Uncover the Magic Gin Distillery Adventure at Millsheds Bowral

Uncover the Magic Gin Distillery Adventure at Millsheds Bowral

Imagine stepping into a vibrant, buzzing small distillery in Bowral, nestled in the heart of New South Wales, where every bottle tells a story. For just over $20 AUD, you get about 45 minutes of hands-on exploration, guided by knowledgeable staff who are passionate about their craft. You start with a warm gin and tonic or vodka and soda and then move into the real magic: a guided tasting of four award-winning spirits.

What we love most about this experience is how it offers a close-up look at the entire distillation process, from raw ingredients to bottling. The chance to touch, smell, and taste Australian botanicals in the Botanical Room makes this tour feel very personal—and the spirits? Simply delightful. One highlight is the $10 discount on full-sized bottles, making it a savvy buy for enthusiasts.

Now, a consideration for travelers: while the tour is well-designed, folks looking for a lengthy or highly elaborate experience might find it a bit swift. It’s perfect if you’re after a short, authentic peek into craft distilling, rather than an all-day affair. Suitable for adults with curiosity about spirits, especially those who appreciate tasting and learning in a friendly, intimate setting.

Key Points

• Accessible and affordable at just over $20 AUD, offering excellent value for a behind-the-scenes experience.
• Personalized tasting of four spirits and insight into their unique production process provide an educational yet relaxed atmosphere.
• Touching and smelling Australian botanicals adds an engaging, sensory dimension to the tour.
• Visiting a small, well-designed distillery offers a more intimate experience compared to larger commercial operations.
• Great for spirits lovers and curious travelers wanting a quick, authentic glimpse into craft distillation.
• Includes a discount on spirits, making it a smart stop for those wishing to take a souvenir home.

The Distillery Tour: What to Expect

The experience begins at the meeting point on Bong Bong Street in Bowral, where you’ll meet your guide and fellow spirits enthusiasts. The tour lasts about 45 minutes, making it a perfect stop for travelers with limited time or those wanting a relaxed, engaging activity.

The Welcome and Initial Tasting

Right from the start, you’re welcomed with a gin and tonic or vodka and soda—a friendly touch that immediately sets a convivial tone. This initial sip serves as a taste of what’s to come and helps you settle into the vibe of the distillery.

Behind-the-Scenes Look at the Production

Next, you’ll step into the distillery’s production area. Here, your guide will take you through how the spirits are crafted—from raw ingredients to the delicate distillation process. You’ll see the impressive stills, which are the heart of the operation, and learn what makes their spirits unique.

The Botanical Room

This is a highlight—an interactive space where you can touch, taste, and smell the botanicals used. The guide’s detailed explanations about Australian botanicals add a local flavor, making the experience both educational and sensory. As one reviewer pointed out, “smelling the various botanical ingredients was very interesting,” and it’s true: this makes the experience quite immersive for your senses.

Tasting Session

After the behind-the-scenes look, you’ll sample four award-winning gins and vodkas curated by the Head Distiller. The tasting isn’t rushed; it offers enough time for you to truly savor the differences between each spirit. We found this to be one of the most engaging parts, especially since you can compare flavors and aromas side by side—a real treat for enthusiasts.

Bottles and Discount

Before wrapping up, you’re offered a $10 discount on 700ml bottles. This is a fantastic opportunity to bring home a souvenir of your visit, especially if you’ve developed a taste for their spirits.

Meeting Points and Practical Info

The tour begins at 210 Bong Bong Street in Bowral. It ends back at the same spot, making it easy to incorporate into your day. The tour is designed to be accessible, with service animals allowed and close to public transportation.

Most travelers can participate, and the group size is limited to 20 people, which ensures a more personal experience. Booking is recommended about a week in advance, with many choosing to reserve around 8 days ahead for certainty.

The Experience Through the Eyes of Reviewers

One enthusiastic reviewer, David_M, described it as “a great way to spend some time on a lazy day.” He praised the “well-designed and built” distillery and appreciated how informative and friendly the guide was. His comment that “smelling the botanical ingredients was very interesting” echoes the sensory appeal of the Botanical Room.

Another reviewer highlighted the tastings of vodkas, gins, and homemade liqueurs, emphasizing the variety and quality of the spirits. The overall ratings, averaging close to 4.7 stars, reflect the general satisfaction and enthusiasm for this compact, engaging tour.

Why This Tour Is Worth Your Time

If you’re someone who appreciates craft spirits, loves to learn about local producers, or simply wants a fun, sensory-rich activity in Bowral, this tour hits the mark. The affordable price point combined with the opportunity to touch, smell, taste, and learn makes it especially appealing for curious travelers and spirits aficionados. It’s ideal for those who prefer a small-group, intimate setting without the hassle of long waits or crowds.

On top of that, the knowledgeable guides and the chance to compare spirits side by side creates a memorable experience that’s both informative and enjoyable. To top it off, the discounted bottles mean you can take a piece of the distillery home—perfect for gifting or for personal enjoyment.

The Sum Up

The Millsheds Bowral Gin Distillery Tour offers an authentic and engaging window into Australian craft distilling. It’s well-suited for adults who enjoy tasting spirits and want a personalized, behind-the-scenes experience without spending a fortune. Whether you’re a seasoned spirits lover or just curious about how gin and vodka are made, this short but sweet tour provides plenty of insight and sensory delight.

The friendly guides, stunning botanical displays, and quality tastings make it a highlight worth considering, especially if you’re exploring Bowral or nearby regions in New South Wales. It’s a practical, fun, and educational activity that complements any day of sightseeing or relaxing in this charming part of Australia.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 45 minutes, making it an easy addition to your day without taking up too much time.

What is included in the tour?
You’ll enjoy a gin and tonic or vodka and soda upon arrival, a guided tasting of four spirits, a behind-the-scenes look at the distillery, and access to the Botanical Room to touch, taste, and smell ingredients. Plus, a $10 discount on bottles.

Is the tour suitable for children or non-drinkers?
This tour is designed for adults interested in spirits. While children or non-drinkers might enjoy the sensory experience of the Botanicals Room, the tasting component is intended for those of legal drinking age.

How many people are on each tour?
The maximum group size is 20 travelers, ensuring a more personal and relaxed experience.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted during the tour.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book about 8 days in advance to secure your spot, particularly during weekends or peak times.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins and ends at 210 Bong Bong Street, Bowral—a convenient central location.

Can I get a refund if I cancel?
Yes, there is free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled tour.

What’s the price of the tour?
It costs around $20.36 AUD per person, offering good value given the sensory and educational experience.

Is this experience accessible?
The tour is accessible to most travelers, with close proximity to public transport and accommodations for service animals.

With a combination of friendly guides, sensory exploration, and quality spirits, the Millsheds Bowral Gin Distillery Tour offers a genuine taste of Australian craft distilling in a friendly, accessible setting. Perfect for a relaxed afternoon or a unique addition to your Bowral itinerary.