Montpellier craft beer tour

If you’re visiting Montpellier and want to go beyond the typical sightseeing route, the Montpellier craft beer tour offers a refreshing way to experience the city’s innovative brewing scene. This 3-hour guided walk takes you through the historic streets, introducing you to three independent microbreweries, where you’ll learn about brewing techniques, ingredients, and the art of beer tasting. With a focus on education and authentic local flavor, this tour is perfect for beer lovers and curious travelers alike.

One of the standout features of this experience is the intimate group size—limited to just 10 people—which creates a cozy atmosphere for tasting and conversation. We particularly appreciate the fact that it’s led by a passionate guide who’s also a zythologist, meaning you get expert insights sprinkled with personal stories. That said, it’s important to note that this isn’t a pub crawl but a carefully curated, educational journey into Montpellier’s craft beer scene. The only caveat might be the price point of around $81.42 per person, which can seem steep if you’re on a tight budget, but considering the tasting and learning involved, many find it worthwhile.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy discovering local culture through food and drink, are interested in the history of beer, or simply want a relaxed, authentic experience in Montpellier. Whether you’re a craft beer novice or a seasoned connoisseur, the combination of history, technique, and tasting makes this a memorable addition to your trip.

Key Points

• Educational focus: Learn about brewing techniques, ingredients, and the history of beer from a knowledgeable guide.
• Authentic experiences: Visit three microbreweries that are truly independent and local.
• Taste diversity: Enjoy six different beers paired with appetisers, offering a good variety of styles.
• Limited group size: Max 10 travelers for a more personalized, engaging experience.
• Not a pub crawl: The emphasis is on learning and appreciating beer, not just drinking.
• Convenient timing: Starts at 5:00 pm, perfect for an early evening activity after a day of sightseeing.

A Deep Dive into the Montpellier Craft Beer Tour

The Itinerary and What Makes Each Stop Special

The tour begins at the Fountain of the Three Graces in Montpellier’s vibrant Place de la Comédie, a perfect central meeting point. From there, your guide—who’s not just a local but also a professional in beer tasting—leads you through the charming old streets, sharing stories about Montpellier’s history and its brewing culture. The route is designed to give you a genuine feel for the city’s character, with stops at three microbreweries that each have their own unique style and story.

The first brewery often introduces you to the basics of craft brewing, showcasing how ingredients like malt, hops, yeast, and water come together to create a variety of beer styles. Here, the guide explains the brewing process in accessible terms, demystifying what might seem like complex science. The second and third breweries tend to focus on more specialized or experimental brews, often reflecting the local palate or innovative techniques. Visitors can expect to see the brewing areas, which are usually compact but well-equipped, giving a behind-the-scenes feel that larger commercial breweries simply can’t provide.

Tasting and Food Pairings

The highlight of the tour is, of course, the tasting session. You’ll sample six different beers—an ample selection for a short tour—and learn how to appreciate their aroma, flavor, and mouthfeel. The guide offers insights into how different ingredients influence the taste, and you’ll also get tips on food pairings. An appetiser platter accompanies the tastings, typically featuring local cheeses, charcuterie, or other small bites that complement the beers perfectly.

One reviewer noted that the tour’s focus on pairing elevates the experience beyond just drinking. As they mentioned, “You learn the art of tasting and food and beer pairings,” which adds a layer of sophistication and enjoyment. The beers are served in moderation, emphasizing quality over quantity, making it suitable for those who prefer a more measured approach to alcohol consumption.

Why This Tour Is Worth the Price

At $81.42 per person, you’re paying for more than just the tastings. You’re gaining access to expert insights from a passionate guide, visiting exclusive microbreweries, and getting a comprehensive look into the craft of beer-making. The tour’s small group size enhances the experience, allowing for more personalized attention and conversation. Plus, since the tour is “not a pub crawl,” you’re less likely to feel overwhelmed or rushed, making it ideal for those who want to learn and enjoy at a relaxed pace.

Authentic Insights from a Reviewer

According to a reviewer who enjoyed the tour, “Two things that made it special were the feeling of being shown around by a real local as well as the perspective Alice brought to beer tasting as a professional wi…”. Their description underscores how the guide’s local knowledge and professional background elevate the experience from a mere tasting to a genuine cultural exploration. It’s this personal touch that can make all the difference when seeking authentic local experiences.

Practical Details and What To Expect

The tour begins promptly at 5:00 pm and concludes back at the starting point, making it easy to incorporate into an evening plan. The meeting point, near public transportation, is accessible, which is convenient for travelers staying in different parts of the city. The maximum group size of 10 ensures everyone has enough space to ask questions and engage with the guide.

While the tour is suitable for adults over 18, underage you will be served non-alcoholic beverages, maintaining safety and compliance with local laws. The tour requires a minimum of four participants to run, but since the reviews are positive and the experience is highly rated (a perfect 5/5 from one reviewer), it’s likely to proceed as scheduled.

Why You Should Consider This Tour

This craft beer tour is ideal for those who value quality experiences over quick drinking sessions. It’s particularly suited to travelers keen on exploring Montpellier’s local culture through its food and drink heritage, or those interested in the technical and historical aspects of brewing. If you enjoy small-group settings where you can ask questions and truly learn, this tour offers excellent value.

On top of that, the focus on educating guests about beer makes it more than just a tasting session—it’s an informative journey that leaves you with a greater appreciation for craft brewing. The inclusion of appetisers enhances the tasting experience, making it feel more like a leisurely culinary exploration than a hurried pub crawl.

For beer enthusiasts, this tour provides a chance to sample a curated selection of locally brewed beers that you might not find easily on your own, and to understand what makes Montpellier’s craft scene unique.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for beer beginners?
Absolutely. The guide explains brewing processes and tasting techniques in an accessible way, making it perfect whether you’re new to beer or a seasoned connoisseur.

Are there vegetarian or vegan options available?
The tour includes an appetiser platter, usually featuring local cheeses and charcuterie. If you have specific dietary restrictions, it’s best to check with the provider beforehand.

How many beers will I taste?
You will have the opportunity to taste six different beers during the tour, with guidance on how to appreciate each one.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 10 travelers, ensuring a more personalized and engaging experience.

Can I join if I am under 18?
No. The tour is only available to travelers 18 and over for alcoholic beverage tasting. Underage guests will be served non-alcoholic drinks.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the tour will not be refunded.

To sum it up, the Montpellier craft beer tour offers a well-rounded, authentic introduction to the city’s brewing culture. It combines historical insights, technical knowledge, and tasting in a relaxed setting that appeals to curious travelers and craft beer aficionados alike. If you’re looking for an experience that’s both educational and enjoyable, and want to understand what makes Montpellier’s craft beer scene special, this tour is certainly worth considering. With its small group format and expert guide, it promises an engaging and memorable addition to your stay in Montpellier.