Tequila itself is made far inland in the highlands near Guadalajara, but the hills behind Puerto Vallarta have their own craft agave-spirit tradition, and several ranches welcome visitors for tastings. Finca 18, at Km 18 on the Las Palmas road in El Colorado, is a family property of about twelve acres whose family has a long ranching history. The two-hour tour is rated 5.0 from 443 reviews. You walk the agave fields, see how the plants are cooked and distilled, and sit down to a sommelier-style class with five or more tasting pours, a welcome cocktail, guacamole and dehydrated snacks made on the ranch, cooked agave to try, and an award-winning chocolate pairing. Groups are capped at ten, the tour is in English, and gratuities are included. It is a relaxed, educational experience, and a more personal alternative to the big all-day tequila excursions that sell on the bay.
How it works: you meet at the property itself and the tour ends there, so you need your own transport. Taxis and rideshares reach it, and the C25 bus is another option. Plan your return in advance, as signal and car availability can be patchy up on the road. Tours are by reservation only. Bottles and gifts are available to buy at the end, but they are not included in the ticket.
Learning the craft: a good tasting explains the difference between blanco, reposado and anejo styles, how agave ages, and why sipping a good spirit is nothing like taking a shot. Expect to learn about jimadores, the field workers who harvest the plants, and about the ovens and stills used here. Chocolate is a surprisingly good match for aged spirits, and the pairing is what sets this tour apart. If you prefer to sample a wider range of local spirits, ask about the raicilla, a regional agave distillate from the western Jalisco coast, which the tour listing suggests.
Practical details: the tour is not recommended for people with back problems, pregnancy, heart problems or trouble walking, and it is not wheelchair accessible, though service animals are allowed. Wear sturdy shoes, since the agave fields are uneven, and bring sun protection. Alcohol is part of the activity, so arrange a driver or taxi rather than driving after the tasting. Free cancellation applies up to 24 hours before the start time.
What to expect
The experience
A guided walk through agave fields and the distillery, then a seated tasting class with five or more pours, snacks and a chocolate pairing.
Best time
Daytime departures for the best light in the fields; plan your return transport in advance.
How long
About two hours, with a maximum of ten guests.
Tips
Arrange your own transport to the ranch, wear sturdy shoes, and avoid driving after the tasting.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Spirits fans and curious beginners who want a personal tasting.
- Families
- Best for adults; the focus is tasting and the tour is not suited to small children.
- Couples
- A relaxed, flavorful afternoon with cocktails and chocolate.
- Pair with
- A zipline tour, since both are in the hills, or a Botanical Garden visit.
- Time needed
- Two hours plus travel time each way.
Good questions
Is this tequila or raicilla?+
The ranch makes agave spirits, and the tour listing describes tequila and related distillates. Ask the guide to explain the differences during the tasting.
How do I get to the ranch?+
Meet at the property at Km 18 on the Las Palmas road in El Colorado. Taxis, rideshares and the C25 bus can get you there.
How many pours do I get?+
The listing includes five or more tasting pours, a welcome cocktail and a chocolate pairing.
Can I buy bottles?+
Yes, bottles and gifts are sold on site but are not included in the ticket price.
Is it suitable for non-drinkers?+
The tour centers on tasting, so non-drinkers may enjoy the ranch walk and chocolate but should check what alternatives the host can offer.