Distill Your Own Gin In Our Private Hands-on Class

Distill Your Own Gin In Our Private Hands-on Class: An Insider Look

If you’ve ever dreamed of crafting your own gin, this Salt Lake City experience might just be your perfect match. Hosted by Simplicity Spirits Co., this private, hands-on class offers a rare chance to be part of the distillation process in a cozy, small-group setting. At just $130 per person, you’ll spend about two hours turning an array of botanicals into a custom bottle of your very own gin, guided by knowledgeable instructors. The chance to distill your own liquor is uncommon in the U.S., making this tour a unique, memorable activity for spirits lovers or curious travelers eager to learn a new craft.

What really stands out for us is the personalized approach—you get to choose your botanicals, bottle and label your creation, and enjoy some premium gin & tonics along the way. However, because this is a small-group, private class, booking well in advance is recommended—on average, 29 days ahead—to secure your spot. This experience is ideal for those looking for a practical, fun, and educational activity that combines creativity with a bit of chemistry magic. Just remember, it’s strictly for those 21 and older, and no children are permitted.

Key Points

• Unique hands-on distillation experience in a micro lab setting
• Create, bottle, and label your own personalized gin
• Small group format ensures a cozy, engaging environment
• Diverse botanicals allow for a customized flavor profile
• Expert guidance makes complex distillation approachable
• Includes enjoyable gin & tonics and some charcuterie for a complete experience

What to Expect from the Gin Distillation Class

This isn’t your typical cocktail class. From start to finish, you’ll be involved in every step of creating your own gin, making the experience both educational and fun. Hosted at the Simplicity Spirits Co. facility in Salt Lake City, the class begins promptly at 2:00 pm at the meeting point located at 1846 S 300 W. The location is accessible near public transportation, which is a plus for visitors without cars.

A Tour Inside the Micro Lab

Once you arrive, you’ll be introduced to the nano stills used in the distillation process. These are small but powerful pieces of equipment that allow for a hands-on experience without the intimidating scale of commercial distilleries. The instructor, likely someone with a passion for spirits and teaching, will guide you through the science and art of gin-making.

Choosing Your Botanicals

One of the highlights, as noted by reviewers, is selecting botanicals. With a diverse array of citrus, herbal, floral, and spice botanicals available, you’ll have the freedom to craft a flavor profile that suits your palate. Reviewers mention that the botanicals are plentiful and varied, which helps keep the process exciting and creative. A reviewer appreciated the guidance from Chris, who was “awesome and helpful” in navigating all those options without feeling overwhelmed.

The Distillation Process

You’ll take control of the nano stills, learning how the botanicals interact with the alcohol during distillation. Throughout this process, you’ll be able to sample the developing product, giving you insight into how different botanicals influence aroma and flavor. This active participation turns what might seem like a complex process into an accessible, engaging experience.

Bottling and Labeling Your Gin

Once your gin has been distilled, you’ll bottle it, label it with your custom design, and seal your own masterpiece. Many reviewers find this part particularly rewarding—creating a one-of-a-kind bottle that is as much a keepsake as it is a drink. The class even includes tasting sessions with gin & tonics, which helps you appreciate the nuances of your creation.

Additional Perks

The experience doesn’t just end at distillation. Expect to enjoy some quality gin & tonics and charcuterie, which add a relaxed, social element to the afternoon. These thoughtful touches, praised by reviewers, create a warm, welcoming atmosphere that enhances the learning and tasting.

The Experience’s Strengths and Caveats

The small-group format, with a maximum of six spots per session, fosters a cozy and interactive environment. As one reviewer pointed out, this size makes it feel intimate and allows for plenty of individual attention. The instructor’s expertise—specifically Chris’s helpfulness—was also highlighted, making the process approachable even for beginners.

One aspect to consider is the cost. At $130, this experience offers considerable value for a personalized distillation, especially given that you’re leaving with your own bottle. It’s a practical activity rather than a passive tour, which justifies the price in terms of hands-on involvement and the unique keepsake.

A potential drawback is timing; the class starts at 2:00 pm, and since bookings are on average made 29 days in advance, securing a spot requires planning. Also, since it’s a private activity, group sizes are small, so last-minute bookings might be tricky.

Why This Tour Is a Great Fit

This experience suits spirits enthusiasts, home bartenders, or anyone curious about the science behind gin. It’s particularly appealing for those who appreciate a personalized touch—crafting a bottle that matches their flavor preferences. The creative process, combined with expert guidance, makes it an educational activity that’s also fun.

Travelers who enjoy interactive workshops and want a memorable souvenir will find this especially worthwhile. It’s also a fantastic activity for small groups of friends or couples looking for something different from typical sightseeing. Since the activity is private, it offers an exclusive, personalized experience that feels both special and educational.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

For those wanting to get hands-on with spirits and leave with their own custom gin, this Salt Lake City class hits the right notes. You’re paying for more than just the distilled product—you’re gaining insights into the process, experimenting with botanicals, and engaging in a craft that most people only watch from afar.

It’s an experience that balances practical learning and fun, set in a friendly environment led by knowledgeable guides. The inclusion of tastings and charcuterie makes it more than just a workshop, turning it into a social, sensory adventure.

While the price might seem steep for some, the value lies in the personalized, take-home bottle and the memories of creating a spirit from scratch. This experience will particularly serve those who love spirits, enjoy DIY activities, or want a unique story to tell.

If you’re in Salt Lake City and looking to do something beyond the usual sightseeing, this gin distillation class offers a rare, engaging, and delicious challenge that should not be missed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this experience suitable for beginners?
Yes, the class is designed to be approachable, even for those without prior distillation or brewing experience. The instructor provides guidance throughout, making complex concepts easy to grasp.

How long does the class last?
The experience takes approximately 2 hours, giving enough time for botanical selection, distillation, tasting, and bottling.

What’s included in the price?
For $130, you get to distill your own gin, bottle and label it, enjoy gin & tonics, and partake in some charcuterie.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled class. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refundable.

Are children allowed to participate?
No, the activity is strictly for those 21 and older, as it involves alcohol distillation.

Where does the experience take place?
At Simplicity Spirits Co., located at 1846 S 300 W, Salt Lake City. It’s accessible by public transportation.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, bookings are made about 29 days in advance, so planning ahead is recommended.

Is this a private or group experience?
It’s a private activity limited to your booked group, ensuring an exclusive, engaging environment.

Will I leave with a bottle of my own gin?
Yes, you’ll bottle, label, and take home your unique creation, making it a memorable souvenir.

This experience offers a rare peek into the art of gin-making, combined with the joy of crafting something truly your own. Whether you’re a spirits aficionado or a curious traveler, it promises a delightful and memorable addition to your Salt Lake City itinerary.