Salt Lake City: Spirits of the Wasatch Distillery Tour

Planning a visit to Salt Lake City and eager to explore its local flavors beyond the usual attractions? The Spirits of the Wasatch Distillery Tour offers a hands-on peek into the art of craft spirits-making, combining education with tasting in an intimate setting. This tour promises more than just a quick look behind the scenes; it’s a genuine deep dive into the craft, flavor, and science that produce award-winning spirits.

What we love most about this experience are the expert guides who explain each step with clarity and enthusiasm, and the opportunity to sample spirits that have earned numerous medals — including seven gold medals and three double golds in 2024. The only caveat? This is a small-group experience lasting about an hour, so it’s best suited for those who appreciate focused, personalized learning. If you’re curious about spirits, enjoy authentic local craftsmanship, or simply want a different kind of activity in Salt Lake City, this tour is a fantastic choice.

Key Points

• Authentic Craftsmanship: Learn about the art and science behind artisanal spirits directly from knowledgeable guides.
• Award-winning Tasting: Sample high-quality spirits, including a Gold Medal-winning gin, whiskey, and coffee liqueur.
• Behind-the-Scenes Access: Discover hidden corners of the distillery, including copper stills and oak barrels.
• Scientific Insights: Gain practical knowledge about distillation tools like hydrometers and refractometers.
• Small Group Intimacy: An exclusive experience limited to 10 participants for a more personalized feel.
• Affordable Value: At $20 per person, it offers a rich educational and tasting experience in just about an hour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Distillery Tour Experience

The Spirits of the Wasatch Distillery Tour offers an authentic journey into the world of small-batch spirits, emphasizing craftsmanship and local ingredients. The experience begins at the Gift Shop in Building 5 of Broadbent Business Park, where you’ll meet your guide and fellow spirits enthusiasts. The tour is scheduled in the morning, afternoon, or evening, providing flexibility for most itineraries.

What Makes This Tour Special?

We loved the way this tour offers a behind-the-scenes look at a functioning distillery, not just a static presentation. You’ll tread into areas seldom seen by the casual visitor—where copper stills gleam and oak barrels age spirits to perfection. The guides take pride in explaining each process, from selecting raw ingredients to the final distillation steps.

Learning from Experts

The guides are more than just narrators — they are passionate about their craft. They’ll explain the art and science of distillation, showcasing equipment like hydrometers and refractometers. This adds a layer of practical understanding that enhances the tasting. For anyone interested in how spirits are made, this transparency is invaluable.

Tasting Award-Winning Spirits

The culmination of the tour is a tasting of the distillery’s entire product line. You’ll sample spirits that have earned international recognition, including their Gold Medal-winning gin, whiskey, and coffee liqueur. As one reviewer quipped, “The spirits are spectacular,” and it’s easy to see why—they clearly put quality and craftsmanship first.

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The Sensory Experience

Besides just drinking, you’ll engage your senses in understanding the delicate balance of flavors and aromatics. The guides help you distinguish different notes, which makes the tasting both educational and enjoyable. The experience is designed to make spirits appreciation accessible, even for newcomers.

Duration, Group Size, and Practicalities

The tour lasts about 45 minutes to an hour, making it a perfect quick activity or a prelude to dinner. Limited to 10 participants, it maintains an intimate atmosphere ideal for questions and personalized attention. The price of $20 per person offers excellent value considering the quality of the experience and the access you get.

Accessibility and Logistics

The experience is wheelchair accessible and involves some walking and standing, though stools are available on request. It’s important to note that persons under 21 can join the tour with a guardian but are not allowed during tasting. Transportation is not included, so plan accordingly.

What the Reviews Say

Feedback from past participants is overwhelmingly positive. Marta from Poland praised the “fantastic experience” and highlighted the passion and knowledge of the team. She appreciated the quality of the products and expressed hope that the distillery will grow into a full-fledged micro-distillery. Tania from Italy called the staff “knowledgeable and friendly” and described the spirits as “spectacular”.

These reviews confirm that the guides are well-informed, friendly, and passionate about their craft, making the tour both educational and enjoyable. The tasting component is a highlight, with visitors leaving with a deeper understanding of what makes each spirit special.

The Value for Travelers

At just $20, this tour provides a rare opportunity to see the craftsmanship firsthand and taste award-winning spirits. For those interested in local flavors, spirits, or craft production, it’s a worthwhile addition to your Salt Lake City itinerary. It’s especially suited for adults who appreciate quality spirits and small-group experiences.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, informative, and flavorful outing, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. The focus on expert guidance and authentic production makes it stand out from more commercial or generic tasting experiences. It’s a genuine chance to deepen your appreciation for distilled spirits and perhaps pick up a few tips for your own home bar.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for spirits enthusiasts, curious travelers, and those seeking a local, hands-on activity. It’s great for anyone who values authentic craftsmanship and enjoys learning about the science and artistry behind their favorite drinks. Given its limited size and focus, it’s less suited for those who prefer large, bus-style tours or are looking for a comprehensive city sightseeing experience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is transportation included? No, transportation to and from the distillery is not included. You’ll need to arrange your own transportation.

How long does the tour last? The tour lasts between 45 minutes and an hour, giving you a focused yet comprehensive look into the distillery.

Can minors participate? Minors with a guardian are allowed to join the tour but may not participate during the tasting.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues? Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, but it involves some walking and standing—stools are available on request.

What spirits can I expect to taste? You’ll sample the distillery’s award-winning spirits including gin, whiskey, and coffee liqueur.

Is there a dress code? No special dress code, but comfortable shoes are recommended given the standing and walking involved.

How many people will be in the group? The group is limited to 10 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.

Do I need to reserve in advance? Yes, reservations are recommended. You can reserve now and pay later, allowing you flexibility.

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

Final Thoughts

The Salt Lake City: Spirits of the Wasatch Distillery Tour offers a rare glimpse into the craft of small-batch spirits-making. It combines expert guidance, authentic production insights, and high-quality tastings in a cozy, small-group setting. The experience is ideal for those looking to deepen their appreciation for local craftsmanship and enjoy a flavorful, educational activity.

While it’s not a sprawling city tour, it provides a meaningful, memorable encounter with Salt Lake City’s emerging spirits scene. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or simply curious about how vodka, gin, whiskey, or liqueurs are made, this tour delivers both value and genuine insight. It’s a perfect way to add a flavorful twist to your Utah adventures.

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