Tequila tour visiting a local brewery

If you’re eyeing a way to get beneath the surface of Mexico’s famous tequila culture while also sampling some fantastic local beers, this Tequila tour visiting a local brewery might just be worth considering. It’s designed for those who want a mix of history, culture, and tasting experiences without the fuss of overly commercialized tours. We love how it combines iconic tequila history with a twist—highlighting regional craft beers, which often get overshadowed in the spotlight. Plus, the tour offers pickup service and a mobile ticket, making planning surprisingly straightforward.

That said, it’s not a tour for everyone. The main consideration is that the visit is about six hours long, and it involves a fair amount of moving around and tastings—so if you’re not into alcohol or prefer a more relaxed, less structured experience, it might not be your best fit. Still, if you’re fascinated by tequila’s roots or eager to explore local brewing traditions, you’ll find this tour quite engaging.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy history, regional flavors, and a bit of adventure. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned tequila enthusiast, you’ll appreciate the mix of cultural insights and tasting opportunities. Let’s take a deeper dive into what this tour offers and whether it might be right for your trip.

Key Points

• Comprehensive experience: Combines visits to Casa José Cuervo and a local brewery, offering both tequila and beer tasting.
• Cultural insight: Explores the historic town of Tequila with its museums and traditional markets.
• Expertly curated stops: Includes visits to La Venta del Astillero (Fortuna brewery) and Fabrica La Rojena, both rich in history and flavor.
• Comfort and convenience: Air-conditioned transportation and a flexible booking process.
• Age restrictions: Must be 18+ to participate in tastings, so not suitable for minors.
• Duration & group size: About six hours with a small group of up to 19 travelers, maintaining a personal feel.

What to Expect from the Itinerary

Stop 1: Plaza Principal Tequila Jalisco

Our journey begins in the charming town of Tequila, founded way back in 1500. Here, you’ll have a chance to soak in the atmosphere of a place steeped in tradition. You can stroll around the Plaza Principal, a lively hub filled with local vendors and colorful architecture. We loved the way this stop offers a genuine glimpse into daily life—further enriched by the opportunity to try some of the most characteristic Mexican dishes at the local market.

In addition, there’s the option to visit the Juan Beckman Museum, which, although not a highlight for everyone, adds context to the area’s cultural fabric. This leisurely start sets a friendly tone for the day, giving you some free time to explore or snap photos.

Stop 2: La Venta del Astillero – Fortuna Brewery

Next, you’ll visit the Fortuna brewery at La Venta del Astillero, about 45 minutes from the town center. This is a key part of the experience, as it showcases a local brewery influenced by the land of tequila. You’ll learn how regional ingredients and traditional processes shape the beers, which often have a unique twist compared to international brews.

The brewery is notable for its variety of flavors, and you might find some beers with characteristics that reflect the land and climate of Jalisco. The guided visit allows you to see the brewing process firsthand, understanding how the land influences flavor profiles—something that beer enthusiasts particularly appreciate.

Stop 3: Fabrica La Rojena – Historic Tequila Production

The highlight for many will be the visit to Fabrica La Rojena, where tequila production has been ongoing for over 200 years. This historic site offers a fascinating look into the traditional and modern methods of tequila making. You’ll learn about the entire process—from harvesting agave to distillation—and gain insights into how tequila became a worldwide symbol.

The admission is included in the tour, and the guided tour here is concise but impactful, giving you enough context to appreciate the complex craftsmanship behind your favorite spirit. The fact that this place has maintained its operations for centuries adds a sense of authenticity and depth to the experience.

Tasting Experiences

Throughout the tour, you’ll have the chance to sample tequila and locally produced beers. The tastings are a core part of the experience, allowing you to appreciate regional varieties and perhaps discover a new favorite. The tour emphasizes the quality and tradition behind each sip, rather than just offering quick samples.

The Cost and Value

Pricing at $129 per person might seem steep, but when you consider the inclusions—guided visits, tastings, transportation, and the historical context—the value becomes clearer. Instead of paying separately for each stop or tasting, this package offers a structured way to experience multiple facets of regional production within a manageable time frame.

The tour’s small group size (up to 19 people) helps ensure a more personalized experience, and the comfort of air-conditioned transport is a nice touch, especially given Guadalajara’s warm climate. The free cancellation policy also provides peace of mind, allowing you to adjust plans if needed.

The Experience Provider

Run by Estacion Turistica GDL, this company seems focused on delivering authentic, hassle-free tours with a focus on local culture. Their clear communication, including a pickup service and mobile ticket, simplifies logistics for travelers.

Who Is This Tour For?

This experience is particularly suited for travelers interested in cultural history, spirit tasting, and regional flavors. It’s ideal if you want a balanced day of sightseeing, learning, and tasting, all without the pressure of a packed itinerary. If you’re traveling with friends or a small group, you’ll likely find this tour engaging and personal.

It’s worth noting that since alcohol is involved, and the minimum age is 18, it’s not appropriate for families with children or those who prefer not to participate in tastings.

Final Thoughts

This Tequila and Local Brewery Tour offers a genuine glimpse into Jalisco’s rich tradition of spirit-making, paired with the chance to sample regional beers. It’s a thoughtful way to combine history, culture, and flavors—especially if you appreciate learning about how land and tradition influence the beverages you enjoy.

The tour’s structured stops and included tastings provide good value for those looking for an immersive experience without the hassle of organizing multiple visits on your own. The historical sites, particularly Fabrica La Rojena, give you a deeper understanding of tequila’s origins, making this more than just a tasting session.

While it might not be perfect for everyone—particularly if you prefer a very relaxed or family-friendly experience—it’s a solid choice for curious travelers eager to connect with local traditions in a small-group setting. Just keep in mind the length and alcohol requirements before booking.

All in all, this tour balances education with enjoyment, making it a worthwhile addition to your Guadalajara itinerary if exploring regional drinks appeals to you.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes air-conditioned transportation from the meeting point in Guadalajara, making it easy to relax and focus on the experience.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Absolutely. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if needed.

What is the minimum age to participate?
Participants must be 18 or older to partake in the tastings, which is a standard legal requirement.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is approximately 6 hours, starting at 10:00 am and ending back at the meeting point.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 19 travelers, ensuring a more intimate and personalized atmosphere.

Are the tastings included?
Yes, both tequila and locally produced beers are included in the experience.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Since alcohol consumption is involved and the minimum age is 18, it’s not designed for children or families with minors.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing and shoes are recommended, especially since you’ll be walking and touring historic sites.

Is there an option to have brunch during the tour?
No, brunch is not included, so plan to eat beforehand or bring snacks if desired.

Are there any hidden costs?
No, all major costs like admissions and tastings are included; however, personal souvenirs or extra drinks are not.

If you’re keen on exploring tequila’s history and regional brewing in a friendly, well-organized setting, this tour might be just what you need. It offers a good balance of education, culture, and flavor—making your time in Guadalajara all the more memorable.