Craft Brewery Tour and Tastings with a Beer Professional

A Closer Look at the Craft Brewery Tour and Tastings with Olivier in Alsace

If you’re craving a taste of authentic Alsatian craft beer and want to see how it’s made, this 2-hour brewery experience in Colmar offers a rare chance to go beyond the usual pub crawl. For $76 per person, Olivier, the area’s only dedicated brewing guide, takes you on a fascinating journey through the world of local beer. The tour combines transportation in a modern van, an immersive visit to a local brewery, lively explanations of the brewing process, and a well-curated tasting of several regional beers.

What we really like about this experience is Olivier’s genuine passion—his enthusiasm for craft beer is contagious, and his wealth of insider knowledge makes the visit feel truly special. The fact that it’s transported, meaning a hassle-free ride between stops, is a plus for those who dislike walking or hopping between multiple venues. Plus, the small, private group setting ensures personalized attention, making the experience more intimate and informative.

On the flip side, it’s worth noting that the duration is only two hours, so if you’re hoping for an in-depth brewery tour or a full beer tasting session, you might find it somewhat brief. Also, since food isn’t included, if you’re hungry, plan to bring snacks or plan a meal afterward. This tour is perfect for beer enthusiasts, curious travelers, and those wanting a relaxed, behind-the-scenes look at Alsace’s brewing scene—especially if you appreciate humor and engaging guides.

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Key Points

Unique Transported Visits: The only activity in the Colmar area offering brewery visits with transport included.
Expert Guidance: Olivier’s passion and humor make the tour engaging and educational.
Authentic Experience: Focus on local craft beers and the brewing process, not just tasting.
Flexible and Private: Small group setting with private bookings for a personalized experience.
Value for Money: Includes transportation, brewery tour, and tastings, making it a convenient package.
Limited Food Options: No food included; consider bringing snacks or eating beforehand.

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A Detailed Breakdown of the Alsace Craft Brewery Tour

Starting Point and Logistics

The experience begins in Colmar at a designated pickup point on Rue Turenne, or alternatively, at another agreed location. Within about 20 minutes by modern van, you’ll be transported into the heart of Alsace’s brewing area. The ease of pickup and return makes it ideal for travelers staying in Colmar, removing the hassle of navigating unfamiliar streets or public transport.

The Transport Experience

The latest-generation van provides comfortable, air-conditioned transport, ensuring you arrive at each stop relaxed and ready to explore. The short drive time (around 20 minutes each way) keeps the experience lively without feeling rushed. This setup is especially appreciated by those who prefer a seamless transition between experiences rather than multiple stops on foot or bus.

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The Brewery Visit

Once at the local brewery, Olivier guides you through the brewing process with approachable, expert explanations. You’ll see the brewing room firsthand—perhaps watching the bubbling vats or the meticulous process of fermentation—and understand what makes Alsace beers unique. As one reviewer mentioned, “Lots and lots of insider information on expert level,” which suggests the guide balances technical detail with engaging storytelling.

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Tasting and Commentary

The highlight, of course, is the tasting of several local beers, which Olivier comments on with good humor and clarity. Expect a selection of distinctive Alsatian craft beers, with tasting notes provided to help you appreciate the subtleties of each brew. One review states, “Out of 10 beers brewed at that wonderful place, we tried 6, one better than the other,” which indicates a generous sampling that allows you to really explore different styles and flavors.

Final Stop and Return

After the tasting session, you’ll hop back into the van for the short return trip to Colmar. The entire experience is designed to be relaxed yet informative, leaving you with a newfound appreciation for Alsace’s brewing traditions and, likely, a few new favorite beers.

Authenticity and Value

What makes this tour stand out is Olivier’s personal touch. As the only guide in the Colmar region focusing solely on craft beer, he provides insights that you won’t find on generic tours. His passion shines through in the detailed explanations, and his good humor keeps the mood light and fun—many reviews mention how much they enjoyed his company. The small group size adds to this intimacy, making it a more tailored experience rather than a commercialized crowd.

From a value perspective, the price covers transport, guided tour, and tastings, making it a competitive option compared to multiple separate visits or self-guided tastings. However, remember it doesn’t include food or water, so plan accordingly if you’re hungry or want to stay hydrated.

Who Should Take This Tour?

This experience suits beer lovers eager to learn about regional brewing techniques and taste local flavors in a relaxed atmosphere. It’s also ideal for curious travelers, especially those who appreciate humor and engaging guides. The private group setting makes it perfect for couples, small groups of friends, or even solo travelers wanting a personalized experience. If you’re interested in authentic Alsace culture and prefer a behind-the-scenes look rather than just tasting at a pub, this tour offers a genuine window into the local craft beer scene.

The Sum Up

The Craft Brewery Tour and Tastings with Olivier provides a well-balanced, engaging snapshot of Alsace’s brewing traditions. You get a comfortable ride, expert insights, and a variety of local beers—all in just two hours. It’s a chance to deepen your understanding of how Alsace’s unique beers are made, while enjoying some lively conversation with a passionate guide.

This experience is best suited for those who love beer, enjoy learning about local traditions, and appreciate a friendly, informal atmosphere. It offers great value for the price, especially considering the personalized attention and the chance to sample something truly regional. If you’re in Colmar and curious about the craft beer scene, this tour is a fun, educational, and delicious choice.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, the tour isn’t recommended for children under 10 or babies under 1 year due to adult content and tasting activities.

How long does the entire experience last?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, including transport, brewery visit, and tasting.

Are the tastings included in the price?
Yes, the price covers the guided brewery visit and the commented tastings of several beers.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is food included?
No, food isn’t included, so plan to eat before or after the tour.

What languages are available for the tour?
The tour is conducted in French and English, ensuring clear communication for most travelers.

Is transportation round trip included?
Yes, transportation by van is part of the package, making logistics easy.

Can I book and pay later?
Absolutely. You can reserve now, keep your spot flexible, and pay later without upfront cost.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour is a private group, meaning it’s tailored for small parties, ensuring personalized attention.

This craft brewery tour offers an authentic, engaging look at Alsace’s brewing culture—perfect for those wanting to combine fun, education, and local flavor in one compact experience.