Edinburgh: Rum Distillation Workshop with Rum Tasting

If you’ve ever wondered what goes into creating your favorite rum, this Edinburgh-based Rum Distillation Workshop offers a rare chance to get up close and personal with the craft. Over three hours, you’ll learn about the process, sample various flavors, and even distill your own 500ml bottle — all guided by passionate experts in a cozy, intimate setting.

What really makes this experience stand out is the chance to create a personalized rum, bottling and labelling it yourself. Plus, tasting different flavoured rums and enjoying a rum cocktail while waiting on your distillation adds extra layers of fun.

One thing to consider is that the workshop takes place downstairs in the Cumberland Bar, which isn’t wheelchair accessible, so accessibility could be a concern. Otherwise, this experience is ideal for spirits enthusiasts, curious travelers, or anyone keen on a creative, interactive activity that combines learning with tasting.

Key Points

• Interactive & Personalized: You get to distill and bottle your own bespoke rum, making it a memorable hands-on activity.
• Tasting & Sampling: Includes tasting three different flavoured rums plus enjoying a rum cocktail during the process.
• Expert Guidance: Hosted by Neil, a knowledgeable and engaging guide who makes the experience both fun and informative.
• Value for Money: For $121, you’re not just tasting but making your own spirit—offering excellent value considering the personalized aspect.
• Limited Capacity: Small group experience (only 2 participants), which ensures personalized attention and a more relaxed vibe.
• No Food Included: Be prepared to bring snacks if you need, as food isn’t served on this tour.

Introduction: A Creative Journey into Rum Making

If you’re a lover of spirits or simply curious about how rum is crafted, this Edinburgh Rum Distillation Workshop offers more than just a tasting. It’s a deep dive into the art of spirit-making, with a chance to get your hands dirty—well, with rum ingredients, at least.

What we love most is the personal touch: you don’t just sample rum; you craft your own 500ml bottle, label it, and wax-seal it to take home. It’s a craft that leaves you with a tangible souvenir and a real sense of achievement. The host, Neil, is praised for his passion and extensive knowledge, making the experience engaging and lively.

One minor consideration is that the event takes place downstairs in a bar, which isn’t wheelchair accessible, so travelers with mobility concerns might want to check accessibility options ahead of time.

This experience suits those who appreciate hands-on activities, want a unique souvenir, or simply love a good story behind their drinks. It’s tailored for adults over 18, with no food included, so plan accordingly if you need snacks during your session.

What to Expect During Your Rum Workshop

The Welcome & Introduction

Your journey begins as you arrive at the Cumberland Bar, where you’ll be greeted with a Rum + Mixer to kick things off. This welcoming touch sets the tone, making you feel relaxed and ready to learn. Your host, Neil, will then give a brief overview of the micro distillery’s history and outline how the session will unfold.

Tasting the Flavoured Rums

Next, you’ll sample three different flavoured rums, giving you a taste of various profiles. From sweet to spicy, these samples showcase the versatility of rum and help you understand what you might want to include in your own distillation. As one reviewer noted, Neil’s knowledge about different rums adds an extra layer of depth to the tasting, making it both fun and educational.

Distilling Your Own Rum

The highlight is, of course, distilling your own 500ml bottle. You’ll select your ingredients, learn the process, and witness the transformation of raw components into your very own spirit. While the distillation is happening, you’ll be served a rum cocktail, which is a perfect way to relax and enjoy the moment.

Bottling & Labeling

Once your rum is distilled, you’ll taste your creation before proceeding to bottle, label, and wax seal your custom rum for takeaway. This part is particularly satisfying—these are not just souvenirs but handcrafted bottles that reflect your personal taste and effort.

Final Thoughts & Departure

The experience wraps up with you holding your own bespoke bottle of rum, ready for the journey home. Guests have raved about the passion of Neil and the overall fun atmosphere—one reviewer called it an “extraordinary workshop” that combines craft with entertainment.

The Value & Practicalities

At $121 per person, this workshop offers quite a bit of value. You’re not just paying for tasting but for a genuine craft experience, including making and bottling your own rum. While there’s no food service included, the rum cocktail provided during the distillation adds a nice touch and helps keep the mood lively.

The session lasts around three hours, with limited groups (only two participants), which ensures personalized attention and a relaxed pace. Since the experience is hosted in a cozy bar setting, it’s best suited for those who enjoy intimate, small-group activities rather than large tours.

One thing to keep in mind is the location — the downstairs venue isn’t accessible for wheelchair users, so check in advance if accessibility is a concern.

Authentic Experiences from Reviewers

Reviewers consistently highlight the enthusiasm and knowledge of Neil, the host, as a major plus. Nico mentioned the workshop as “extraordinary,” praising the passion Neil displays and the entertainment value. Chloe appreciated Neil’s engaging energy and his ability to make the process fun while educational. Urmita shared how she and her husband enjoyed learning about rum’s history and also creating their own unique spirit.

These insights suggest that Neil’s personal approach and the opportunity to distill your own rum make this experience memorable and highly rewarding.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This workshop is perfect for adults who love spirits, enjoy hands-on activities, or want a unique souvenir from Edinburgh. It’s ideal for those with an interest in crafting their own drink and learning about the process behind it. Given the intimate setting and personalized nature, it’s suited for small groups or couples looking for an engaging activity.

Since no food is included, it might not be the best choice for those seeking a full meal or dietary accommodations. Also, people with mobility challenges should confirm accessibility options beforehand.

The Sum Up: Why You Should Try This

This Edinburgh Rum Distillation Workshop offers a rare chance to see, learn, and participate in the art of rum making. You’ll leave with more than just a bottle—you’ll have a fun, educational experience that combines tasting, creativity, and a bit of craftsmanship.

It’s excellent value considering you’re creating your own spirit, guided by passionate experts. The small group size ensures a personalized, relaxed atmosphere, perfect for spirits lovers and curious travelers alike.

If you’re in Edinburgh and looking for a unique, hands-on activity that blends history, taste, and craftsmanship, this workshop is a fantastic choice. It’s a memorable way to connect more deeply with one of the world’s most beloved spirits, all while enjoying a convivial environment and expert guidance.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for children?
No, this workshop is only for participants over 18 years old.

Does the price include food?
No, food isn’t served during the tour. You might want to bring snacks if needed.

How long does the workshop last?
The experience lasts approximately 3 hours, not including arrival and departure time.

Is the workshop activity accessible for wheelchair users?
Unfortunately, the venue is downstairs and not wheelchair accessible.

What do I get to take home?
You’ll bottle, label, and wax seal your own 500ml (50cl) rum to take home.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this experience suitable for couples or small groups?
Yes, it’s limited to just two participants, making it ideal for couples or very small groups.

Are drinks included?
Yes, you’ll receive a Rum + Mixer on arrival, taste three flavoured rums, and enjoy a rum cocktail during the distillation process.

What language is the workshop conducted in?
The experience is conducted in English.

Do I need to prepare anything before the workshop?
No preparation is needed; just come ready for a fun and hands-on rum crafting experience.

Embark on this spirited adventure in Edinburgh and discover the craft behind your favorite drink—plus take home a truly personalized souvenir of your trip.