Victoria Craft Beer and Distillery Tour

Explore Victoria’s Top Craft Beer and Spirits Scene for $111.35

The Victoria Craft Beer and Distillery Tour offers a detailed introduction to Vancouver Island’s acclaimed craft beverage industry. Priced at $111.35 per person and lasting about 3 hours 30 minutes, this tour takes visitors from downtown Victoria into the scenic Saanich area. A round-trip transportation service ensures comfort and convenience, making it accessible without the hassle of planning logistics.

Ideal for those curious about local craft beers and spirits, the tour features visits to two breweries and one distillery. Throughout, attendees enjoy generous tastings and gain insights from a guide with extensive knowledge of Victoria’s craft alcohol scene. The tour is suitable for those aged 19 and older, with a minimum group size of four. While the experience is rich in flavor and behind-the-scenes access, it’s important to note that custom pickup locations are not included, so participants need to meet at the central Victoria starting point.

Key Points

• Duration of 3 hours 30 minutes with round-trip transportation from downtown Victoria
• Visits to three stops: Ile Sauvage Brewing, Macaloney’s Island Distillery & Twa Dogs Brewery, and Herald Street Brew Works
• Tastings at each location, including wild, sour, experimental beers, and premium spirits
• Behind-the-scenes look at the production process at one stop
• Knowledgeable guide with expertise in Victoria’s craft alcohol scene
• No refunds or changes, as the experience is non-refundable, requiring a minimum of four participants

Starting Point and Transportation in Victoria

This tour departs from a central downtown Victoria meeting point at 12:00 pm. The round-trip transport is provided in a comfortable passenger van, ensuring ease of travel between stops. Guests should arrive on time to begin the 4 p.m. scheduled departure, and since the tour runs in all weather conditions, dressing appropriately is advised.

The pick-up service is not included, so participants must meet at the designated location. The tour is designed to be accessible, with most travelers able to participate, covering a broad age range as long as attendees are 19 or older.

First Stop: Ile Sauvage Brewing – Wild and Experimental Beers

The journey starts at Ile Sauvage Brewing, a brewery known for wild, sour, and experimental beers. The vibrant tasting room emphasizes bold, creative flavors, making it a favorite among those interested in unique brews. Visitors get a behind-the-scenes look at their production process, which highlights their focus on innovative craft brewing.

This stop lasts for approximately one hour, offering plenty of time to sample a variety of beers and learn how these bold flavors are crafted. The brewery’s emphasis on experimental brewing makes it a standout within Victoria’s craft scene, especially for those seeking unconventional tastes.

Macaloney’s Island Distillery & Twa Dogs Brewery – Award-Winning Spirits

Next, the tour visits Macaloney’s Island Distillery, an award-winning facility famous for single malt whiskies and Irish-style spirits. The distillery combines traditional methods with a West Coast twist, producing premium spirits that appeal to aficionados and casual drinkers alike.

The stop lasts for about one hour, during which visitors sample a range of spirits, including spirits that showcase distillation craftsmanship and local flavor. This site offers a great combination of distillation expertise and innovative expression, making it a highlight of the tour.

Herald Street Brew Works – Small-Batch Creativity

The final brewery is Herald Street Brew Works, a cozy hotel known for rotating small-batch beers. Its laid-back community vibe and creative styles make it a perfect place to wrap up the experience. Here, the focus is on small production runs, allowing for variety and experimentation in the beers offered.

Guests enjoy about an hour at Herald Street, sampling fresh, limited-release brews. The casual atmosphere complements the creative spirit of Victoria’s craft brewing scene, leaving visitors with a good sense of the local small-batch movement.

Behind-the-Scenes Access at One Stop

A unique feature of this tour is the opportunity to tour behind-the-scenes at one of the stops, providing insight into how craft beverages are made. This behind-the-scenes look deepens understanding of production methods, ingredients, and the effort involved in creating high-quality beers and spirits.

This access offers a more immersive experience, making the tour not just about sampling but about appreciating the craftsmanship behind Victoria’s craft scene.

Tasting Experience and Refreshments

Throughout the tour, ample tastings are provided at each location, giving participants the chance to sample a variety of beers and spirits. The experience emphasizes generous samples, ensuring that attendees enjoy multiple flavors without feeling rushed.

Along With tastings, bottled water is available to keep everyone hydrated during the journey, an important detail given the alcohol consumption and the duration of the tour.

Practical Details and Accessibility

The tour includes all taxes, fees, and handling charges, simplifying the booking process. However, custom pickup locations are not part of this experience, so participants should plan to meet at the designated central Victoria point.

Although the tour operates rain or shine, guests are advised to dress appropriately for the weather. The group size is capped at 14 travelers, fostering a friendly, intimate atmosphere that allows for personalized attention from the guide.

The Guide: An Expert in Victoria’s Craft Scene

The guides on this tour are known for their extensive knowledge about Victoria’s craft beverage industry. They lead guests through each stop with insightful commentary, explaining the nuances of brewing and distilling, as well as sharing stories behind each brand.

This knowledgeable guidance enhances the experience, helping guests appreciate the art and science of craft beverage making while answering questions along the way.

Authentic and Honest Experience

Based on positive feedback, the tour is praised for its authentic access to local breweries and distilleries, as well as the friendly, knowledgeable guides. The quality of tastings and the variety of styles keep the experience engaging and enjoyable.

The non-refundable policy underscores the importance of planning ahead, but the overall value is high given the comprehensive itinerary and behind-the-scenes insights provided.

Who Should Book the Victoria Craft Beer and Distillery Tour?

This tour suits adults interested in craft beverages, especially those curious about experimental beers and premium spirits. It works well for groups seeking a relaxed, educational experience with a focus on local production.

While the paced stops are accessible, guests should be comfortable with walking and standing for periods of time. The tour’s intimate group size and expert guidance make it ideal for beer enthusiasts and spirits connoisseurs alike.

Final Thoughts on the Victoria Craft Beer and Distillery Tour

The Victoria Craft Beer and Distillery Tour offers a well-rounded exploration of Vancouver Island’s craft beverage scene. Its carefully curated stops, including wild beers, premium spirits, and small-batch brews, provide variety and depth. The behind-the-scenes access and knowledgeable guides elevate the experience beyond simple tastings.

Priced at $111.35, this tour delivers value for money, especially for those eager to learn about local craft production in a friendly, laid-back setting. It’s a great way to spend an afternoon if you want to sample quality drinks and gain insight into Victoria’s thriving craft scene.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, round-trip transportation in a comfortable passenger van is included from downtown Victoria.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, all participants must be 19 or older to enjoy tastings.

Can I customize the pickup location?
No, custom pickup locations are not included, so guests need to meet at the designated central Victoria point.

What is the cancellation policy?
The tour is non-refundable and cannot be changed. If the minimum number of travelers isn’t met, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

How long is each stop?
Each of the three stops lasts about one hour, with some stops offering behind-the-scenes access and multiple tastings.