Earp Distilling Co: Date Night with Blending Class & Dinner

Imagine an evening where chemistry meets cuisine, all wrapped in a relaxed yet engaging setting. At Earp Distilling Co in Newcastle, Australia, you and a partner can indulge in a two-hour experience that combines hands-on spirit blending with a delicious meal — a true celebration of artisanal craftsmanship and good company. For $73 per person, you get to craft your own signature spirit, explore botanicals, taste-test, and then sit down to a thoughtfully curated dinner. It’s a thoughtfully designed escape that appeals to those who appreciate quality, authenticity, and a touch of creative fun.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the personalized spirit bottle — a charming 500ml ceramic keepsake you’ll take home as a reminder of your night. Second, the interactive blending session led by friendly, English-speaking guides ensures you not only learn but also enjoy the process, tasting different botanicals and deciding on your final blend.

A possible consideration? The experience is built for two, so it’s less suitable if you’re traveling solo or in a larger group. Also, extra food and drinks outside the included meal are not part of the package, so plan accordingly if you’re hungry for more.

This tour suits couples, double dates, or friends looking for an unusual, memorable night out — especially those who love good food, excellent spirits, and a chance to get a little creative. If you’re curious about spirits or simply want an enjoyable, intimate activity, this experience has plenty to offer.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Personalized experience: You create a signature spirit, bottle it, and take it home, making it a memorable keepsake.
Taste and craft: The blending class offers a hands-on look at botanicals and spirits, perfect for curious palates.
Gourmet meal: The dinner includes two entrées, a main, and a dessert, paired with seasonal snacks, all included in the price.
Relaxed setting: It’s an intimate, private group experience led by friendly guides, ideal for couples or small groups.
Value for money: At just $73 per person, it combines education, entertainment, and excellent food, making it a worthwhile splurge.
Accessibility: The experience is wheelchair accessible and suitable for guests who value authenticity and craftsmanship.

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Exploring the Experience in Detail

The Blending Session: Crafting Your Signature Spirit

The heart of this evening is a guided blending class that lasts about an hour. Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll start by exploring a variety of botanicals — herbs, spices, fruits — that influence the flavor profiles of spirits like gin, vodka, or rum. The process is very interactive; you’ll select botanicals based on your preferences, taste-testing along the way to find your perfect blend.

Many reviews note that the blending is both educational and fun. One guest appreciated the way the instructor explained the botanic choices, making it accessible even for beginners. The atmosphere is relaxed, encouraging experimentation without pressure. By the end, you’ll agree on a final blend, which is bottled as a shared 500ml ceramic keepsake.

This custom spirit isn’t just a souvenir; it’s a reflection of your taste — an authentic, personal creation. What we loved was how the guides emphasized the art and science of distilling, helping us understand how botanicals influence flavor. This adds value, especially for those interested in spirits or looking for a unique souvenir.

The Tasting Experience: Flavors and Aromas

Throughout the blending, you’re encouraged to taste test, which many find the highlight. You’ll discover how different botanicals create distinct aromas and tastes. The tasting is paired with seasonal snacks, enhancing the flavor experience and giving you something to nibble on while you work on your blend.

Guests have mentioned the “excellent variety of botanicals” and appreciated how accessible the tasting was, even for those new to spirits. The guides’ enthusiasm makes the process engaging and educational rather than intimidating.

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The Dinner: Gourmet Food with a Personal Touch

After the spirit blending wraps up, it’s time to sit down for a dining experience. The menu includes two entrées, one main, and one dessert per couple — all served with a side of charred cos salad. The focus is on seasonal, high-quality ingredients, which adds to the overall value.

The included dips and snacks during the evening set a convivial tone, and many reviews highlight the deliciousness of the food — especially the carefully curated entrees and the satisfying main course. The dessert, often shared, provides a sweet ending that perfectly balances the evening.

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Atmosphere and Setting

The experience takes place at the Earp Distilling Co, where the environment feels welcoming and intimate. Check-in is straightforward; you simply check in with the bar staff upon arrival. The group size is private, making it ideal for couples or friends wanting a personalized experience.

The setting itself encourages conversation and connection, whether you’re on a date or catching up with someone special. The evening is designed to be relaxed, enjoyable, and informative, making it a great way to spend an evening in Newcastle.

Practical Details and Value

The cost of $73 per person is quite reasonable considering the inclusions. You get a guided blending session, a meal, snacks, and your own bespoke spirit bottle. Comparing this to separate costs for spirits, tastings, and a nice dinner elsewhere, it’s a savvy choice for those looking for a memorable night out that combines learning and indulgence.

The experience lasts two hours, usually in the evening, which fits well into most travelers’ schedules. It’s wheelchair accessible and built for private groups, making it an inclusive activity.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This tour is perfect for couples seeking a romantic night or a fun double-date. It’s a wonderful choice for spirits enthusiasts wanting to learn more about distilling or for foodies who enjoy pairing good food with handcrafted drinks. It also appeals to those looking for a creative activity that results in a tangible souvenir — your own signature spirit.

If you’re after a relaxed, intimate evening with a good balance of education and entertainment, this experience checks those boxes. It’s ideal for travelers who like authentic local experiences and enjoy trying their hand at something new.

The Sum Up

The Earp Distilling Co Date Night with Blending Class & Dinner offers a unique blend of hands-on learning, high-quality food, and genuine craftsmanship. It’s a thoughtful activity that combines creative spirit blending with a delicious meal, all in a cozy, welcoming setting. This experience provides excellent value, allowing you to walk away with a personalized bottle of spirits and a memorable story.

For those who appreciate authentic, small-group activities that emphasize craftsmanship and local flavors, this tour is hard to beat. It’s especially suited for couples or friends who want an evening that’s both fun and meaningful — a tasting and bonding experience rolled into one.

If you want to learn about spirits, enjoy a curated dinner, and leave with a handcrafted keepsake, this experience is a charming choice. It’s a genuine hands-on way to add a little craft and flavor to your time in Newcastle.

FAQs

Is this experience suitable for non-drinkers?
Since the focus is on blending spirits like gin, vodka, or rum, it’s best suited for those who enjoy or are at least open to spirits. Non-drinkers might find the tasting less appealing, but they can still enjoy the food and the overall experience.

Can I participate alone?
This experience is designed for two people, making it ideal for couples or friends. Solo travelers might find it less suitable unless they join as a pair with someone else.

How long does the experience last?
It runs for about two hours, typically in the evening, providing enough time for blending, tasting, and dining without feeling rushed.

Are there vegetarian options?
The menu includes entrees, a main, and a dessert, but specific dietary requests aren’t mentioned. It’s worth checking directly if you have special dietary needs.

Is it accessible for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the experience is wheelchair accessible, ensuring most guests can participate comfortably.

What should I bring?
Just your passport or ID and a camera to capture your masterpiece and the evening’s moments.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if plans change.

The Earp Distilling Co experience brings together the craft of spirits, the joy of good food, and the intimacy of a private gathering. It’s a fun, authentic way to enjoy Newcastle’s vibrant scene — perfect for anyone looking to add a personal touch to their evening and leave with a memorable souvenir.