Small Group Brewery & Spirits Tour in Vermont

If you’re thinking about experiencing Vermont’s vibrant craft scene, this Small Group Brewery & Spirits Tour might just be what you’re looking for. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the reviews and itinerary paint a pretty appealing picture for anyone interested in local brews, spirits, and some good old-fashioned Vermont charm.

What really caught our eye are the personalized nature of the experience — limited to just six guests — and the variety of stops that showcase both spirits and beer, plus a local food store for a true taste of Vermont. The convenience of hotel pickup and the focus on small-batch, artisanal products make this a compelling option for those craving a mix of education, tasting, and a taste of Vermont’s craftsmanship.

On the flip side, it’s worth noting that sampling isn’t included in the price—you’ll need to purchase your tastings—and the tour’s structured around a full day out, which might be a long stretch for some. But if you’re a curious traveler who loves craft beverages and local stories, this tour could hit the spot.

Ideal for those who appreciate a relaxed pace, personalized attention, and learning about the local producers behind their favorite drinks, this tour offers a well-rounded peek into Vermont’s dynamic food and drink scene.

Key Points

• Small group size (max 6 travelers) ensures a more intimate and engaging experience
• Includes round-trip transportation from Killington or Woodstock, simplifying logistics
• Visits top local producers, from distilleries to breweries and specialty food stores
• Offers a broad look at Vermont’s artisanal scene, emphasizing local ingredients and craftsmanship
• Opportunity to purchase tastings throughout the day, which can vary in cost
• A full-day experience with varied stops, tasting, and learning opportunities

A Closer Look at the Vermont Craft Beverage Tour

This tour offers a well-rounded day exploring Vermont’s craft beer and spirits. It’s tailored for folks who want to learn about the local scene, taste unique products, and enjoy the scenic beauty of Vermont without the hassle of planning individual visits. The fact that it’s limited to six people makes for a more personal touch, which isn’t always the case on larger, busier tours.

Picking Up and Getting Started

The experience kicks off at 10:00 am with hotel pickup in either Killington or Woodstock. Having transportation included means you can relax right from the start, no need to worry about driving or navigating Vermont’s roads. The vehicle is air-conditioned, ideal for keeping comfortable while you’re on the move.

Vermont Spirits Distilling Co

Your first stop is at Vermont Spirits Distilling Co, the state’s oldest craft distillery. Here, the focus is on local ingredients and small-batch craftsmanship. You’ll learn about their award-winning spirits, like the Vermont Gold Vodka, made from Vermont maple sap—definitely a standout for those wanting to try something truly unique. Other spirits include bourbon finished with Vermont maple, as well as organic gins crafted with juniper berries foraged locally.

This stop offers a chance to understand the distilling process and sample some of their products, though tastings are at your own expense. The distillery’s history and commitment to local sourcing give it an authentic Vermont feel.

Quechee General Store: A Vermont Classic

Next, you’ll visit Quechee General Store, a quintessential Vermont country store. It’s a perfect spot to browse an extensive selection of Chevys, maple syrups, and other farm stand goodies. This stop is less about tasting and more about soaking in Vermont’s food culture—plus, it’s a chance to pick up some souvenirs like cheese or syrup to take home.

Harpoon Brewery: Beer and a Casual Lunch

Moving on, the tour stops at Harpoon Brewery, founded in 1986 and known for its flagship India Pale Ale. This brewery is employee-owned, and the atmosphere is relaxed and friendly—perfect for a casual lunch break. You can purchase food and sample beers like the UFO Hefeweizen and seasonal options such as Octoberfest or blueberry varieties.

Most visitors find Harpoon a highlight for its classic Vermont craft vibe, with a variety of beers to try. The option to purchase beer samples makes it flexible—you can try as many as you like, or just enjoy the ambiance.

Silo Distillery: Local Grain and Sustainability

Next, you’ll visit Silo Distillery, which prides itself on small-batch spirits made from Vermont-grown grains. The setting in a barn with a real silo adds a rustic charm, creating a memorable tasting atmosphere. Their focus on sustainable practices, like recycling water and sending spent grains to farmers, shows a genuine respect for the land.

Foley Brothers Brewing (or River Roost)

Depending on the day, you’ll visit Foley Brothers Brewing or, if it’s a Tuesday, River Roost Brewery. Foley Brothers, part of Neshobe River Brewing, is known for diligent brewing and experimental batches. Their IPA has been praised, and the relaxed, “at-home” vibe fits Vermont’s craft scene perfectly.

This stop is about enjoying good beer in a cozy setting, appreciating the small-batch craft of the brewers. You can purchase samples, making it a flexible stop to suit your tastes.

Long Trail Brewing Company: The Grand Finale

The tour wraps up at Long Trail Brewing Company, a Vermont staple since 1989. Their beers are inspired by the Green Mountains’ hiking trails, and they pride themselves on creating trail-worthy brews. You’ll find favorites like Long Trail Ale and Trail Hopper IPA, served in a riverside setting with friendly staff.

Most guests find Long Trail a relaxing and fitting end to a day filled with Vermont’s best craft offerings. With roughly 45 minutes to enjoy the setting, you’ll have time for a final tasting or maybe a quick chat with the staff.

Pricing and Value

At $359 per person, this tour isn’t cheap, but it offers a lot in terms of personalized attention, unique local experiences, and access to some top producers. The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off adds to the convenience, especially if you’re not renting a car.

While tastings aren’t included in the price, you’ll find that the opportunity to purchase samples at each stop means you can control how much you spend. The focus here is on education and experience rather than just drinking, which many guests appreciate.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adults who enjoy craft beverages and want a behind-the-scenes look at Vermont’s artisans. It’s perfect for those who value small-group intimacy and are interested in local ingredients and sustainability. If you like to learn about the production process and enjoy a leisurely pace, this tour hits the mark.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is this tour suitable for children?
  It’s designed for adults, focusing on spirits and beer tastings, so it’s not ideal for kids.

• Are tastings included in the price?
  No, tastings are available for purchase at each stop, so you can decide how much to sample.

• What’s the duration of the tour?
  The tour lasts around 6 hours, starting at 10:00 am and returning in the late afternoon.

• Does the tour accommodate dietary restrictions?
  The itinerary doesn’t specify, but since food is purchased separately, you can likely request options at the brewery or bring your own snacks.

• Can I cancel the tour?
  Yes, cancellations up to 24 hours in advance are free for a full refund.

• What if the weather is bad?
  The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

• How many people are on the tour?
  The group is limited to six people for a more personal experience.

• Is transportation included?
  Yes, round-trip transportation from your hotel is included, making logistics easy.

• What makes this tour stand out?
  Its intimate size, focus on local producers, and the variety of stops—from distilleries to breweries and local stores—offer a well-rounded Vermont experience.

Final Thoughts

If you’re a craft beverage enthusiast, enjoy learning about local ingredients, or simply want a relaxed, personalized day exploring Vermont’s food scene, this tour offers a lot of value. The small-group setting makes it feel more like a day out with friends rather than a touristy rush, and the variety of stops ensures you get a real taste of Vermont’s craftsmanship.

While it isn’t a cheap experience, the focus on quality, education, and local flavor makes it a worthwhile splurge if you’re in the area for a few days. It suits those who appreciate authentic, small-scale producers and want to avoid crowded tours or generic experiences.

This is a thoughtfully curated way to spend a day, soaking up Vermont’s spirit in every sip.