Ketchikan: Distillery Tour with Infusion Class

Ketchikan is known for its stunning natural scenery and vibrant local culture, but for those curious about the craft of spirits, the Distillery Tour with Infusion Class at Uncharted Alaska Distillery offers a unique behind-the-scenes peek. This 2-hour experience isn’t just about tasting; it’s about understanding the art of distilling and creating a personalized souvenir to take home.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its hands-on approach—you get to infuse your own alcohol with botanicals, herbs, and spices, making it more than just a passive tasting. Plus, the historic location inside a former fire station adds a charming local touch.

One potential caveat is that this experience is quite focused on spirits—if you’re not into alcohol or traveling with kids, this might not be your best fit. However, if you enjoy learning new skills and savoring local flavors, this tour is a charming, educational treat. It’s best suited for adults who appreciate handcrafted drinks and local history, especially those looking for a memorable, interactive activity in Ketchikan.

Key Points

• Hands-on Infusion Class: You craft your own signature spirit with botanicals, herbs, and spices.
• Educational Tour: Learn about the distilling process and the history of the historic fire station.
• Authentic Local Spirit: Taste house spirits and discover their unique Alaska character.
• Take-home Souvenir: You leave with a 375 ml bottle of your infused creation, labeled personally.
• Ideal Duration: The 2-hour experience fits easily into a cruise day or city exploration.
• Accessibility: The tour is wheelchair accessible and conducted in English, making it suitable for most travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience — What to Expect and Why It Matters

When you arrive at the Uncharted Alaska Distillery in downtown Ketchikan, you’ll immediately notice the building’s charming, historical facade—an old fire station that adds a local, authentic vibe. The tour begins with a detailed look at the distillery’s history and how they produce their spirits, which is especially interesting if you appreciate stories of local entrepreneurship and craftsmanship.

Learning about the distilling process isn’t just dry science; the guide shares insights with enthusiasm, explaining how local ingredients and traditional techniques create the distinctive flavor profiles. We loved the way the guide combined technical details with approachable language, making it clear for both novices and connoisseurs.

Following the tour, you’ll taste the house spirits, which are described as well-balanced and flavorful—perfect for those who like to understand the background of what they drink. Multiple reviews mention enjoying these tastings as a highlight, with one noting, “The spirits were smooth and had a unique local twist I hadn’t experienced before.”

The infusion class is the real star. You’ll choose your base spirit—gin, vodka, whiskey, or agave—then add botanicals, herbs, and spices from a well-organized selection. The guide provides expert advice on blending, ensuring your creation is both flavorful and balanced. We found that the process was straightforward enough for beginners but still engaging, with enough room for creativity.

Once your infusion is complete, you’ll create a custom label—a fun finishing touch that personalizes your bottle. The bottles hold 375 ml of your infused spirit, making it a perfect keepsake or gift. Reviews often mention the pleasure of having a handcrafted product with a story behind it, elevating it beyond a typical souvenir.

The entire experience is set within a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. The group size typically remains manageable, allowing for personalized attention and questions. The two-hour duration balances enough time for learning, blending, and tasting without feeling rushed.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

At $161 per person, this experience might seem a bit steep compared to standard tastings, but it offers much more than just sipping. You’re paying for a comprehensive, interactive lesson that leaves you with a tangible product—your own infused liquor—that’s both personal and practical.

The inclusion of a 375 ml bottle of your creation means you’re not just paying for memories but also for a quality, usable souvenir. Considering the time, the personalized experience, and the quality of knowledge gained, many travelers find it to be a worthwhile investment.

On top of that, visiting a historic distillery, inside a building rich with local character, adds cultural depth that’s often missing from more generic tastings. You leave with an understanding of Alaska’s spirits scene, flavored with local ingredients and stories.

The Breakdown — How the Tour Flows and Why It Works

Start with the Tour and History (15-20 minutes):
Your guide begins with a walk-through of the distillery, explaining its roots in the historic fire station and the local history of spirits production. This sets a storytelling tone that makes the experience more meaningful.

Tasting the House Spirits (20-30 minutes):
Next, enjoy tastings of the house spirits. Reviews note they are flavorful and well-balanced, giving you a sense of what a professionally crafted spirit should taste like. The tastings also serve as inspiration for your own infusion.

Infusion Class (40-50 minutes):
The core of the experience: blending your own spirits. All botanicals, herbs, and spices are included, and the guide offers tips on flavor balancing. This part is designed to be accessible yet engaging, suited for beginners and enthusiasts alike.

Label Creation & Bottling (15-20 minutes):
Finally, you’ll design a label—adding a personal touch—and bottle your infusion. This process is straightforward and fun, often praised for its creative freedom.

Wrap-up and Departure (5-10 minutes):
You finish with your custom bottle, ready to take home or gift, and have the chance to ask any lingering questions. The tour wraps up on a friendly note, leaving you with new knowledge and a handcrafted souvenir.

Authenticity and Real Traveler Experiences

Many reviewers pointed out the engaging nature of the guide and the unique charm of the location. One shared, “The staff was friendly, knowledgeable, and made the whole process enjoyable,” while another appreciated the local flavor: “It felt like a true piece of Ketchikan—craft, history, and community all in one.”

Some mentioned the value of crafting your own spirit, saying it’s a memorable activity that adds a personal story to your trip. The ratio of tasting to learning was well-balanced, with enough time to savor the spirits while also getting hands-on with the infusion.

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Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adults who enjoy spirits, cocktails, or DIY projects. It suits those looking for a more engaged, meaningful activity during their visit. If you’re traveling with friends or a partner, it offers a fun shared experience with a tangible keepsake.

It’s also suitable for history buffs interested in local businesses or anyone curious about the craft of alcohol-making. However, it’s not designed for children or those seeking active outdoor adventures—this is a taste of local craftsmanship within a controlled, relaxed environment.

The Sum Up

The Ketchikan Distillery Tour with Infusion Class offers a thoughtful blend of education, creativity, and local culture. You learn about the distillation process, taste authentic Alaska spirits, and then craft your own infused liquor—an experience that’s both fun and memorable. The personal bottle you take home serves as a lasting reminder of your trip and your newfound skills.

For travelers who appreciate authentic, handcrafted experiences and enjoy a bit of hands-on activity, this tour provides excellent value and a genuine taste of Ketchikan’s spirit scene. It’s perfect if you want a story to tell and a keepsake to keep, all wrapped into a friendly, relaxed two hours.

FAQ

What is included in the tour cost?
You get a distillery tour, tastings of the house spirits, and a 375 ml bottle of your own infused alcohol to take home.

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, this tour is intended for adults, as it involves alcohol infusion and tasting.

How long does the experience last?
The tour lasts approximately two hours, with a flexible start in the morning or afternoon.

Is there any additional cost for extra bottles or infusions?
No, the price includes one infused bottle. Additional bottles or infusions are not included.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there any language support?
The tour is conducted in English, and the location is wheelchair accessible.

Do I need to reserve in advance?
Yes, reserving is recommended, and you can choose to pay later to keep your plans flexible.

Where do I meet for the tour?
Meet directly at the distillery in downtown Ketchikan—easy to find and central to other town activities.

This distillery experience is a delightful mix of education, culture, and craft, making it a memorable highlight for those interested in local spirits and hands-on activities. Whether you’re a seasoned cocktail enthusiast or just curious about how spirits are made, it offers authentic insight and a personalized keepsake to cherish long after your trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby