Aberdeen: Gin Distillery Discovery Tour with Welcome Drink

Exploring the vibrant world of Scottish gin in Aberdeen offers a refreshingly authentic experience. This guided walking tour takes you into the heart of the city’s craft spirit scene, led by the knowledgeable head distiller at the City of Aberdeen Distillery. For just $36 per person, you’ll enjoy a blend of history, hands-on learning, and delicious tastings—all in a beautifully restored railway arch right in the city center.

What we especially love about this tour is the way it combines local heritage with interactive fun. The tour’s intimate setting, right beneath rumbling trains, adds a uniquely atmospheric touch. Plus, the chance to sample at least three different Aberdeen Gins and even take home a miniature bottle makes it a great value. That said, a potential consideration is the hour-long format, which is perfect for a quick taste of the gin world but might leave those craving more wanting a longer experience.

This tour is ideal for spirits enthusiasts, curious travelers, or anyone who enjoys a relaxed, engaging introduction to Scottish gin. Whether you’re a solo explorer or part of a small group, you’ll find it a worthwhile addition to your Aberdeen trip.

Key Points

• Authentic Local Experience: Learn about Aberdeen’s distilling heritage in a historic railway arch.
• Interactive & Informative: Led by the head distiller, with insights into gin making and botanicals.
• Tastings & Samples: Enjoy at least 3 Aberdeen Gins, with options for non-alcoholic drinks.
• Hands-On Learning: Discover how to craft your own gin, both at the distillery and at home.
• Great Value: Includes a welcome double G&T, a goodie bag, and a miniature bottle to take home.
• Wheelchair Accessibility & Friendly Atmosphere: The distillery is all on one level, making it accessible and comfortable.

A Closer Look at the Aberdeen Gin Distillery Discovery Tour

Setting the Scene: A Historic Railway Arch in the Heart of Aberdeen

Nestled under a railway arch in central Aberdeen, the City of Aberdeen Distillery offers a charming setting for this immersive gin experience. The location itself boasts a sense of history, with trains rumbling overhead as you indulge in Scottish spirits. Entering through Arch #10, you’ll immediately notice the blend of old-world charm and modern craft.

The distillery’s unique environment adds authenticity—you’re not in a sterile tasting room, but beneath the sounds of passing trains, creating a memorable atmosphere that perfectly complements the spirit-making process.

The Welcome Drink: A Double G&T with Flexibility

Your tour begins with a warm welcome—a double G&T served on arrival. The hosts are accommodating, offering alternatives like water or soft drinks if preferred. This initial sip sets the tone for a relaxed, friendly tour, making it clear that your experience is tailored to your preferences.

Led by the Head Distiller: A Journey into Scottish Gin

The guide for the day is the head distiller, whose passion shines through. They take you on a journey through Aberdeen’s distilling history, sharing stories that enhance appreciation for the local craft scene. Reviewers like Michele appreciated the tour’s informative and entertaining nature, noting that it was a great way to learn about the city’s gin heritage.

A highlight is the guided exploration of the production area, which is surprisingly accessible and provides a behind-the-scenes look at how gin is made. While parts of the process are restricted, the distiller ensures you get a rundown. The tour includes a Q&A session, where you can ask about botanicals, distilling techniques, or even get tips on making gin at home.

How to Make Your Own Gin: Recommendations and Botanicals

One of the most engaging parts of the tour is the hands-on gin-making tutorial. With over 100 botanicals to choose from, you’ll learn how different ingredients influence flavor profiles. The distiller explains how to craft a balanced gin, whether you prefer a floral, citrusy, or spicy profile.

Reviewers like Aloke praised this segment, mentioning the “lots of gin tasting” and the opportunity to craft your own unique blend. It’s a practical skill that you might find useful if you’re interested in starting your own gin at home or simply want to deepen your understanding of the craft.

Sampling the Range: Aberdeen’s Gins from London Dry to Fruit Gins

After the educational part, it’s time to sample. The tour introduces you to at least three of Aberdeen’s locally distilled gins, covering different styles such as London Dry and Fruit gins. The reviews confirm that the gins are delicious, with Julie describing the experience as creating a “relaxed and friendly atmosphere”.

You’ll find the flavors nuanced and carefully crafted, reflecting Aberdeen’s local botanicals and distilling techniques. The tasting experience is complemented by the option of non-alcoholic alternatives, ensuring everyone can participate.

The Shop & Take-Home Goodies

The tour concludes at the distillery shop, where you can browse bottles of Aberdeen Gin in various sizes and tasting boxes. The inclusion of a 50ml miniature to take home—a thoughtful touch—lets you share your experience with friends or keep it as a souvenir.

The goodie bag adds extra value, often containing small gifts or informational materials. It’s a nice way to remember your visit and perhaps inspire your own gin adventures.

Practical Details & Tips for Your Visit

Duration & Group Size

The tour lasts around one hour, making it a perfect quick addition to a day of exploring Aberdeen. It’s suitable for wheelchair users, with the entire distillery on a single level and accessible facilities, including a wheelchair WC. The group tends to be small, fostering a relaxed environment where questions are encouraged.

Pricing & Value

At $36 per person, this tour offers excellent value, especially considering it includes a welcome drink, multiple tastings, a miniature bottle, and a goodie bag. The experience not only entertains but also educates, making it a worthwhile investment if you’re interested in Scottish gin or craft spirits.

When to Book & Cancellation Policy

Reservations can be made with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, adding flexibility to your plans. You can also reserve now and pay later, making it easier to fit into your itinerary without upfront commitment.

What to Bring & Wear

Bring your passport or ID for age verification. Since it is a walking tour, comfortable shoes are recommended, though seats are available at various points. Avoid strong fragrances to fully appreciate the aromas of botanicals and gin.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for spirits lovers looking to deepen their understanding of gin making, as well as curious travelers eager to explore Aberdeen’s local craft scene. It suits those who appreciate interactive, hands-on activities and enjoy tasting different flavors. Families with older teenagers might find it educational and fun, but anyone under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

People with mobility concerns will find it accessible due to the flat, single-level layout. If you prefer longer, more comprehensive distillery experiences, you might want to look for tours with extended durations, but this hour-long session hits the sweet spot for a quick, engaging taste of Scottish gin.

Final Thoughts

The Aberdeen Gin Distillery Discovery Tour offers a well-balanced mix of history, hands-on activity, and tastings, all within a charming historic setting. The tour’s focus on local gin production adds an authentic touch, making it more than just a tasting session. The knowledgeable guides, especially the head distiller, make it educational without feeling formal or stuffy.

For $36, you’re not only getting a fascinating glimpse into Scottish gin craft but also leaving with a miniature bottle of Aberdeen Gin and a goodie bag. It’s an experience that combines learning, tasting, and fun, perfect for those who want a memorable, authentic Scottish moment.

If you’re in Aberdeen and curious about spirits, this tour is a value-packed, enjoyable choice for a short, yet enriching, activity. Just remember to book in advance, arrive ready to taste, and bring your curiosity along.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for non-drinkers?
Yes, non-alcoholic options like water and soft drinks are available, and the tour includes educational content that doesn’t require tasting.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately one hour, making it a quick but immersive experience.

Is the distillery wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the distillery is on a single level with a dropped curb near the entrance, and accessible facilities are available.

Can I make my own gin during the tour?
Yes, you’ll learn how to craft your own gin using over 100 botanicals, which you can take home or potentially create again at the distillery.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket includes a double G&T welcome drink, samples of Aberdeen Gin, a goodie bag, a 50ml miniature to take home, and the guided tour.

Are there age restrictions?
Attendees under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. The experience is designed for adult participants enjoying gin tasting.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, providing flexibility for your plans.