Newfoundland Beer Tasting Tour in St. John’s

Newfoundland Beer Tasting Tour in St. John’s: A Deep Dive into Local Brews and History

This Newfoundland Beer Tasting Tour in St. John’s offers a flavorful journey through the island’s brewing past and present. For $61 per person, the tour lasts 2.5 hours and includes 7 samples of beer brewed right in Newfoundland, amounting to about 2 pints. Starting on George Street at the impressive “A Time” statue and ending at YellowBelly Brewery, this experience combines beer sampling, storytelling, and local insights in a lively, small-group setting.

This tour is perfect for those interested in craft beer, local history, and lively pub atmospheres. Although it’s not suitable for wheelchair users, people under 19, or gluten-sensitive guests, anyone interested in learning about Newfoundland’s brewing tradition while tasting a variety of local beers will find this tour both educational and enjoyable.

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Key Points

• Learn about Newfoundland’s long brewing history and quirky past
• Sample 7 different local beers: a sour with sea salt, complex stout, ales, lagers
• Visit three breweries and bars for stories and tastings
• Enjoy a 2.5-hour guided experience with lively storytelling
• Meet at the “A Time” statue on George Street and finish at YellowBelly Brewery
• Guide’s expertise and humor make the tour engaging and memorable

Newfoundland’s Brewing Roots and Quirky Tales

This tour highlights the deep roots of brewing in Newfoundland, a tradition dating back to European settlers. The guide shares stories of the island’s long brewing history, including tales of prohibition and gangsters connected to alcohol in the past. You also hear about an accidental port discovery and how local beer has even linked to Jimmy Kimmel, adding a touch of modern local flavor.

The focus on Newfoundland’s quirky past makes the tour more than just a beer tasting. It becomes an insight into how brewing intertwined with the island’s culture and history over centuries, making the experience both fun and educational.

Sampling 7 Unique Local Beers with Diverse Flavors

Participants enjoy 7 different beer samples, all brewed locally in Newfoundland. These include a sour beer brewed with Newfoundland sea salt, offering a taste of the island’s unique ingredients. Other samples include a complex stout and various ales and lagers, providing a wide variety of styles to suit different palates.

Each sample is served at a different stop, where the guide explains the brewing process, ingredients, and flavor profiles. The variety ensures there’s a bit of everything, from light, refreshing beers to more robust, full-bodied options.

Stops at Three Iconic Breweries and Bars

The tour makes three stops at notable breweries and bars in St. John’s. The first stop introduces guests to the local brewing scene, offering stories behind each venue’s history. The final stop at YellowBelly Brewery provides a relaxed environment to enjoy the last samples and reflect on what you’ve learned.

Each venue offers distinctive atmospheres and stories, enriching the tasting experience. The stops are chosen carefully to showcase St. John’s vibrant beer culture and support local businesses.

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Learn How to Taste Craft Beer Properly

A key feature of this tour is the “crash course” in craft beer tasting led by the guide. Participants learn how to appreciate the aroma, flavor, and appearance of each beer. This practical knowledge enhances the enjoyment and understanding of each sample, making the experience valuable even for those new to craft beer.

The guide’s knowledge, humor, and storytelling skills make this part engaging, providing tips that guests can carry into their future beer tastings.

An Engaging Guide with Personal Anecdotes

The guides are a highlight of this tour. Reviews praise the knowledgeable hosts, such as Pierre and Axel, who add fun stories, anecdotes, and insights about Newfoundland’s beer strikes, local culture, and history. Their engaging personalities help keep the pace lively and informative.

Guests appreciate how guides balance factual stories with entertaining tales, creating a warm, friendly atmosphere for the group.

Practical Details and Meeting Arrangements

The meeting point is at the “A Time” statue on George Street, a central location easily reachable within downtown St. John’s. The tour is small-group, providing a more personalized experience, with a live English-speaking guide. The duration is 2.5 hours, usually scheduled in the afternoon, making it convenient to fit into a day of sightseeing.

Participation is not suitable for wheelchair users or those under 19, and gluten intolerance is not accommodated. The tour includes beer samples and a guide, but food is optional and not included in the price.

Flexibility and Cancellation Policies

Booking is flexible, with the option to reserve now and pay later. Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers peace of mind for spontaneous plans or uncertain weather.

This ease of cancellation and flexible booking policy makes the tour accessible for travelers with busy schedules or changing plans.

The Value and Overall Experience

At $61 per person, this tour offers great value for the combination of 7 beer samples, local storytelling, and guidance. The positive reviews, averaging a 4.9 out of 5, highlight the quality of the beers, the knowledge of the guides, and the entertaining stories.

While the tour does not include food and may not be suitable for certain mobility or dietary restrictions, it excels in providing an up-close look at Newfoundland’s brewing tradition in a lively, friendly setting.

Who Will Most Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for craft beer enthusiasts, history buffs interested in Newfoundland’s past, and travelers looking for a relaxed, informative activity in St. John’s. It’s especially suited to those who enjoy small-group tours with engaging guides and a focus on local culture.

Those seeking a taste of Newfoundland’s diverse beer styles and stories behind each brew will find this tour both educational and entertaining.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for people with gluten intolerance?
No, the tour is not suitable for individuals with gluten intolerance, as it involves sampling beers that likely contain gluten.

What is the meeting point for the tour?
The tour begins at the “A Time” statue on George Street in downtown St. John’s.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 2.5 hours.

Are food options included?
No, food is not included but can be purchased separately at the stops.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
No, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users.

What types of beers are sampled?
Guests sample a sour brewed with Newfoundland sea salt, a complex stout, along with other ales and lagers.

What makes this tour special?
It combines beer tasting, local history, stories about prohibition, and personal anecdotes from guides with knowledgeable insights into Newfoundland’s brewing heritage.

Who are the guides?
Guides like Pierre and Axel are praised for their knowledgeability, humor, and storytelling skills.

What is the main focus of this tour?
The tour emphasizes local craft beers, brewing history, and the stories behind each brew, making it a rich cultural experience as well as a tasting adventure.

This Newfoundland Beer Tasting Tour in St. John’s offers an engaging, well-rounded look at local brewing traditions. With expert guides, delicious samples, and fascinating stories, it promises a rewarding afternoon for beer lovers and history fans alike.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby