Puerto Vallarta: Mezcal and Tequila Tasting with Show

If you’re looking to add a splash of fun and flavor to your Puerto Vallarta trip, the Mezcal and Tequila Tasting with Show at La Catrina Cantina offers a lively, authentic experience. This tour combines tasting with entertainment, dressing up, and a lively atmosphere—perfect for those who enjoy good drinks and a dash of Mexican culture.

We love how this experience balances informative tasting sessions with entertaining live performances—it’s not just about sipping spirits but enjoying a festive vibe that captures the spirit of Puerto Vallarta’s Romantic Zone. Plus, the opportunity to try specialty cocktails made from mezcal and tequila adds a creative twist.

One thing to consider: this is a 2-hour tour focused on alcohol and entertainment—so it’s best suited for adults who enjoy lively social settings. If you’re after a quiet, foodie-focused experience, this might feel a bit energetic. Still, if you’re looking for a fun, authentic introduction to Mexican spirits, this tour hits the mark.

This experience is ideal for travelers seeking an engaging evening filled with flavor, music, and costumes, especially those who enjoy a good show and local drinks. It’s also a great choice for groups wanting a memorable outing in Puerto Vallarta’s vibrant Romantic Zone.

Key Points

• Authentic tasting experience of mezcal and tequila in a lively cantina
• Live entertainment with music and performers throughout the evening
• Opportunity to dress in Mexican costumes and take selfies with mural art
• Creatively compare spirits through specialty cocktails featuring fruits and liquors
• 17 tastings included, with a chance to craft your favorite cocktail
• Located in Puerto Vallarta’s popular Romantic Zone, easy to access

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect in Detail

This tour offers a fun and relaxed way to get to know Mexico’s iconic spirits. We’ll start by meeting at La Catrina Cantina, situated on the second floor right above Kooky’s Karaoke, in the heart of Puerto Vallarta’s lively Romantic Zone. The location itself guarantees a vibrant backdrop, perfect for a festive atmosphere.

Dress-up and Selfies: As soon as you arrive, your group will be outfitted in traditional Mexican costumes. This isn’t just a gimmick—it’s part of the experience, encouraging everyone to become part of the show. Plus, you’ll find plenty of Catrina murals nearby for memorable photos. Many reviews praise the playful costumes and the fun atmosphere, with one traveler noting, “The costumes really added to the fun, and selfies with murals made great souvenirs.”

Tasting of Spirits: The core of the experience involves sampling 17 different tastings. You’ll sample mezcal and tequila by themselves first, getting a sense of their distinctive flavors. Expect the spirit tasting to include different brands and styles, with the guide explaining the nuances of each. We loved the way the guide describes how different spirits interact with various fruits, which is key to understanding Mexican mixology.

Creative Cocktails: After the spirits, the fun continues with the “Viva Mexico” cocktail menu. Here, you’ll compare how mezcal and tequila interact with fruits like lime, orange, or grapefruit, resulting in a variety of specialty cocktails. Many guests say they enjoyed the chance to create their own favorite drink, turning tasting into an interactive activity.

Entertainment and Show: Throughout the 2 hours, expect lively live music and performers. The reviews mention performers engaging the audience with music and entertainment, adding a festive touch. Some reviews highlight the performers’ talent, describing the atmosphere as “energetic and fun,” perfect for dancing if you’re inclined.

Costumes and Selfies: The costumes and murals give the tour a distinct character, encouraging selfies and photos. One reviewer shared, “Putting on the costumes and taking pictures in front of murals made the experience more memorable.”

Price and Value: At $44 per person, this tour offers a good value considering the 17 tastings and complete cocktails included, plus the entertainment. While it doesn’t include dinner or additional drinks, the focus on spirits and fun makes it a worthwhile outing, especially for those eager to explore Mexican liquor culture in a social setting.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour begins in the bustling Romantic Zone, known for its energetic bar scene and colorful murals. Once inside La Catrina Cantina, the lively ambiance sets the tone. The staff ensures everyone is dressed up and ready to go, adding to the sense of occasion.

Sampling spirits starts immediately—mezcal and tequila are tasted neat to appreciate their pure flavors. Many guests comment on the quality and variety, noting the guide’s insight into the differences between each spirit. A reviewer mentioned, “I appreciated how the guide explained the nuances, helping me appreciate the differences between mezcal and tequila.”

Next, the bartender guides you through making several specialty cocktails, comparing how the spirits behave with different fruits. This hands-on part of the experience is where the tasting turns into a mini mixology class, and many find it both fun and educational.

Throughout the experience, performers entertain with music, dance, and tricks, creating a festive mood. The combination of live entertainment and interactive tasting gives the tour a lively, engaging feel that’s perfect for socializing.

The tour wraps up with guests encouraged to dance and take selfies, ensuring a memorable, picture-worthy experience. Many reviewers rave about the fun costumes and the lively atmosphere, making it clear this is as much about the ambiance as the spirits.

Additional Details and Practical Tips

• The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, so plan accordingly to fit it into an evening out.
• It’s best suited for adults 18 and over since it involves alcohol consumption.
• Be aware that the tour is not wheelchair accessible and involves stairs, so those with mobility issues should consider this.
• Tipping is strongly encouraged, reflecting the local custom for good service.
• The experience is offered in English and Spanish, making it accessible for most travelers.
• You can reserve with flexibility, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is perfect for adults who enjoy lively social settings, spirits, and live entertainment. If you’re curious about Mexican distilled spirits, especially mezcal and tequila, and want to learn in a fun, informal environment, this is a good choice.

It’s also excellent for groups, couples, or singles looking to dive into local culture with costumes and murals, capturing the energetic vibe of Puerto Vallarta’s Romantic Zone. However, if you prefer a quieter, more food-focused experience or are traveling with children, this tour might not suit your needs.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, this experience is designed for adults, as it involves alcoholic beverages and is not suitable for those under 18.

Does the tour include dinner?
No, the tour focuses solely on tastings and cocktails. There’s no included food, so plan to eat before or after.

Can I bring additional drinks or food?
No, additional drinks or food are not included or permitted during the tour.

Is dress code enforced?
While not strictly enforced, dressing in costumes is encouraged and part of the fun. Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking and dancing.

Where exactly do we meet?
You meet inside La Catrina Cantina, on the 2nd floor above Kooky’s Karaoke, located in Puerto Vallarta’s Romantic Zone.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts about 2 hours, making it an easy addition to an evening in town.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, it involves stairs and is not wheelchair accessible.

What languages are available?
The tour is conducted in both English and Spanish to accommodate most guests.

How do I book or cancel?
Reservations can be made with the option to reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.

The Puerto Vallarta: Mezcal and Tequila Tasting with Show offers a spirited way to experience Mexican culture, blending flavor, fun, and festive entertainment. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy socializing, learning about spirits, and taking part in lively local traditions. The combination of tastings, cocktails, costumes, and live music creates an evening that’s both educational and entertaining, perfect for making memories with friends or a lively date night.

While it’s not a culinary tour focused on food, it compensates with its vibrant atmosphere and engaging activities. For travelers seeking a lighthearted, spirited experience that captures the essence of Puerto Vallarta’s lively nightlife, this tour hits the right notes. Just remember to pace yourself, bring your dancing shoes, and get ready for a fun-filled night.

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