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Pulque Tour Plus: Aguamiel Harvest in the Field with Zapotec Dinner

Summary

Our pulque tour for groups six or more begins with pick up from Oaxaca at 4 pm, then out to a village to be met by an indigenous Zapotec family of “tlachiqueros,” in their home. We then head into the field in back of their pick-up for harvesting aguamiel (honey water), the juice which is derived from the majestic Agave americana. Aguamiel naturally interacts with environmental bacteria causing fermentation, forming pulque. Assist in the harvest; sample aguamiel as it is extracted from the center of the agave. We tap several plants, walking between agaves, going from one to the next. Participate in each phase; removing the plants’ rudimentary cover, scooping out the aguamiel, scraping the well to induce further seepage over the ensuing hours, etc. We also sample pulque now and later in the home of our hosts. At the homestead, wash up before drinks, dinner and song. There will be unlimited mezcal from different agave species. You can also imbibe dark or light Mexican beer. Assist your hostess making tortillas by hand, and perhaps participate in dinner prep. Then sit down with our host family for a traditional Zapotec dinner, while imbibing and being serenaded with live music.

Tour info

Duration
5 hours
Group Size
Pricing (From)
Commentary
Meeting Point
Dropoff location

Why take this tour?

Even Oaxacans rarely if ever have an opportunity to accompany an indigenous family into the fields for the aguamiel harvest. And most, certainly of the middle classes, typically don’t ever have a chance to break bread with them. You do it all, learning about pulque first hand, assisting in the phases of production, and spending a couple of hours chatting, learning, eating and drinking, and listening to music, all right in their home alongside members of their family.

What’s included?

  • All alcoholic beverages including pulque, mezcal, beer. Complete three course meal.

  • Private transportation

  • The charge per person is for all expenses from when we pick you up until we drop you off.

Things to know

Before you book

  • Duration: 5h

  • Mobile tickets accepted

  • Instant confirmation

Cancellation Policy

    All sales are final and incur 100% cancellation penalties.

Operated by:

Mezcal Educational Tours

About operator:

Mezcal Educational Excursions of Oaxaca offers spirits aficionados, novices & industry professionals 1 - 3 day mezcal tours in Oaxaca's central valleys and beyond. Learn about agave / maguey, photograph, sample, buy. We visit small, family operated distilleries (palenques) using clay pot production & traditional copper stills (alembics). You'll finish the day also understanding the families' cultures. Inquire regarding our expertise, testimonials, cost, etc. Ask about group tour packages for not only about mezcal and pulque, but also delving into Oaxacan cuisine and craft beer pairing. Considering a business plan exporting mezcal with your own label, or opening a bar or restaurant with a healthy complement of mezcal, or a mezcaleria? We are also consultants in this respect. Or, if you are a photographer or documentary film maker, we have assisted this type of professional on many occasions over the past decade. Mezcal is a full time passion, but a part-time vocation; so inquire early.

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