Distill a bottle of gin on mini copper stills

A truly unique hands-on experience in Edinburgh offers gin lovers the chance to craft their very own bottle of distilled spirit using miniature copper stills. For around three hours, you’ll visit a specialized micro distillery, learn the art of gin-making, sample different botanical mixes, and develop a personal recipe—then distill and bottle your creation to take home. With a highly-rated guide, this workshop promises a blend of education, fun, and a memorable souvenir of your Scottish trip.

What we love most about this experience is the intimacy and personal touch. With only a small group (a maximum of 3 travelers), you get plenty of personalized attention, making it feel more like a private masterclass. Plus, the chance to design your own gin recipe and then actually produce a bottle on-site turns this from a simple tasting into a memorable craft project. It’s also a fantastic way to demystify gin production, which can seem complicated but is explained clearly and engagingly.

One potential consideration is that the tour takes place in a micro distillery setting, so you should be comfortable with a small, relaxed environment rather than a large commercial operation. Also, the cost at $117.05 per person might seem high compared to standard tastings, but when you factor in the personalized experience, the tasting, the guided instruction, and taking home a bottle you made yourself, it offers solid value.

This experience is best suited for gin enthusiasts, curious travelers, or anyone looking for a memorable activity in Edinburgh. If you love hands-on activities, enjoy learning about spirits, or want a unique souvenir, you’ll find this workshop both educational and fun.

Key Points

• Personalized Gin Creation: Develop your own recipe guided by expert instructions.
• Mini Copper Still: Use a small copper still to distill your ingredients and produce your own gin.
• Educational & Fun: Learn about gin-making in a friendly, small-group environment.
• Tasting & Guidance: Sample various botanical mixes and receive tailored suggestions.
• Memorable Souvenir: Take home a 500ml bottle of your own crafted gin.
• Value for Money: Combines tasting, learning, and a tangible product for the price.

Exploring the Gin Workshop in Edinburgh

If you’re visiting Edinburgh and love spirits—or even if you’re just curious about how your favorite gin is made—this workshop provides a rare chance to get hands-on. It’s a well-structured experience that balances education with entertainment, making it a prime choice for those who want more than just a tasting.

Location and Duration

Meeting at The Cumberland Bar on Cumberland Street, you’ll start at noon, a convenient time that allows you to enjoy the calm of an early afternoon. This meeting point is close to public transportation, easing your arrival, and the entire experience lasts about three hours, giving ample time to relax, learn, and craft.

The Itinerary

Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed with a gin and tonic—an excellent way to settle in and get into the spirit of the experience. Your host will walk you through the day’s agenda, setting the tone for a friendly, informal session.

Next, you’ll sample three different gin botanical mixes. Here’s where the fun begins: guided by your knowledgeable instructor, you’ll choose ingredients to craft your own bespoke gin recipe. This part is particularly engaging because it turns abstract flavors into a real, personalized product. Whether you prefer citrus, floral, or spicy notes, you’ll have the chance to experiment.

Once your recipe is set, it’s time to distill your gin using a mini copper still—a process often only seen in professional distilleries but here simplified for your use. While the still works its magic, you’ll enjoy a cocktail, making the wait more enjoyable.

After distillation, the moment of truth arrives: tasting your freshly distilled gin. The guides are praised for their expertise, making sure you understand each flavor and helping you tweak your recipe if needed. Then, you’ll bottle, label, and wax seal your creation—transforming it into a genuine Scottish keepsake.

Tips for the Best Experience

• Arrive on time for a smooth start.
• Be open to experimenting with different botanical ingredients.
• Remember, the process is simplified but still authentic, so enjoy the hands-on aspect.
• Share your bottle with friends or family back home—you’ll have bragging rights!

Reviews and Authentic Feedback

Many visitors have described this experience as a highlight of their trip. One reviewer noted, “Neil was an excellent and entertaining guide…I walked away with a bespoke bottle of gin and a great time learning about gin styles, history, and brands.” Others have raved about the small group size, mentioning how it made the experience more personal and fun. Several reviews highlight Neil’s knowledge and charisma, emphasizing that he made complex ideas accessible and enjoyable.

Practical Details and Why They Matter

Price and Value

At $117.05 per person, this workshop isn’t cheap, but the value lies in the personalized experience and the tangible product. You’re not just tasting; you’re creating, learning, and taking home a unique bottle. Compared to larger, less interactive tours, this one offers a true hands-on opportunity that’s worth the cost for spirits enthusiasts.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With a maximum of three travelers, the group is intimate. This ensures dedicated attention from the guide and a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for asking questions, experimenting with recipes, and enjoying the process without feeling rushed or lost in a crowd.

Accessibility and Convenience

The meeting point at The Cumberland Bar makes it easy to find, and the activity’s close proximity to public transport means you won’t have to worry about complicated logistics. The 3-hour duration fits well into a day of sightseeing or relaxing in Edinburgh.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This workshop is perfect if you’re a gin lover eager to learn about the craft behind your favorite spirit. The chance to design your own recipe, distill it on a miniature copper still, and take home a bottle makes it a memorable experience—one that blends education, creativity, and a little Scottish craftsmanship. It’s also great for small groups or couples who want a private, personalized activity that stands out from typical sightseeing.

If you’re looking for fun, authenticity, and a souvenir that’s more than just a generic keepsake, this is an excellent choice. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate small-group experiences with expert guides—Neil is frequently praised for making the session both engaging and insightful.

Who Should Skip?

If you prefer large, structured tours or are on a tight schedule with less time for hands-on activities, this might feel a bit too detailed or intimate. Similarly, if you’re not a fan of small environments or DIY projects, you may want to explore other options.

Final Word

For a memorable slice of Scottish craftsmanship, this gin workshop delivers a memorable, educational, and fun experience that truly stands out. It’s a fantastic way to connect with Edinburgh’s distilling tradition while creating a personalized memento of your trip—whether you’re a casual gin drinker or a seasoned enthusiast.

FAQ

Is there a minimum or maximum group size?
Yes, the experience is limited to a maximum of 3 travelers, ensuring a personalized setting.

How long does the entire workshop last?
It lasts approximately 3 hours, beginning at noon.

What is included in the price?
You’ll receive a gin tasting, guidance on recipe development, your own distilled gin (about 500ml), and a bottle you label and seal yourself.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, free cancellation is available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

Is the tour suitable for children or service animals?
Service animals are allowed, but the activity is designed for adults due to the distillation process.

Do I need prior gin knowledge?
No prior knowledge is necessary; guides are excellent at making the process accessible for everyone.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts at The Cumberland Bar and finishes back at the same location.

Is transportation provided?
Transportation is not included, but the meeting point is close to public transit options.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable casual attire is fine. Be prepared to participate actively in the recipe creation and bottling.

This Edinburgh gin workshop offers an engaging, memorable, and authentic activity, perfect for those wanting a deeper connection to Scottish spirits and a handcrafted souvenir.