Finca 18 Tequila Tour w/ Chocolate Pairing + Pickup Point

Explore the Authentic Finca 18 Tequila Experience in Jalisco

The Finca 18 Tequila Tour offers a memorable look into the world of Mexican spirits with an emphasis on quality, tradition, and flavor. This tour lasts just 2 hours, making it a perfect choice for travelers seeking a concise yet engaging experience. Located in Jalisco, Mexico, the tour takes place on a historic 12-acre estate, owned by a family with over 150 years of history in Puerto Vallarta. With over 100 five-star reviews, this tour combines education, tastings, and a bit of shopping, giving visitors a well-rounded glimpse into tequila making and local craftsmanship.

This journey is especially suitable for those interested in learning about tequila production, enjoying guided tastings, and exploring a beautifully preserved Mexican ranch. The small group size (limited to 10 participants) ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere. The tour includes pickup options from various locations, adding convenience to the experience.

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Key Points

• 2-hour tour in Jalisco, Mexico, focusing on tequila and chocolate pairing
• Visit the 12-acre estate, with guided tours of the agave fields and distillery
• Enjoy a curated 5-course agave spirits tasting led by the Master Distiller
• Includes a welcome cocktail, fresh fruit, and cold water
• Option to upgrade with a chocolate pairing from an award-winning chocolatier
• Shop for souvenirs in the converted gift shop and purchase bottles or extra pours

Visiting the Historic Puerto Vallarta Ranch on El Camino Real

This tour begins at the historic Puerto Vallarta ranch, situated along the old El Camino Real route. The ranch has been owned and operated by the same family for over 150 years, adding a layer of heritage to the experience. The guided estate tour showcases agave nurseries and fields, offering insight into the traditional cultivation techniques that have been passed down through generations.

Guests receive a refreshing cocktail, fresh fruit, and cold water upon arrival, setting a lively tone for the tour. Walking around the estate, visitors see the revived Mexican ranch, which maintains its authentic charm while offering modern amenities. This stop provides a vivid context for understanding the importance of tequila in Mexican culture.

Discovering the Agave Nursery and Fields

The agave nursery and fields are key highlights of the tour. Visitors see various agave plants up close, learning how they are cultivated before being harvested for tequila production. The guide explains the agave-to-tequila process, giving clear details about each step, from harvesting to fermentation.

Walking through the estate’s grounds, travelers experience the natural beauty of the ranch, with lush landscapes and traditional architecture. The 12-acre estate is fully accessible for the tour, offering ample opportunities for photos and observation. This part of the tour emphasizes the connection between the land and the spirit, making the production process more tangible.

The Distillery and Tequila Production Process

The distillery tour is a central part of the experience. Visitors observe the traditional methods used to produce tequila, including fermentation tanks and distillation equipment. The Master Distiller guides guests through each stage, sharing insights about quality control and flavor development.

This behind-the-scenes look helps clarify what makes tequila unique compared to other spirits. Visitors gain a deeper appreciation for craftsmanship and the effort involved in creating each bottle. The distillery visit concludes with a tasting of multiple spirits, showcasing different flavor profiles derived from the agave.

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The Curated 5-Course Agave Spirits Tasting

The main tasting experience is curated by the Master Distiller and consists of five carefully selected agave spirits. Each pour is accompanied by dehydrated snacks made on the ranch, enhancing the tasting experience. The guided tasting allows guests to distinguish notes and aromas, fostering a better understanding of tequila styles.

An upgrade option is available for a chocolate pairing sourced from a local, award-winning chocolatier. This pairing complements the spirits, highlighting flavor combinations that elevate the tasting. The curated nature of the tasting ensures a focused exploration of the spirits’ characteristics.

Shopping for Souvenirs and Extra Pours

After the tasting, visitors have the chance to shop in the converted gift shop. The shop offers bottles of tequila, gifts, and extra pours, allowing guests to bring home a piece of the experience. Bottles can be purchased on-site, and additional pours, beers, and wines are available for those wishing to extend their enjoyment.

The shop maintains a Mexican ranch vibe, providing authentic souvenirs and a relaxed shopping environment. The opportunity to buy gifts or bottles adds value for those wanting to remember the tour or share it with friends.

Practical Details: Logistics and Group Size

This tour includes pickup options from several locations, such as Dreams Bahia Mita, Nicksan Nuevo Vallarta, Coppel Palmas, and Lázaro Cárdenas Park. The pickup times are scheduled close to the tour start, with driver waits at designated spots. The small group limit of 10 participants ensures an intimate experience with plenty of opportunity to ask questions and engage with the guide.

Languages spoken during the tour are English and Spanish, making it accessible for a diverse range of visitors. The duration is strictly 2 hours, making it easy to fit into a busy travel schedule.

Guide Expertise and Guest Experience

The guide, notably Leon, is praised for being knowledgeable and passionate, which enhances the overall experience. The engaging delivery keeps the group interested and helps demystify the tequila-making process. This focus on personalized attention is a highlight, especially given the small group size.

Guests should bring comfortable shoes, a sun hat, camera, water, biodegradable sunscreen, and insect repellent to enjoy the tour comfortably. The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, individuals with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, or children under 18.

The Sum Up: A Rich Tequila and Chocolate Journey in Jalisco

The Finca 18 Tequila Tour presents a well-rounded experience for those interested in Mexican spirits, heritage, and craftsmanship. The guided estate tour, educational distillery visit, and curated spirits tasting create an engaging and authentic journey into tequila production. The option to upgrade with chocolate pairing adds a delicious twist, making this tour stand out.

Limited to small groups, the tour ensures personalized interaction with knowledgeable guides and a relaxed pace. Most visitors will appreciate the heritage atmosphere, the insightful explanations, and the chance to purchase authentic tequila directly from the ranch. This tour is especially suited for spirits enthusiasts and culture lovers who want a short, immersive experience in Jalisco.

However, travelers should be prepared for walking outdoors on uneven terrain and should avoid this tour if they have mobility issues or are pregnant. Overall, Finca 18 offers a genuine taste of Mexico’s tequila tradition in a scenic, historic setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, pickup and transportation from designated locations are included, with timely pickups based on your chosen spot.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts 2 hours, making it a manageable activity during a day of sightseeing.

Can I buy bottles or extra spirits?
Absolutely, the gift shop offers bottles of tequila, gifts, and additional pours for purchase after the tasting.

Is the chocolate pairing available?
Yes, there is an upgrade option that pairs chocolate from a local chocolatier with the spirits.

Are children allowed on this tour?
No, the experience is not suitable for children under 18.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, camera, water, and biodegradable sunscreen and insect repellent.

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