Valencia: Distillery visit and gin tasting in Benifla

Valencia: Distillery visit and gin tasting in Benifla offers a fascinating glimpse into artisan spirits production just outside the city. Priced at only $17 per person, this experience combines a guided tour of La Clandestileria, a hands-on botanical workshop, and a tasting of the award-winning gin Roders. Whether you’re a gin enthusiast or simply curious about craft distilling, this tour promises a well-rounded, engaging look into a lesser-known side of Spanish spirits.

What makes this experience particularly appealing is the chance to see how gin is crafted from start to finish—from copper stills to botanical blends—plus the opportunity to create your own mini-batch. The guide, who is fluent in English, is praised for being knowledgeable and engaging, making complex processes approachable and fun.

On the flip side, one consideration is the limited duration—around 1.5 to 2 hours—which means the entire process is quite condensed. If you’re looking for a deep dive into distillation or a more relaxed, leisurely pace, this might feel a bit rushed. However, for those seeking a quick, authentic introduction to gin-making, this tour hits the mark.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate hands-on activities, are curious about artisan spirits, or want an authentic, small-group tour that offers good value for money. It’s ideal for those who enjoy sensory experiences—touching botanicals, smelling spices, and tasting carefully crafted spirits.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At $17, it offers excellent value for a unique and interactive experience.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Expect friendly, fluent guides who explain distillation and botanicals clearly.
• Hands-on Workshop: Touch, smell, and blend botanicals to create your own mini gin.
• Authentic Tasting: Sample the internationally awarded gin Roders, appreciated for its complex flavors.
• Small Group Feel: The tour is intimate, often with private options available during the week.
• Child-Friendly: Kids under 18 can participate in the tour but cannot taste the alcohol.

A Deep Dive Into the Distillery Experience

The adventure begins at La Clandestileria, located in the Valencian Community, where the setting feels both welcoming and authentic. As you arrive, you’re greeted by the friendly staff and guided towards the start of what promises to be an engaging journey into craft distilling. The tour is typically conducted in English (or Spanish and Catalan if requested), making it accessible for international visitors.

Guided Tour Through the Distillery

Once inside, the guide—praised in reviews for being knowledgeable and approachable—takes you through each step of gin production. You’ll get up close to the copper pot stills, where the magic of distillation happens. The guide explains how the carefully selected ingredients—botanicals, herbs, spices—are combined and transformed into the aromatic spirit.

The tour is designed to be informative yet practical. You won’t just be told facts; you’ll see the equipment, hear about the process, and understand the craftsmanship involved. The guide’s clarity helps demystify the art of distilling, making it accessible even for those new to spirits production.

Botanical Workshop and DIY Gin

What sets this experience apart is the interactive botanical workshop. Here, you’ll be encouraged to explore a variety of herbs and spices—touching, smelling, and potentially tasting them. This sensory engagement is highly praised in reviews, as it allows you to understand what makes each botanical unique.

Under the guidance of the expert, you’ll learn the delicate art of balancing flavors and aromas. Some participants have enjoyed blending their own mini-batch of gin, which they can take home as a personalized souvenir. This part of the experience is especially fun for those interested in DIY spirits or wanting a more tactile connection to the process.

The Final Tasting—A True Highlight

The tour culminates in a gin tasting session featuring the acclaimed Roders gin, which has received international awards. Guests report that the gin’s complex layers—spicy, herbal, and floral notes—are a delight to savor. The guide helps you distinguish different flavors, emphasizing that every bottle reflects the craft and artistry behind it.

According to reviewers, the tasting is “a step-by-step experience” that allows you to truly appreciate the craftsmanship involved. Whether you’re a seasoned gin drinker or new to the spirit, this tasting is an educational pleasure and worth the small added price.

Practical Details and What to Expect

The tour lasts roughly 1.5 to 2 hours, which makes it easy to fit into a day of exploring Valencia or nearby. It’s a small-group activity, often with options for private tours during the week, which enhances the intimate feel. The activity starts at La Clandestileria, where free private parking is available—convenient for those renting a car or staying nearby.

The experience is wheelchair accessible, catering to a broad range of visitors. Children under 18 are welcome to join the tour but cannot participate in the tasting, which makes this a family-friendly activity with a responsible approach to alcohol.

What the Tour Includes

• Guided tour in English (or requested language)
• Botanical workshop with touch and smell activities
• Tasting of the award-winning gin Roders
• Private parking

Cost and Value

At just $17 per person, this tour offers excellent value—especially considering the hands-on nature and the opportunity to taste a premium gin. Compared to typical spirits tours in larger cities or tourist-heavy areas, this experience keeps prices accessible while maintaining quality.

Scheduling and Flexibility

Check the availability for specific start times, as the duration can vary slightly. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in planning your trip. The booking process is simple: reserve now and pay later, which is perfect if you’re finalizing your itinerary.

What Real Participants Say

One reviewer remarked, “Good value for money. Never been to gin tasting before. Guide was good and gin was tasty,” highlighting the approachable nature of the tour and the quality of the spirit. Another mentioned the knowledge of the guide as a standout feature, making the technical aspects digestible and enjoyable.

Many appreciated the small group setting and the chance to participate actively in blending botanicals, describing it as “a fun, interactive experience.” The tasting was especially noted as a highlight—”you get to taste the complex flavors of Roders, which was a real eye-opener.”

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This distillery visit is perfect for spirits enthusiasts, curious travelers, or anyone wanting a local, authentic experience outside the typical tourist trail. It’s also well-suited for those traveling with kids, as the tour itself is family-friendly, with only the tasting being restricted to adults.

If you’re short on time but want a quality, engaging activity that offers insight into craft spirits, this tour fits the bill. The reasonable price, combined with the interactive workshop and tasting, makes it a solid choice for a memorable half-day outing.

The Sum Up

For travelers seeking a unique, hands-on experience that combines education, sensory engagement, and tasting, this distillery tour in Benifla stands out. You’ll leave with a better understanding of how gin is made, the chance to create your own botanical blend, and a bottle of award-winning gin to enjoy later.

This experience is especially valuable for those who appreciate small-group, authentic activities and want to learn about local craftsmanship in a relaxed setting. The knowledgeable guides and good value make it a worthwhile addition to your Valencia itinerary.

While it’s a relatively quick tour, the quality of the interaction and the sensory experiences make it a memorable, enriching outing. Whether you’re a gin lover or simply curious to see a different side of Spain’s spirits scene, this visit is a delightful, affordable way to connect with local craftsmanship and flavor.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for children?
Children under 18 can join the tour but cannot participate in the alcohol tasting. They are welcome to enjoy the guided tour and botanical workshop.

How long does the tour last?
The tour takes about 1.5 to 2 hours from start to finish.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, so most visitors with mobility needs can enjoy the experience.

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

What languages are offered during the tour?
The tour is conducted in English, Spanish, and Catalan, with English available on request.

Does the price include tasting?
Yes, the price covers a tasting of the award-winning gin Roders after the tour.

Is parking available at the start point?
Yes, free private parking is available for visitors.

Can I book a private tour?
Yes, during the week private tours are available, providing a more personalized experience.

What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothing is suitable. Be prepared for some touching and smelling botanicals, so avoid strong fragrances.

Is it possible to create my own gin?
Yes, you can blend your own mini-batch during the botanical workshop, and take it home as a souvenir.

This distillery experience offers a genuine look into artisan gin-making, perfect for curious travelers and spirits lovers alike. It combines affordability, authenticity, and fun—making it a worthwhile addition to your Valencia trip.