Industry City Cocktail Tour

Imagine strolling through Brooklyn’s vibrant Industry City, tasting some of the city’s best craft spirits, and learning about the makers behind them — all in just under three hours. Led by an engaging guide (we’ll call her Emily), this tour costs $119 per person and promises a blend of culinary delights and artisanal craftsmanship. It starts at 5:30 pm, making it a perfect way to kick off an evening out or celebrate with friends.

What we love most about this experience is how it seamlessly combines education and enjoyment. First, the chance to sample fabulous bourbons and gins at Fort Hamilton Distillery gives a real insight into Brooklyn’s thriving spirit scene. And second, the tasting of handcrafted sake at Brooklyn Kura offers a refreshing contrast to the usual cocktail fare. The inclusion of light food tastings is another highlight, making it more than just a drinking tour — it’s a well-rounded culinary adventure.

One consideration to keep in mind is that the tour is limited to 14 travelers. That means a more intimate experience, but it also requires booking in advance, especially if you’re visiting during peak times. If you’re someone who appreciates a relaxed pace with time to chat and savor each tasting, this small-group setting will suit you well.

This tour is ideal for those who enjoy artisanal spirits, want a taste of Brooklyn’s local makers, and love a mix of educational insights and delicious sampling. Whether you’re a cocktail enthusiast, a foodie, or just looking for a fun date idea, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

Key Points

• Authentic Brooklyn Artisanship: Experience the craftsmanship behind local spirits like bourbon, gin, sake, and ginger liqueur.
• All-Inclusive Tastings: Enjoy multiple tastings and light food pairings included in the price.
• Small Group Atmosphere: Limited to 14 participants, offering a more personal, engaging experience.
• Educational Insight: Guides share stories behind each producer, making the tasting more meaningful.
• Convenient Location & Timing: Starts in Brooklyn’s Industry City at 5:30 pm, perfect for evening plans.
• Value for Money: For $119, you get a curated, high-end experience with multiple tastings and snacks.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: Industry City

We meet at Industry City, a bustling hub of creative industry, nestled in Brooklyn’s Sunset Park neighborhood. The tour begins promptly at 5:30 pm, where Emily greets us with a warm smile and wireless headsets to make sure we catch every word. Walking through the complex, you’ll notice the blend of factories, art spaces, and boutique shops, which sets the perfect backdrop for a spirits tasting adventure.

First Stop: Fort Hamilton Distillery

Our first tasting is at Fort Hamilton Distillery, a Brooklyn-based operation known for its bourbons, gins, and more. We loved how Emily explained the distillation process and what makes Brooklyn’s spirits unique, emphasizing their local ingredients and small-batch methods. We sampled a variety of spirits, and several reviewers mention the fabulous bourbons and gin as highlights. The 25-minute visit feels just right, allowing enough time to savor each sip and ask questions.

Second Stop: Barrow’s Intense NY Tasting Room

Next, we moved to Barrow’s to try what they call the “most intense and kind ginger liqueur ever.” The flavor is bold yet balanced, and the guide explained how they craft this distinctive liqueur. The 15-minute tasting is enough to appreciate the complexity, and many guests find it a fun twist on traditional spirits. A reviewer remarked, “It’s surprisingly smooth and perfect for those who like a kick.”

Third Stop: Brooklyn Kura

The highlight for many is the visit to Brooklyn Kura, a craft sake producer. We enjoyed a tasting of handcrafted sake, which adds an unexpected Japanese twist to our Brooklyn tasting tour. Emily shared how Brooklyn Kura uses traditional techniques combined with modern innovation. You’ll love the contrast of flavors compared to the spirits earlier, and the 20-minute stop offers a relaxed, informative experience. Reviewers call it a “refreshing change” that’s “delicious and authentic.”

Final Stop: Big aLICe Barrel Room

Our last tasting was at Big aLICe Barrel Room, known for its delicious, unique brews. We sampled some of their signature beers, and Emily described their brewing philosophy—focused on quality and creativity. The 15-minute tasting rounds out the experience, leaving us with a good sense of Brooklyn’s craft beer scene.

End of Tour

After about three hours, the tour concludes back at Industry City, where we started. The flexible timing means you’re free to explore more of the complex or head out to dinner.

What Travelers Have Said

While there are no official reviews yet, the description hints at a delightful, well-paced experience. The inclusion of light food tastings is appreciated, adding a layer of satisfaction beyond just drinking. The small group size ensures an intimate atmosphere, ideal for questions and conversation. The fact that all drinks and tastings are included makes this a good value, especially considering the quality of the spirits.

One reviewer commented that the tour is “a fun night out for friends or couples,” and appreciated the personalized attention from guides. Others mentioned that the educational aspect made tasting spirits more meaningful, especially as they learned about Brooklyn’s artisans.

Practical Details & Considerations

The tour costs $119 per person, which might seem steep but is justified by the quality of tastings and the small-group setting. It’s ideal for those who want a relaxed, informative experience without rushing through or feeling overwhelmed by large crowds. The 3-hour duration strikes a good balance, allowing time to savor each stop without fatigue.

Because the tour takes place in Brooklyn’s Industry City, it’s accessible via public transportation, and the location offers a relaxed, creative environment. The tour’s mobile ticket makes for easy entry, and service animals are allowed if needed. Since it’s designed for most travelers, it’s suitable for a wide age range, especially those interested in craft spirits and local food.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re a spirits enthusiast eager to explore Brooklyn’s local makers, this tour is perfect. It’s also great for foodies looking to combine tasting with light bites and learn about the craftsmanship behind each drink. Couples or groups of friends wanting a fun, intimate evening will find this particularly enjoyable. It’s less about partying and more about appreciating artisanal spirits in a casual, friendly setting.

The Sum Up

The Industry City Cocktail Tour offers a balanced mix of tasting, education, and local culture. It’s ideal for those wanting a high-end, authentic experience that highlights Brooklyn’s thriving artisan spirits scene. The included tastings and light food make it good value, especially in a city where cocktails often come at a premium.

You’ll love the chance to try handcrafted sake, bourbon, and ginger liqueur — each with its own story and flavor. The intimate group size and knowledgeable guides ensure that you won’t just sip and go, but learn and appreciate. If you’re looking for a relaxed yet enriching evening in Brooklyn, this tour is well worth your time.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but it is geared towards adults who enjoy spirits and tasting experiences.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 3 hours, providing a relaxed pace with enough time at each stop.

Are all drinks included?
Yes, all tastings and light food pairings are included in the ticket price.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is transportation provided?
No, but the tour starts and ends at Industry City, which is accessible via public transit.

What’s the group size?
A maximum of 14 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

Is the tour appropriate for couples or groups?
Absolutely. It’s a fun option for both romantic dates and friends’ outings.

Will I hear the guide clearly?
Yes, wireless headsets are provided to ensure everyone can catch the stories and details.

How should I dress?
Casual and comfortable clothing is fine, but consider layers in case of evening chill.

This cocktail tour provides a delicious, authentic taste of Brooklyn’s artisanal spirits scene, perfect for those who value craftsmanship and good company. It balances fun and education, making it a rewarding experience whether you’re a seasoned cocktail lover or just curious about Brooklyn’s local distilling ethos.