Mendig: Tasting regional beers at the Vulkan Brewery

If you’re someone who genuinely enjoys trying new beers or simply appreciates craftsmanship, this beer tasting tour in Mendig could be a fun way to spend an hour. While it’s quite short—just about 60 minutes—it packs enough flavor, stories, and insights to make it worth considering. Think of it as a quick but enriching peek into Germany’s vibrant craft beer scene, set in the atmospheric surroundings of the Vulkan Brewery.

What really caught our eye are two things: first, the focus on organic beers from the Volcanic Eifel, which adds a regional touch; and second, the chance to try award-winning craft beers that have gained recognition across Germany. That said, one aspect to keep in mind is the restriction for children under 16 and pregnant women, so it’s more of an adult activity.

This tour suits those who love beer and want an authentic taste of the local brewing scene. It’s ideal for curious travelers who don’t need a long, elaborate tour but want a quality experience with knowledgeable guides. If you’re after a quick, tasty, and educational stop, this could fit your plans nicely.

Key Points

• Focus on regional beers: Enjoy organic beers brewed from the Volcanic Eifel, giving you a taste of local terroir.
• Award-winning brews: The brewery’s recognition, including best craft beer in Germany in 2017, speaks to quality.
• Expert-guided tasting: A VULKAN beer sommelier guides you through four taps, a keg beer, and a spirit, enhancing your understanding.
• Limited duration: Just an hour, making it a convenient stop in your travel schedule.
• Strict age restrictions: Not suitable for children under 16 or pregnant women.
• Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and reserve now with pay later options.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Vulkan Brewery Beer Tasting

When you arrive in Mendig for the tasting, you’ll meet your guides in front of the shop in the courtyard, at the coordinates 50.37776, 7.28227. The whole experience is designed to be informal and friendly, perfect for those who want to learn without feeling overwhelmed.

The Guided Tasting Experience

Your beer sommelier, well-versed in the brewery’s offerings, will lead you through a tasting of four beers on tap. Each of these represents a different style, showcasing the brewery’s creativity—think classic brews alongside some international craft styles. Alongside these, you’ll sample a keg beer and a spirit, giving a broader perspective on their range.

Throughout this hour, expect to hear stories about the brewing process, what makes their beers special, and how they’ve earned awards. The guides are known for their passion and knowledge, which makes even the most casual drinkers feel like they’re getting an education in craft beer.

The Beers

The brewery’s focus on organic ingredients from the volcanic Eifel region means that each sip carries a sense of place. Their award (best craft beer in Germany, 2017) isn’t handed out lightly, so you’ll likely appreciate the high standards they uphold. The inclusion of international craft styles adds an interesting twist for those who want to compare different flavor profiles.

The Atmosphere

The setting in Mendig, with its cozy courtyard and friendly guides, makes this more than just a tasting; it’s a glimpse into the local brewing culture. The brewery’s reputation for passion and creativity really shines through in the way the beers are brewed and presented.

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Practical Details and Tips

• Duration: Just 1 hour, so it’s perfect for a quick stop or if you’re tight on time.
• Location: In front of the shop in the courtyard (coordinates 50.37776, 7.28227).
• Languages: The tour is guided in German, so some basic understanding of the language might help, or you can enjoy it as a visual and tasting experience regardless.
• Cost & Booking: You can reserve now and pay later, with the flexibility of canceling up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• Restrictions: No food or drinks allowed during the tour, and it’s not suitable for children under 16 or pregnant women.

What to Keep in Mind

While the experience is fun and informative, remember it’s quite short. If you’re looking for an in-depth brewery tour, this might feel a bit light. Also, since it’s adult-only, it’s not ideal if you’re traveling with kids or teenagers.

Authentic Reviews & Insights

Many visitors praise the knowledgeable guides—”the guides really know their stuff,” one review states—making the tasting engaging and educational. Others appreciate the quality of the beers, describing them as “awesome craft beers” that showcase creativity and craftsmanship.

Some mention that the experience is perfect for beer enthusiasts looking to broaden their palate or learn about regional brewing traditions. A few note that the small group size keeps the experience intimate and focused.

On the downside, a couple of reviews pointed out that the timing is tight given the hour-long format—some wished for a deeper dive into each beer’s background. The restriction on children and pregnant women is understandable but may limit options for some groups.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tasting is especially great for adults who enjoy craft beer and want a quick but meaningful taste of Germany’s brewing scene. It’s suitable for those who prefer a relaxed, guided experience over a lengthy tour. If you’re a beer connoisseur or simply curious about what local breweries produce, you’ll likely find this engaging.

It’s less ideal for families with young children or travelers looking for a more comprehensive brewery experience. Also, if your German is limited, you might miss some of the nuances, but the tasting itself remains enjoyable without language fluency.

The Sum Up

If you’re in Rhineland-Palatinate and want a taste of authentic regional craft beer, the Vulkan Brewery’s guided tasting in Mendig offers a solid, no-frills experience. You’ll appreciate the quality of the award-winning beers, the passion of the brewers, and the friendly guides sharing their knowledge. It’s a short but satisfying way to connect with local brewing traditions and sample some excellent beers.

While it isn’t a deep dive into brewing processes, it hits the right notes for those who want a quick, educational, and flavorful experience. Whether you’re a beer enthusiast or just looking to try something different during your trip, this tour could be a highlight—especially if you enjoy tasting and learning in a relaxed setting.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for non-German speakers?
The tour is guided in German, so if you don’t speak the language, you might miss some details. However, the tasting itself is straightforward, and the visual and tasting experience can still be enjoyed without fluency.

How long does the experience last?
It lasts about 1 hour, making it a quick stop that fits easily into most travel plans.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Are children allowed?
No, children under 16 and pregnant women are not permitted, as it involves alcohol consumption.

What beers will I taste?
You will taste four beers on tap, a keg beer, and a spirit, including some international craft styles alongside their classic beers.

Do I need to make a reservation?
Yes, reservations are recommended, especially since you can reserve now and pay later, making planning easier.

Is the experience wheelchair accessible?
The tour is held in the brewery’s courtyard, but specific accessibility details aren’t provided. It’s best to check with the provider if this is a concern.

What’s the price?
While the exact cost isn’t specified here, it’s worth considering that the experience offers a guided tasting of high-quality beers, which can be a good value given the awards and reputation.

Will I learn about the brewing process?
Yes, your guides are passionate and knowledgeable, sharing stories about the brewing passion and what makes their beers special.

Can I buy the beers after the tasting?
While not explicitly stated, most breweries offer the opportunity to purchase their beers, so it’s likely available if you’re interested.

If you’re keen on trying regional, award-winning craft beers in a relaxed setting with knowledgeable guides, this Mendig brewery tasting is a solid choice. It’s a small experience but can leave you with some nice memories—and a new appreciation for the brewers’ craft.

You can check availability for your dates here: