Oaxaca: Mezcal Distillery Tour with Tastings

Oaxaca: Mezcal Distillery Tour with Tastings — A Flavorful Journey into Mexico’s Spirit

If you’re curious about mezcal — that smoky, complex cousin of tequila — then this tour offers a fantastic way to explore its roots and flavors. While we haven’t personally joined this specific experience, the detailed reviews and tour description paint a compelling picture of what to expect. It’s a well-balanced introduction to traditional mezcal making, cultural insights, and authentic tastes all wrapped into one day.

Two things stand out: the chance to visit family-owned distilleries that use traditional methods, and the opportunity to taste premium mezcals directly from the producers. The tasting aspect is a highlight, offering both education and flavor exploration. The only consideration might be that the tour is quite full — a solid 8 hours — so it’s best suited for those who enjoy a day of culture and don’t mind a busy schedule.

This tour is perfect for curious travelers eager to understand Mexico’s iconic spirit beyond just sipping, and for those who appreciate local craftsmanship. If you’re after an authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience with a taste of local life, this Oaxaca mezcal tour is a wise choice.

Key Points

• Authentic experiences at family-owned distilleries using traditional methods
• Diverse tastings of premium mezcals like Espadín, Cuishe, and Tobalá
• Educational insights into agave cultivation and traditional production techniques
• Includes a traditional lunch in Santiago Matatlán, perfect for experiencing local cuisine
• Small group size (limited to 9 participants) for a more personalized experience
• Flexible booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Oaxaca Mezcal Distillery Tour

Starting Point and Transportation
The tour begins at Casa de las Bugambilias B&B in Oaxaca City, making it convenient for most travelers staying in the city center. From there, a comfortable bus whisks you southeast along the Pan-American Highway 190 to Santiago Matatlán, famously known as the “World Capital of Mezcal.” This journey is around an hour, providing a chance to settle in and get excited about what’s to come.

Why the Location Matters
Santiago Matatlán isn’t just a pretty name — it’s where the heart of traditional mezcal production beats strongest. Visiting here means seeing family-owned palenques (small distilleries) that still use age-old methods. Unlike large commercial facilities, these small-scale producers often operate with clay pots and copper stills, which impart unique flavors and character to each batch.

Traditional Production Methods
One of the tour’s standout features is witnessing the art of mezcal-making firsthand. You’ll see how agave plants are harvested, prepared, and cooked in stone ovens — a process that can take days. The cooked agave is then crushed, fermented, and distilled, often in clay or copper vessels. This hands-on, artisanal approach ensures each bottle is a true expression of local craftsmanship.

Tastings of Premium Mezcals
The heart of this experience is undoubtedly the tastings. You’ll sample a range of mezcals, including well-known varieties like Espadín, and rarer types such as Cuishe, Madrecuishe, Tobalá, and Tepextate. The reviews rave about the quality: “Mr. René, an excellent tour, highly recommended, very comprehensive,” notes a traveler from Spain. The tasting isn’t rushed; it’s an opportunity to appreciate the different flavors, aromas, and complexities that come from varying agave species and production styles.

Learning about Agave Cultivation and Pulque
Beyond the distilleries, the tour includes a visit to agave plantations, giving you a close-up view of the plants that produce this spirit. You’ll learn how different varieties are cultivated and what makes them suitable for mezcal. Plus, there’s a chance to taste pulque, a fermented beverage made from the sap of the Salmiana agave. This traditional drink offers a different perspective on local fermentation practices — a delight for those wanting to expand their appreciation of Mexican drinks.

Local Cuisine and Lunch
After soaking up the sights and flavors, the tour concludes with a traditional lunch at a local restaurant in Santiago Matatlán. This meal is a highlight, offering a chance to savor regional dishes that complement the spirits you’ve just tasted. It’s a good-sized part of the tour, making the whole experience well-rounded.

Pricing and Value
At $125 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive look at mezcal for a full day. Given that it includes transportation, an expert guide speaking both English and Spanish, and tastings of premium spirits, the price is quite reasonable. The small group size (limited to 9) ensures a more intimate, engaging experience, which many travelers value over large tour bus groups.

Practical Tips
Bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen — the outdoor visits mean exposure to sun and dust. A camera is essential, as the views and production processes make for memorable photos. Soft drinks are included, but alcohol is limited to tastings, so plan accordingly if you want to pace yourself.

What We’re Told from Other Travelers
Based on reviews, visitors find the tour to be very thorough and authentic. “Very comprehensive,” one says, emphasizing the chance to see how small producers craft mezcal with love and tradition. Several mention the rich flavors and the educational value, making it clear that this isn’t just a tasting — it’s a cultural experience.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour suits travelers who want more than just a quick sip at a bar. It’s ideal for those interested in authentic traditions, local craftsmanship, and Mexican culture. If you enjoy learning about food and drink, appreciate small-scale artisanal production, or simply want a memorable day outside Oaxaca City, this tour hits the mark.

It’s also excellent for those open to a full-day adventure — the 8 hours go by quickly when you’re immersed in sights, tastes, and stories. If you prefer a more relaxed pace or are on a tight schedule, consider whether the full day suits your plans.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting in the morning and ending back in Oaxaca City in the late afternoon.

Where does the tour meet?
You meet at Casa de las Bugambilias B&B in Oaxaca City, a convenient central location.

What’s included in the price?
The tour price covers transportation, an English-speaking guide, soft drinks, and tastings of several premium mezcals.

Do I need to pay extra for tastings?
No, the tastings are included in the $125 fee. However, there is an option to buy bottles of mezcal directly from the producers if you wish to take some home.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included in the tour price but is part of the itinerary, served at a traditional restaurant in Santiago Matatlán.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, and a camera are recommended for outdoor visits and photography.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility if your schedule shifts.

Is this a small group tour?
Yes, limited to 9 participants, which helps ensure a more personalized experience.

Will I learn about agave cultivation?
Absolutely, the tour includes a visit to agave plantations where you’ll learn about different varieties and farming methods.

Are the distilleries family-owned?
Yes, the stops include family-owned palenques using traditional methods, giving you an authentic look into artisanal production.

In essence, this Oaxaca mezcal distillery tour delivers a well-rounded, intimate look at a vital part of local culture. It’s perfect for curious travelers eager to taste, see, and understand how this iconic spirit is made, enjoyed, and celebrated in Mexico. Whether you’re a spirits enthusiast or simply looking for a meaningful cultural experience, you’ll leave with a new appreciation for mezcal and the artisans behind it.

You can check availability for your dates here: