Level I Mezcalier

EC623 - Introduction to Mezcal and Agave Spirits

The first step to earning the Master Mezcalier certification

Announced dates for this level are April 12 – 13, 2025. in New Orleans, Louisiana. The classes are in person, at Espíritu Mezcalería in the Central Business District.

The deadline for signing up for this class is April 5th, 2025 or until the class is full.

February 2025 class is now SOLD OUT.

Program overview: Features and Benefits

    Connoisseurs of Mezcal and service industry personnel endeavor to understand the multifaceted nature of mezcal, from the agave itself to the final distilled product. Over the last few decades, Mezcal has exploded in popularity, with more and more brands becoming available outside of Mexico. This has allowed the Mezcal professional as well as the enthusiast be exposed to more and more exciting varieties of Agave spirits.

    The Master Mezcalier designation grants a formal title which is recognized internationally and is the only certification in the world endorsed by a governmental institution. SEP (Secretaría de Educación Pública) grants this title through CONOCER, CCGM A.C., (Conservatorio de la Cultura Gastrónomica Mexicana) and COMANDO (Comité Nacional para la Sustenabilidad del Maguey, Mezcal y Destiladoras de Origen)

    Master Mezcalier establishes a universally recognized benchmark for proficiency in Mezcal appreciation. Candidates who complete the Master Mezcalier program benefit from a comprehensive knowledge base, as well as a wealth of tasting, professional, and networking prospects.

    Master Mezcalier Level I classes are currently being taught in English in the historic city of New Orleans. New Orleans is the home of the cocktail, and visitors to the city will find many establishments dedicated to the history of spirits and cocktails. Classes take place during the day, and we highly recommend visiting students continue their education by night by visiting some of these establishments and learning more about the world of spirits and cocktails.

Mezcalier Level I: Cirriculum Overview

History

  • Mayahuel, Pulque, and the legend of Mezcal
  • Prohibition of agave spirits in Mexico
  • The rise of Tequila
  • Denomination of Origin

Key steps of fabrication

  • Harvest
  • Cooking
  • Crushing
  • Fermentation
  • Distillation

NOM and Regulations

  • Certification bodies
  • NOM (Official Mexican Standard)
  • Agave Varieties
  • States with Designation of Origin

Regions of Mezcal

  • Oaxaca – Santiago Matatlan, Santa Catarina Minas, San Dioniso, and more
  • Durango – Nombre de Dios
  • Puebla – Mixteca poblana and Axocopan
  • The states of Guererro, Guanajuato and more

Other Mexican Spirits

  • Bacanora
  • Tequila
  • Raicilla
  • Non agave spirits, Sotol, Pox, and more

Expertise in selling and presenting Mezcal

  • Service in food or beverage establishment
  • Intro to palate training

Enrollment Requirements and Fees

    Level 1 Mezcalier is the first level of study in the program and there are no prerequisites to enrolling. Candidates will be recommended reading material upon enrolling in the class. Reading these is not required, but highly advisable. Reading the material will increase the chances of passing the class exponentially.

    The fee for enrollment in the course is $650. There is little risk involved as you can cancel within a month of the start date and receive a 90% refund.

    If you fail the final exam, a retake fee of $100 will be required if you wish to attempt the exam again.

Pictures from Level I

Curious about the Mezcalier Level I? Need some advice about how our certification program can help your career or passion?

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