge and upselling tactics. Still, the core offering of premium spirits and expert-led courses can appeal to many.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Exclusive 2-hour experience in Montreal’s Old Port with a hidden speakeasy setting
• Curated tasting board featuring top-shelf tequilas and mezcals
• Educational 101 course on tequila and mezcal to boost your spirits knowledge
• Signature cocktail crafted by a top mixologist, with lessons in blending techniques
• Meeting point inside Mariscos Restaurant, accessed through a secret door
• Not suitable for children or pregnant women, and dress code includes smart or cocktail attire

Discovering the Secret Location in Montreal’s Old Port

The tour begins inside Mariscos Restaurant, where a discreet door hides the speakeasy. Guests are advised to ask restaurant staff for help locating this hidden entrance. The coordinates 45.50320053100586, -73.55638885498047 guide you to the exact spot, making it an exciting little hunt before the tasting begins. The venue’s atmosphere exudes exclusivity, adding a layer of thrill to the experience.

The bar inside showcases a curated ambiance that emphasizes privacy and sophistication. Once inside, guests are welcomed into a space that feels both intimate and stylish, perfect for savoring premium spirits. The location’s discreet nature contributes to an intriguing sense of discovery, making it stand out from more typical bar experiences.

The Premium Tequila & Mezcal Tasting Board

The core of the tour centers around a curated tasting board featuring top-shelf tequilas and mezcals. These carefully selected spirits highlight the distinct flavors and nuances of each bottle, giving an appreciation for quality and craftsmanship. The tasting allows guests to compare different styles and brands, deepening their understanding of these complex spirits.

While the tasting is designed for enjoyment and learning, some reviews mention that staff may not always be well-versed in the prepaid tasting package. The spirits themselves are the highlight, offering a solid foundation for anyone interested in exploring premium agave liquors.

The 101 Tequila & Mezcal Course: Become a Spirit Expert

A key feature of this experience is the comprehensive 101 course, which covers the history, production methods, and unique characteristics of tequila and mezcal. Guests gain insights that go beyond casual tasting, enabling them to impress friends with their knowledge and appreciation.

This educational element is designed to enhance your understanding of what makes each spirit special. It is particularly suitable for curious enthusiasts eager to learn the ins and outs of agave spirits. The guide helps demystify the production process and highlights what makes each spirit distinct.

More Great Tours Nearby

Watch a Top Mixologist Create a Signature Cocktail

The experience includes watching a top Montreal mixologist craft a signature Clandestino Cocktail. Guests observe technical techniques used in modern mixology and learn how to blend flavors effectively. The bartender also shares tips on how to highlight tequila’s best qualities in cocktails.

This part adds a fun, interactive element to the tour, giving insight into latest mixology trends. Guests are encouraged to pay attention to the techniques used, which can be useful for future home bartending or parties.

Practical Details: Meeting Point and Dress Code

The tour departs from inside Mariscos Restaurant, with guests instructed to request assistance to find the hidden door. The coordinates make it easy to locate, but some guests might experience a slight wait if staff are unfamiliar with the experience.

The dress code requires smart, business, or cocktail attire. Casual clothing like flip flops, sleeveless shirts, or sportswear is not allowed. The experience is designed for adults over 18, and pregnant women are advised against participation. Assistance dogs are permitted but pets are not.

Pacing and Group Size Considerations

The tour lasts for 2 hours, making it a compact but thorough experience. It includes tasting, education, and cocktail-making, with a pacing that balances learning and enjoyment. The number of participants can vary, but the intimate setting is ideal for guests who appreciate personalized attention.

Guests should be prepared for a moderate walking pace within the venue, with some standing and brief tasting intervals. The venue is accessible to most, but physical requirements are minimal.

Value and Price Considerations

While the experience offers premium spirits and expert guidance, some reviews indicate perceived overpricing and issues with staff knowledge. There are reports of upselling and a mandatory tip requirement not included in the initial price, which may impact perceived value.

However, the exclusive location, educational content, and signature cocktail lesson add a distinctive edge for those interested in specialized spirits experiences. It suits travelers seeking something different from typical bar tours, especially those eager to learn about tequila and mezcal.

Comparing This Tour to Similar Experiences

This experience is offered by Clandestino and is comparable to other Montreal activities like guided pub crawls, underground city tours, or food and drink experiences. Unlike general pub crawls, this tour focuses specifically on agave spirits in a hidden, upscale setting.

Additional activities such as museum visits, winter tours, or thermal spa experiences are available, but this tour’s standout feature remains its exclusive venue and educational approach to tequila and mezcal.

The Sum Up: An Intimate, Educational Spirits Journey in Montreal

The Montreal Old Port: Tequila & Mezcal Tasting/101 Course provides a distinctive experience for adults who enjoy learning about spirits in a secretive, stylish setting. The curated tasting board, educational course, and signature cocktail make it a well-rounded offering for those interested in premium agave spirits.

However, potential attendees should be aware of some staff knowledge limitations and upselling tactics pointed out in reviews. The experience is best suited for enthusiasts looking for a refined, insider activity rather than casual drinkers seeking a straightforward tasting.

This tour combines discovery, education, and elegance, making it a memorable addition to any Montreal visit focused on luxury spirits and hidden venues.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
No, the tour is not suitable for children or pregnant women due to alcohol consumption and age restrictions.

What is the meeting point for the tour?
Guests meet inside Mariscos Restaurant and are instructed to ask staff for help locating the hidden door.

How long does the experience last?
The entire experience lasts 2 hours, including tasting, education, and cocktail-making.

What is the dress code?
Smart, business, or cocktail attire is required; casual clothing like flip flops or sportswear is not permitted.

Are there any cancellation policies?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the experience accessible?
While physical activity is minimal, the venue’s accessibility should be confirmed as it is not specifically detailed in the information provided.

What type of spirits are featured?
The tour features premium tequilas and mezcals, carefully selected for their quality and flavor profiles.

Can I expect to learn how to make cocktails at home?
Yes, you’ll observe the mixologist creating a signature cocktail and learn about blending techniques.

Is gratuity included in the price?
No, some reviews mention that tips are expected and not included, so plan accordingly.

What should I wear to attend?
Dress elegantly in smart or cocktail attire to meet the venue’s requirements.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby