Palma: Distillery Tour with 3 Spirits and Tapas Tasting

If you’re looking to combine a taste of Mallorca’s heritage with a relaxed, authentic experience, the Palma distillery tour offers a delightful glimpse into the island’s spirit-making history. This well-rated activity (4.9 out of 5 from nine reviews) promises a 75-minute journey through Palma’s oldest distillery, where you’ll explore underground cellars, sample premium brandies aged up to 50 years, and indulge in gourmet tapas. It’s a short, accessible excursion that caters to those curious about local spirits, history buffs, and anyone wanting a fun, educational outing just outside the hustle of Palma’s city center.

One of the highlights is how much you get to experience the actual barrels—tasting directly from the aged brandy barrels enhances the authenticity, making this tour stand out. Plus, the presence of a certified wine educator guide ensures that the storytelling is both engaging and informative. However, be aware that the underground cellar’s historical nature and stair access mean the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues. Still, if you’re after a balanced, immersive experience in Mallorca’s spirit-making tradition, this tour hits the sweet spot.

Ideal for spirit aficionados, food lovers, and history enthusiasts alike, this tour offers a taste of Mallorca’s craftsmanship and culinary culture without breaking the bank. Just keep in mind that it’s a relatively short experience—so if you’re looking for a comprehensive day-long adventure, you might want to pair it with other activities.

Key Points

• Authentic Historic Setting: Visit Palma’s oldest distillery with a 170-year-old underground cellar.
• Premium Tasting Experience: Enjoy three exquisite spirits—aged 15, 25, and 50 years—served directly from the barrels.
• Expert Guidance: Led by a certified wine educator, ensuring engaging and educational commentary.
• Gourmet Tapas: Paired with each tasting, elevating the experience through local flavors.
• Location & Accessibility: Located just 10 minutes from Palma city center with free on-site parking; note the tour’s stairs and cellar layout.
• Value for Money: At $56 per person, it offers a well-rounded experience with tastings, gourmet food, and a guided tour.

Exploring the Palma Distillery Tour in Depth

Starting Point: Bodegas Suau

Your journey begins in the charming courtyard of Bodegas Suau, a historic hotel that has been producing spirits since 1851. The location’s proximity to Palma’s city center—just 10 minutes away—makes it a convenient escape from the busy streets, yet feels worlds apart in its old-world atmosphere. The on-site free parking simplifies logistics, and meeting your guide here sets a friendly, intimate tone for the experience.

The Guided Tour: Spirit of History and Craft

Led by a certified wine educator, the tour offers a well-paced exploration of the distillery’s history and production processes. From the moment you step into the underground cellars, you’ll notice the sense of reverence for tradition—centuries-old barrels line the walls, each telling its own story. The guide explains the solera aging process—a method that involves blending spirits of different ages to achieve consistent quality since 1851—adding depth to your understanding of what makes these brandies special.

What makes this tour particularly engaging is the chance to taste directly from the barrels. Sampling spirits of 15, 25, and 50 years old offers a rare window into the aging process and how flavors develop over time. Reviewers have noted the authenticity of this experience; one called it “Sehr interessante, lustige und leckere Führung” (“very interesting, fun, and tasty tour”). Being able to sample the spirits at different ages enhances appreciation for the craftsmanship behind each bottle.

Tasting & Tapas: A Gourmet Pairing

After exploring the cellar, you’ll sit down to a tasting of three premium spirits, paired with gourmet tapas. The combination of aged brandies and local bites creates a well-rounded sensory experience. The tapas might include traditional Mallorcan flavors, though specifics aren’t detailed—what’s important is that they complement the spirits and give an authentic taste of regional cuisine.

Guests consistently praise the quality of the tastings and tapas, with one reviewer emphasizing how the experience is “ein Muss für Spirituosen Liebhaber” (“a must for spirits lovers”). The tasting session is intimate and relaxed, allowing plenty of time for questions and conversation.

The Walking Tour: Underneath the Surface

Following the tasting, your group will stroll through the underground cellar, viewing centuries-old barrels and learning about the unique solera aging process. This part of the tour is particularly memorable for its historical ambiance—cool, dark, and filled with centuries of flavors. Be aware, however, that due to the stairs and cellar’s age, accessibility is limited, and it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues.

Duration & Practicalities

The tour lasts approximately 75 minutes, making it a perfect standalone activity or a quick addition to a day of sightseeing. It’s important to check the available starting times in advance, as they vary. The experience costs $56 per person, which covers the guided tour, tastings, tapas, bottled water, and parking—offering good value for what you receive.

Why This Tour Works Well

• Authentic Experience: Visiting Palma’s oldest distillery provides genuine insight into Mallorca’s spirit heritage, not just a superficial tasting.
• Educational Element: The presence of a certified guide and the explanation of aging processes deepen your understanding of the craft.
• Sensory Pleasure: Tasting spirits directly from barrels is a rare and vivid experience, especially when paired with gourmet tapas.
• Convenient Location: Close to Palma’s city center, with free parking, adds to its accessibility.
• Intimate Atmosphere: Small group size and guided storytelling make this experience personal and memorable.

Some considerations:

• The underground cellar’s stairs and uneven surfaces might be challenging for some guests.
• The tour’s brevity means it’s best suited as part of a broader Mallorca itinerary, especially if you want to explore more local cuisine or wineries.
• It’s not suitable for pregnant women, individuals with mobility impairments, or wheelchair users due to physical constraints.

Final Thoughts

This Palma distillery tour offers a rare glimpse into Mallorca’s spirit-making tradition, blended with the chance to taste aged brandies in a historic setting. It’s a thoughtfully curated experience that combines education, authentic flavors, and cultural insight into a manageable, enjoyable format. The tasting from barrels, paired with gourmet tapas, makes it especially appealing for those who appreciate craftsmanship and local flavors.

The tour’s moderate price point—around $56—packs in quality and authenticity, making it an excellent value for travelers wanting more than just a casual tasting. While it’s not a day-long activity, its intimate nature and rich storytelling make it a memorable highlight for a Mallorca trip.

Perfect for spirit enthusiasts, food lovers, and history buffs, this experience offers a taste of Mallorca’s proud distilling tradition wrapped in a friendly, accessible package. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to learn more about the island’s heritage, this tour is a solid choice.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
The minimum legal age for tasting alcoholic drinks is 18 years old, so participants must be adults.

Is parking available at the venue?
Yes, there is free parking on-site at Bodegas Suau, making arrivals easy and stress-free.

How long does the tour last?
The full experience takes approximately 75 minutes, including the guided tour, tasting, and tapas.

What languages are available for the tour?
The main tour is conducted in English, with translation support available in French and German.

Are there any physical restrictions?
Due to the cellar’s historical nature and stairways, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and may be challenging for those with mobility issues.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance. You can also reserve now and pay later to keep your plans flexible.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers entry to the distillery, a guided tour with a certified educator, three barrel-aged spirit tastings, gourmet tapas, bottled water, and free parking.

Are food and drink available after the tour?
The tour includes tapas as part of the experience. For additional food or drinks, you’ll need to explore nearby options in Palma.

Is there anything I should bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended due to stairs and uneven surfaces in the cellar. No large bags or luggage are allowed in the cellar area.