Montreal Old Port: Tequila & Mezcal Tasting/101 Course

If you’re looking to add a touch of mystery and sophistication to your Montreal visit, the Tequila & Mezcal Tasting/101 Course offered by Clandestino in the Old Port might catch your eye. This experience promises a blend of discovery, education, and delicious drinks—all in a secretive, speakeasy-style setting. It’s designed for those curious about agave spirits, whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or simply intrigued by the idea of learning in an intimate environment.

What’s particularly appealing is the chance to start with a curated Premium Tequila Tasting Board of top-quality bottles, and then move into an interactive 101 course that aims to turn you into a quick expert. Plus, you get to watch a skilled mixologist craft a signature cocktail, adding a dash of flair and technique to your evening. The experience takes place inside a discreet spot in Montreal’s historic Old Port, which adds an element of adventure to the evening.

However, it’s worth noting that some visitors feel the experience could be more polished. There are comments about pricing and service hiccups, which might influence your expectations. Still, if you’re someone who enjoys tasting exclusive spirits and honing your cocktail skills, this tour can be a fun and educational outing—especially if you’re traveling with a group of friends or a partner who appreciates good drinks and a bit of secret nightlife.

This experience really suits travelers who love discovering offbeat venues, are eager to learn about spirits, and appreciate a more intimate, behind-the-scenes vibe rather than a large, noisy bar scene. It’s best for adults over 18, given the nature of the tasting.

Key Points

• Exclusive Speakeasy Atmosphere: Hidden in Montreal’s Old Port, offering a unique, secretive vibe.
• Educational and Tasty: Combines a curated tasting of premium spirits with a beginner-friendly course.
• Professional Mixology: Watch a top mixologist create signature cocktails, gaining insight into modern techniques.
• Mixed Reviews on Service: Some guests found staff unprepared or pushy, highlighting the importance of managing expectations.
• Ideal for Spirit Enthusiasts: Perfect for those eager to deepen their knowledge of tequila and mezcal.
• Limited Information on Pricing: Worth considering whether the experience offers good value compared to similar tastings.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Hidden Location and Atmosphere

The tour begins with a bit of a treasure hunt. You meet inside Mariscos Restaurant but must locate a discreet door to access the speakeasy. This element of secrecy adds a dash of excitement—you’re not walking into a typical bar but an exclusive venue that rewards discovery.

Once inside, the ambiance is likely cozy and intimate, with dim lighting and a vintage / clandestine feel. The sense of stepping into a secret world makes this more than just a tasting; it’s an experience that appeals to travelers looking for something memorable and a little different from the usual.

The Premium Tequila Tasting Board

Your journey starts with a curated selection of premium tequilas and mezcals. This curated board is the core of the experience, offering you a chance to sample some of the best-quality spirits available. According to reviews, this part is a highlight, allowing guests to appreciate the subtle differences in aroma, flavor, and finish.

While one guest described the location as “cool,” there’s a note from a reviewer who felt the tasting was overpriced, especially considering that staff seemed unsure about the prepaid part of their reservation. This suggests that the value of the tasting might vary, especially if you’re expecting a seamless, well-organized experience.

The 101 Course: Learning in a Fun Way

The Tequila & Mezcal 101 course aims to teach you about the history, production, and characteristics of these spirits. It’s designed to elevate your appreciation, making you sound more knowledgeable when you impress friends at your next dinner party.

Guests have noted that the guide or instructor is generally knowledgeable, which feeds into the overall positive perception of the educational component. Knowing the basics can transform a simple tasting into a more meaningful experience, helping you understand why certain brands or styles stand out.

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Watching the Mixologist at Work

The highlight for many is the signature Clandestino cocktail prepared by a talented mixologist. This is where technique and flair come into play, giving you a glimpse into the craft behind the drinks. Learning about the latest mixology techniques adds a layer of skill that can inspire you to try your hand back home.

Service and Price Considerations

One of the more contentious points, based on reviews, is the service. A traveler from Canada mentioned that staff had no understanding of the prepaid package and continued to push cocktails and suggest tips, which felt pushy and somewhat unprofessional. The same guest felt that the experience was overpriced and did not live up to expectations.

In contrast, others may find the experience enjoyable, especially if they’re prepared for a slightly casual service approach and focus on the spirits and learning. The price point’s value depends heavily on your expectations and whether you’re looking for a guided, educational tasting or a more polished, premium experience.

Practicalities and Logistics

The tour lasts around two hours, which is a reasonable length to enjoy without fatigue. The experience includes skip-the-line privileges, which is a bonus in busy Montreal. Since the activity offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, it’s flexible enough to fit into your travel plans.

Language options include English and French, so communication shouldn’t be an issue. The dress code is smart casual, with no sandals, flip flops, or athletic wear allowed, emphasizing a level of sophistication.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour appeals most to adults who enjoy spirits, especially those with a curiosity about tequila and mezcal. If you’re after a hidden, exclusive venue with a cozy atmosphere, you’ll appreciate the speakeasy setting. It’s also ideal for groups of friends or couples wanting a memorable night out that combines education and fun.

However, if you’re sensitive to service inconsistencies or overly pushy staff, you might want to temper expectations. Price-wise, it’s probably best suited for those who value the experience and the chance to learn rather than just the spirits alone.

Final Thoughts

The Montreal Old Port Tequila & Mezcal Tasting offers a distinctive experience that combines discovery, education, and craft cocktail creation. Its secretive setting makes it a memorable outing, especially if you’re intrigued by the idea of uncovering a hidden Montreal treasure. While some reviews highlight issues with service and pricing, the core elements—premium spirits, knowledgeable guides, and skilled bartenders—make it worth considering if these factors match your travel style.

This experience is especially suited for spirit lovers who crave more than just drinking—they want to understand what makes tequila and mezcal special. If you enjoy cozy, intimate venues and are open to a slightly casual service experience, you’ll likely leave with new knowledge and a few tips for your own cocktail experiments.

In the end, it’s a fun, educational, and atmospheric outing that adds a layer of authenticity and sophistication to your Montreal trip—just manage expectations about the service and pricing.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for non-drinkers or pregnant women?
No, the activity is designed for adults over 18 and involves alcohol tasting, so it’s not suitable for pregnant women or children.

Is the location easy to find?
The entrance is hidden inside Mariscos Restaurant. You need to ask a waiter to help locate the discreet door, adding a bit of adventure to the start.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 2 hours, enough time to enjoy the tasting, learn some facts, and watch the cocktail creation.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility if your plans shift.

What should I wear?
Smart, business, or cocktail attire is recommended. Sandals, flip flops, athletic wear, and casual clothing are not allowed.

Is the experience accessible for different languages?
Yes, the guides speak both English and French, making it accessible for most visitors.

What’s the cost of the experience?
While the exact price isn’t specified here, it’s important to weigh the value of the premium spirits, educational component, and exclusive setting against the cost—some reviews suggest it might be on the pricier side.

Can I expect upscale service?
Service quality appears to vary, with some guests noting staff were unprepared or pushy. Approach with an open mind and focus on enjoying the spirits and learning.

Overall, the Montreal Old Port: Tequila & Mezcal Tasting/101 Course provides a distinctive outing that combines secretive ambiance with educational fun. Perfect for those curious about spirits and willing to overlook minor service flaws, it’s a memorable way to explore Montreal’s hidden nightlife and deepen your appreciation for agave spirits.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby