The Alchemist Tasting Experience

If you’re curious about Scotland’s spirited side beyond whiskey, the Alchemist Tasting Experience at Angus Alchemy Distillery offers a delightful peek into craft moonshine and gin. This 1.5-hour journey combines tasting, storytelling, and a bit of fun — perfect for those who love spirits and a good story behind them.

What really stands out is the opportunity to sample award-winning spirits in a relaxed, inviting setting, with a behind-the-scenes look at how these products are made. The Moonshine Village, a cozy spot within the distillery, adds a charming touch that makes this experience feel special.

One consideration, however, is that while the tasting is interactive and engaging, it’s not suitable for children under 18, and food isn’t included unless you opt to purchase it separately. Still, if you’re a curious adult looking to explore Scottish spirits with a friendly guide, this is a solid choice.

This experience is particularly well-suited for groups of up to 18, making it perfect for friends, couples, or even small celebrations. If you enjoy discovering local products and learning about their craft with a dash of humor, you’re likely to find this tour both entertaining and educational.

Key Points

• Location: Set in the scenic Angus countryside, accessible via the A92 between Dundee and Arbroath.
• Highlights: Sample award-winning moonshine, gin, and ready-to-drink cocktails, plus enjoy fun and games.
• Experience: Includes a behind-the-scenes distillery tour, spirits tasting, and insights into the company’s history and process.
• Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible, including the venue and toilets.
• Group Size: Small, interactive groups up to 18 for a more personalized experience.
• Booking: Flexible cancellation up to 24 hours in advance; book now, pay later option available.

What Is the Alchemist Tasting Experience?

The Alchemist Tasting Experience at Angus Alchemy is a guided tasting session designed to introduce visitors to their range of spirits, with a focus on moonshine and gin. It’s a perfect outing for those interested in Scottish craft spirits or looking for a unique activity outside typical sightseeing.

Hosted at the Angus Alchemy Distillery, the experience combines a welcoming welcome drink with an in-depth, behind-the-scenes tour of the distillery’s operations. The tour is led by knowledgeable guides, referred to as Mixers of Mayhem, who are enthusiastic about sharing their craft.

What makes this tour engaging is its interactive nature. You’re not just tasting spirits passively; you’ll learn about how each spirit is crafted, using as many locally sourced ingredients as possible, and hear stories about the company’s history and founders.

The Itinerary: What to Expect Step-by-Step

Welcome and Introduction

Your journey kicks off with a welcome moonshine-based drink, which instantly sets a fun and relaxed tone. This initial sip offers a taste of what’s to come and warms up your palate.

Behind-the-Scenes Tour

Next, you’ll be taken literally behind the scenes of the distillery, where the magic happens. This part of the experience is quite interactive, with guides showing you the equipment and explaining each step involved in making their spirits. If you’re a fan of craft production or just curious about how spirits are distilled, this part provides genuine insight.

Sampling the Spirits

After the tour, you get to indulge in at least four of the distillery’s handcrafted spirits. These include their award-winning moonshine and gin, often made with fresh, local ingredients. The tasting isn’t rushed, and the guides often share fun facts or stories about each product.

Tasting the Ready-to-Drink Cocktails

A highlight is trying the Moonshine Based Ready-to-Drink Cocktails. These pre-made concoctions showcase how their spirits can be enjoyed in convenient, delicious forms—perfect for those who like to mix things at home or just want a quick, quality drink.

Fun and Games

The session includes interactive elements, making it more than just a tasting. While specifics aren’t detailed, reviews suggest a lively, engaging atmosphere with fun activities that break the ice.

End of Experience

The tour concludes back at the starting point, leaving you with new knowledge and a few bottles or cans of your favorites if you wish to purchase.

The Spirits: What You’ll Sample

The spirits on offer are award-winning for a reason. The moonshine, in particular, has garnered recognition, and the gin is crafted with local ingredients, ensuring a fresh, vibrant flavor. The ready-to-drink cocktails are designed to be both fun and accessible.

While the experience doesn’t include food, guests can choose to buy snacks or meals separately, which could enhance the tasting if you prefer a more substantial experience.

Accessibility and Practicalities

The venue prides itself on being wheelchair accessible, including the toilets. The experience is suitable for those with mobility needs, which is not always a given at rural distilleries.

The activity runs for about 90 minutes, with flexible starting times; however, availability varies, so checking ahead is advised. It’s also designed for adults, as children under 18 aren’t permitted.

Booking is straightforward, offering free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a pay later option for flexibility. This is handy given changing travel plans.

Is This Experience Worth It?

In terms of value, the tour gives a solid introduction to Scottish spirits beyond whiskey, with interactive elements and a relaxed atmosphere. The spirits themselves are award-winning, so you’re tasting quality products, not just promotional samples. The behind-the-scenes tour adds educational value, making it more meaningful than a simple tasting.

Considering the small group size, you’re likely to get personalized attention, which enhances the experience. The price reflects the quality and the interactive nature of the tour, making it a worthwhile investment for spirit enthusiasts or curious travelers.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits adults who enjoy spirits or are curious about craft distilling. It’s ideal for small groups, couples, or solo travelers who want a more personalized, relaxed activity. If you prefer guided experiences that combine education, taste, and fun, this could be right up your alley.

However, if you’re looking for a full meal or family-friendly activities, this might not be the best fit. It’s also important to note that the tour is based in a rural setting, so expect scenic views and a peaceful environment.

Final Thoughts

The Alchemist Tasting Experience at Angus Alchemy Distillery offers a unique, engaging way to explore Scottish spirits in a small-group setting. With a mix of tasting, storytelling, and fun, it balances education and entertainment in a relaxed, accessible environment.

If you’re interested in craft spirits and want to see how local ingredients and creativity come together in a distillery, this tour provides excellent value. The interactive behind-the-scenes tour adds depth and authenticity that make it more than just a tasting session.

This experience is best suited for adults with a sense of adventure, a love of spirits, or a desire to learn about Scottish alcohol craftsmanship. It’s a fun, informative outing that celebrates the local spirit scene while giving you the chance to sip on award-winning products.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, the experience is only for those 18 and over, due to the nature of alcohol tasting.

How long does the experience last?
It lasts approximately 1.5 hours, including the tour, tasting, and interactive activities.

Is the venue accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the distillery and toilets are fully wheelchair accessible.

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

Is food included?
No, food isn’t included but can be purchased separately if desired.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at the Angus Alchemy Distillery on the A92 between Dundee and Arbroath.

Can I book and pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay later, offering flexibility for your plans.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The tour is conducted in English.

In all, the Alchemist Tasting Experience offers a comprehensive, fun, and authentic glimpse into Scotland’s craft spirits scene. It’s perfect for those seeking a relaxed yet informative activity that combines tasting, education, and a dash of Scottish charm.