Skopje: Unique Smidgin explore and tasting tour

If you’re curious about North Macedonia’s emerging craft spirits scene, particularly gin, the Skopje: Unique Smidgin explore and tasting tour promises a quick yet immersive peek into the art of gin-making. Set within the historic Ruben Palace, this one-hour experience combines a distillery tour with a tasting of three distinct gin varieties—London Dry, Velvet, and Orient—plus a crafted “Perfect Serve” cocktail to finish.

What we like most about this experience is the chance to learn directly from knowledgeable guides about the process of creating one of Europe’s finest gins. The aroma tasting of botanicals and the opportunity to see the distillation process firsthand provide a more meaningful connection to the spirit than just sipping from a glass.

However, one key consideration is the size and ambiance of the space, which some visitors found less than ideal. The tour takes place in two small rooms that, according to one reviewer, are not very hygienic, and the experience can feel rushed or somewhat inconsistent, especially with a new guide. This suggests the experience may appeal more to those genuinely interested in gin or local spirits rather than travelers seeking a polished, high-end tour.

This tour would suit adventurous spirits who appreciate authentic, educational experiences and don’t mind a bit of a casual setting. It’s also reasonably priced, making it accessible for curious travelers eager to add a unique local flavor to their time in Skopje.

Key Points

• Authentic insight into the creation of Smidgin gin, with a focus on local craftsmanship.
• Engaging aroma tasting of botanicals that enhances understanding of flavor profiles.
• Expert-led tutored tastings of three different gin varieties—London Dry, Velvet, and Orient.
• Exclusive setting inside Ruben Palace adds historical context to the experience.
• Quality of guide can vary; some guests report inexperienced staff.
• Price point offers good value, especially considering the inclusion of snacks and a crafted cocktail.

In-Depth Review of the Smidgin Tasting Tour

Location and Setting

The tour begins at the Smidgin Distillery, located on the ground floor of Ruben Palace—often called the MCM building by locals. This historic building is one of the oldest and most beautiful structures in Skopje, which, in itself, lends a special atmosphere to the experience. Walking into Ruben Palace, you’ll immediately sense that this isn’t just a sterile distillery but a place with a story, blending architectural beauty with modern craft spirit production.

Once inside, the space is described as quite small—just two rooms—so the atmosphere might feel cramped during busy times. One reviewer noted the rooms are not very hygienic, which is worth considering, especially if you’re sensitive to cleanliness. Despite that, the historic backdrop adds a layer of authenticity that many travelers find appealing.

The Tour and What You’ll Learn

The core of this experience is a guided tour of the distillery, where you’ll see firsthand how Smidgin gin is crafted. The guide explains the selection of botanicals and the distillation process—details that are often overlooked in larger, more commercial tours. We loved the way the guide shared insights into what makes Smidgin unique, emphasizing its recognition as one of Europe’s finest gins.

While the technical details might not satisfy seasoned connoisseurs, they’re enough to give a beginner a solid foundation. The guide also discusses the inspiration behind the three gin varieties—London Dry, Velvet, and Orient—highlighting the flavor profiles and botanical combinations.

Tasting Experience

After the tour, the focus shifts to tastings. You’ll be offered small shots of each gin, which might seem modest but are enough to appreciate the differences between the varieties. One reviewer mentioned being disappointed by the size of the pours, which they felt were just enough to cover the bottom of a small shot glass.

The aromas of botanicals—likely including ingredients like juniper, herbs, and spices—are explored through a dedicated aroma tasting. This step helps you understand what makes each gin special in terms of scent and flavor.

The “Perfect Serve” Cocktail

The highlight for many is the “Perfect Serve”, a cocktail crafted by the distillery’s mixologist. Guests get to choose between two flavors, and the cocktail showcases the versatility of Smidgin gin. One reviewer described the drink as essentially a gin and tonic, but the crafted presentation and expert touch elevate the experience. Though some expected more elaborate garnishes or presentation, it’s a solid way to end the tour on a flavorful note.

