Exploring Vermont’s Artisanal Food and Drink Scene with a Small-Group Brewery & Spirits Tour
If you’re craving a taste of Vermont beyond its scenic landscapes, this Small Group Brewery & Spirits Tour in Vermont offers a delightful dive into the state’s flourishing craft beverage scene. For around $359 per person, you’ll spend roughly six hours exploring three breweries, two distilleries, and sampling local foods—all in a cozy group limited to six travelers. Starting with pickup from your Killington or Woodstock accommodation, the tour offers a chance to enjoy Vermont’s renowned artisanal spirits, craft beers, and local specialties without worrying about driving or logistics.
What we love most about this experience is the personalized attention that comes with small group sizes—you’re not just another face in a crowd but an active participant in Vermont’s lively brewing and distilling culture. Plus, the tour’s varied stops showcase both traditional and innovative producers, giving you a well-rounded look at the region’s beverage craftsmanship. The opportunity to taste award-winning spirits like Vermont Gold Vodka made from local maple sap and to sip on distinctive beers at historic breweries makes this a memorable day out.
A potential consideration is that beer and spirits samples are available for purchase, which means you’ll want to budget extra if you plan to indulge extensively. Also, since tasting is at your own expense, some might see this as an added cost rather than included; however, it allows flexibility to choose what interests you most.
This tour suits foodies, craft beverage enthusiasts, and travelers who enjoy guided experiences that combine learning with tasting. If you appreciate authentic, small-batch producers and want a relaxed, informative way to experience Vermont’s local scene, this tour could be just the ticket.
Key Points
- Personalized Experience: Small groups of just six travelers ensure attentiveness and a more intimate visit.
- Diverse Stops: From distilleries to breweries to local food stores, the tour offers a well-rounded look at Vermont’s artisanal scene.
- Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides engage with stories behind the spirits and beers, enhancing your appreciation.
- All-Inclusive Transportation: Pickup and drop-off from your hotel make logistics simple and stress-free.
- Flexibility at Stops: Tastings are offered at each location but are paid for separately, giving you control over your spending.
- Authentic Vermont: The stops highlight locally sourced ingredients, small-batch production, and the genuine Vermont craft ethos.
An In-Depth Look at the Vermont Brewery & Spirits Experience
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A Day of Discovery Begins with Vermont Spirits Distilling Co
Your journey kicks off at Vermont Spirits Distilling Co, Vermont’s oldest craft distillery. Here, the focus is on award-winning spirits crafted from local ingredients. One standout is the Vermont Gold Vodka, made from 100% Vermont maple sap—an industry first. This unique approach results in a vodka that’s incredibly smooth and pure, with a distinctly Vermont twist.
The distillery’s offerings go beyond vodka. You’ll also find No 14 Bourbon, finished with Vermont maple, and a range of botanically infused gins, including Coppers American Gin and Coppers Barrel Gin, made with wild Vermont juniper berries and organic botanicals. The story behind these spirits offers insight into Vermont’s commitment to small-batch, local ingredients. We loved the way the guide explained the distillation process and the regional sourcing, adding layers of appreciation to each sip.
The Charm of Quechee General Store
Next, a visit to the Quechee General Store immerses you in Vermont’s country charm. This store isn’t just about shopping; it’s about experiencing the local flavor. It boasts the largest selection of Vermont-made cheeses, including Cabot cheeses, and a wide array of maple syrups and farm products. Being the first independent Cabot affiliate store, it’s a treasure trove for cheese lovers and those wanting to bring home a taste of Vermont.
This stop offers a relaxed chance to browse, sample, and learn about Vermont’s dairy and maple traditions. It’s a good example of how the tour blends culinary education with authentic shopping.
Beer Lovers’ Paradise at Harpoon Brewery
Moving on to Harpoon Brewery, a Vermont institution since 1986. Founded as an employee-owned brewery, Harpoon is best known for its flagship India Pale Ale but also offers a variety of year-round beers, including the Dark stout, the UFO Hefeweizens, and seasonal brews like Octoberfest. Their taproom provides a lively setting with a menu for lunch, making it easy to grab a bite while sampling their fresh brews.
What’s special here is the history and community spirit woven into the brewery’s identity. We appreciated the friendly staff and the chance to taste a range of their beers, including some of their special batches from the 100 Barrel Series. If you’re a beer enthusiast, you’ll find plenty to appreciate, and the chance to purchase samples gives flexibility in how much you want to indulge.
