Free pox tasting every day we're open Bottles to take home Real de Guadalupe 44, San Cristóbal
Guests tasting pox at the bar at La Independiente

Free Pox Tasting in San Cristóbal de las Casas

Taste 3 of our 12 artisanal pox, the corn spirit of the Tzotzil Maya, free at La Independiente on Real de Guadalupe 44. It takes about 15 minutes, in English or Spanish. Walk in any time we're open.

How it works

  1. 01

    Walk in

    Any time we're open. No reservation. Bring the whole group.

  2. 02

    Pick 3 of 12

    Choose three of the 12 pox on the tasting list.

  3. 03

    Hear the story

    About 15 minutes on pox and the customs around it in the Tzotzil communities of the Chiapas highlands, in English or Spanish.

  4. 04

    Take your favorite home

    Order a full pour, or buy a bottle at the bar.

The presentation

Told by our team, not read off a card

Pox is a corn spirit from the Chiapas highlands, and it is still poured in ceremonies today. In about 15 minutes, someone from the La Independiente team explains what pox is and the customs around it in the Indigenous communities of Los Altos de Chiapas. It's free, every time.

A couple trying pox during a tasting at La Independiente
Clear pox poured straight into a small tasting cup

How pox is served here

Straight, with nothing on the side. At certain times of year we host pairings that bring out the flavors. Follow us on Instagram to hear about them.

"We got a free Pox tasting that was as interesting as it was tasty."
Maximilian · Google
"Pox tasting and learning about a drink I'd never heard of was a great experience. Our host was informed and a wonderful teacher."
D. D. · Google
"Wonderful bartender, good cocktails, great (free!) pox tasting, and craft beers."
Tristan · Google

Questions

Is the pox tasting really free?

Yes. You taste 3 pox of your choice and hear the story behind them, at no cost.

How long does it take?

About 15 minutes.

Do I need to book?

No. Walk in any time we're open.

Can a big group come?

Yes, any group size.

Is the tasting in English?

Yes. Our team gives it in English or Spanish. Just ask.

Can I buy a bottle?

Yes. Bottles of pox, comiteco and mezcal are for sale at the bar, from $220 MXN.

What is pox?

Pox (say "posh") is a corn spirit from the Chiapas highlands, part of Tzotzil ceremonies for generations.

New to pox? Read What is pox? and Pox vs mezcal before you come.

Your first 3 are on us

Real de Guadalupe 44 · Open every day (Mon–Thu from 6 pm, Fri–Sun from 2 pm)