Exploring Artisanal Mezcal Distillery in the Outskirts of Oaxaca

Welcome to Oaxaca, where Mezcal culture thrives, and tales of tradition come alive. Among the many Mezcal tours available in Oaxaca, one surpasses my expectations in its warmth, accessibility, and genuine hospitality—Las Bugambilias Tours, owned and operated by Don René.

While Las Bugambilias does not claim to be the best or the only tour guide service in Oaxaca, it offers a unique experience that caters to everyone, including senior citizens. As someone who values family, I appreciate how Las Bugambilias treats their guests with the same care and respect they would give to their own Grandmothers. With my own grandmother in mind, I witnessed the tender care and attention given to each guest, making us feel like cherished family members.

What sets this tour apart is the knowledge you will gain whether you’re a local or visiting from regions beyond. Igniting and rekindling your curiosity and passion for Mezcal well beyond your visit. Moreover, Las Bugambilias proudly supports local businesses, making your experience a testament to the vibrant community we call home. Radiating a deep commitment to uplifting our local community, supporting the artisans and businesses that make Oaxaca truly enchanting.

Don René: From Electrical Engineering to Mezcal Tour Guide in Oaxaca

With a degree in electrical engineering, Don René embarked on a business venture building and repairing computers as a side hustle while managing the family business, Casa de las Bugambilias, located in the heart of Oaxaca Centro. However, due to limited demand for computers at the time, he shifted gears. Recognizing that tourism, followed by Mezcal and coffee, was and is Oaxaca's main source of income, Don René fully embraced managing the family business and ventured into tour guiding. As it made sense to operate a hotel and tour guide service from the same venue. The tour side of the business would later gain traction after hosting a private tour for a prominent New York blogger a few years in.

Don René's goal with each tour is to provide clients with a solid understanding of the local culture of Oaxaca and Mezcal. He wants people to witness the hard work and passion invested in the process of distilling Mezcal and to experience the pride that locals hold for this traditional craft. While Don René's sister oversees the hotel operations, he offers a variety of tours showcasing the region's best local offerings, with the Mezcal tour being the most popular. Although it is possible to explore the abundance of Mezcal in Oaxaca without a tour guide, as most palenques (Mezcal distilleries) are accessible by public transportation, there are advantages to booking a tour guide service, especially for those with limited time or visiting Oaxaca for the first time.

Four Compelling Reasons to Book a Mezcal Distillery Tour with Las Bugambilias

Comfortable Transportation — The tour minibus van is equipped with air conditioning, which is a premium feature in Oaxaca, ensuring a comfortable journey.
Intimate Group Size — The number of attendees is kept at a minimum, between ten and fifteen with smaller groups for specific excursions. Private tours are also available upon request.
Relaxed and Informative Narration — Don René's soft, chill, and patient narration creates a laid-back atmosphere. Unlike rowdy wine or tequila bus tours, his approach allows you to enjoy a midday buzz while genuinely learning about the fascinating world of Mezcal.
Dynamic Experiences — Each full day tour is carefully designed to offer a diverse range of experiences, including Mezcal tastings, encounters with local artisans, and an exploration of the region's gastronomy. And even if you take the tour twice, you can expect unique and captivating moments single every time.

Artisanal Mezcal Distillers in Oaxaca

While your first tour with Don René will undoubtedly introduce you to the local Mezcal culture in Oaxaca, you can expect at least one of following three noteworthy palenques to be part of your next itinerary with Las Bugambilias Tours.

Palenque Gracias a Dios

At Palenque Gracias a Dios, you can witness the distillation process of the renowned Espadín Mezcal. Master Distiller Oscar Hernández Santiago, a fourth generation Mezcal distiller, leads the operation. The label, backed by forty years of experience, offers an impressive portfolio of Mezcal varieties, including their unique gin made from Agave. Distilled twice, their Mezcal is meticulously crafted, eliminating impurities to ensure the highest quality. The palenque is also committed to sustainability, planting over eighty thousand Agave pods annually to secure the future of the industry.

Palenque Mezcal Dainzú

Located in the outskirts Matatlán, Palenque Mezcal Dainzú, owned and operated by Master Distiller Leoncio Santiago Hernández and his wife Octavia Hernández, has been producing Mezcal for over twenty-two years. With four generations of expertise, they distill several labels, including Nuestra Soledad, El Jolgorio, and Agave de Cortés. Each batch of Mezcal from Mezcal Dainzú showcases the influence of its birthplace, incorporating characteristics from the Agave fields, surrounding flora, and the emotions of the distiller.

Palenque Real Matlatl

Don Tacho, an eighty-eight-year-old living legend in the community, is the Master Distiller of Palenque Real Matlatl. With his belief that Mezcal preserves youth and vitality, he starts his mornings with a sip of the spirit. Upholding tradition while embracing modern practices, spanning generations with exceptional Mezcal produced at Palenque Real Matlatl.

Unveiling the Soul of Oaxaca's Mezcal: A Journey of Tradition and Passion

As the sun sets on your immersive Oaxaca Mezcal tour with Las Bugambilias, you'll realize it's more than just a tasting experience—it's an emotional odyssey. Where stories of tradition come alive with each sip. Don René's commitment to his community is unwavering. Supporting local businesses and artisans, showcasing the very essence of Oaxaca's enchantment. Allowing the soul of Oaxaca's Mezcal to unfold before you, as you become part of a vibrant culture that dances to the rhythm of tradition and passion.