Vermont’s Innovative Spirit Scene at SILO Distillery
At SILO Distillery, Vermont’s craft spirit movement continues with small-batch production from Vermont-grown grains. The distillery operates completely in a barn, complete with a real silo, making the setting both rustic and memorable. Their commitment to sustainability—recycling water and sending spent grains to local farmers—reflects Vermont’s eco-conscious ethos.
Here, you’ll experience the process from grain selection to distillation, gaining a greater understanding of how local ingredients translate into premium spirits. We enjoyed the silo tower and the authentic barn atmosphere, which adds a touch of Vermont’s rural charm to your tasting experience.
A Brewpub in White River Junction – Foley Brothers Brewing
Foley Brothers, part of Neshobe River Brewing, is a microbrewery with an at-home, laid-back vibe. They take pride in small-batch brewing and experimenting with new recipes. Their IPA and other beers showcase Vermont’s reputation for innovative craft brewing.
If Foley Brothers is closed on your visit day, the tour substitutes in River Roost Brewery in White River Junction. This flexibility ensures you still enjoy a local beer experience. The group size (about 30 minutes at this stop) keeps the pace relaxed, and you’ll have the chance to purchase beers directly from the source.
Concluding with Long Trail Brewing Company
The tour wraps up at Long Trail Brewing, inspired by the iconic Green Mountain Trail. Since 1989, they’ve been crafting beers that reflect Vermont’s outdoor spirit, with favorites like Long Trail Ale and Trail Hopper IPA. Their riverfront location offers a peaceful setting and friendly staff, perfect for a final tasting and reflection on the day.
We loved the friendly atmosphere and the chance to sample some of Vermont’s most beloved beers. The 45-minute stop allows enough time to enjoy the surroundings and chat with fellow travelers.
Why This Tour Offers Great Value
While the tour isn’t inexpensive, it provides significant value for anyone interested in Vermont’s craft scene. The transportation, expert guidance, and curated stops make logistical planning unnecessary, saving you time and hassle. The opportunity to taste at several renowned producers, combined with the chance to learn about local ingredients and production methods, makes this more than just a tasting itinerary—it’s an educational experience.
The personalized, small-group setting ensures you receive more attention and can ask questions, deepening your understanding of Vermont’s artisanal traditions. Plus, the flexible tasting options—since samples are purchased separately—allow you to control how much you sample and spend.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience suits foodies, craft beverage lovers, and travelers eager to understand Vermont’s local production. It’s ideal if you enjoy a relaxed pace, appreciate small-batch craftsmanship, or want a guided overview of Vermont’s culinary identity. The intimate size and diverse stops ensure a more genuine, engaging experience than larger, more commercial tours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is transportation included?
Yes, your pickup and drop-off from your hotel are included, making it easy to relax and enjoy the day without worrying about driving.
How long is the tour?
It lasts about six hours, allowing plenty of time at each stop without feeling rushed.
Are there any included tastings?
No, tastings are available for purchase at each stop, so you’ll want to budget extra if you plan to sample extensively.
What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of six travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, with full refunds.
Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but those under 21 should be aware that alcohol purchases are optional and at their own expense.
What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothing, shoes suitable for walking, and some cash or cards for additional purchases are recommended.
Is lunch included?
No, lunch is available for purchase at Harpoon Brewery or other stops if you wish, but it isn’t included in the price.
What if the weather is bad?
Since the tour involves outdoor stops, poor weather might lead to rescheduling or a refund, depending on circumstances.
Final Thoughts
This small-group Vermont brewery and spirits tour offers a rich, personal glimpse into the state’s artisanal food and beverage culture. Its combination of local distilleries, breweries, and food stores creates a well-rounded experience that balances education, tasting, and scenic enjoyment. The flexible nature of tastings, the expert guidance, and the small group size make it especially appealing for those who want an authentic, relaxed day out.
If you’re someone who values local craftsmanship, enjoys learning about the process behind your drinks, or simply loves Vermont’s rustic charm, this tour is a fantastic way to deepen your connection to the Green Mountain State. It’s perfect for seasoned travelers or first-timers who want a taste of Vermont’s best without the hassle of planning multiple visits on their own.
In essence, this tour offers a fun, informative, and tasty way to explore Vermont’s burgeoning craft scene. It’s a blend of education, authentic local flavor, and community spirit—all wrapped up in a manageable, small-group format that makes each stop feel special.