Kastelruth: Guided tour of the Distillery tasting of grappa, gin, and liqueurs

If you’re exploring the stunning landscapes of the Dolomites and want to add a flavorful twist to your trip, a visit to the Zu Plun distillery in Kastelruth offers an authentic peek into Italy’s craft spirit scene. For just $29 per person, you get a 1 to 1.5-hour guided walk through the family-run operation, with the chance to taste a selection of gins, grappa, and liqueurs made from local herbs, fruits, and mountain spring water.

What makes this experience stand out is the storytelling—you’ll hear about generations of family tradition, craftsmanship, and the natural ingredients that give these spirits their unique character. The aroma of juniper and alpine herbs immediately hits you as you step into the historic courtyard, setting the perfect scene for a memorable and flavorful journey.

A potential downside? This tour is not suitable for children or pregnant women, and there’s no transportation included, so you’ll need to arrange your own way to get there. Still, if you’re a lover of authentic, small-batch spirits and want to understand the process behind them, this is a top-notch stop. It’s especially ideal for curious travelers keen on tasting locally crafted products in a genuine setting—perfect for those who appreciate family heritage, craftsmanship, and natural ingredients.

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Key Points

Authentic Family Tradition: The Zu Plun distillery has been transforming local herbs and mountain water into spirits for generations.
Educational and Tasty: You’ll learn about the distillation process and enjoy tastings of gins, grappa, and liqueurs.
Beautiful Location: Situated between rugged peaks and lush meadows, the setting enhances the tasting experience.
Copper Still Demonstration: Watch the magic of distillation in shiny copper stills, a highlight for fans of craftsmanship.
Inclusive & Accessible: Guided in German, Italian, and English, with no barriers for wheelchair users.
Value for Money: At $29, this tour offers a genuine look into Italian distilling traditions, with tastings included.

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Exploring the Zu Plun Distillery: An In-Depth Look

The Location and Setting

The Zu Plun distillery is located in Kastelruth, a charming village in the South Tyrol region of Italy’s Dolomites. The moment you arrive, the outdoor courtyard welcomes you with the aroma of juniper and alpine herbs, hinting at the natural treasures inside. Surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery, this site offers a peaceful yet inspiring environment for learning about spirits crafted at high altitude.

The Tour Experience

Starting in the historic courtyard, your guide—fluent in German, Italian, and English—begins by sharing stories of the family’s long-standing tradition. You’ll learn how mountain spring water, hand-picked herbs, and ripe fruits come together to create these spirits. The personal touch and storytelling make the experience more engaging than a typical factory tour, giving you a sense of connection to the land and the family behind the brand.

As you follow the process, you’ll see the copper stills—shiny and traditional—being used for distillation. Watching this stage is like witnessing a small piece of alchemy, where raw botanicals are transformed into liquid gold. The guide might explain that gentle distillation in copper preserves the aromatic qualities of the botanicals, resulting in spirits with genuine character.

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Tasting the Spirits

The highlight? The tasting session, where you’ll sample several carefully selected gins, liqueurs, and grappa. Reviewers have praised the quality and authenticity of these drinks, often remarking on how they “carry the soul of the Dolomites.” You can expect to taste drops that reflect the natural environment—fresh, aromatic, and full of local flavor.

One review even mentions that the spirits “we held in our hand carried the essence of the mountains,” emphasizing how genuine and handcrafted these products are. The tasting is an immersive experience, allowing you to appreciate the subtle differences in botanicals and distillation techniques.

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The Value of the Experience

At $29, the price includes the guided tour, explanations of the production process, and the tastings—a package that offers both education and sensory delight. It’s an excellent value for travelers who want a deeper understanding of Italian craft spirits beyond just sampling them at a bar.

Practical Considerations

Since there’s no transportation included, you’ll need to plan how to get there, especially if you’re staying outside Kastelruth. The tour is accessible for wheelchair users and suitable for those with mobility needs, which broadens its appeal. Be aware that children and pregnant women are not permitted to participate in the tastings, but non-drinkers might still enjoy the stories and the scenic setting.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

If you’re interested in local traditions, craftsmanship, and natural ingredients, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for spirits enthusiasts, curious travelers, or anyone wanting an authentic experience that combines culture, nature, and a dash of alchemy. It also works well in combination with other outdoor or cultural activities in the Dolomites.

The Sum Up

The Zu Plun distillery tour in Kastelruth offers a genuine taste of Italy’s artisanal spirit-making, set against the stunning backdrop of the Dolomites. The combination of personal storytelling, traditional craftsmanship, and authentic tasting makes it a memorable experience for those interested in local culture and high-quality spirits. The accessible location, friendly guides, and the chance to see copper stills in action make this a worthwhile stop for travelers who want to deepen their appreciation of Italy’s regional character.

While it’s a short experience, the stories and flavors stay with you long after the last sip. It’s especially suited for curious, adventurous spirits lovers or anyone keen on understanding the craft behind the spirits they enjoy. Just remember, you’ll need your own transportation, and it’s not suitable for kids or pregnant women.

If you love discovering authentic local traditions with a good dose of tasting, this tour is an excellent addition to your Dolomite adventure.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
No, transportation to the distillery is not included. You’ll need to arrange your own way there, which is worth considering since the location is in a scenic but somewhat remote area.

How long does the tour last?
The tour typically lasts around 1 to 1.5 hours, giving plenty of time for the walk through the distillery, stories, and tastings.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is barrier-free and suitable for wheelchair users, making it accessible to a wider range of visitors.

What languages are the guides available in?
The guides speak German, Italian, and English, ensuring most visitors can follow along easily.

Can children participate?
Children under 18 are not permitted to taste alcohol, and the experience is not suitable for children. The focus is on adult spirits tasting and education.

What is included in the price?
The $29 fee covers the guided tour, explanations of the production process, and a tasting of selected gins, grappa, and liqueurs.

Are there any restrictions for pregnant women?
Yes, pregnant women are advised not to participate in the tasting due to alcohol consumption.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility to plan your trip.

What makes this distillery unique?
It’s a family-run operation with a long-standing tradition that emphasizes natural ingredients and craftsmanship, producing spirits that truly reflect the Dolomites’ essence.