ARTISANAL MEZCAL EXPERIENCE

WHAT YOU’LL DO

For our artisanal mezcal experience, we’ll meet at the Coyote Aventuras Office at 1:00 PM.  Once you arrive, be sure to ring doorbell A to let your trip leader know that you’re outside.  We’ll then introduce ourselves and hop into the Coyote van heading out to the Central Valley for an unforgettable immersive experience with Oaxaca’s unique ancestral drink. 

In the heartland of Oaxaca lies a cultural treasure steeped in tradition: mezcal. Crafted with centuries-old methods passed down through generations, mezcal embodies the spirit of its birthplace. Oaxaca’s rugged landscape, rich in agave plants, provides the raw material for this revered spirit. Each step of mezcal production is a testament to craftsmanship, from harvesting the agave hearts, known as piñas, to the meticulous roasting, fermenting, and distilling processes. But mezcal is more than just a drink; it’s a cultural emblem, deeply intertwined with local rituals and celebrations. In Oaxaca, it’s not uncommon to witness mezcaleros tending to their rustic palenques, or distillation pits, with reverence, their craft a reflection of the land’s soul. The result is a spirit that transcends mere libation, offering a taste of Oaxaca’s rich heritage in every sip.

Our mezcal experience will take you to visit 3 distilleries, beginning with a rancho in the local community, Unión Zapata, (about an hour away from the Centro) to sample some of the region’s finest mezcals.  Here, our good friend and maestro mezcalero, Jerónimo will explain how he creates this complex spirit from the harvesting of the agave to the ultimate distillation of its fermented fibers.  This journey through the world of mezcal does not only emphasize drinking, but also highlights its varied medicinal effects according to the Zapotec culture.  Jerónimo will teach us how to respectfully indulge in mezcal, stimulating all of our senses and reminding us to always sip slowly and savor in the good company of friends.

Our next stop is the world capital of Mezcal, Santiago Matatlán, where we’ll visit two distilleries that provide interesting contrasts to Jerónimos palenque.   In Santiago Matatlán, the aroma of smoky agave fills the air, echoing the centuries-old tradition of artisanal mezcal production that has made this village renowned worldwide.  These distilleries have been selected to get you thinking about the contrasts within the mezcal industry, specifically how economic resources are being distributed within the industry.  We’ll take you to a few more “established” distilleries which will give you the opportunity to sample delicious mezcals in good company with passionate community members.  As the sun goes down on the central valley, we’ll toast to a beautiful day of immersion into the world of this ancestral drink.  We’ll have you back at the Coyote Aventuras office at 7:00PM! 

ACTIVITY ADVISORY

Outdoor activities carry risks, and you may be exposed to dangerous situations as part of this experience. Make sure you can participate safely given your abilities and the conditions (such as location, weather, and equipment).