Maka Di Brewery Tour & Craft Beer Tasting

An Inside Look at Goa’s Craft Beer Scene

Goa has transitioned from being a land of commercial lagers to a hub for sophisticated craft brewing. At the center of this movement is Maka Di, a brewery located in the industrial yet scenic area of Latambarcem, Bicholim. Unlike the brewpubs found in the tourist strips of North Goa, this is a full-scale production facility where beer is brewed, bottled, and shipped across the country. A visit here isn't just about drinking; it’s about understanding the precision, science, and local ingredients that go into every bottle.

The Location: Latambarcem, Bicholim

Situated in the hinterlands of North Goa, the brewery is located about 25 kilometers from Panjim and roughly 35-40 kilometers from the popular beach belts of Calangute and Baga. The drive to Bicholim takes you through the lush, green interior of Goa, offering a different perspective of the state far removed from the coastline. The brewery itself is a modern facility set against the backdrop of the Western Ghats' foothills, providing a clean and professional environment for the tour.

What to Expect on the Maka Di Brewery Tour

The tour is a structured experience led by knowledgeable staff or brewers who understand the nuances of the Latambarcem Brewers philosophy. It is divided into two main segments: the technical factory walkthrough and the guided tasting session.

Phase 1: The Production Walkthrough

The experience begins with a safety briefing. Since this is a working factory with heavy machinery and pressurized tanks, participants must follow specific protocols. You will be guided through the different stages of the brewing cycle:

• The Malt Room: Learn about the different types of grain used, from roasted malts to pale grains, and how they influence the color and body of the beer.
• Mashing and Boiling: See the massive stainless steel mash tuns and kettles where the grains are steeped and the wort is boiled with hops.
• The Fermentation Cellar: This is the heart of the brewery, where you’ll see the large cylindro-conical fermenters. Your guide will explain the role of yeast and the temperature-controlled environment required for different beer styles.
• The Bottling Line: Witness the automated process of cleaning, filling, capping, and labeling. Seeing the scale of production helps travelers appreciate the logistics behind the craft beer they see in Goan restaurants.

Phase 2: The Guided Tasting Session

After the technical tour, you move to the dedicated tasting area. This is where the theory meets the practice. You will typically be served a flight of 5 to 6 different beer styles. The selection often includes:

• Belgian Blanche: A refreshing wheat beer with notes of coriander and orange peel.
• Honey Ale: One of their signature brews made using locally sourced honey.
• Bavarian Keller: An unfiltered lager that pays homage to traditional German brewing.
• Belgian Tripel: A stronger, more complex ale with spicy and fruity undertones.
• Seasonal Specials: Depending on the time of year, you might taste limited editions like their Rosé Brut or infusions featuring local Goan ingredients.

During the tasting, the guide explains the sensory profile of each beer—what to look for in the aroma, the mouthfeel, and the finish. Small snack pairings are usually provided to cleanse the palate between different styles.

Practical Information for Travelers

Difficulty Level & Accessibility

The tour is easy and suitable for most adults. It involves about 30-45 minutes of standing and walking through the factory floor. There are some stairs involved, so it may be challenging for those with significant mobility issues. However, the tasting area is comfortable and seated.

Safety and Dress Code

Important: Because you are entering a production zone, closed-toe shoes are mandatory. Sandals, flip-flops, or heels are not permitted for safety reasons. We recommend wearing comfortable sneakers and casual clothing. The brewery can get warm during the production process, though the tasting room is typically climate-controlled.

Best Time to Visit

The brewery tour is an all-weather activity, making it one of the best things to do in Goa during the monsoon season (June to September). While the beaches are off-limits, the interior of Bicholim is stunningly green, and the indoor nature of the tour provides a perfect escape from the rain. Weekdays are often better for those who want a quieter experience and a more detailed Q&A with the brewers.

Family and Non-Drinker Suitability

While the focus is on beer, the tour is educational. Minors (under 21) are allowed to join the tour to learn about the industrial process but are strictly prohibited from participating in the beer tasting. Non-drinkers are often provided with craft sodas or non-alcoholic beverages produced by the same parent company, ensuring they are not left out of the experience.

How to Reach the Brewery

There is no reliable public transport directly to the industrial estate in Latambarcem. We recommend the following options:

• Private Taxi: This is the most convenient method. Ensure you book a return trip or ask the driver to wait, as finding a taxi for the return journey from Bicholim can be difficult.
• Self-Drive: If you are driving, ensure there is a designated driver in your group who does not participate in the tasting. Goa has strict drink-driving laws.
• Parking: There is ample free parking available at the brewery premises for cars and bikes.

Nearby Attractions

Since Bicholim is a bit of a drive from the coast, we recommend combining your brewery visit with other local sights:

• Mayem Lake: A peaceful lake offering boat rides, located about 15 minutes away.
• Arvalem Caves & Waterfall: Historic 6th-century rock-cut caves and a scenic waterfall located nearby.
• Namaste Chai: A popular local spot for a quick break before heading back to the coast.

Booking Information

Tours must be booked in advance. As a working factory, they cannot always accommodate walk-ins, especially if a large production batch is underway. Ensure you arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled slot. Carry a valid Government ID (Aadhar, Passport, or Driver's License) as proof of age is mandatory for the tasting portion of the tour.