Oaxaca: Mezcal Distillery Tour with Tastings

Explore Oaxaca’s Mezcal Capital on a Full-Day Distillery Tour

The Oaxaca: Mezcal Distillery Tour with Tastings offers an engaging, hands-on experience in Santiago Matatlán, known as the “World Capital of Mezcal.” Priced at $125 per person and lasting 8 hours, this tour is perfect for those eager to understand the artisanal craft behind Mexico’s iconic spirit. Starting from Casa de las Bugambilias B&B, the journey takes you southeast on the Pan-American Highway 190, providing a scenic drive into the heart of mezcal country.

This tour highlights family-owned distilleries, where traditional methods remain unchanged. Unlike large commercial producers, these small-scale palenques give an authentic view of mezcal-making, from agave harvesting to distillation in clay pots and copper stills. Participants enjoy a variety of premium mezcals and have the chance to purchase directly from the producers—a real bonus for collectors or enthusiasts. The experience also includes a visit to agave plantations, tasting pulque and agua miel, and finishing with a flavorful traditional lunch. It’s an immersive and practical choice for anyone interested in Mexican culture and spirits.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Family-Owned Distilleries: Witness traditional mezcal production methods firsthand.
• Diverse Tasting Experience: Sample a range of premium mezcals, including Espadín, Tobalá, and Tepextate.
• Educational Visits: Learn about agave cultivation and the process from plant to bottle.
• Includes a Traditional Lunch: Savor local cuisine at a restaurant in Santiago Matatlán.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 9 participants for personalized attention.
• Flexible Payment: Reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Origins of Santiago Matatlán, the “World Capital of Mezcal”

Located just an hour’s drive from Oaxaca City, Santiago Matatlán earns its nickname through its long-standing tradition of mezcal production. This town is renowned for its family-operated palenques, where artisans continue to craft mezcal using age-old techniques. The tour starts at Casa de las Bugambilias B&B, providing a comfortable meeting point before heading to these authentic distilleries.

The region’s climate and soil conditions favor the cultivation of various agave varieties, which are integral to the distinctive flavors of the mezcals tasted during the tour. The small-scale distilleries emphasize artisanal craftsmanship, ensuring an intimate, genuine experience.

Visiting Family-Owned Mezcal Palenques: Traditional Production Methods

At the core of this tour are visits to family-owned palenques where traditional mezcal making persists. The guides lead you through the harvesting of agave, which involves cutting and roasting the plant’s heart, or piña. You’ll observe distillation in clay pots and copper stills, highlighting techniques that distinguish artisanal mezcal from mass-produced spirits.

These small producers often share stories about their heritage and the importance of preserving traditional methods. You’re encouraged to sample free tastings of various mezcals, which include well-known types like Espadín, as well as rare varieties such as Cuishe, Madrecuishe, Tobalá, and Tepextate.

Agave Plantations and Pulque Tasting

Along With mezcal, the tour visits agave plantations, where you learn about the different species and their cultivation. It’s fascinating to see how farmers care for the plants that will become the next batch of mezcal or pulque.

A highlight is tasting pulque, a fermented beverage made from the sap of the Salmiana agave. You also get to sample agua miel, a sweet, natural concentrate from the agave. These experiences deepen your appreciation for the long-standing traditions tied to Mexico’s indigenous drinks.

More Great Tours Nearby

Tasting Premium Mezcals Without Pressure to Buy

The tour includes free tastings of a variety of premium mezcals. You’ll try different types, such as Espadín, Cuishe, Madrecuishe, Tobalá, and Tepextate, each with unique flavors and profiles. While the opportunity exists to purchase mezcal directly from the producers, there’s no obligation. This makes the tour accessible for those simply interested in learning and sampling.

The focus remains on education and appreciation, with guides providing insights into each variety’s characteristics and production nuances.

Traditional Lunch in Santiago Matatlán

After a morning of exploring distilleries and agave fields, the tour concludes with a traditional Mexican lunch at a local restaurant in Santiago Matatlán. The meal offers a taste of regional cuisine, providing a satisfying break and an authentic local experience. This is a great chance to relax and discuss the morning’s discoveries before returning to Oaxaca City.

Logistics: Meeting Point and Group Size

The meeting point is at Casa de las Bugambilias B&B, a convenient and comfortable starting place. The tour maintains an intimate group size of up to 9 participants, ensuring an engaging experience with personalized attention from the guides. Transportation is included, and drop-off can be arranged in downtown Oaxaca for added convenience.

Duration and Pacing of the Tour

Spanning 8 hours, this tour generally runs in the morning, allowing enough time for visits, tastings, and the lunch break. The pacing is steady, with enough time allocated to each stop for meaningful engagement. The trip is suitable for most people, though comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a hat, camera, and sunscreen are recommended.

Expert Guides and Multilingual Support

The tour features an English-speaking guide, with Spanish also available, ensuring clear communication throughout. The guides are knowledgeable about mezcal production, agave cultivation, and local culture, enriching the experience with stories and detailed explanations.

Value and Booking Flexibility

At $125 per person, the tour offers excellent value considering the depth of experience, tastings, transportation, and lunch included. Customers can reserve their spot now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. This flexibility helps travelers plan confidently without upfront commitment.

Suitable Audience and Final Advice

This tour is perfect for adventure-seekers and spirit enthusiasts interested in authentic, small-scale mezcal production. It also suits those wanting a culture in Oaxaca’s local traditions. With a limited group size and comprehensive guide support, guests can expect a personalized, informative, and enjoyable experience.

While the tour does not include bottled mezcal, it provides ample tastings and insights, making it a valuable exploration of Mexico’s famed spirit that appeals to both connoisseurs and curious travelers. The 8-hour length ensures a thorough visit without feeling rushed, and the focus on family-owned producers guarantees an authentic experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The $125 per person fee covers transportation, an English-speaking guide, soft drinks, and mezcal tastings.

Where does the tour start and end?
The meeting point is at Casa de las Bugambilias B&B, with the tour ending at the same location. Drop-off in downtown Oaxaca can be arranged.

Are meals included?
A traditional lunch is included at a local restaurant in Santiago Matatlán.

Can I buy mezcal during the tour?
Yes, you can purchase certified mezcal directly from the producers, but there’s no pressure to buy.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, generally scheduled in the morning.

Is the tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
The tour involves walking through plantations and distilleries, so comfortable shoes are recommended. It’s best suited for most able-bodied adults.

Do I need to know Spanish to enjoy the tour?
Guides are English-speaking, ensuring clear explanations for international visitors.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour date.

Is this tour good for learning about mezcal?
Absolutely, the focus on family-owned palenques, traditional methods, and tastings makes it ideal for those wanting a comprehensive understanding of mezcal production.

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation is part of the package, making logistics straightforward.

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