The Sip of Montreal Brew Tour

If you’re visiting Montreal and looking to get a true taste of its brewing culture, the Sip of Montreal Brew Tour might just be your ticket. We haven’t personally taken this tour, but from what travelers are saying and the details available, it promises a fun, relaxed way to explore the city’s microbreweries with plenty of samples, expert guides, and a hassle-free setup. Whether you’re a casual beer drinker or a serious connoisseur, this tour could be a perfect addition to your Montreal itinerary.

What really catches our eye about this experience is the combination of guided visits to three breweries and the inclusion of food tastings and snacks—not just endless beer. Plus, the convenient transportation in a comfy minivan means you can focus on enjoying the drinks without worrying about how to get around. And with a high recommended rate of 97% from previous participants, it seems to be doing something right.

Of course, no tour is perfect. A quick thing to keep in mind is that the tour is limited to 14 travelers, which keeps things intimate but also means booking well in advance is wise—on average, it’s booked about 20 days ahead. Also, since the minimum age is 18, it’s not suitable for minors, but that’s pretty standard for alcohol-related tours.

This experience will probably be best suited for groups of friends, couples, or anyone interested in exploring Montreal’s beer scene without the hassle of planning multiple brewery visits on your own. If you love sampling different brews and want a laid-back, social outing, this tour will give you a good dose of both.

Key Points

• All-inclusive experience with multiple beer samples and snacks included.
• Transport provided, so no worries about driving or getting lost.
• Knowledgeable local guides providing insights into Montreal’s drink culture.
• Flexible brewery stops and a mix of well-rated spots, some of which are highly praised.
• Ideal for social groups and those wanting a fun, beer-focused activity.
• Limited to 14 travelers for a more personal feel.

An In-Depth Look at the Montreal Brew Tour

How the Tour Works

This roughly 3.5-hour outing begins at a designated meeting point in Montreal—specifically at 1717 Rue Berri—and includes round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned minivan. The setup ensures you don’t have to worry about navigating between breweries, which is a real bonus when you’re sampling and chatting. You’ll be traveling with a driver and a guide, who are often multi-lingual, adding a layer of local insight and friendliness.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

The tour features three stops at local microbreweries, with some flexibility depending on the date.

Stop 1: 4 Origines – Microbrasserie / Pointe-St-Charles
This spot could be your first or last stop; it’s a microbrewery with a cozy vibe, and the visit lasts about 40 minutes. You can expect to see the brewery in action and enjoy a free sample. Be aware that on some days, this stop might be replaced by Espace Public, so it’s good to check ahead.

Stop 2: BENELUX – Brasserie Artisanale / Pub Wellington
Here, you’ll spend around 45 minutes inside the bustling brewhouse, learning about the brewing process. You’ll also get to enjoy a snack—something that really sets this tour apart, as it’s not just about drinking but also about tasting and experiencing Montreal’s food culture.

Stop 3: Messorem
Often praised as one of Montreal’s best breweries, this final stop typically wraps up or begins the tour. It’s a favorite among reviewers, with one describing it as “magnificent” and highlighting the engaging, knowledgeable guide. Expect about 40 minutes here, with more tastings and a chance to try some of the local favorites.

What’s Included & Why It Matters

For $81.54 per person, you get several beer samples, food tastings, and a guided tour. The price is quite reasonable considering the number of breweries visited and the included snacks and drinks. The local guide enhances the experience with insights into Montreal’s drink culture, making it more than just a tasting session.

What’s Not Included

Tips are not included, so if you’re happy with your guide, a gratuity is customary. Also, you should be prepared to pay for any additional drinks or food beyond what’s provided.

Reviews Speak Volumes

Participants consistently praise the knowledge and friendliness of guides like Violet and Jade. Many mention how the tour exceeds expectations—highlighting the delicious beers, great snacks, and engaging atmosphere. Words like “amazing,” “well thought out,” and “fun” are common, with travelers noting that the breweries visited are often ones they wouldn’t discover on their own.

A few reviews also mention that the tour feels a little rushed at each stop, but overall, most are satisfied with the flow, given the short time at each brewery. The intimate group setting (max 14 people) makes it easy to ask questions and socialize.

The Value Proposition

Considering the cost, you’re paying for not just the beers but the knowledgeable guides, transport, and food. Many reviews emphasize the great variety of beers, including some unique options like a beer smoothie. The tour offers a balanced experience—enough sampling to satisfy but not so much that you’ll be incapacitated.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This is ideal for groups of friends, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy beer and want to learn more about Montreal’s brewing scene. If you’re looking for a fun, social activity that combines cultural insights, good food, and drinks, this tour is a solid choice. It’s not specifically family-friendly, but it’s perfect for anyone over 18 wanting a relaxed, engaging experience.

Potential Downsides

While most reviews are glowing, some mention the short stops feeling rushed, or the pick-up point could be clearer. It’s also worth noting that the minimum number of travelers must be met, so booking early helps ensure your spot.

FAQs About The Sip of Montreal Brew Tour

Is the tour suitable for people under 18?
No, the minimum age is 18, so it’s only for adults who can legally drink.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 3 hours 30 minutes, including transportation, brewery visits, tastings, and snacks.

Are transportation and pickups included?
Yes, round-trip transfers from a designated meeting point are part of the experience, in an air-conditioned minivan.

Can I customize the tour or choose specific breweries?
The stops are predetermined, but there’s some flexibility depending on the date. The stops often include well-rated breweries like Messorem and Benelux.

What should I bring or wear?
Comfortable clothing is good, and be prepared for the possibility of walking within breweries. No specific mention of dress code, but casual is best.

Is tipping the guide necessary?
Tips are not included, so if you feel the guide provided excellent service, tipping is appreciated but optional.

What if the tour is canceled?
If minimum numbers aren’t met, the tour might be canceled, and you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts

The Sip of Montreal Brew Tour stands out as a well-rounded, enjoyable way to explore the city’s beer scene. It offers a mix of tasting, learning, and socializing that appeals to many travelers. The combination of expert guides, quality breweries, and included snacks makes it a good value, especially if you want a curated experience without the hassle of planning multiple visits on your own.

It’s especially suited for those who love beer and want to discover some of Montreal’s best microbreweries in a relaxed setting. If you’re visiting during good weather, the transportation and small group size make it easy to connect with fellow travelers and soak up the local vibe.

While it might feel a tad rushed at times and isn’t for minors, overall, the tour seems to deliver a memorable and authentic taste of Montreal’s brewing culture. For beer enthusiasts or curious newcomers, this could be a highlight of your trip.

Happy tasting and cheers to a fun Montreal adventure!