Palma: Distillery Tour with 6 Spirits and Tapas Tasting

Palma: Distillery Tour with 6 Spirits and Tapas Tasting – A Deep Dive

Looking for a unique experience that combines history, authentic spirits, and a taste of local flavors? For about $78 per person, you can spend around 105 minutes exploring Palma’s oldest distillery, Bodegas Suau, just a short 10-minute ride from the city center. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll walk through centuries-old underground cellars, try spirits aged up to 50 years, and enjoy gourmet tapas that perfectly complement each sip.

What really appeals to us are the opportunity to taste spirits directly from the barrel — a rare chance to experience the true depth of flavor that comes with years of aging — and the friendly, professional guidance from Emma, who was praised for her fluent English and engaging style. The tour’s intimate size makes it easy to ask questions and really connect with the process behind these prize-winning spirits.

One consideration to keep in mind is that the tour involves a stair-based cellar entrance, so it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues. Also, since alcohol is involved, the minimum age for tasting is 18, which is worth noting if you’re traveling with younger family members. This experience suits anyone interested in authentic Mallorca, craft spirits, or simply looking for a memorable, educational tasting session away from the usual tourist spots.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Historic underground cellar dating back 170 years offers a tangible connection to Mallorca’s past.
• Tastings from barrels of 15, 25, and 50 years old provide a genuine flavor of aging and craftsmanship.
• Gourmet tapas enhance the tasting experience, making it not just about spirits but also local culinary delights.
• Guided tour with a certified wine educator ensures an informative, engaging experience.
• Close to Palma with free on-site parking makes visiting convenient.
• Ideal for enthusiasts of spirits, history buffs, and those seeking a relaxed yet insightful activity.

A Closer Look at the Experience

We loved the way this tour balances history and craftsmanship. Starting at the courtyard of Bodegas Suau, your guide, Emma, meets you with a warm welcome. From the outset, her fluency in English and German makes the experience accessible and engaging. The journey begins with a walk through the impressive underground cellar, which has been in operation since 1851. This is no ordinary cellar — it’s the largest in Mallorca, with centuries-old oak barrels lining the space, creating a sense of stepping back in time.

The highlight for many is tasting spirits straight from the barrel, something you won’t find on every distillery tour. The aged brandies of 15, 25, and 50 years showcase the patience and skill needed to craft such fine spirits, and tasting them directly from the barrels enhances the flavor experience. One reviewer described it as “impressive,” noting that the bodega is much bigger than expected, which gives ample space to appreciate the aging process.

Alongside the spirits, you’ll enjoy a selection of gourmet tapas, which are thoughtfully paired with each drink. The reviews emphasize that the food is delicious, elevating the tasting and making the experience feel special. Emma’s presentation was described as “very nice, educational and tasty,” with her ability to speak fluent English and be pleasant to listen to making the visit even more enjoyable.

The tour lasts just over an hour and a half, enough time to soak in the atmosphere without feeling rushed. The small group setting fosters intimacy, allowing you to ask questions or simply enjoy the surroundings. If you’re a lover of spirits or food, this is a perfect way to deepen your understanding of Mallorca’s craftsmanship while savouring some excellent flavors.

A Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

The tour begins at the courtyard of Bodegas Suau, where your guide waits to introduce you to Mallorca’s oldest distillery. From here, you’ll proceed into the cellar, descending a staircase into a cool, dimly lit space. This setting is part of the charm — the air filled with the scent of oak barrels and aging spirits.

As you walk among the barrels, your guide will explain the solera aging process — a traditional method that involves blending spirits for consistent quality. You’ll see barrels of different ages and learn how the distillery has maintained its standards since 1851. The size and state of the barrels reveal much about the craft, and the tastings directly from the barrels make these details come alive.

After exploring, you’ll move to the tasting area, where Emma will serve three spirits: a gin, rum, and orange brandy — all handcrafted and award-winning. The 15, 25, and 50-year-old brandies are poured straight from the casks, giving you a true sense of flavor development over time. These are paired with a variety of gourmet tapas, which are thoughtfully selected to complement each spirit.

The tour ends back at the starting point, concluding with a chance to purchase bottles or simply savor the experience. Throughout, Emma’s insights make the story of each spirit come alive, enriching the tasting for both novices and connoisseurs alike.

The Value of This Tour

At $78, you get a rich, multi-sensory experience that combines history, craftsmanship, and local flavors. The inclusion of three tastings of premium spirits plus the barrel samples and tapas makes it an excellent value. In a city where many attractions focus on sightseeing or shopping, this offers a genuine taste of Mallorca’s distilling traditions.

The small-group format makes it more personal and memorable than large, impersonal tours. Plus, the fact that it’s near Palma and offers free parking makes logistics straightforward, especially if you’re staying in the city.

It’s worth noting that the duration of just over an hour and a half is enough to satisfy curiosity and taste buds without feeling overly long. The professional guidance ensures that you leave with more than just a full stomach — you’ll have new knowledge and appreciation for Mallorca’s spirit-making heritage.

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Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for spirits enthusiasts, eager to learn about aging and production methods. Food lovers will also appreciate the gourmet tapas and the chance to pair flavors perfectly. History buffs will enjoy walking through a centuries-old cellar, and those simply seeking a relaxed, authentic activity away from the crowds will find it rewarding.

You’ll love the personalized touch provided by Emma, as well as the chance to taste spirits straight from the barrel, which is a rare treat. If you’re traveling with friends or a partner who appreciates good food and drink, this tour makes a memorable addition to your Mallorca itinerary.

The Sum Up

This distillery tour in Palma offers a worthwhile glimpse into Mallorca’s traditions of spirit-making, combined with the added bonus of gourmet tapas and a friendly, knowledgeable guide. It’s a perfect choice for those who want to understand the craftsmanship behind aged spirits while enjoying some delicious food in a historic setting.

If your idea of a good day includes learning, tasting, and relaxing, this tour checks all those boxes. It’s especially suited for travelers who value small group experiences and authentic stories over commercialized attractions. Whether you’re a seasoned spirits connoisseur or simply curious about Mallorca’s local products, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers or younger travelers?
No, since the tasting includes spirits, the minimum age for tasting is 18. Non-drinkers can still enjoy the tour’s history and scenery but will miss out on the tastings.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 105 minutes, giving enough time to explore the cellar, learn about the process, and enjoy the tastings without feeling rushed.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers the guided tour, three tastings of spirits (gin, rum, orange brandy), barrel-aged brandies of 15, 25, and 50 years, gourmet tapas, bottled water, and free parking.

Can I visit if I don’t speak English?
Yes, the tour is mainly in English, but translations in French and German are available, making it accessible for speakers of those languages as well.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
Unfortunately, no. The cellar entrance involves stairs, so it’s not wheelchair accessible or suitable for those with mobility impairments.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended, as availability can be limited. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts and ends at Bodegas Suau, with the guide waiting in the courtyard. Free parking is available on-site.

Is there parking nearby?
Yes, free parking is available on-site, which makes it convenient, especially if you’re traveling by car.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothes are fine. Just remember that the cellar involves stairs, so wear suitable footwear if mobility is no issue.

Can I buy bottles at the end of the tour?
Yes, you’ll have the opportunity to purchase bottles if you’d like to take some of Mallorca’s finest spirits home.

This Palma distillery tour balances history, craftsmanship, and local flavor in a way that makes it genuinely memorable. Whether you’re a spirits lover or just looking for a relaxed, authentic activity, it’s worth considering for your Mallorca trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: