Distilling Class @ Spirited Union Rum Co. (Amsterdam)

Craft Your Own Botanical Rum in Amsterdam: An In-Depth Review of the Spirited Union Distilling Class

If you’re craving a unique, hands-on experience beyond the usual sightseeing in Amsterdam, the Distilling Class at Spirited Union Rum Co. promises a fun, memorable way to get a taste of the city’s innovative spirit scene. This 1.5-hour session offers more than just a lesson — it’s an opportunity to become a distiller for a day, operating a copper still and creating your own personalized bottle of botanical rum to take home.

One of the standout features of this experience is the chance to learn the art of distilling from knowledgeable guides in a relaxed setting, all within a short 15-minute trip from the city center. While it might be out of the way for some, the value of creating a bespoke souvenir makes it well worth the journey. This activity is ideal for curious travelers who want an engaging, tactile experience that combines education, creativity, and a dash of fun.

A potential consideration is the location—it’s a bit removed from central Amsterdam, which might influence your planning if you’re on a tight schedule. However, the intimate group size (max 20 people) ensures a personalized experience, often praised for the expertise and friendliness of the staff, especially guides like Callum, who received glowing remarks for being informative and hospitable.

This tour suits those who enjoy learning new skills, are interested in spirits, or simply want an unusual, tangible souvenir from their trip. It’s perfect for couples, groups of friends, or solo travelers looking for an interactive, memorable activity that offers more than just sightseeing.

Key Points

• Hands-On Distilling: Operate a copper pot still to craft your own botanical rum.
• Creative Souvenir: Leave with a personalized bottle, engraved and labeled with your own design.
• Educational and Fun: Guides like Callum make the process engaging while sharing insightful knowledge about distilling.
• Short but Engaging: The 1.5-hour experience is well-paced, blending a tour, hands-on activity, and tasting.
• Accessible Location: Situated 15 minutes from Amsterdam’s city center, making it easy to combine with other activities.
• Great Value: Several reviews highlight the experience as worth the price, especially considering the personalized keepsake.

An In-Depth Look at the Distilling Class Experience

What You Can Expect from the Tour

This distilling class begins with a quick tour of the Spirited Union distillery, giving you a behind-the-scenes look at their operation. The guides, notably Callum according to reviews, are praised for their friendly, informative style. They explain the basics of distilling and introduce you to four unique recipes — floral, citrus, spiced, or tropical — allowing you to choose a flavor profile that suits your taste.

Once you’ve picked your recipe, the real fun begins. You’ll get to operate a copper pot still, a traditional piece of equipment that adds a certain charm and authenticity to the process. The guiding hand of your instructor ensures safety and proper technique, making this accessible even for those new to spirits production.

Creating Your Own Botanical Rum

The core of the experience is crafting your own bottle. This includes selecting ingredients, measuring, and monitoring the distillation process. Reviewers like Craig describe the process as “learning a lot about the distilling process,” which means you’re not just watching but actively participating.

After distillation, you’ll bottle and label your creation, personalizing your bottle with your own design — an excellent touch that turns your spirits into a one-of-a-kind souvenir. The process is straightforward enough for beginners, yet detailed enough to give you a genuine sense of achievement.

The Tasting and Social Element

Before or after the activity, you’ll enjoy a complimentary welcome drink at the Union cocktail bar. This is a great way to relax and socialize with fellow participants. Reviewers such as Ryan mention that the hosts are “amazing at keeping us entertained,” making the atmosphere lively and friendly.

Practical Details

• Location: Helicopterstraat 32, 15 minutes from central Amsterdam.
• Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes — a perfect length for a relaxed yet engaging experience.
• Group size: Limited to 20 travelers, promoting interaction and personalized attention.
• Timing: Starts at 3:00 pm, so it fits well into an afternoon itinerary.
• Cost: At approximately $91.65 per person, many see this as good value considering the quality of the experience and the personalized bottle they take home.

Why This Experience Is Worth It

The reviews consistently highlight the guides’ expertise and friendly demeanor. Callum, in particular, receives praise for being “very informative, nice, and hospitable.” Knowing that your instructor is knowledgeable makes a big difference when you’re operating a still for the first time.

The crafting process itself is often described as “easy and very tasty,” with many noting the fun of creating something tangible — a bottle of spirits — that they can take home. Several guests emphasize the value of this souvenir, which is more unique than any typical tourist purchase. Even those who are not experienced in spirits appreciate how accessible and straightforward the process is.

From a value perspective, many guests feel they get more than their money’s worth, especially since they leave with a personalized bottle that’s crafted by their own hands. The experience also offers a glimpse into the art of distilling, making it educational as well as entertaining.

Practical Tips for Visitors

• Eat beforehand as some reviews suggest it’s a good idea to have a snack before tasting.
• Arrive a few minutes early to settle in and avoid missing the start.
• Book in advance — this experience is popular, often booked around 49 days ahead.
• Wear comfortable clothing and be prepared to get a little hands-on.
• Plan your trip back or onward because the location is about 15 minutes from central Amsterdam, which might influence your transportation choices.

The Sum Up

The Distilling Class at Spirited Union Rum Co. offers a distinctive, engaging activity that perfectly blends learning, creativity, and social fun. It’s especially suited for those eager to explore the craft of spirits making, or anyone wanting a memorable souvenir from Amsterdam that’s more meaningful than just a mug or magnet.

The guides’ expertise, the chance to operate a copper still, and the personalized bottle all combine into a well-rounded experience that provides solid value for money. While it’s a bit outside the city’s hustle and bustle, the journey is well worth it for the quality of the activity and the quality of the spirits you’ll create.

Whether you’re a spirits enthusiast, a curious traveler, or someone looking for a fun group activity, this class is likely to leave you with a smile, a story, and your very own bottle of botanical rum. An experience that’s authentic, enjoyable, and genuinely rewarding — that’s what makes it a must-try in Amsterdam.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for beginners?
Yes, the process is designed to be accessible for all, with guides like Callum providing clear instructions and support.

How long does the class last?
It lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, which is enough time to learn, participate, and enjoy the activity without feeling rushed.

Can I take my bottle home?
Absolutely. You’ll bottle, label, and take home a personalized bottle of your own botanical rum, making a great keepsake.

Where is the distillery located?
The activity starts at Spirited Union Rum Co., located at Helicopterstraat 32, about 15 minutes from central Amsterdam.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book about 49 days in advance, as this experience is quite popular.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers the tour of the distillery, hands-on operation of the still, the creation of your rum, bottle labeling, and a complimentary welcome drink.

Is transportation included?
No, transportation isn’t included, but the distillery is accessible via public transit, and the location is near public transportation options.

What recipes can I choose from?
You can select from four recipes: floral, citrus, spiced, or tropical, tailoring your spirit to your taste.

Is the experience family-friendly?
While suitable for adults with interest in spirits and distilling, it’s not designed for children, given the nature of the activity.

If you’re looking for a lively, educational, and creative activity while visiting Amsterdam, this distilling class delivers a memorable experience — and perhaps even a new hobby to take home.