The Old Town Breweries and Distilleries Tour

The Old Town Breweries and Distilleries Tour offers visitors a chance to discover Fort Collins’ vibrant craft beverage scene. This guided journey takes participants behind the scenes, exploring the art of brewing and distillation. With tastings of local craft beers, spirits, and cocktails, the tour promises an immersive experience that showcases the rich flavors and creativity that define this city’s thriving beverage culture. Whether you’re a craft enthusiast or simply curious, this tour provides a unique opportunity to uncover the hidden gems of Fort Collins’ Old Town.

This experience made our article of Which Fort Collins Brewery Tours To Choose? Our Best 2 Picks.

Key Points

• A guided tour through Fort Collins’ craft beverage scene, including visits to local breweries, distilleries, and cocktail bars.
• Insider’s look into the brewing process, from mashing to tasting, with a focus on hop selection and temperature control.
• Exploration of the distillation process, including the transformation of fermented mash into high-proof spirits and tastings of locally crafted vodkas, whiskeys, and gins.
• Showcase of craft cocktail creations by expert mixologists, featuring handcrafted signature beverages using locally-sourced spirits.
• Curated selection of acclaimed craft beverages, including a flight of top-selling IPAs, unique whiskey infused with local honey, and seasonal hard cider.

Tour Overview

The Old Town Breweries and Distilleries Tour offers visitors a chance to explore the vibrant craft beverage scene in Fort Collins, Colorado.

Explore the vibrant craft beverage scene in Fort Collins, Colorado with the Old Town Breweries and Distilleries Tour.

This 4.2-star rated tour takes guests on a guided journey through the brewing and distilling processes at local venues. With a maximum of 10 travelers, the tour caters to those 21 and older.

Alcoholic beverages are included, and participants can purchase special items at each stop. The tour departs from 19 Old Town Square, returning to the same location, and runs from 2:00 PM.

While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is near public transportation, allowing most travelers to participate.

Exploring the Brewing Process

During the Old Town Breweries and Distilleries Tour, visitors get an insider’s look into the captivating world of craft beer production.

The guide leads the group through the step-by-step brewing process, from mashing and boiling the grains to fermenting and conditioning the beer. Participants learn about the art of hop selection and the importance of temperature control.

They witness firsthand how brewers coax complex flavors from basic ingredients. The tour culminates with beer tastings, allowing visitors to appreciate the remarkable transformation from raw materials to the perfect pint.

Delving Into Distillation

Following the exploration of the brewing process, the Old Town Breweries and Distilleries Tour then delves into the captivating world of distillation.

Guests learn about the intricate process of transforming fermented mash into high-proof spirits. The guide explains the role of stills, the careful control of temperature and pressure, and the importance of aging.

Participants get a chance to sample the unique flavors of the locally crafted vodkas, whiskeys, and gins. This segment offers a deeper appreciation for the art and science behind distilling, complementing the earlier brewery tour.

Craft Cocktail Creations

After exploring the intricate processes of brewing and distillation, the Old Town Breweries and Distilleries Tour culminates in a captivating showcase of craft cocktail creations.

Participants learn from expert mixologists as they handcraft signature beverages using the locally-sourced spirits. From classic Old Fashioneds to innovative concoctions, each cocktail highlights the nuanced flavors of the distilled spirits.

The tour’s grand finale allows visitors to savor the perfect pairing of artisanal cocktails and the history-rich ambiance of Old Town Fort Collins.

This immersive experience leaves participants with a newfound appreciation for the art of mixology.

Tasting Highlights

The tour’s tasting highlights showcase a curated selection of the region’s most acclaimed craft beverages.

Guests have the opportunity to sample:

• A flight of top-selling IPAs, including a hazy New England-style IPA and a West Coast-style IPA, at one of Fort Collins’ pioneering microbreweries.

• A unique whiskey infused with local honey and other natural ingredients at a boutique distillery specializing in small-batch spirits.

• A seasonal hard cider made with locally sourced apples and hints of cinnamon and nutmeg.

• A classic gin and tonic featuring a handcrafted premium gin and a refreshing house-made tonic.

Exploring Fort Collins’ Old Town

As visitors embark on the Old Town Breweries and Distilleries Tour, they’re immersed in the vibrant culture and history of Fort Collins’ lively downtown district.

Strolling along the tree-lined streets, they’ll discover an eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and historic buildings that exemplify the town’s charm.

The tour guides share insights into the city’s role as a hub for craft beer and spirits, highlighting the significance of these industries in shaping Fort Collins’ identity.

Exploring the area’s renowned breweries and distilleries allows participants to gain a deeper appreciation for the region’s rich brewing and distilling traditions.

Accessibility and Participation

Although the Old Town Breweries and Distilleries Tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it welcomes service animals.

The Old Town Breweries and Distilleries Tour welcomes service animals despite not being wheelchair accessible.

The tour is conveniently located near public transportation, making it accessible to most travelers.

To ensure an enjoyable experience, keep these tips in mind:

• Wear comfortable shoes as there’s quite a bit of walking involved.

• Bring a water bottle to stay hydrated.

• Eat a light meal before the tour to avoid getting too tipsy.

• Designate a sober driver or plan for alternative transportation after the tour.

Tour Reviews

Overwhelmingly positive reviews have highlighted the enjoyable experiences offered by the Old Town Breweries and Distilleries Tour.

Travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides who provide insightful commentary on the brewing and distilling processes. One reviewer described their guide, Shane, as "amazing" and commended his expertise on the town’s history and alcohol’s role within it.

The tour’s inclusion of alcoholic beverages is also a major draw, with visitors appreciating the opportunity to sample the local offerings.

The Sum Up

The Old Town Breweries and Distilleries Tour offers a captivating exploration of Fort Collins’ vibrant craft beverage scene. Participants will discover the intricacies of brewing and distillation, while sampling an impressive selection of local craft beers, spirits, and artisanal cocktails. This immersive experience culminates in tastings at renowned establishments, showcasing the rich flavors and creativity that define Fort Collins’ beverage culture.