Premium Finca 18 Tequila Tour & Chocolate Pairing + Pickup Points

Exploring Finca 18’s Premium Tequila & Chocolate Tour: An Authentic Taste of Mexico

If you’re looking for an experience that combines beautiful scenery, expert insights, and genuine craftsmanship, the Finca 18 Tequila Tour & Chocolate Pairing from Puerto Vallarta offers just that. This highly-rated excursion invites travelers to step away from the crowded tourist spots and into the heart of Mexico’s tequila-making tradition—and it does so with a personal touch that keeps things intimate and memorable.

What we love about this tour is the way it balances education with fun. You get to walk through a real family-owned estate, learn about the agave plant’s journey from field to bottle, and taste a carefully curated selection of spirits, all guided by knowledgeable hosts. Plus, the chocolate pairing is a delightful surprise that elevates the whole tasting experience. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the 2-hour duration; it’s perfect for a quick taste of authentic tequila but may leave those craving a more in-depth, full-day exploration wanting more.

This tour appeals most to travelers who enjoy learning about local traditions, appreciate quality spirits, and prefer small-group settings that foster genuine interaction. If you’re curious about tequila’s roots or love discovering authentic, family-run businesses, this is a great fit.

Key Points

• Authentic Family-Owned Estate: Visit a ranch with over 150 years of history, offering a genuine glimpse into traditional tequila production.
• Educational & Tasty: Guided by experts, learn about the agave plant, distillation, and taste a selection of spirits curated by a Master Distiller.
• Small Group Intimacy: Limited to about 10 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Additional Delights: Enjoy a welcome cocktail, healthy snacks, and an award-winning chocolate pairing, plus shop for bottles and gifts.
• Convenient & Practical: Pickup included, with mobile tickets and a manageable 2-hour duration, perfect for a half-day outing.
• Memorable Reviews: Consistently high ratings (5.0 with 312 reviews), with travelers praising the guides, scenery, and value.

An In-Depth Look at Finca 18’s Tequila Tour

Starting Point: Finca 18 – A Historic Ranch

Your journey begins at Finca 18, a family-run ranch that has been part of Puerto Vallarta’s landscape for over 150 years. Tucked away at Carr Las Palmas KM 18, the estate offers lush 12-acre grounds filled with agave fields, traditional buildings, and friendly dogs that quickly win visitors over. From the moment you arrive, you’re greeted with a refreshing welcome cocktail, fresh fruit, and cold water, setting a relaxed tone for the experience.

Reviews highlight the personal attention and warmth from staff. “The owner was very cool and the other couples on the tour were fun,” notes Carmen D., emphasizing the friendly vibe. The estate itself is a picture-perfect spot, perfect for snapping photos, wandering around, and soaking in the authentic Mexican atmosphere.

The Guided Tour: From Agave Nursery to Distillery

The core of the experience is the guided walk through the estate. Your hosts take you from the agave nursery to the expansive fields, explaining the different varieties and the importance of growing the right plants for quality tequila. We loved the way guides like Mario and Greg shared their knowledge without overwhelming, blending education with storytelling.

Then comes the distillery tour, where you see up close how the agave is cooked, fermented, and distilled. This part of the tour is particularly valuable for anyone curious about the craftsmanship behind tequila. “We learned about the entire process—from planting the agave to bottling—this was really eye-opening,” says a reviewer who appreciated the detailed explanation.

The Tasting Experience: Sips, Snacks, and Sweet Pairings

The tasting is curated by a Master Sommelier, involving more than five pours of agave spirits. The spirits are sampled side by side, showcasing different types and flavors, which helps deepen your appreciation for the craftsmanship involved. The chocolate pairing—an exclusive feature—adds an extra layer of complexity, enhancing the tasting with smooth, rich contrasts.

Snack options include guacamole, dehydrated healthy snacks made at the ranch, and cooked agave from ovens, all designed to cleanse the palate and complement the spirits. Multiple reviews mention how fun and educational this part is. “Greg was an awesome and knowledgeable host,” says Brighter H., emphasizing the quality of the guide and the spirits.

Shopping & Souvenirs

Post-tasting, you can browse the gift shop for bottles of tequila, mezcal, and artisan gifts. Prices are reasonable, and many find this a great way to bring a taste of Mexico home. As one traveler put it, “Gifts and takes are very reasonable and worth the money.”

Practical Details & Logistics

The tour lasts around 2 hours, making it easy to fit into a morning or afternoon slot. Pickup is included from Puerto Vallarta, and the group stays small—usually about 10 guests—to ensure personalized attention. The tour is mobile-ticket friendly, with confirmation provided immediately after booking.

While most travelers find walking easy on the estate, it’s worth noting that this isn’t suited for those with difficulty walking for extended periods. The tour is designed to be leisurely, with plenty of stops for photos, questions, and tastings.

The Value Proposition

At $83.93 per person, this tour offers excellent value. You get the chance to explore a family estate, learn from expert guides, taste premium spirits, and enjoy food pairings—all in a relaxed, small-group environment. Reviews reinforce the idea that it’s more than just a tasting; it’s an educational journey that deepens your appreciation for Mexican traditions.

What the Reviews Say

Many reviewers describe it as “one of the best tours ever,” praising the knowledgable guides and the stunning rural setting. “The drive out to Finca was really nice to get away from the busy center of town and see the real Mexico,” says one. The guides’ friendliness and expertise frequently come up, with guests noting that they felt well cared for and informed.

Some reviews mention the experience is surprisingly personal and intimate, with “no feeling of being herded around,” which enhances the overall enjoyment. The chocolate pairing is often highlighted as a highlight, adding a gourmet touch to the tasting.

A few less enthusiastic reviews mention that if you’re expecting a more extensive or in-depth tequila masterclass, this might be a short and sweet overview rather than a deep dive. Still, even those critics agree the setting and the experience are charming and authentic.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for wine or spirit lovers, curious travelers, or anyone interested in authentic Mexican culture. It’s particularly appealing to those who prefer small-group, personalized tours over large bus excursions. Foodies and chocolate lovers will also enjoy the well-curated pairing.

If you’re seeking a quick, high-quality introduction to tequila making—especially with the added bonus of stunning scenery—this tour hits the mark. It’s a wonderful choice for couples, small groups of friends, or solo travelers eager to learn and taste in a relaxed setting.

The Sum Up

The Finca 18 Premium Tequila & Chocolate tour offers a genuine, engaging look into Mexico’s tequila traditions. With knowledgeable guides, a beautiful estate, and thoughtfully curated tastings, it stands out as a value-packed half-day experience. It’s perfect for those who want to go beyond tourist traps and connect with authentic craftsmanship, all while surrounded by scenic rural beauty.

You’ll appreciate the intimacy of small groups, the variety of spirits, and the chance to shop for quality souvenirs. For anyone intrigued by tequila’s story, it’s a memorable way to deepen your understanding of Mexican culture and enjoy some of the best spirits the region has to offer.

If you’re looking for an experience that combines education, flavor, and stunning scenery without breaking the bank, this tour delivers all that and more. It’s a definite highlight for travelers who value authentic, well-organized, and approachable cultural excursions.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup from Puerto Vallarta is offered as part of the tour, making logistics easy and stress-free.

How long does the tour last?
The experience is approximately 2 hours, including the estate visit, tasting, and shopping time.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s not recommended for those who have trouble walking, as the estate involves some walking around the grounds.

What is included in the tasting?
You’ll enjoy 5+ pours of agave spirits, curated by a Master Distiller, along with a chocolate pairing, guacamole, and dehydrated snacks.

Can I buy bottles during the tour?
Yes, bottles, gifts, beer, and wine are available for purchase at the gift shop, with reasonable prices.

Is there a dress code?
There’s no strict dress code, but comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking are recommended.

Are food and drinks provided?
Yes, snacks and the welcome cocktail are included, along with tastings of the spirits.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 24 hours beforehand are non-refundable.

In essence, this tour offers a thoughtful, authentic glimpse into Mexico’s tequila heritage—perfect for curious travelers eager to learn, taste, and explore in a friendly small-group setting.