Extras and Additional Details

Snacks are included, adding a little something to the tasting, and the tour lasts around 1 hour—perfect for those with limited time but wanting a meaningful experience. The tour is private, which means more personalized attention, and guides are available in English, Serbian, Macedonian, and Croatian.

However, additional tastings beyond the included “Perfect Serve” are not offered without extra cost, which might be a downside for those wanting to sample more varieties. Also, keep in mind that pregnant women and under-18s are not suitable for this activity, given the alcohol focus.

The Authenticity and Value

While the price of $30 per person is reasonable, some guests have expressed skepticism about the value, especially when comparing it to the lower price on the distillery’s own website. One reviewer noted that they paid about 19 euros directly, which raises questions about whether the tour price on third-party sites reflects the best deal.

That said, the experience’s value depends on your expectations. The inclusion of a guided tour, aroma and gin tastings, snacks, and a crafted cocktail makes for a solid experience, especially for those interested in spirits or local craftsmanship.

Pros and Cons Based on Reviews

Pros:
– Insightful, guided explanation of gin production.
– Unique setting inside Ruben Palace.
– Tasting of three different gin varieties with aroma exploration.
– Knowledgeable staff (though guides may vary).
– Good value considering the overall experience.

Cons:
– Small, sometimes cramped and not very hygienic rooms.
– Limited scope for additional tastings.
– Some guests found the guide inexperienced.
– Slightly rushed experience, especially with a short duration.

Who Should Do This Tour?

This experience is best suited for those genuinely interested in gin and spirit craft, especially if you enjoy learning about the process and tasting different botanical flavors. It’s also a good choice for history lovers, given the setting within Ruben Palace.

Travelers seeking a fun, educational activity that offers a taste of local craftsmanship will likely find this worthwhile. However, if you prioritize a polished, highly professional tour or are sensitive to room size and cleanliness, you might want to temper your expectations or consider alternatives.

Final Thoughts

The Skopje: Unique Smidgin explore and tasting tour offers a distinctive glimpse into North Macedonia’s burgeoning gin scene, set within a historic building that adds charm and context. While the experience could be improved with larger, cleaner spaces and more polished guides, it still provides a taste of authentic craftsmanship and local flavor.

For those curious about spirits or looking for an authentic, budget-friendly activity that combines history, flavor, and a touch of local culture, this tour delivers a neat, compact package. It’s especially valuable for visitors who enjoy guided tastings and are eager to understand what makes Smidgin gin a standout.

Ultimately, this experience is about learning, tasting, and enjoying in a setting that’s more about genuine craftsmanship than high-end luxury. Expect fun, educational moments, and leave with a better appreciation for the art of gin-making—plus a memorable story from inside one of Skopje’s most historic spots.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for non-drinkers or pregnant women?
No, due to alcohol consumption, pregnant women and under-18s are not recommended to participate.

How long does the tour last?
The experience is approximately 1 hour long, including the distillery tour and tastings.

Can I taste more than the included “Perfect Serve” cocktail?
Additional tastings or drinks are available but will incur extra charges.

Where exactly is the meeting point?
The tour starts at the Smidgin Distillery, located on the ground floor of Ruben Palace, a historic and visually stunning building in Skopje.

Are snacks included?
Yes, snacks are provided alongside the tastings, enhancing the overall experience.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides can speak English, Serbian, Macedonian, and Croatian, catering to a range of visitors.

Is it private or can I join a group?
The tour is offered as a private experience, providing more personalized attention.

To sum it up, the Skopje: Unique Smidgin explore and tasting tour offers a genuine and informal look into the local gin scene, blending history and craft with approachable tasting. While it might not be the most polished experience, its authenticity and intimate setting make it a worthwhile activity for spirits lovers or curious travelers eager to add a dash of local flavor to their Skopje visit.