Edinburgh: Gin Tasting at Underground Venue

If you’re hunting for a unique way to experience Edinburgh’s spirited side, this underground gin tasting tour might just be your perfect match. Hosted by 1A PSQ Ltd, this one-hour adventure takes you beneath the city streets into a historic, atmospheric venue—an old jail cell, no less—to learn about and sample some of Scotland’s best gin. With a reputation of high praise (a solid 4.8 out of 5 from over 60 reviews), it’s a small, intimate experience that combines history, expert guidance, and craft drinks all in one.

What we love most about this tour is the expert guidance delivered with a friendly, engaging touch—your guide Sarah, in particular, receives glowing praise for her knowledge and humor. The chance to try four distinctly different gins paired with a variety of tonics and garnishes makes for a fun, personalized tasting that feels more like a shared conversation than a formal class. The venue’s hidden, underground setting adds a sense of adventure, making the experience feel exclusive and a little theatrical.

One consideration to keep in mind is that since transportation isn’t included, you’ll need to plan how to get there. Also, it’s not suitable for children under 18 or pregnant women, which is common for spirits tastings. This tour is best suited for adults who appreciate a good story, enjoy trying new drinks, and want a memorable glimpse into Scottish gin culture in a cozy, atmospheric space.

Key Points

• Authentic Scottish ambiance: Tasting in an underground venue with historical charm.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable and personable guides like Sarah enhance the experience.
• Four unique gins: Diverse flavors paired with an assortment of tonics and garnishes.
• Historical insights: Learn about gin’s connection to Scottish history and production.
• Flexible pricing: At $34, you get a quality experience with drinks, guidance, and garnishes included.
• Ideal for adults: Not suitable for those under 18 or pregnant visitors, focusing on an adult’s appreciation for spirits.

Setting the Scene: What to Expect from the Tour

Upon arriving, you’ll meet inside the reception area of the Code Pod Hostel, located just opposite St. Giles Cathedral behind the Mercat Cross. The entrance, marked by a James Braidwood statue, leads you into a building with a secretive vibe—perfect for setting the tone of an underground adventure. As the doors close behind you, you’re transported into a cozy, historic space that feels like stepping back in time.

The experience begins with a guided introduction to gin’s history, Scotland’s role in its development, and how Scottish distilleries have carved out a reputation worldwide. Your guide, possibly Sarah (a favorite among reviewers), keeps the tone light and engaging, weaving amusing anecdotes with educational details. She’s praised for her cheerful demeanor and the depth of her knowledge, making the tasting feel like sharing stories over drinks with a friend.

Next, you’ll sample four different gins, each with its own story and flavor profile. These are paired with a selection of tonics and garnishes, which you can mix to suit your preferences. The guide explains how each gin differs in ingredients and production, offering tips for balancing flavors and creating the perfect sip.

Throughout the hour, you’ll learn about how gin is crafted, why certain botanicals are used, and how Scotland’s history influenced its gin scene. The storytelling aspect adds a layer of depth—some reviewers mention learning about the development of gin through interesting anecdotes that feel more like mini-history lessons than dry facts.

Detailed Breakdown of the Experience

The Venue — Setting the Mood

The underground location contributes significantly to the tour’s charm. Sitting in what feels like a secret chamber, surrounded by stone walls and dim lighting, makes every sip feel special. As one reviewer mentioned, “the building is perfect for this event,” and others highlight the “atmospheric venue” as a highlight. This setting adds an element of theatricality, turning what might be a simple tasting into a memorable escapade.

The Guidance — Knowledgeable and Entertaining

You’ll find that guides like Sarah go above and beyond to deliver an engaging experience. One reviewer called her “very knowledgeable and kept us enthralled,” emphasizing her ability to share historical detail with amusing anecdotes. Her cheerful personality and approachable style turn the discussion into a lively conversation rather than a lecture, making it accessible for everyone.

The Tasting — Four Different Gins

Each gin is carefully selected to showcase different styles and flavors. Some reviewers note that they tried varieties they hadn’t encountered before, which adds value—especially for those who consider themselves gin aficionados or just curious newcomers. The pairing with tonics and garnishes allows you to tailor each drink to your taste, encouraging experimentation.

