Exploring Artisanal Mezcal Distillery in the Outskirts of Oaxaca

Welcome to Oaxaca, where Mezcal culture thrives, and tradition weaves its story. Among the many Mezcal tours, one stood out to me for its warmth, accessibility, and genuine hospitality—Las Bugambilias Tours, run by the welcoming Don René.

While Las Bugambilias doesn’t claim to be the best or only tour guide in Oaxaca, it offers a uniquely inclusive experience, even catering to senior citizens. As someone who values family, I appreciated how they treat every guest with the same care and respect they’d offer their own Grandmothers. It reminded me of how they tended to each of us with a tenderness that made us feel like part of the family.

What makes this tour special is the deep knowledge you’ll gain, whether you're a local or a visitor. It sparks and renews a love for Mezcal that lasts well beyond the tour itself. Plus, Las Bugambilias proudly supports local artisans and businesses, making your experience not just enjoyable but a celebration of the vibrant community that defines Oaxaca.

Don René: From Electrical Engineering to Mezcal Tour Guide

Don René’s journey began with a degree in electrical engineering, building and repairing computers as a side hustle while managing the family business, Casa de las Bugambilias, in the heart of Oaxaca Centro. But with limited demand for computers at the time, he shifted focus. Recognizing that tourism—along with Mezcal and coffee—was Oaxaca’s main economic driver, Don René fully embraced managing the family business and branched into tour guiding. It made sense to offer both accommodations and tours from the same location.

Don René's goal with each tour is to give clients a deeper understanding of Oaxaca’s rich culture and Mezcal. He wants people to witness the hard work and passion behind the distilling process and feel the pride locals have in this traditional craft. While his sister handles hotel operations, Don René leads various tours that highlight the best local experiences, with the Mezcal tour being the most popular.

And while it’s possible to explore the many palenques (Mezcal distilleries) on your own, especially as most are accessible by public transportation, booking a guided tour can be a real advantage—especially if your time in Oaxaca is limited or it’s your first visit. And Don René's heartfelt storytelling and dedication to local businesses create an authentic and a standout magical experience of Oaxaca's Mezcal traditions.

Four 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.