By: Kelly & Aaron Metras

Discover the Craft Behind Mexico’s Signature Spirit

For decades, tequila has been known as the life of the party, the foundation of a great house margarita or a quick celebration with friends. And we get a lot of feedback about tequila and the college experience…! But beneath the lime and salt lies one of the most complex, artfully crafted, and culturally rich spirits in the world.

At Salena’s Mexican Restaurant, home to one of Upstate New York’s most extensive tequila selections, we believe every pour tells a story. That’s why we’re excited to host our Tequila & Agave Education Classes right here inside Village Gate in Rochester’s Neighborhood of the Arts.

Whether you consider yourself a seasoned agave aficionado or you’re curious to explore beyond a standard cocktail, our guided tastings offer an approachable, fun, and insightful experience for everyone.

What to Expect at a Salena’s Tequila Class

When you join us for an evening of agave education, you’re not just sitting through a lecture, you’re participating in a sensory experience designed to deepen your appreciation for authentic Mexican spirits.

1. From Plant to Pour

Learn how Blue Weber Agave grows in the rich volcanic soil of Jalisco, Mexico, taking up to seven to ten years to mature. We dive into the harvesting process led by master jimadors, traditional cooking methods, fermentation, and distillation.

2. Guided Tastings & Expressions

Each class features a curated lineup of unique pours. You’ll taste and compare different expressions side-by-side:

• Blanco (Plata): Pure, unaged agave with crisp citrus, pepper, and botanical notes.
• Reposado: Aged in oak barrels for 2 to 11 months, offering subtle hints of vanilla, caramel, and toasted wood.
• Añejo & Extra Añejo: Rich, complex spirits aged for 1 to 3+ years with deep chocolate, oak, and dried fruit profiles.
• Mezcal & Wild Agaves: Discover the smoky depth of artisanal mezcals produced across diverse Mexican regions.

3. Sensory Notes

Learn how to properly swirl, aroma-check, and sip fine spirits without the burn, and how pairings affect the palate.

Perfect for Friends, Couples & Private Group Events

Looking for a unique night out in Rochester? Our tequila tasting classes make a fantastic night out, a milestone celebration, or an out-of-the-box team-building activity for local organizations.

• Public Classes: Held throughout the year with rotating seasonal themes and featured brand partners.
• Private Tastings & Corporate Events: Looking to level up a group outing or company celebration? We host custom private tequila education workshops in our private space or yours.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need prior tequila knowledge to attend?

Not at all! Our classes are crafted to be engaging, informative, and accessible for beginners while offering deep flavor insights for experienced spirit enthusiasts.

Are food and snacks included with the class?

Guests are also welcome to join us for dinner before or after class, but food is not supplied during class. There will be chips and salsa provided.

How do I reserve a spot for an upcoming class?

You can view our upcoming event dates, check ticket availability, and register directly at Salenas.com/tequila-classes.

Reserve Your Glass at Salena’s Today

Ready to elevate your sip? Gather your friends, explore new flavor profiles, and learn the art of fine agave spirits with us!

Location: Salena’s Mexican Restaurant, Village Gate, 302 N Goodman St, Rochester, NY 14607

Questions & Group Bookings: Call (585) 256-5980 or email us at aaron@salenas.com

Upcoming Class Schedule: Salenas.com/tequila-classes