Explore Oaxaca with Cocktailery Lifestyle: Mezcal, Culture, and Culinary Highlights
When I think of Oaxaca, my mind instantly returns to the vibrant colors, rich traditions, and the unparalleled taste of mezcal. My trips to this magical place were an unforgettable blend of cultural experiences and culinary discoveries that left me not only inspired but deeply connected to Oaxaca’s spirit. And now, I want to share that journey with you.
I’m planning a curated group adventure through Oaxaca in Spring of 2026, where we’ll explore everything from traditional mezcal palenques to indigenous crafts and traditional cuisine. This is more than a trip—it’s an immersive experience designed to indulge your senses and deepen your love for the art of mezcal, food, and culture.
Behind the Spirit: Visiting Oaxaca’s Palenques
One of the most incredible experiences I had during my time in Oaxaca was visiting local mezcal palenques, where this beautiful spirit is made by hand. Walking through the agave fields, witnessing the roasting of piñas, and tasting mezcal straight from the still was an eye-opening journey into a centuries-old tradition.
Oaxaca’s palenques are not just places of production, they are cultural landmarks, where families pass down their mezcal-making knowledge from generation to generation. You’ll experience the warmth of these families and their passion for preserving mezcal’s authenticity firsthand. And yes, you’ll be able to taste an array of mezcal varieties, each with its own story and unique flavor profile.
Cultural Immersion: Pottery, Textiles, and Indigenous Candle Making
Oaxaca is a haven for artisans, and we’ll be working alongside some of the talented creators in the region. One of the most memorable parts of my trip was making pottery with Maestra Valentina Cruz, a master of her craft. I sat with her, learning how to mold clay and create pieces with centuries-old techniques passed down through generations. During our trip, you’ll have the same opportunity to learn from her.
We’ll also dive into Oaxaca’s rich tradition of textile making and natural dyeing. I spent time with local artisans who use ingredients sourced directly from the earth—plants, flowers, and even insects—to create stunning, naturally dyed textiles. You’ll witness firsthand how they transform raw fibers into beautiful works of art, using methods that have been preserved for centuries. You'll even get a chance to try your hand at dyeing textiles with these natural ingredients, experiencing the magic of the colors and materials that make Oaxaca’s textiles so special.
To round out our cultural immersion, we’ll also learn indigenous candle making. I found this craft to be a beautiful expression of Oaxaca’s history, using beeswax and natural dyes to create intricate candles. This hands-on experience will allow you to connect even more deeply with Oaxaca’s artisanal traditions.
A Taste of Oaxaca: Cooking Class and Food Walking Tour
Of course, no trip to Oaxaca would be complete without exploring its incredible food scene. During our journey, we’ll take part in a cooking class where you’ll learn to prepare traditional Oaxacan dishes like mole, tlayudas, and fresh salsas. When I took this class, I gained a whole new appreciation for the bold, complex flavors of Oaxacan cuisine, and I can’t wait to share that with you.
We’ll also embark on a guided food walking tour, exploring local markets and street food vendors. From sampling quesillo to trying chapulines, every bite will be an adventure that brings us closer to Oaxaca’s culinary heart.
Join Me in Oaxaca: How to Sign Up
Are you ready to experience all that Oaxaca has to offer? I’m so excited to extend an invitation for you to join me on this unique journey. Whether you’re a mezcal lover, a foodie, or someone eager to explore new cultures, this trip is designed to feed your curiosity and your appetite.
Together, we’ll discover the heart and soul of Oaxaca through its flavors, traditions, and people. From mezcal tastings and craft-making workshops to cooking classes, food tours, art and history, this is an experience that will leave you with lasting memories—and maybe even a few new skills to take back to your dinner table or home bar!
Click here to learn more and secure your spot on this incredible journey. Don’t wait—spaces are limited, and I can’t wait to share this adventure with you!
