The Best Mezcal Tasting & Cocktails in Oaxaca

If you’re headed to Oaxaca and want to dive into the city’s most emblematic spirit, this mezcal tasting and cocktail-making tour promises a lively, flavorful journey. While we haven’t personally taken it ourselves, the detailed description and traveler feedback suggest this is a well-rounded experience, ideal for those eager to understand mezcal beyond just sipping it.

What we love about this tour: First, it offers a multisensory experience—not just tasting but also learning the stories behind each mezcal. Second, the chance to become a self-proclaimed mixologist and craft your own cocktail adds a fun, hands-on element that elevates it from a simple tasting. The only consideration? The tour is relatively short—about two hours—so if you’re looking for a deep dive into mezcal’s history or distilling process, you might want to supplement with additional local visits.

This tour is perfect for travelers who enjoy cultural experiences, want to taste high-quality artisanal mezcal, and are keen to meet new friends. It’s especially suitable if you’re curious about Mexican spirits or want a fun, social activity in Oaxaca’s lively central area.

Key Points

• Authentic tasting of at least 6 mezcals from different regions and varieties
• Learn the stories and history behind mezcal’s craft and cultural importance
• Create your own cocktail using professional equipment
• Small group size (maximum 12 travelers) for a more personalized experience
• Convenient location in the heart of Oaxaca’s central area
• Free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance

An In-Depth Look at the Mezcal Tasting & Cocktail Tour

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This experience is designed to give you a comprehensive introduction to mezcal, the heart of Oaxaca’s spirits scene. Unlike many tastings that just pour samples, this tour takes a more engaging and educational approach. You’ll visit a unique, secret location right in the city’s core, adding a little mystery and exclusivity to your evening.

The highlight is sampling more than six mezcals—each from different regions or made from various types of agave—so you can appreciate the diversity within this traditional Mexican spirit. You’ll learn about the process of making mezcal, from agave harvesting to distillation, gaining a deeper appreciation for its craft.

The Tasting Experience

The actual tasting is described as multisensory, meaning you won’t just sip and move on. You’ll be guided through the aromas, flavors, and stories associated with each mezcal, which can significantly enhance your understanding. Reviewers mention that the experience is both pleasurable and educational, making it perfect for those new to mezcal or seasoned enthusiasts wanting to refine their palate.

Many travelers appreciate that the mezcals offered are artisanal or ancestral quality, which means you’re sampling premium products that reflect traditional methods. The focus on artisanal mezcals ensures that what you taste is authentic and crafted with care.

Making Your Own Cocktail

One of the most fun parts? You’ll get the chance to become a mixologist. Using provided cocktail equipment, you’ll create your own mezcal-based drink, which you can take home or enjoy on the spot. This hands-on element adds a layer of entertainment and personalization, making the experience memorable.

Snacks and Accompaniments

After the tasting, the tour includes snacks—crudités, peanuts, or fruit—that perfectly complement the mezcal. Plus, you get to make “Sal de Gusano,” a traditional salted worm salt, to enhance the flavors of your cocktail or to enjoy with your mezcal. These small touches help deepen your connection to local traditions.

Location, Timing, and Group Size

Starting at 7:00 pm from a central spot on Av. José María Morelos, the tour ends back at the meeting point. The small group size (up to 12 travelers) fosters a more intimate, relaxed atmosphere, which is ideal for asking questions and making new friends.

Since the tour is booked on average 9 days in advance, it’s a popular choice for travelers wanting a reliable, organized activity in the evening. The price of around $47.24 per person offers good value considering the number of tastings, the cocktail-making experience, and the professional guidance.

Practical Considerations

The tour offers mobile tickets for convenience, and it’s near public transportation, making it easy to reach. Service animals are allowed, and the experience is flexible enough for most travelers.

A significant point is the free cancellation policy—you can cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund, offering peace of mind if your plans shift unexpectedly.

What Do Travelers Say?

While the reviews are currently unranked, the detailed description suggests that most you will find the experience enjoyable and worthwhile. The emphasis on authentic, high-quality mezcal and the chance to make your own cocktail are often cited as highlights.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a traveler who enjoys tasting local spirits and wants an interactive experience, this tour could be a highlight of your Oaxaca trip. It’s especially suited for those interested in Mexican culture, craftsmanship, and social activities. The relaxed, small-group setting makes it perfect whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends.

However, if you’re seeking a deep historical or distillation process tour, this might be more of a fun introduction rather than an exhaustive exploration.

The Sum Up

This mezcal tasting and cocktail-making tour offers a balanced combination of education, flavor, and fun. It’s ideal for travelers wanting to sample high-quality artisanal mezcals, learn their stories, and try crafting their own drinks—all in a lively, friendly setting.

The value for money is solid, considering the number of mezcals tasted and the personalized touch of cocktail making. Its central location and small group size make it accessible and intimate, perfect for making new friends and gaining a genuine appreciation for Oaxaca’s most iconic spirit.

If you’re curious about mezcal or simply looking for a memorable evening activity, this tour could be just what you need to enhance your Oaxaca experience.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The experience is designed to be educational and fun, whether you’re new to mezcal or have some prior knowledge.

How many mezcals will I taste?
You will taste at least 6 different mezcals, each from different regions or varieties.

Can I make my own cocktail?
Yes. The tour includes a hands-on session where you’ll craft your own mezcal cocktail using provided equipment.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Av. José María Morelos 900, in the central area of Oaxaca.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the tasting of more than 6 mezcals, cocktail equipment, one cocktail made by you, bottled water, and snacks like crudités, peanuts, or fruit.

Is transportation provided?
No, but the location is near public transportation, making it easy to reach.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

This tour combines learning, tasting, and hands-on fun, making it an excellent choice for anyone wanting a genuine slice of Oaxaca’s mezcal culture.