Finca 18 Tequila Tour w/ Chocolate Pairing + Pickup Point

Experience the Heart of Jalisco with Finca 18’s Tequila and Chocolate Tour

When it comes to Mexican tequila, few places evoke the romance and tradition quite like Finca 18 in Jalisco. This 2-hour tour offers an intimate look at the agave fields, the distillation process, and includes a curated tasting of five different spirits, guided by an experienced onsite Master Distiller. The tour also features a chocolate pairing upgrade that elevates the experience for lovers of both spirits and sweets.

What we love about this experience is how it combines authentic Mexican craftsmanship with the comfort of a small, manageable group—limiting to just 10 participants. The personal attention from guides like Leon, who has been praised for passion and knowledge, makes the tour engaging and informative. Plus, the setting of a historic 12-acre ranch, owned by a family with over 150 years of roots in Puerto Vallarta, adds a genuine local flavor.

One reason to consider this tour is its value. For the two hours you’ll spend exploring, tasting, and shopping, the cost reflects a well-rounded, authentic experience rather than just a quick tasting. However, if mobility is an issue or you’re not interested in spirits, this might not be your best fit—it’s geared toward adults who appreciate deep, hands-on learning.

This tour suits travelers who want more than just a tasting; it’s perfect for those curious about the artisanship of tequila and the heritage of Mexican ranch life. It also works well for couples, small groups of friends, or solo travelers who enjoy learning from passionate guides.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Learn the entire tequila-making process at a family-owned estate with over 150 years of history.
• Educational and Tasty: A guided 5-course spirits tasting curated by the Master Distiller, plus optional chocolate pairing.
• Small Group: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Beautiful Setting: A 12-acre estate with views of agave fields and ranch life, adding to the authentic feel.
• Convenient Pickup: Multiple pickup points with flexible times, included in the tour, making logistics easier.
• Additional Shopping: A chance to buy bottles, souvenirs, and extra pours directly at the ranch.

A detailed look at the Finca 18 Tequila Tour

The Location and Setting

Finca 18 is situated on the old El Camino Real, a historic route connecting Puerto Vallarta to inland Mexico. The ranch is a beautiful 12-acre estate, with lush agave nursery and fields. Visiting this family-owned property, which has been passed down through over five generations, gives you a sense of continuity and pride in their craft. The ranch has been thoughtfully restored to preserve Mexican ranch traditions, making it a lovely backdrop for your journey into tequila.

The Pickup and Logistics

The tour includes pickup at designated locations—such as Dreams Bahia Mita, Nicksan Nuevo Vallarta, Coppel Palmas, and Lázaro Cárdenas Park—timed close to your scheduled tour. This makes getting there straightforward, especially if you’re staying nearby. The driver waits at your chosen pickup point at the designated time, which is an hour or so before your scheduled tour, giving you a smooth start.

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The Guided Tour

Once at the ranch, your guide—notably Leon, who received praise for his knowledge and passion—guides you through the estate, explaining the history of the family and the agave cultivation. You’ll see the nursery where agave plants are nurtured and the fields where they’re harvested.

This tour isn’t just about looking; it’s about understanding. You’ll learn how different types of agave are grown, the importance of soil and climate, and how traditional Mexican methods influence the final spirit. The guide’s storytelling makes this engaging, especially if you’re interested in the heritage of Mexican spirits.

The Distillery and Spirits Tasting

Next, you visit the distillery where tequila is produced. Seeing the copper stills and fermentation tanks up close offers a real sense of connection to the craftsmanship involved. But the highlight is undoubtedly the 5-course spirits tasting curated by the Master Distiller.

This tasting includes several agave spirits, possibly including blanco, reposado, and añejo varieties, alongside some dehydrated ranch snacks for pairing. The tasting is designed to showcase a range of flavors and styles, helping you appreciate the nuances of each.

For those who opt for the chocolate pairing upgrade, you’ll enjoy samples from a local, award-winning chocolatier. The combination of rich chocolate and tequila can be surprisingly harmonious, and this creates an extra layer of sophistication to the experience.

Shopping and Additional Offerings

Before leaving, you’re invited to browse the gift shop, where bottles of tequila, souvenirs, and extra pours are available. This is a chance to pick up a special bottle or some local gifts—not just for yourself but as authentic mementos or gifts.

Post-tour, bottles and other items can be purchased—so consider bringing some spending money. Be aware that additional pours, beers, and wine might be available for purchase after the tasting.

What to Expect and Practical Tips

The tour lasts about two hours, making it ideal for a morning or early afternoon activity. Wear comfortable shoes—the estate involves walking through fields and around the ranch. A sun hat, sunscreen, and water are recommended, especially given Mexico’s bright sun.

The small group size (limited to 10) means a more personalized experience, but it also emphasizes the importance of early reservations if you want to secure your spot. The price reflects a focus on quality and authenticity, offering not just tasting but educational insights that most mass-market tours don’t provide.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

Anyone interested in Mexican culture, spirits, or heritage will find this tour rewarding. It’s particularly suitable for adults who value authentic, hands-on experiences. If you’re a spirits enthusiast, the detailed tasting and the insight from the Master Distiller will be a highlight. If you have any mobility concerns, note that walking on uneven ground may be involved, and the tour isn’t suitable for children or pregnant women.

Possible Drawbacks

Since the tour emphasizes distilling and tasting, those expecting a lively, party atmosphere might find it more educational and relaxed. Also, the duration is relatively short—two hours—so if you’re looking for an extended experience or a full-day tour, this might not be enough.

Why This Tour Stands Out

Unlike many generic tequila tastings, Finca 18’s experience is rooted in family tradition and local craftsmanship. The small group size and passionate guides make it feel more like a visit to a friend’s ranch than a commercial pitch. The inclusion of chocolate pairing adds a unique twist that elevates the tasting beyond the usual.

The setting on a historic ranch with panoramic views of agave fields offers a genuine taste of rural Mexico, close enough to Puerto Vallarta for a day trip but far enough to feel like stepping into a different world. The educational component ensures you leave with not just souvenirs but a real understanding of what makes Mexican tequila special.

The Sum Up

For travelers eager to explore authentic Mexican tequila craftsmanship in a personalized, intimate setting, the Finca 18 tour offers a compelling mix of history, education, and flavor. The small group size and knowledgeable guides make it a standout, especially for those who appreciate detailed insights and local stories.

If you’re a spirits lover or someone curious about Mexican heritage, this experience provides real value—combining a scenic ranch visit with top-tier tastings and a dash of sweet chocolate. The included pickup and all-access shopping make it convenient, while the focus on authenticity ensures you genuinely connect with the land and the traditions behind the spirit.

In short, whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking to deepen your understanding of tequila, this tour is a well-rounded choice that offers more than just a quick sip—it’s a true taste of Mexican culture.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup from designated locations is included, with pickup times scheduled close to your tour time, making logistics easier.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 2 hours, perfect for fitting into a morning or early afternoon.

Can I buy extra bottles or souvenirs?
Absolutely. The gift shop offers bottles of tequila, souvenirs, and extra pours, which can be purchased after the tour.

Is this tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
No. The tour involves spirits tasting and is not suitable for children or pregnant women.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a sun hat, water, camera, biodegradable sunscreen, and insect repellent are recommended.

Are there any restrictions on mobility?
The tour involves walking around the ranch, so those with mobility impairments should consider this. It’s not suitable for wheelchair users.

What language is the tour offered in?
Guides speak both English and Spanish, ensuring clear communication for diverse groups.

For anyone craving an authentic, educational, and enjoyable tequila experience in Jalisco, Finca 18’s tour delivers genuine insight with a friendly, small-group atmosphere. It’s a worthwhile addition to your Puerto Vallarta adventures, especially if you love learning about local traditions while savoring some of Mexico’s finest spirits.

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