Oaxaca: Artisanal Mezcal & Mexican Chocolate Tasting

Summary

Oaxaca flavors collide with smoky mezcal and fine chocolate pairings

You’ll taste five small-batch mezcals paired with fine Mexican chocolates in Oaxaca’s heart, guided by someone who really knows their stuff. Expect seasonal cocktails, traditional snacks (yes, grasshoppers if you’re brave), and stories that make each sip mean more. If you love discovering new flavors—or just want to laugh over your first mezcal face—you’ll remember this one.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing that hit me was the smell—sort of earthy, smoky, almost like someone had just blown out a candle but sweeter. We were in this cozy little tasting room in Oaxaca, sunlight slipping through the wooden shutters. Our guide, Ana, handed me a tiny clay cup with a mezcal cocktail (she said the recipe changes every season—this one had something citrusy I couldn’t quite place). I took a sip and felt that warmth travel all the way down. There was music somewhere outside, muffled by the thick walls.

We tried five different artisanal mezcals during the tasting—each poured into these beautiful little copitas. Ana explained where each agave came from (Espadín, Silvestre… I forgot one because I got distracted by the plate of grasshoppers she slid over with a grin). She told us about how mezcal is made—slow-roasted agave hearts, stone mills, all that effort for just a few bottles. The stories made it taste different somehow. Between sips, we nibbled on spicy peanuts and these dark chocolate squares that melted so slowly I almost laughed at myself for rushing the first bite.

I tried to pronounce “tobalá” properly—Ana laughed and said even locals mess it up sometimes. The chocolates weren’t just sweet; some were fruity or even a little bitter. One had this hint of chili that caught me off guard but in a good way. There was a moment when everyone went quiet after tasting one of the pairings—I think we were all surprised how well mezcal and chocolate worked together. You know when you realize you’ve been missing out on something simple? That feeling.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Artisanal mezcal and chocolate tasting

• Enjoy a fresh mezcal cocktail
• Taste Mezcal Espadín with citrus plate
• Sample Mezcal Silvestre with snacks
• Try spicy peanuts, cacao, and grasshopper snacks
• Indulge in five artisanal Mexican chocolates
• Learn mezcal history and production

Top questions

How many types of mezcal are included in the tasting?

The tasting includes five different artisanal mezcals plus a seasonal cocktail.

Are there vegetarian options for snacks?

The experience includes traditional snacks like fruits and peanuts; however, grasshoppers are optional.

Is this mezcal & chocolate tasting suitable for beginners?

Yes, both curious beginners and foodies will enjoy learning about mezcal and chocolate pairings.

Where does the experience take place?

The tasting is held in Oaxaca city at a dedicated venue for artisanal mezcal and chocolate experiences.

Are drinks other than mezcal provided?

A seasonal mezcal cocktail is served as a welcome drink; other beverages are not mentioned.

Is pickup included in this tour?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; guests arrive at the venue themselves.

Are service animals allowed?

Yes, service animals are allowed at this experience.

Is it safe for pregnant travelers?

This tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers due to alcohol consumption.

What’s included

Your day includes five different artisanal mezcals to taste, a fresh seasonal cocktail as a welcome drink, plates of fruits and spicy peanuts alongside traditional Mexican snacks (including grasshoppers if you’re up for it), plus five award-winning Mexican chocolates—all guided by an expert host who shares stories behind every pairing.