Guidance on how each gin is made, the botanicals used, and its historical significance deepens the appreciation. Some guests appreciated the stories behind each brand, making the tasting more meaningful than just sipping spirits.

The Extras — Garnishes and Mixology

The tour includes a selection of tonics and garnishes, enabling you to craft your preferred flavor combinations. This customization aspect is highly valued; it makes the experience interactive and personal. Whether you prefer a more aromatic tonic or a citrus twist, you’re encouraged to experiment.

Duration and Practicalities

Clocking in at just an hour, the tour is a perfect short but sweet activity—ideal if you’re looking for a relaxing evening or a precursor to dinner. Since transportation isn’t included, you’ll want to plan your arrival, but the meeting point is centrally located and easy to find.

The Value of the Experience

At $34 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering the guided storytelling, the opportunity to taste four premium gins, and the unique setting. Unlike typical tasting sessions, the focus on Scottish history, combined with the chance to ask questions and customize your drinks, enhances the feeling of a personalized experience.

Reviews frequently mention how fun and informative the tour is, with many highlighting Sarah’s role in elevating the event. Several guests expressed plans to recommend it to friends, which speaks to its overall appeal.

The experience is especially suited for those who enjoy spirits, history buffs, or travelers looking for an authentic, small-group activity that’s both entertaining and educational. It’s not a large-scale, commercial tasting—more like sharing a special moment with knowledgeable hosts in an atmospheric space.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

If you enjoy learning about local culture through its spirits, this is a perfect pick. The intimate setting, combined with engaging storytelling, suits couples, small groups, or solo travelers seeking a relaxed yet enriching experience. Those interested in Scottish traditions or looking for a fun activity that breaks away from the typical sightseeing will find this tour memorable.

However, it’s important to note that this is a spirits tasting, so it’s best suited for 18+ guests who are comfortable with alcohol. Pregnant women or children under 18 should consider other options.

Final Thoughts

This underground gin tasting in Edinburgh is more than just a tasting session—it’s a small window into Scottish culture, history, and craftsmanship. With a knowledgeable guide like Sarah making the learning fun and an atmospheric setting that feels secretive and special, it’s an experience that stands out among typical city tours.

The inclusion of four different gins, paired with the ability to customize your drinks, makes it engaging and interactive. The stories behind each gin add depth, transforming the session into a memorable journey through Scotland’s distilling past.

Overall, if you’re after an authentic, well-priced activity that combines education, entertainment, and a taste of local spirit culture, this tour delivers on all fronts. It’s particularly ideal for spirit lovers, history enthusiasts, and anyone wanting a different perspective on Edinburgh’s vibrant scene.

FAQ

• What is the duration of the tour? The tour lasts approximately one hour, making it a quick yet enriching activity.
• Where do I meet the guide? Inside the reception area of the Code Pod Hostel, located just opposite St. Giles Cathedral and behind the Mercat Cross.
• Is transportation included? No, transportation isn’t provided, so plan your arrival accordingly.
• Can I join if I’m under 18 or pregnant? No, this experience isn’t suitable for children under 18 or pregnant women due to the alcohol tasting.
• What is included in the price? The price covers the tasting of four different gins, a guide, tonics, and garnishes.
• Are there any cancellation policies? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• Is the experience suitable for groups? Yes, it’s designed for small groups, often praised for a friendly, personalized touch.
• Is there a specific dress code? There’s no strict dress code; casual attire is perfectly fine.
• Can I customize my drinks? Yes, you’re encouraged to mix tonics and garnishes to suit your tastes, adding a personal touch to each drink.

To sum it up, this underground gin tasting in Edinburgh offers a rich blend of history, flavor, and atmosphere. It’s a highlight for those who enjoy spirits, storytelling, and discovering local culture in a relaxed setting. Whether you’re a seasoned gin lover or just curious about Scottish distilling traditions, this experience promises both fun and insight, wrapped in an authentic, atmospheric venue.