Located in the heart of Mexico at Epcot’s World Showcase, the La Cava Experience stands as one of Walt Disney World’s most sophisticated and educational ‘extras’. This premium tasting experience (priced at $180 per person plus tax, with gratuity included) delivers an intimate and informative journey through Mexico’s agave spirits, guided by certified Tequila Ambassadors who bring both expertise and personal connection to the art of tequila making.
Setting
The Disney Cocktailor Research Team participated in the La Cava Experience on Monday, March 24. The experience took place in a semi-private room of La Hacienda de San Angel, providing us a welcome break from the bustling Flower & Garden Festival crowds. With limited seating (eight tables accommodating 16 guests per session), the intimate setting enhances the premium nature of this roughly 60-minute immersive class. The warm lighting and authentic décor of the space transported us to Mexico, setting the perfect ambiance for this, ahem, ‘cultural’ exploration.
Experience
Our journey started with introductions to our Tequila Ambassador, Humberto Soto (@lacavaexperience), whose family has deep roots in agave farming and distilling in Mexico. This personal connection adds authenticity and depth to the entire experience. Before tasting began, guests received proper instruction on how to appreciate tequila – with a little shade thrown at the stereotypical “lick, shoot, suck” approach many Americans are familiar with (don’t lie, you’ve done this, we all have).
Each guest was presented with:
- Six glasses containing different agave spirits (five tequilas and one mezcal)
- A beautifully arranged aroma plate featuring lime zest, cinnamon sticks, coffee beans, chocolate, orange peel, and even crickets
- Chips and fresh guacamole to cleanse the palate (though eating before arrival is strongly recommended)
The tasting follows the different styles of tequila, typically including:
- Blanco (unaged) – Fortaleza
- Reposado (aged 2-11 months) – Tromba Single Cask Select made exclusively for La Cava
- Añejo (aged 1-3 years) – Cazcanes No. 7
- Extra Añejo (aged over 3 years) – Arette Gran Clase
- Joven (a blended tequila) – Tequila General Gorostieta
- Mezcal (made from various agave varieties, not just blue agave) – Real Minero Becuela Capón
What makes this experience truly special is the educational component. Humberto explained the production process of each spirit. We learned that tequila can only be made from blue agave, while mezcal can be produced from 39 different types of agave plants.
The sensory journey is elevated through the aroma plate, where we were instructed to smell certain items, rub oils between our palms, then smell the tequila – revealing how the aromatic notes change based on these interactions and even where you place your nose in the glass as you smell. The proper tasting technique involves sipping, swishing, swallowing and placing some under your tongue to experience the full depth of flavors.
Some of the spirits served are exclusive to this experience and not available elsewhere in Walt Disney World or even the United States, adding tremendous value for tequila enthusiasts. The experience concluded with a La Cava Margarita as a farewell toast, as well as an ‘Agave Club Connoisseur’ pin which entitles the bearer to a secret beverage when flashed at Frontera Cocina in Disney Springs!
Value
As The Disney Cocktailor, I am the last person to ask if the experience is worth it (it totally is BTW). At $180 per person, this is for sure a premium experience. However, when you consider the exclusivity of some spirits (with bottles ranging from $150-$250), the expertise of the ambassadors, and the comprehensive education provided, the value is clear for tequila enthusiasts. This is not merely a tasting – it is a masterclass in agave spirits that transforms how you’ll appreciate tequila forever. Plus, the pin is pretty sweet – I wear it proudly on the band of my panama hat.
Tips
- Make reservations well in advance – this experience is limited and books quickly
- Eat before arriving – while chips and guacamole are provided, they’re hardly sufficient for six alcohol tastings and a Margarita
- Park admission is required – EPCOT park admission and theme park reservations for you AP holders
- Allow time afterward – you’ll likely be a little buzzed after the experience
- Take notes – the information shared is fascinating and worth remembering
Final Word
The La Cava Tequila Experience stands as one of the most unique and sophisticated adult experiences available at Walt Disney World. It perfectly balances education with enjoyment, offering a genuine cultural immersion that goes far beyond typical theme park offerings. For anyone with appreciation for fine spirits, cultural experiences, or culinary exploration, this is an absolute must-do that will likely become a highlight of your Disney vacation (it was for mine).
Whether you’re a tequila aficionado looking to deepen your knowledge or simply curious about exploring beyond margaritas, the La Cava Experience delivers an unforgettable journey that will transform your understanding and appreciation of Mexico’s most famous spirit. Just be sure to plan your post-tasting activities accordingly … Salud!
