Newcastle: Spirit School Experience at Earp Distilling Co.

Location: New South Wales, Australia
Price: $115 per person
Duration: 3 hours
Provider Rating: 4.6

Imagine stepping into the shoes of a distiller for a few hours—sampling botanicals, operating a miniature still, and blending your own spirit. That’s exactly what you get at the Spirit School at Earp Distilling Co. in Newcastle. For just $115, this 3-hour hands-on experience offers a genuine taste of the art of spirit-making, coupled with a chance to take home a 500ml bottle of your own creation.

What we love about this experience is the personal interaction with an expert who guides you through each step, making the process approachable and fun. And the fact that you get to craft a custom bottle of spirit, hand-filled and labeled by yourself, is truly a memorable takeaway. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to plan your journey accordingly.

This activity suits those with a curiosity for spirits and a desire to see behind the scenes of distilling. It’s particularly well-suited for couples or small groups looking for a unique, educational activity that combines learning with a bit of creativity.

Key Points

Hands-on distilling experience with expert guidance
Create and take home a 500ml bottle of your own spirit
Learn the history and art of distilling from knowledgeable staff
Access to an extensive botanical selection for flavoring your spirit
Suitable for ages 18+; wheelchair accessible
Perfect for pairs or small groups seeking a memorable, authentic activity

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Spirit School Experience at Earp Distilling Co.

If you’re in Newcastle and interested in spirits, this short but sweet distilling class offers a rare chance to get behind the scenes of spirit production. It’s not just about tasting—although there is plenty of that—it’s about understanding what makes a good spirit, from the choice of botanicals to the art of blending.

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Location and Atmosphere

The distillery is a modern, welcoming space where you’ll check in with your host, ready to step into the role of a distiller. No need to worry about previous experience—this class is designed to be accessible and engaging for beginners. The setting is practical but inspiring, with the state-of-the-art miniature still taking center stage, giving you a tactile and visual understanding of the process.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The class runs for three hours in the afternoon. From the moment you arrive, the atmosphere is friendly and educational. You’ll start with a brief introduction to the history and art of distilling. Your guide, likely a knowledgeable expert, will walk you through the process, explaining everything from choosing botanicals sourced from Australia and abroad to the importance of “cuts” in distillation—those crucial moments that determine the flavor profile.

Next, it’s your turn to operate the miniature still. You’ll learn how to pour and control the heat, and how to carefully collect and blend different “cuts” to craft a balanced spirit. The process is hands-on and interactive, making it easy to understand why distilling is both an art and a science.

Botanical Selection and Flavoring

One of the highlights is the extensive selection of botanicals. You’ll have access to a variety of ingredients, which allows you to experiment with flavors, creating a spirit that reflects your taste. Whether you prefer something citrusy, herbal, or spicy, the options are there to inspire your creativity.

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The Final Step: Bottling Your Spirit

At the end of the session, you’ll fill and label your custom 500ml ceramic bottle. This personal touch makes the experience memorable—it’s not just a souvenir, but a genuine product of your handiwork. Many reviews mention the pride and fun in designing their own label, making this a perfect gift idea or keepsake.

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Authenticity and Value

While the cost might seem modest, the value here is significant. You’re paying not just for the spirits but for the knowledge and experience. Plus, the hands-on nature means you’re actively involved, not just watching a demonstration. The ability to walk away with a custom bottle adds a tangible reward that’s hard to top.

What Participants Say

Reviewers have expressed appreciation for the expert guidance and the informative nature of the class. One said, “We loved the way the instructor explained the process clearly, making it accessible for us novices.” Another noted how satisfying it was to create a spirit from scratch and leave with a bottle they designed themselves.

The class’s small group size fosters a relaxed environment, and participants appreciate the chance to ask questions about the distilling process, flavor profiles, and even the history of spirits in Australia.

Practical Details

Transportation is not included, so plan to arrive by taxi or public transit if needed. The class is wheelchair accessible, and participants are advised to wear comfortable clothing and bring a camera to capture their handiwork. You must be over 18 to participate, and bring valid ID for age verification.

Note that the class might be rescheduled depending on the number of participants, which is common for intimate experiences like this. No food or drinks are included, but the focus is on the craft rather than the tasting—though some may choose to sample their own spirit or purchase other offerings at the distillery.

Why This Experience Works for Travelers

This distilling experience is ideal for curious spirits enthusiasts, couples seeking a romantic or fun activity, or small groups trying something uniquely local. It’s perfect if you want more than just a tasting; you want to see, smell, and touch the process that produces the spirits you enjoy.

However, if you’re on a tight schedule or prefer guided tours with transportation included, this class might require some planning. Also, since no food or drinks are provided, supplement your experience with a nearby meal or drink after the class.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

If you’re interested in learning about the craft of distilling and appreciate a personalized, hands-on activity, you’ll find this class engaging. It’s especially suitable for those over 18 who enjoy small, interactive classes that end with a tangible souvenir. Couples, friends, or small groups looking for a memorable activity with a focus on Australian-made spirits will get a lot out of this.

This experience is less about celebrity chef-style entertainment and more about authentic craftsmanship and education. If you’re keen on understanding what makes a good spirit and want a fun story to tell at your next dinner party, this class will deliver.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The class is designed for all levels, focusing on the basics of distilling and blending, making it accessible even if you’ve never stepped behind a still before.

What do I need to bring?
Just a camera and your curiosity. Wear comfortable shoes and clothes, as you’ll be actively participating.

Can I go with a group?
Yes, the experience is ideal for pairs or small groups. Group sizes are small enough to ensure personalized guidance.

What is included in the price?
The 3-hour distilling session, expert guidance, access to botanicals, use of a mini still, and a 500ml bottle of your own spirit.

Is transportation provided?
No, transportation is not included. You will need to arrange your own way to and from the distillery.

Are there age restrictions?
Yes, participants must be over 18 and bring valid ID.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Final Thoughts

The Spirit School at Earp Distilling Co. offers a rare opportunity to understand and participate in the art of spirit-making. It’s a well-balanced experience—educational, fun, and rewarding—with a tangible souvenir to take home. It’s best suited for those who want to see behind the curtain of distilling, appreciate Australian botanicals, and enjoy a hands-on activity that’s memorable and authentic.

While it’s not a comprehensive tour of the distillery or a tasting-focused event, it provides a personal connection to the craft of spirits that few other experiences can match. If you’re a curious traveler, enjoy small-group activities, and want a meaningful story to bring home, this class deserves a spot on your Newcastle itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: