Gin distillation workshop in French

A Unique Chance to Craft Your Own Gin in the Heart of Paris

Imagine spending two hours in a cozy, artisanal distillery tucked away in a quiet corner of Paris, learning the secrets behind one of the world’s most beloved spirits. For $129 per person, you get to become an apprentice distiller, creating a personalized gin recipe with guidance from a professional. The experience is intimate and interactive, limited to just eight participants, making it an ideal choice for those who want a memorable, hands-on activity in the city of lights.

We love that this workshop combines educational insights about distillation with the fun of mixing botanicals yourself. The chance to pick your own herbs and aromatics means your gin will truly be one-of-a-kind. Plus, you’ll leave with a full 70cl bottle of your creation—an authentic souvenir that tastes like your very own craft.

One potential consideration is that the tour is only conducted in French, so language skills or a keen ear for French might help you get the most out of the experience. If language is a barrier, it could slightly limit your understanding of some nuances, though the hands-on nature makes it accessible regardless.

This experience suits travelers who love DIY activities, spirits enthusiasts, or those looking for a genuinely local experience. If you’re interested in small-group workshops with personalized attention, this is a fantastic choice.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Hands-on experience: You create your own gin recipe from botanicals to distillation.
• Expert guidance: The workshop is led by a professional distiller, ensuring you learn the craft correctly.
• Authentic setting: Located in a real artisanal distillery in Paris, far from touristy gimmicks.
• Personalized souvenir: You leave with a 70cl bottle of your own gin and a label you designed.
• Taste and socialize: Gin tastings and homemade cocktails are included throughout.
• Limited group size: Small groups (up to 8) mean personalized attention and a more intimate experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Gin Workshop

Location and Accessibility

The workshop is held at La Distillerie de l’Arbre Sec, located at 52, rue de l’Arbre Sec. The distillery is tucked away behind a large blue porte-cochère in a cobblestone courtyard—an authentic Parisian setting that feels more like visiting a friend’s private workshop than a tourist attraction. To access the space, you’ll pass through a gate and into a small, welcoming distillery where the magic happens.

What You Can Expect During the Workshop

The two-hour session balances education and hands-on activity. Guided by a knowledgeable professional (for example, a guide named Charlotte, as one reviewer mentioned), you’ll start by learning the fundamentals of distillation—what it involves, how botanicals influence flavor, and the differences between styles of gin. This foundational knowledge enriches the entire process and helps you understand what makes your gin unique.

Next, you’ll select your botanicals from a wide variety of herbs and plants—think juniper, citrus peels, coriander, or more exotic aromatics. This freedom to choose is what makes the experience special; you craft a recipe that reflects your personal taste or curiosity.

Once your botanicals are chosen, you’ll move to the mini copper still where you’ll participate in the distillation process. The professional will guide you through each step, ensuring safety and proper technique. Watching the spirit take shape right in front of you turns this from a simple tasting into a genuine craft.

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Tasting, Socializing, and Personalization

Throughout the session, you’ll taste various gins and homemade cocktails, which help you gauge flavors and get inspired for your recipe. A small tasting plate is served, adding a culinary dimension to the experience.

The culmination is personalizing your own label—adding a custom name and design—before your gin is bottled. The process of designing a label helps make the souvenir more memorable and personal.

Value and Price Analysis

At $129, the price might seem steep at first glance, but when you consider that it includes all botanicals, distillation equipment, tastings, cocktails, and a full bottle of custom gin, it offers good value. Crafting your own spirit is usually more expensive than buying a bottle at the store, and here, you’re paying for the experience and education as much as the product.

Group Size and Language

Limited to just eight participants, the workshop ensures that everyone receives personal attention. The guided instructions are in French, which might require some basic understanding or patience if you’re not fluent. However, the hands-on nature and visual cues make it accessible to all.

Authenticity and Atmosphere

One of the highlights is the authentic setting—a real small-scale distillery in Paris, not a tourist trap or a generic workshop. This adds to the charm and makes for a more memorable experience. You are genuinely participating in a craft that few travelers get to try.

Real Traveler Experiences

Tommy P, a reviewer from Canada, shared that they had a “great activity” and particularly appreciated the guidance of Charlotte. Such feedback underlines the importance of support from knowledgeable guides, which makes the experience both fun and educational.

Who Will Appreciate This Experience?

This workshop is perfect for spirits lovers, DIY enthusiasts, or anyone curious about how gin is made. It appeals to those seeking a unique, authentic activity in Paris that combines learning with a dash of creativity. It’s particularly suited for small groups or couples wanting a personalized activity away from crowded tourist spots. However, since the instructions are in French, language skills may be necessary unless you’re comfortable with basic French or the guide provides enough visual cues.

Final Thoughts

In essence, this gin distillation workshop offers an inviting blend of education, hands-on activity, and authentic Parisian charm. It transforms a simple cocktail into a personal achievement—a bottle of gin crafted by your own hands, with a label you designed. For travelers eager to go beyond typical tours and dive into a local artisan tradition, this experience provides a meaningful and memorable adventure.

The small group size, expert guidance, and the opportunity to learn the fundamentals of distillation** make it a worthwhile addition to your Paris itinerary if you’re passionate about spirits or enjoy crafting your own souvenirs.

While it’s not a casual stop for those who prefer sightseeing to tasting and creating, for those looking for a creative, educational, and authentic experience, this workshop hits the mark.

FAQs

Is this experience suitable for non-French speakers?
The workshop is conducted in French, so some understanding of the language will help. However, the hands-on nature and visual cues make it accessible, and the small group setting allows for lots of questions and interaction.

How long does the workshop last?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, giving enough time to learn, select botanicals, distill, taste, and personalize your label.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which provides flexibility if your schedule shifts.

Will I leave with my own bottle?
Absolutely. You will take home a 70cl bottle of your own gin, complete with your personalized label.

Is there an age limit for participants?
Yes, the experience is not suitable for children under 18, pregnant women, or individuals with mobility restrictions (since it’s held in a small distillery). Pets and food/drinks are not allowed during the workshop.

Do I need to bring anything?
No, everything—including botanicals, distillation equipment, and tasting supplies—is provided. Just bring your enthusiasm and curiosity.

To sum it up, whether you’re a gin connoisseur or a curious traveler, this workshop offers a rare chance to get hands-on with spirit-making in a genuine Parisian setting. It’s a memorable way to learn, create, and take home a truly personalized souvenir—your own bottle of gin crafted with care and creativity.

You can check availability for your dates here: