MEZCAL EDUCATIONAL TOURS
MEZCAL DISTILLERY TOURS IN OAXACA, SOUTHERN MEXICO
Our Oaxaca mezcal tours are a full - time passion, but a part - time "job." Accordingly, if interested, best to contact us immediately and not wait until you are in Oaxaca or only a few weeks in advance of your visit, to be reasonably assured of our availability. If a delay on your part has been unavoidable, we will however certainly do our best to accommodate you on an excursion of tradtional mezcal palenques which produce fine agave distillates.
Remember: Ours was the first company in the state of Oaxaca to offer mezcal tours, beginning when the mezcal boom was in its infancy! And, we are specialists, NOT generalist tour guides who offer mezcal tours as part of their overall business plan. We are authorized by the federal government to lead mezcal tours and all cultural aspects relating to agave distillates and fermented drinks (i.e. pulque)
Aunque podemos hacer las excursiones en español, si tienes la preferencia por este idioma, podemos recomendar un colega mexicano con mucha experiencia sobre el mezcal.
Remember: Ours was the first company in the state of Oaxaca to offer mezcal tours, beginning when the mezcal boom was in its infancy! And, we are specialists, NOT generalist tour guides who offer mezcal tours as part of their overall business plan. We are authorized by the federal government to lead mezcal tours and all cultural aspects relating to agave distillates and fermented drinks (i.e. pulque)
Aunque podemos hacer las excursiones en español, si tienes la preferencia por este idioma, podemos recomendar un colega mexicano con mucha experiencia sobre el mezcal.
Our mezcal distillery tours are conducted by Oaxaca residents either Alvin Starkman or Randall Stockton, recognized authorities on local distilled and fermented beverages. Neither Alvin nor Randall are tour guides but rather are seasoned professionals, Alvin a social anthropologist and Randall a fixture in the American bar industry for over 20 years. Both are licensed by the government of Mexico to lead excursions into the hills of Oaxaca to teach both Mexican nationals and visitors to the region about agave, mezcal and pulque - and related cultural adaptations. Specialists in Oaxacan mezcal, they emphasize all aspects of the production of the agave spirit and its innumerable nuances. The lifestyles of its makers are brought home through taking clients into their homesteads in the tiniest quaint villages peppering the region.
Not only was Oaxaca noted as the best city in the world by Travel & Leisure in July, 2022, but our mezcal educational tours were also noted, with the highest accolades: This Mexico Hot Spot Was Just Named the Best City in the World by T+L Readers — and Here's How You Can Plan the Perfect Trip (travelandleisure.com)
Follow the lastest photos and videos of our Oaxaca Mezcal Educational Tours on Instagram: @mezcaled
All our Oaxaca mezcal tours are fully customized to meet the passions, desires and interests of individuals, couples, business partners and groups. We do NOT crowd you into a van with people you do not know, unless you specifically authorize us to do so. If you want to learn about mezcal, purchase at a fraction of retail prices you are accustomed to paying, and/or learn about the culture of rural Zapoteco mezcal distillers and their families, then this is for you. These excursions are anywhere from a few hours in duration (the most popular being single day excursions to visit a number of artisanal and ancestral factories, known in Oaxaca as palenques) up to weeklong vacation packages for the most ardent of spirits, fermented beverage, and Mexican cuisine aficionados.
You don't have to be a spirits aficionado or a mezcal geek, or even much of a drinker, to find a tremendous amount of value in one of our mezcal excursions. In the course of a day we stress the cultural dimension of the artisanal and ancestral distillers (palenqueros) and their families. Occasionally in groups of clients who accompany Alvin or Randall for a day, there are some who just want to learn about rural cultures, meet the people in their homes and workplaces, and of course still learn a little about "the big deal about mezcal." And if you are traveling as a family with relatively young children, we can discuss with you the appropriateness of a touring day with a view to keeping the children interested and enjoying the entire day.
Read the balance of our website to learn how we address the wishes of our clients who:
Feel free to request verbatim unsolicited testimonials from clients who have recently gone on mezcal distillery excursions with us: [email protected].
It's incumbent upon us to counsel about the importance of taking a break from alcohol consumption. This link is not meant to frighten, or sell the program, but rather it's value is in the information it seeks to impart. Drink mezcal and other liquors, but moderation and periodic breaks from imbibing are worthy of consideration: https://www.oneyearnobeer.com/takethechallenge?fbclid=IwAR0u0uCnPllVBOcHmA3EYE9wRu3M8xngM7iQ3SgOcuvy5vv98LW8FkPSF1Y
And for those new to the world of mezcal, this link to a working glossary of terms used in the mezcal (and tequila) industry may be helpful: www.rochestercocktailrevival.com/resources.html. Many thanks to the bar community of the Flower City of Rochester, NY, Josh Wortman (www.distillventures.com), Adam Schuman (www.skurnik.com), and special thanks to John Henry (www.johnhenry.co) and the fine folks of El Buho Mezcal (www.elbuhomezcal.com).
October, 2025: Mezcal Tours and COVID-19: Coronavirus is now almost a non-factor in the state of Oaxaca. But since Oaxacan artisans continue to struggle financially from the effects of the pandemic, we continue with our merchandizing page on this website to help them, so consider having a look at it. Thank you!
Not only was Oaxaca noted as the best city in the world by Travel & Leisure in July, 2022, but our mezcal educational tours were also noted, with the highest accolades: This Mexico Hot Spot Was Just Named the Best City in the World by T+L Readers — and Here's How You Can Plan the Perfect Trip (travelandleisure.com)
Follow the lastest photos and videos of our Oaxaca Mezcal Educational Tours on Instagram: @mezcaled
All our Oaxaca mezcal tours are fully customized to meet the passions, desires and interests of individuals, couples, business partners and groups. We do NOT crowd you into a van with people you do not know, unless you specifically authorize us to do so. If you want to learn about mezcal, purchase at a fraction of retail prices you are accustomed to paying, and/or learn about the culture of rural Zapoteco mezcal distillers and their families, then this is for you. These excursions are anywhere from a few hours in duration (the most popular being single day excursions to visit a number of artisanal and ancestral factories, known in Oaxaca as palenques) up to weeklong vacation packages for the most ardent of spirits, fermented beverage, and Mexican cuisine aficionados.
You don't have to be a spirits aficionado or a mezcal geek, or even much of a drinker, to find a tremendous amount of value in one of our mezcal excursions. In the course of a day we stress the cultural dimension of the artisanal and ancestral distillers (palenqueros) and their families. Occasionally in groups of clients who accompany Alvin or Randall for a day, there are some who just want to learn about rural cultures, meet the people in their homes and workplaces, and of course still learn a little about "the big deal about mezcal." And if you are traveling as a family with relatively young children, we can discuss with you the appropriateness of a touring day with a view to keeping the children interested and enjoying the entire day.
Read the balance of our website to learn how we address the wishes of our clients who:
- are interested in mezcal aroma and flavor nuances and distillation processes using different species of agave;
- want to pursue a business plan for the export of mezcal from Oaxaca;
- are in the business - bar owners, bartenders, Mexican restaurant owners, and those wanting to open a mezcaleria or a related enterprise and are looking for assitance in deciding upon a number of certified mezcals to promote and sell;
- are curious about pulque and willing to accompany a native Zapotec family into the countryside to extract aguamiel, the naturally fermenting honey water;
- are photographers and/or documentary film makers, videographers;
- are spirits aficionados and have sampled mezcal, are intrigued, and simply want to learn more, at the source;
- want their entire visit to Oaxaca to be pre-arranged with an emphasis on the food and drink of the central valleys;
- are intent upon experiencing the real Mexico, by interacting with the locals – where they live, work, eat and drink.
Feel free to request verbatim unsolicited testimonials from clients who have recently gone on mezcal distillery excursions with us: [email protected].
It's incumbent upon us to counsel about the importance of taking a break from alcohol consumption. This link is not meant to frighten, or sell the program, but rather it's value is in the information it seeks to impart. Drink mezcal and other liquors, but moderation and periodic breaks from imbibing are worthy of consideration: https://www.oneyearnobeer.com/takethechallenge?fbclid=IwAR0u0uCnPllVBOcHmA3EYE9wRu3M8xngM7iQ3SgOcuvy5vv98LW8FkPSF1Y
And for those new to the world of mezcal, this link to a working glossary of terms used in the mezcal (and tequila) industry may be helpful: www.rochestercocktailrevival.com/resources.html. Many thanks to the bar community of the Flower City of Rochester, NY, Josh Wortman (www.distillventures.com), Adam Schuman (www.skurnik.com), and special thanks to John Henry (www.johnhenry.co) and the fine folks of El Buho Mezcal (www.elbuhomezcal.com).
October, 2025: Mezcal Tours and COVID-19: Coronavirus is now almost a non-factor in the state of Oaxaca. But since Oaxacan artisans continue to struggle financially from the effects of the pandemic, we continue with our merchandizing page on this website to help them, so consider having a look at it. Thank you!
mezcal tasting wheel
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The following two photos are of three ancestral mezcal distillery employees (palenqueros) struggling to place huge agaves (Agave americana oaxaquensis, also known as arroqueño) weighing as much as 835 pounds each, into the oven with at the bottom logs which have been lit aflame, on top of which are stones. In all, 5 tons of magueyes will be piled up, including some tobalá and some jabalí. Clients from Manchester UK had an opportunity to be there and watch the process of filling the oven.
Mezcal Educational Tours – Discover the Heart of Oaxaca’s Agave Spirit
Oaxaca Mezcal Tour – More Than Just a Drink
When people think of Oaxaca, mezcal is one of the first things that comes to mind. Our Oaxaca mezcal tour is designed for travelers who want more than just a tasting – it’s an opportunity to experience the tradition, culture, and families behind this legendary spirit. Every tour is guided by experts who live in Oaxaca, sharing not only the flavors of mezcal but also the stories of the palenqueros who have been crafting it for generations.
From walking through agave fields to witnessing the artisanal distillation process, our tours take you deep into the culture of mezcal. Whether you are new to this spirit or already a mezcal enthusiast, our educational approach helps you truly understand why Oaxaca is the soul of mezcal.
Mezcal Tours Oaxaca – Authentic and Educational
Our mezcal tours Oaxaca are not typical tourist trips. Instead of rushing through crowded spots, we take you to authentic family-owned palenques where mezcal is made using ancestral methods. You’ll learn how different agave species affect the aroma and flavor, and how techniques passed down for centuries continue to define the drink today.
We keep our groups small, in fact custom designed for just you, your partner, and your own small group, so that you can ask questions, meet the mezcaleros personally, and enjoy tastings at your own pace. Many of our guests say that visiting these mezcal distilleries feels like stepping into a living history lesson – with a glass in hand.
Mezcal Day Tours Oaxaca – Perfect for Short Visits
If you only have a limited time in Oaxaca, our mezcal day tours in Oaxaca are a great choice. These single-day excursions allow you to visit several artisanal palenques, taste a wide range of mezcals, and learn directly from the producers.
During a day tour, you’ll see how agave is harvested, cooked, crushed, fermented, and distilled. You’ll also enjoy a guided tasting session where the differences between mezcal varieties are explained in simple, easy-to-understand language. Even in one day, you’ll come away with knowledge and appreciation that goes beyond just drinking mezcal.
Multi-Day Mezcal Tours Oaxaca – A Deeper Journey
For those who want to fully immerse themselves, we offer multi-day mezcal tours Oaxaca. These tours are designed for serious learners, industry professionals, and adventurous travelers who want to explore mezcal in depth.
Over several days, we’ll visit different regions of Oaxaca, each with its own unique agave plants, production methods, and flavor profiles. You’ll not only taste dozens of mezcals but also spend time with local families, enjoy traditional Oaxacan meals, and see how mezcal connects to everyday life in rural communities. These tours are perfect if you want to combine education, travel, and cultural discovery into one unforgettable experience.
Private Mezcal Tours Oaxaca – Tailored to You
Looking for a more personal experience? Our private mezcal tours Oaxaca are fully customized to your interests. Whether you are a couple, a small group of friends, or a professional team, we’ll design an itinerary that fits your needs.
Private tours allow us to focus on what excites you most – it could be tasting rare small-batch mezcals, meeting specific producers, exploring the business side of export and branding, or simply enjoying a relaxed day in the countryside with no set schedule. With private tours, you set the pace, and we handle the rest.
Mezcal Education – Learn From Experts
At the heart of our tours is mezcal education. We believe mezcal is more than a drink – it’s a story of land, culture, and people. That’s why we guide you step by step through the process, from agave cultivation to the final sip.
You’ll learn how traditional ovens work, why clay pot distillation creates unique flavors, and how environmental factors shape every bottle. Our goal is to answer all your questions in clear, simple language – whether you’re curious about the basics or looking for technical knowledge.
Explore Traditional Palenques Oaxaca
Visiting authentic palenques Oaxaca provides unfiltered access to mezcal's artisanal heart. These small-scale, family-operated distilleries most often represent centuries of accumulated wisdom about agave processing. Our carefully selected palenque partners welcome visitors into their homes and workspaces, sharing stories and traditions rarely accessible to outsiders.
Each palenque visit reveals unique approaches to mezcal production, from wood selection for roasting pits to fermentation vessel materials. You'll witness the remarkable diversity within traditional production methods and understand why each mezcal expresses distinct terroir characteristics.
Mezcal Distilleries Oaxaca – Tradition Meets Flavor
Oaxaca is home to hundreds of mezcal distilleries Oaxaca, each with its own character. Some focus on producing large batches for export, while others make only a small number of liters each month for local use. On our tours, we introduce you to distilleries that highlight the diversity of mezcal – from small ancestral operations to well-established artisanal producers.
Seeing how mezcal is made in different settings helps you understand why no two batches are ever the same. Every distillery, every family, and every agave field brings a unique expression to this traditional spirit.
At the heart of our tours is mezcal education. We believe mezcal is more than a drink – it’s a story of land, culture, and people. That’s why we guide you step by step through the process, from agave cultivation to the final sip.
You’ll learn how traditional ovens work, why clay pot distillation creates unique flavors, and how environmental factors shape every bottle. Our goal is to answer all your questions in clear, simple language – whether you’re curious about the basics or looking for technical knowledge.
Explore Traditional Palenques Oaxaca
Visiting authentic palenques Oaxaca provides unfiltered access to mezcal's artisanal heart. These small-scale, family-operated distilleries most often represent centuries of accumulated wisdom about agave processing. Our carefully selected palenque partners welcome visitors into their homes and workspaces, sharing stories and traditions rarely accessible to outsiders.
Each palenque visit reveals unique approaches to mezcal production, from wood selection for roasting pits to fermentation vessel materials. You'll witness the remarkable diversity within traditional production methods and understand why each mezcal expresses distinct terroir characteristics.
Mezcal Distilleries Oaxaca – Tradition Meets Flavor
Oaxaca is home to hundreds of mezcal distilleries Oaxaca, each with its own character. Some focus on producing large batches for export, while others make only a small number of liters each month for local use. On our tours, we introduce you to distilleries that highlight the diversity of mezcal – from small ancestral operations to well-established artisanal producers.
Seeing how mezcal is made in different settings helps you understand why no two batches are ever the same. Every distillery, every family, and every agave field brings a unique expression to this traditional spirit.
Why Choose Mezcal Educational Tours?
Whether you want a single day of discovery or a weeklong adventure, Mezcal Educational Tours gives you the chance to learn, taste, and connect with mezcal at its source. Oaxaca is arguably the birthplace of mezcal, and with us, you’ll experience it in the most authentic way possible.
- We specialize in mezcal – it’s not just one of many tours we offer.
- Our guides are recognized experts with years of experience in Oaxaca.
- Every tour is educational, interactive, and respectful of local communities.
- We focus on authenticity, not commercialized tourist spots. You are never under any obligation to buy and will never feel any pressure to do so.
- You’ll gain knowledge, memories, and tastes that you can’t find anywhere else
Whether you want a single day of discovery or a weeklong adventure, Mezcal Educational Tours gives you the chance to learn, taste, and connect with mezcal at its source. Oaxaca is arguably the birthplace of mezcal, and with us, you’ll experience it in the most authentic way possible.
Book Your Authentic Mezcal Adventure Today
Ready to discover why Oaxaca produces the world's finest mezcals? Contact us immediately to ensure availability for your visit. As part-time operators fully dedicated to mezcal education, our calendar fills quickly, especially during peak travel seasons.
Join us for an unforgettable journey into Mexico's most authentic spirit tradition, where every sip tells the story of generations of master craftspeople and their deep connection to the land.
Ready to discover why Oaxaca produces the world's finest mezcals? Contact us immediately to ensure availability for your visit. As part-time operators fully dedicated to mezcal education, our calendar fills quickly, especially during peak travel seasons.
Join us for an unforgettable journey into Mexico's most authentic spirit tradition, where every sip tells the story of generations of master craftspeople and their deep connection to the land.
