Palma Distillery Tour with 3 Spirits and Gourmet Tapas Tasting

Imagine stepping into a 170-year-old underground cellar just ten minutes from Palma’s lively city center. For a modest price of around $57 per person, you get a 1 hour 15-minute tour that combines history, craftsmanship, and flavor in a way that’s both accessible and memorable. This experience, led by friendly guides like Christian and Antoinette, offers an intimate glimpse into Mallorca’s tradition of spirit-making, complete with tastings of premium aged brandies and delightful local tapas.

What we love most about this tour is the chance to sample spirits directly from the barrel—including 15, 25, and 50-year-old brandies—paired with carefully selected gourmet snacks. It’s a rare opportunity to taste authentic Mallorca in a setting that’s quiet, personal, and steeped in history. The second highlight? The guide’s obvious enthusiasm and knowledge make the experience both educational and fun, with many guests leaving with a new appreciation for the island’s distilling craft.

One thing to consider, however, is that this tour is quite small and intimate—perfect if you enjoy personalized attention. But if you’re looking for a large-group atmosphere or a more energetic vibe, this might feel a little subdued. Also, since transportation isn’t included, you’ll want to plan how to get there, especially if you’re staying outside Palma.

This tour is best suited for adventurous spirits who appreciate good drinks and local stories, and for those who enjoy small-group, relaxed experiences. If you’re curious about Mallorca’s distilling heritage and want a taste of authentic, high-quality spirits paired with tasty bites, you’ll find plenty to love here.

Key Points

• Authentic Heritage: Explore a 170-year-old underground cellar with centuries-old barrels.
• Premium Tasting: Sample aged brandies of 15, 25, and 50 years straight from the barrel.
• Intimate Experience: Small groups of up to 18 guests create a personal and relaxed atmosphere.
• Educational and Fun: Guided by knowledgeable hosts, learn about brandy, rum, and gin craft.
• Gourmet Pairings: Enjoy local tapas that complement the spirits—vegetarian options are available.
• Convenient Location: Just a short ride from Palma, with parking on site and easy access by public transport.

A Deep Dive into the Palma Distillery Experience

When we think about an authentic Mallorca experience, visiting a historic distillery that’s been operating since 1851** easily ranks high. The tour takes place in Bodegas Suau, a place that’s been making spirits for over a century and a half. From the outside, it might look like just another old building, but once inside, you’ll find a labyrinth of stone-lined underground cellars where the magic happens.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Your journey begins in the courtyard of Bodegas Suau, where your guide greets you and begins explaining the significance of the site. This is an ideal setting for those who appreciate small, personal groups—we’ve seen reviews mentioning just a handful of guests, which makes questions easy and the experience more tailored.

Walking through the underground cellars is a highlight in itself. These chambers, with their cool air and centuries-old wooden barrels, feel like stepping back in time. The guide takes time to explain the solera aging process, which is a traditional method used since 1851. Expect to see barrels stacked in neat rows, some with labels that hint at decades of maturity.

The Tasting: A Class of Its Own

The highlight? Tasting three different premium brandies: 15, 25, and 50 years old, all directly from the barrel. As Christian noted, “The tour was very nice and intimate,” and the tasting of spirits directly from the barrel offers a unique, fresh perspective on how complex and smooth these spirits can become with age.

These brandies aren’t just ordinary; they carry awards and a reputation for quality. The older bottles, especially the 50-year-old, give you a chance to savor decades of craftsmanship, something you won’t find in your local liquor store. The spirits are paired with local gourmet tapas, which may not be your typical Spanish tapas but are thoughtfully selected to complement the flavors of the spirits. Vegetarian options are available if you request ahead, making it accessible for different dietary needs.

The Guide and Atmosphere

Our guides, like Christian and Antoinette, are praised for their knowledge and friendliness. Antoinette’s experience is described as feeling like a private tour because they were the only guests—”One on one questions, it felt like a private tour,” she said. That kind of personal attention is rare and adds to the overall value.

The atmosphere is quiet and intimate, perfect for those who want to avoid large crowds and appreciate a relaxed, contemplative vibe. The small group size of 18 enhances the experience, fostering easy conversation and a chance to ask questions about each step of the process.

Practical Details and Logistics

Getting there is straightforward. The meeting point is in the courtyard of Bodegas Suau, with parking available on-site. Public transport from Palma (about 10 minutes) involves a short metro ride to Estación Intermodal, then a short walk—an option for those without a car. The tour runs year-round, making it flexible regardless of the season.

Since most travelers book 12 days in advance, it’s a popular choice, especially during peak times. The ticket includes all fees, taxes, guided tour, tastings, bottled water, and snacks, giving you a complete, no-surprise package. Note that private transportation isn’t included, so plan accordingly.

The tour is suitable for anyone over 18, and since the group is capped at 18, it guarantees that everyone gets personal attention.

Authenticity and Value

We find that this experience balances history, craftsmanship, and personal connection exceptionally well. While the price of $56.68 might seem modest, the quality of the spirits, the intimate setting, and the knowledgeable guides make it a good value. It offers a real taste of Mallorca’s distilling tradition, far removed from touristy gimmicks.

Who Would Love This Tour?

If you’re a spirit enthusiast or a curious traveler wanting to understand Mallorca’s alcohol heritage, this tour is a perfect fit. It’s also ideal if you enjoy small, relaxed settings where you can ask questions and learn from passionate guides. Food lovers will appreciate the pairing of spirits and local tapas, and history buffs will enjoy the storytelling behind each barrel.

This isn’t a boisterous, party-style experience—it’s more suited for those who value authentic, well-crafted, and meaningful experiences. Those with an interest in aged spirits and traditional methods will find this particularly rewarding.

FAQ

Is transportation to the distillery included?
No, transportation isn’t included. You can reach Bodegas Suau by car (parking available on-site) or public transport, which involves a short metro ride from Palma’s city center.

What is the tour duration?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour 15 minutes.

Are vegetarian options available for the tapas?
Yes, vegetarian requests are accommodated, and the tapas are paired thoughtfully with the spirits.

What spirits will I taste?
You will taste three premium brandies, aged 15, 25, and 50 years, directly from the barrel.

Is the tour suitable for children or minors?
No, the minimum age for tasting alcoholic beverages is 18 years.

How many people can join the tour?
The maximum group size is 18 guests, ensuring a personal experience.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance.

Is the tour available year-round?
Yes, it operates year-round.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothes are fine. No special gear is needed, but bringing a sense of curiosity and an appreciation for good spirits will enhance your experience.

Final Thoughts

This Palma distillery tour offers a rare, authentic window into Mallorca’s spirit-making tradition, with an emphasis on quality, history, and personal attention. The opportunity to taste spirits straight from the barrel paired with local tapas creates a genuine and memorable experience. It’s especially valuable for those who enjoy small-group tours, craftsmanship, and learning about the art of aging brandy.

If you’re seeking a relaxed, intimate, and educational activity that deepens your understanding of Mallorca’s production heritage, this tour hits the mark. The knowledgeable guides and exclusive tastings make it worthwhile, especially for travelers who want more than just sightseeing—they want to experience the soul of the island’s traditions.

To sum it up, whether you’re a spirit connoisseur, a curious traveler, or a foodie eager to explore local flavors, this distillery tour offers a fine balance of history, craftsmanship, and authentic taste. It’s a quiet yet impactful way to spend part of your Mallorca trip—delivering a taste of the past in a setting that’s both beautiful and meaningful.