Mezcal Tasting -Masterclass + Blind tasting-

If you’re curious about Mexico’s iconic spirit, this Mezcal Tasting – Masterclass + Blind Tasting offered by ICAVI Tasting Room is a compelling choice for anyone eager to go beyond the usual tourist shots of tequila. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary paint a clear picture of a well-curated experience that combines education with authentic tasting.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the expert guidance from Alex Galina, an international sommelier and agave specialist, ensures you’re not just sipping but genuinely understanding what makes each mezcal unique. Second, the hands-on tasting and practical insights into different regions and agave varieties help demystify this complex spirit.

A possible consideration? The duration is relatively short—about an hour and a half—so if you’re looking for a deep-dive into Mexican spirits, you might find this more of an engaging overview than an exhaustive seminar. Still, for those new to mezcal or craving a well-rounded introduction, this tour offers excellent value.

This experience is particularly suited for travelers who enjoy spirits, appreciate authentic local crafts, or want an educational activity that’s both fun and informative. Whether you’re a solo traveler, part of a couple, or in a small group or family, this private tour keeps the experience intimate and tailored.

Key Points

• Expert-Led Learning: Guided by Alex Galina, an international sommelier and agave specialist.
• Authentic Tasting: Includes a blind comparative tasting of 5 mezcales from different regions and agave species.
• Educational Focus: Covers process, classification, geographic origin, and regional differences of mezcal.
• Value for Money: At $125 per person, it offers a well-rounded, immersive experience, especially considering the personalized guidance.
• Convenient Location: Starts right in San Miguel de Allende’s historic center and ends back at the meeting point.
• Flexible Booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance makes this a low-risk option.

A Closer Look at the Experience

The tour begins at the centrally located Recreo 10A, in the heart of San Miguel de Allende’s bustling historic district. This prime location means you won’t need to go far to find your way, and the intimate setting makes for a cozy, engaging environment. The experience is designed to last approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, split evenly between a 45-minute masterclass and a 45-minute blind tasting.

The Masterclass: Deepening Your Appreciation for Mezcal

Led by Alex Galina, the masterclass offers a clear, accessible introduction to mezcal. We loved the way Alex seamlessly combines technical knowledge with an engaging style, making complex topics approachable. During the session, you’ll learn about the production process, from how agaves are cultivated and harvested, to the distillation methods that make mezcal distinct from tequila.

We also appreciated the cultural context provided—such as the geographical regions where different agaves grow and how climate, soil, and altitude influence flavor profiles. The emphasis on classification helps you understand why some mezcales are earthy and smoky, while others lean towards fruity or floral notes.

The Practical Part: Blind Tasting of Five Different Mezcales

Once the educational segment concludes, you’ll move into the tasting phase. Here, you’ll sample five different mezcales from various regions and agave species, all blind-tasted to sharpen your palate and challenge preconceptions. The reviews echo this aspect positively, with one traveler noting, “The tasting was so informative, in a cute little tasting room. I forgot the host’s name, but you could tell how passionate she is about mezcal.”

This blind tasting is a highlight because it encourages you to rely on your senses rather than labels or reputation. You’ll compare spirits made from different agave varieties and processes, quite possibly noticing subtle differences that might otherwise go unnoticed. It’s a practical way to develop your appreciation for the nuances of mezcal—valuable knowledge whether you plan to buy a bottle back home or just impress friends.

The Setting and Atmosphere

The tasting room itself is described as “cute” and intimate, fostering a relaxed atmosphere where questions are welcomed. The private nature of the tour means you’re not part of a large group, allowing for personalized attention.

The Price and Its Value

At $125 per person, this tour offers a good balance of education, taste, and ambiance. It isn’t the cheapest activity in town, but considering the guidance of a professional, the quality of the spirits, and the personalized experience, it justifies the cost. Plus, the fact that this experience is booked about 35 days in advance indicates strong demand—likely a sign of quality.

Accessibility and Practicalities

The tour begins at 4 PM, making it a perfect late-afternoon activity. It’s accessible via public transportation and is friendly to service animals. The booking process is straightforward, and the free cancellation policy offers peace of mind—an important feature when planning travel in uncertain times.

What Travelers Say

Reviewers consistently rate this experience a full 5 out of 5. Comments highlight the informative nature of the tasting, the passion of the host, and how much they learned—whether about mezcal, tequila, or wine. One family noted how the experience enriched their understanding of spirits across different categories, making it suitable for all ages and backgrounds interested in authentic Mexican beverages.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience works best for curious travelers who appreciate educational activities and want to understand the craftsmanship behind mezcal. If you’re a spirits enthusiast, a foodie, or someone with a penchant for learning about local traditions, you’ll find this tour both enjoyable and enriching. It’s also ideal for small groups or couples seeking an intimate, culturally immersive activity.

However, if you’re looking for a more in-depth, multi-day tour or a larger group experience, this short but focused session might feel limited. Still, for those with a limited schedule or a specific interest in agave spirits, it offers excellent value.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the masterclass is designed to be accessible, providing clear explanations suitable for those new to mezcal.

How long does the experience last?
Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, including both the educational session and tasting.

Are the spirits included in the price?
Yes, you’ll taste five different mezcales as part of the experience.

Is transportation included?
No, but the meeting point is conveniently located near public transportation.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the experience.

Is this a private experience?
Yes, only your group will participate in the tasting, ensuring an intimate and personalized environment.

What is the best time to take this tour?
The tour runs Tuesday evenings from 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM, ideal for late afternoon or early evening planning.

This mezcal masterclass and blind tasting in San Miguel de Allende offers a well-rounded, authentic introduction to Mexico’s complex and captivating spirit. It’s perfect for travelers craving more than just sipping—wanting instead to understand the craftsmanship, regions, and process behind each glass. Guided by a passionate expert, you’ll enjoy a thoughtfully curated experience that balances education, tasting, and cultural insight.

While it’s not the deepest dive into mezcal’s history, it’s a highly practical and enjoyable way to elevate your appreciation. The small-group setting, expert guidance, and quality spirits make it a worthwhile addition to any trip to San Miguel de Allende. Whether you’re a spirits enthusiast or simply curious about Mexican culture, this tour will leave you with a new perspective—and maybe a favorite bottle or two.

In brief: For those who appreciate authentic, hands-on experiences with a focus on learning and tasting, this mezcal masterclass provides real value. It’s best suited for curious travelers eager to explore Mexico’s rich tradition of agave spirits in an intimate, educational setting.