The Sip of Montreal Brew Tour

The Sip of Montreal Brew Tour offers a lively and educational look into the city’s craft beer culture, perfect for those who enjoy sampling local brews. Priced at $81.54 per person, this 3-hour 30-minute experience departs from 1717 Rue Berri and features visits to three acclaimed breweries with transfers included. With a perfect 5.0/5 rating from 70 reviews and 97% recommending the tour, it clearly stands out as a favorite among beer enthusiasts. Most bookings are made about 20 days in advance, making it a well-organized choice for those planning ahead.

The tour is designed for adults aged 18 and over and is ideal for groups seeking a fun, relaxed way to explore Montreal’s beer-making traditions while enjoying plenty of samples. The use of a comfortable air-conditioned minivan ensures easy travel between stops, so you can focus on tasting and learning without the hassle of city navigation.

Key Points

• All-inclusive experience with beer tastings, snacks, and transportation
• Visits to three popular microbreweries in Montreal including 4 Origines, BENELUX, and Messorem
• Knowledgeable guides lead the tour, sharing insights about Montreal’s drink culture and brewing processes
• Food and snack pairings enhance the tasting experience at each brewery
• Group size capped at 14 for a more intimate and engaging atmosphere
• Highly rated for fun, informative, and well-organized outings with consistent praise for guides like Violette, Jade, and Kat

Starting Point and Transport Logistics in Montreal

The tour begins at 1717 Rue Berri, a location that is accessible via public transportation. All pickup and drop-off services are included, so participants can relax knowing they don’t need to worry about getting around after sampling beers. The minivan used for transportation is air-conditioned, ensuring comfort regardless of the weather. This setup is especially convenient for groups who prefer a hassle-free experience, allowing them to focus on tasting and learning from the guides.

First Stop: 4 Origines Microbrewery in Pointe-St-Charles

Your beer journey kicks off at the 4 Origines brewery, which may serve as either the first or last stop depending on the date. This brewery is located in the Pointe-St-Charles neighborhood and offers a 40-minute visit. It’s noted for a free admission, making it a great start without extra costs, and provides an authentic microbrewery atmosphere. The stop is a chance to learn how beer is crafted from the ground up, with the possibility of seeing the brewing process firsthand.

Visiting Benelux Brewery in Verdun

Next, the tour visits Benelux, a well-regarded artisanal brewery in Verdun. Here, the group explores the brewhouse to see the brewing process and enjoys a 45-minute visit that includes a snack. The brewery’s casual pub setting combined with the opportunity to taste diverse beer styles makes this stop particularly memorable. The emphasis on food pairing adds a flavorful dimension to the tasting experience.

The Highlight: Messorem Brewery and Its Reputation

Messorem stands out as one of Montreal’s top breweries, often ranked among the best in the city. The tour most likely begins or ends at this location, which takes about 40 minutes. Visitors can expect to sample some of the most interesting beer options available in Montreal, with reviews praising the variety and quality of the brews. Guides like Violette and Kat are commended for their engaging and helpful explanations, making this stop both enjoyable and informative.

Food and Drink Inclusions

Throughout the tour, multiple beer samples are served at each brewery, often accompanied by food tastings or snacks such as pretzels with mustard, enhancing the overall experience. The inclusion of alcoholic beverages and snacks provides a well-rounded tasting experience without additional costs. Participants can try a broad range of styles, from traditional to innovative brews, with some stops offering unique options like beer smoothies.

Guides and Their Expertise

The tour benefits from multi-lingual guides who share knowledgeable insights into Montreal’s beer scene. Reviews frequently highlight guides such as Violette, Jade, and Kat as engaging, approachable, and well-informed. Their stories and explanations help guests understand beer-making techniques, local history, and cultural nuances, enriching the tasting experience. The guides also ensure the group stays on schedule, making the tour smooth and enjoyable.

Pacing and Group Atmosphere

Most comments describe the pacing as well-balanced, with enough time at each brewery to enjoy the samples without feeling rushed. While some reviews mention a slight feeling of rushing at stops, the overall experience remains positive, thanks to the careful organization and small group size. The tour’s design fosters social interaction and a friendly atmosphere, making it an excellent activity for friends, bachelor parties, or casual groups of beer lovers.

Price, Value, and Booking Tips

At $81.54 per person, this tour offers good value for a guided experience that includes transportation, multiple tastings, snacks, and expert commentary. Since most bookings are made around 20 days in advance, it’s advisable to plan ahead, especially during peak seasons. The tour has a maximum of 14 travelers, ensuring an intimate setting that encourages interaction and personalized attention.

Limitations and Considerations

The experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed, so it’s best to confirm your plans before booking. Also, the minimum age requirement is 18, and the tour may be operated in multiple languages, depending on the guide. While accessible for most, participants should be comfortable with walking and standing during the brewery visits.

The Sum Up: A Fun and Informative Montreal Activity

The Sip of Montreal Brew Tour promises a well-organized, engaging, and delightful exploration of the city’s craft beer scene. Its combination of tasty samples, knowledgeable guides, and convenient transportation makes it a smart choice for anyone interested in local brews. The positive reviews underscore its reliability and fun factor, especially for groups seeking a social outing that combines education and entertainment.

This tour works best for those who appreciate beer, food pairing, and local culture, and are ready to enjoy Montreal’s vibrant brewing scene without the hassle of city navigation. With a high ratings score and consistent praise for guides, this experience is a reliable way to add a flavorful highlight to any Montreal visit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
No, the tour requires participants to be at least 18 and involves tasting multiple beers. However, non-drinkers can often opt for non-alcoholic options if available.

What is included in the price?
The price covers beverages, snacks, transportation, and the services of a local guide. Tips for the guide are not included.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at 1717 Rue Berri, with pickup and drop-off included in the package.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 3 hours 30 minutes.

Are food and snacks included?
Yes, snacks are part of the experience, typically paired with the beer tastings at each brewery.

Can I book this tour in advance?
Yes, most bookings are made about 20 days ahead, and the tour is popular enough to fill up quickly.

What breweries will I visit?
You will visit 4 Origines in Pointe-St-Charles, Benelux in Verdun, and Messorem — with the option for a different stop at Espace public depending on the date.

Are guides knowledgeable about Montreal’s beer scene?
Absolutely. Reviews highlight guides like Violette, Jade, and Kat for their engaging stories and expertise.

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transfers by air-conditioned minivan are part of the experience, making it easy to hop between breweries.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour accommodates up to 14 travelers to ensure a personalized experience.