Salt Lake City: Spirits of the Wasatch Distillery Tour

A visit to Salt Lake City isn’t complete without a peek into its local craftsmanship, and Spirits of the Wasatch Distillery offers a hands-on look at the art of spirit-making right in the heart of Utah. For just $20 per person, you’ll spend about an hour learning from knowledgeable guides, exploring a working distillery, and sampling some seriously impressive spirits, including award-winning gin, whiskey, and coffee liqueur.

What makes this tour stand out? First, its small-group setting—limiting to just 10 people—means you get plenty of personal attention and a relaxed atmosphere. Second, the deep dive into the technical side—seeing the stills, tasting the spirits, and understanding the science behind distillation—adds genuine value for enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.

On the flip side, a possible consideration is that transportation isn’t included. So, you’ll need to plan how you’ll get there, especially if you are staying outside downtown Salt Lake City. Still, if you’re looking for an authentic, educational experience that connects you with local craftsmanship, this tour is a great pick for spirits lovers, foodies, or anyone curious about small-batch production.

Key Points

Authentic Experience: Small, private tours offer personalized insights into the distillation process.
Expert Guides: Knowledgeable staff lead you through every step with enthusiasm and clarity.
Tasting of Medals: Sample spirit award winners, including gin, whiskey, and coffee liqueur.
Behind-the-Scenes Access: See copper stills, barrels, and the scientific tools used in production.
Value for Money: At $20, it’s a budget-friendly way to gain a deeper appreciation of craft spirits.
Ideal for Enthusiasts: Perfect for those interested in the science and artistry of distilling.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Spirits of the Wasatch Distillery Tour

When you arrive at the Spirits of the Wasatch distillery, located in the Broadbent Business Park, you’re stepping into a true labor of love. This isn’t a tourist trap—it’s a working distillery where the passion for craftsmanship shines through every corner. The guided, private tour lasts between 45 minutes and an hour, with a small group setting that fosters real engagement with your guide.

For broader city exploration in Salt Lake City, we've covered these other tours

Starting the Tour: Behind the Curtain

The experience begins in the gift shop, where a friendly guide welcomes you. From there, you’re led into the heart of the operation—where copper stills and oak barrels fill the air with enticing aromas. The guides, such as the highly praised Marta and Tania, are eager to share their knowledge, explaining everything from the raw ingredients to the nuances of distillation. “The passion and knowledge of the team really shine through,” says Marta from Poland, “and it’s clear how much heart they put into their work.”

You’ll see the gleaming copper stills that do the magic, as well as the scientific instruments—refractometers and hydrometers—that help test and fine-tune each batch. The focus on precision and quality control means you get a real sense of the care that goes into each bottle.

Learning about Craft and Science

One of the most appreciated aspects of the tour is how it balances art and science. The guides don’t just show you equipment—they explain why certain raw materials are selected, how temperature and timing impact flavor, and what makes their spirits award-winning. As one reviewer mentions, “We loved the way the tour combined hands-on production insights with tasting and scientific explanations,” and that makes it particularly engaging for those interested in the craft of distilling.

Engaging Your Senses

A highlight is the sensory experience—distillation isn’t just about sight and sound, but also about smell and taste. You’ll get to smell the aromatic vapors from the stills, and later, sample the entire product line during the guided tasting. The spirits have earned 7 gold medals and 3 double gold medals, so you’re tasting some of the best in the region. Tasting the gold medal-winning gin, whiskey, and coffee liqueur offers a clear sense of what makes their spirits exceptional.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Tasting: Savoring Award-Winning Spirits

The tastings are a highlight, with knowledgeable guides explaining the flavor profiles and what sets each spirit apart. The gin, whiskey, and coffee liqueur are all crafted with local ingredients and a lot of care. As one guest remarked, “The spirits are spectacular, highly recommended,” which speaks to the quality and craftsmanship involved.

While you're exploring Salt Lake City, here are other experiences we've looked into

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for spirits aficionados, curious travelers, or anyone wanting a deeper understanding of small-batch distillation. If you enjoy learning about how things are made, appreciate fine spirits, or want a memorable, hands-on activity in Salt Lake City, this tour ticks all those boxes.

Practicalities and Planning

Price: At $20, the tour offers excellent value, especially considering the guided tasting of award-winning spirits.
Duration: Just under an hour, making it easy to fit into a busy itinerary or as a relaxing afternoon activity.
Group Size: Limited to 10, ensuring personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
Accessibility: The tour is wheelchair accessible, but be aware it involves some walking and standing.
Timing: Usually available in the morning, afternoon, or evening, so you can choose what fits your schedule best.
Transportation: Not included, so plan your own way there.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Experience?

The Salt Lake City: Spirits of the Wasatch Distillery Tour offers a genuine, well-rounded look into the world of artisanal spirits. It’s a perfect choice for travelers who appreciate craftsmanship, enjoy educational experiences, or simply want to taste some award-winning spirits in a relaxed setting. Small groups, expert guides, and a focus on both science and flavor make this tour stand out.

While it’s not a sightseeing tour of the city itself, it adds a rich layer of flavor to your Salt Lake experience—literally and figuratively. Whether you’re a spirits lover or a curious traveler eager to see how local products are made, this tour provides genuine insight and memorable tasting moments.

FAQ

Is transportation to the distillery included? No, transportation is not included. You’ll need to arrange your own way to the distillery, located in Broadbent Business Park.

How long does the tour last? The tour lasts between 45 minutes and an hour, making it an easily manageable activity for most schedules.

Are children allowed on the tour? Persons under 21 are allowed to join the tour with a guardian, but they may not participate in the tasting.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues? The tour is wheelchair accessible, but involve walking and standing. Stools are available if needed.

What is the cost of the tour? The experience costs $20 per person, which includes the guided tour, tasting, and insights into the production process.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in your travel plans.

Is this tour family-friendly? It’s not suitable for those under 21 during tasting, but adults interested in spirits and craftsmanship will find it engaging.

In the end, the Salt Lake City: Spirits of the Wasatch Distillery Tour is a quiet gem—an authentic, educational experience that reveals the skill and passion behind Utah’s craft spirits. It’s best for those who want an inside look at small-batch distilling and enjoy a good tasting, all within a friendly, intimate setting.