Nice: Create your own gin with a master distiller

Imagine spending two hours in the heart of Nice, not just observing but actually crafting your own gin alongside a passionate master distiller. For $234 per group (up to two people), this experience offers a blend of artisanal skill, flavor discovery, and personal creativity. Located just a five-minute walk from the Port of Nice, this workshop takes place in a quiet, authentic distillery — perfect for those looking to add a unique, memorable touch to their trip.

What we love about this experience are two key details: first, the chance to select from over 30 botanicals and spices, giving you the freedom to craft a truly personalized gin; second, the opportunity to distill in a real copper still, which ensures an authentic process that many commercial brands can’t match. It’s a hands-on activity that promises both learning and fun, ideal for couples or friends eager for a creative break.

A potential consideration might be that this experience is limited to participants over 18, so it’s not suitable for children. Also, as transportation isn’t included, you’ll need to plan your arrival at the meeting point. This workshop is best suited for adventurous spirits who enjoy tasting and creating, especially those interested in the craft behind artisan spirits.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Create your own gin using a copper still guided by a master distiller.
• Custom Flavors: Choose from over 30 botanicals, spices, and fruits to personalize your recipe.
• Personalized Bottle: Leave with a 50cl bottle of your own gin, complete with a custom label.
• Educational Element: Learn about the history and secrets of gin distillation.
• Tasting Finale: Finish with a convivial tasting of a house cocktail made with Gin Mistello.
• Group Size & Flexibility: Limited to 8 participants, with the option to reserve now and pay later.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Practical Look at the Experience

Location and Accessibility

The distillery is situated at 13 Rue Bavastro, in a tranquil side street close to Nice’s vibrant port. Its proximity makes it easy to include in a day of exploring the French Riviera. Since transportation isn’t included, you’ll want to plan your route to arrive on time, but once there, you’re rewarded with a cozy, authentically local setting.

The Itinerary: What Happens During the Workshop

The workshop begins with an introduction to the world of gin—covering its history and the basics of distillation. This is not just a technical lesson but also a fascinating peek into an artisan craft. You’ll then move into selecting your ingredients from a curated list of over 30 botanicals, which might include herbs, spices, fruits, and other flavorings.

Once your recipe is set, you’ll distill your gin in a copper still, guided carefully by your instructor, who is passionate and knowledgeable. The process allows you to get a hands-on feel for how the spirit is made, and although it’s a shorter session, it’s enough to see the magic of transformation from raw botanicals to distilled spirit.

The Personal Touch: Custom Labels and Bottles

After distillation, you’ll have the opportunity to design a label for your 50cl bottle, making this a truly personal souvenir. This step adds a creative element, letting you express your style or commemorate the experience. The final product, a handcrafted bottle of gin, is something you can take home or give as a thoughtful gift.

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The Tasting Finale

The experience wraps up with a tasting session, featuring a house cocktail made with Gin Mistello. It’s a convivial moment that allows you to appreciate the flavors you’ve helped craft, all while enjoying the company of fellow participants. The tasting provides a relaxed, social conclusion to your hands-on journey.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The authenticity of creating your own gin is the biggest draw. Many tours simply offer a tasting or a visit to a distillery, but this one actively involves you in the process. The opportunity to distill in a copper still elevates the experience—it’s not just a demonstration but a real, tangible process.

Plus, the focus on personalization—with a custom label and your own recipe—makes this activity a memorable keepsake. Several reviews praise the instructor’s passion and patience, which enhance the learning experience without feeling intimidating.

Considerations

While the activity is well-rounded, it’s worth noting that transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to get yourself there. Also, children under 18 are not permitted, which could be a minor inconvenience for families traveling together. The cost, at $234 for two, might seem high, but when you consider the personalized experience, the distillation process, and the inclusion of a custom bottle, it offers good value for those interested in spirits or craft activities.

Who Will Love This?

This workshop is perfect for couples, friends, or spirit enthusiasts who enjoy hands-on activities and learning new skills. It’s particularly appealing if you want a unique souvenir from your trip or enjoy exploring local craftsmanship. It suits those curious about gin and artisan distillation, but it’s also an excellent choice for anyone looking for a fun, creative break in Nice.

In-Depth Analysis of the Experience

Thematic Focus and Educational Value

Participants love the educational aspect. One reviewer mentioned, “We loved the way the instructor explained the history of gin and the distillation process,” which shows how the workshop balances technical insight with storytelling. Learning about botanicals is especially engaging, with a variety of herbs, fruits, and spices that can be combined in countless ways.

Crafting Your Own Spirit: A Hands-On Approach

The process of selecting botanicals from the 30+ options is both fun and instructive. You can experiment with flavors, which makes the experience interactive. Since the distillation happens in your own copper still, you get a real sense of craftsmanship that’s often missing in commercial spirits. This personalized approach turns a simple tasting into a full-on creative adventure.

The Final Product: A Personal Keepsake

Leaving with a custom-labeled bottle of gin adds significant value. Many participants describe their bottles as “a special souvenir” or “a meaningful gift.” The ability to design your own label allows for personal expression, making the experience memorable long after the workshop ends.

The Tasting Experience

The conclusion with a house cocktail made from Gin Mistello is more than just a toast; it’s a chance to appreciate how your flavors come together. The convivial atmosphere and the opportunity to sample a crafted spirit provide a satisfying end to the two-hour activity.

Group Size and Atmosphere

Limited to 8 participants, the workshop maintains an intimate, friendly vibe. This small-group setting allows for personalized attention from the instructor, ensuring everyone can ask questions and participate fully. The instructor’s enthusiasm and clarity receive praise, making the process accessible and enjoyable.

Pricing and Value

At $234 for a two-person group, it’s a premium activity but one that offers hands-on involvement, education, and a personalized product. If you’re a lover of spirits, craft activities, or unique souvenirs, many find it worth the splurge. Plus, being able to reserve now and pay later adds flexibility, which is handy when planning a busy itinerary.

Who Should Book This Tour?

If you’re looking for an interactive, artisanal experience that provides a tangible takeaway, this workshop is a prime choice. It’s great for couples wanting a shared adventure, friends seeking a fun activity, or spirits enthusiasts eager to learn about gin production. It’s less suited for families with children or travelers on a tight budget, but for those who value quality, authenticity, and a splash of creativity, it hits the mark.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the workshop price?
No, transportation to the distillery is not included, so you’ll need to plan your own way there.

Can I participate if I don’t drink alcohol?
The workshop involves distillation and tasting of spirits, so alcohol consumption is part of the experience, and it’s not suitable for minors.

How many people are in each group?
The workshop is limited to 8 participants, ensuring a small, personalized experience.

What do I get to take home?
You’ll leave with a 50cl bottle of your own gin, complete with a custom label you create during the session.

Is it suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The instructor explains the basics clearly, making it accessible whether you’re a novice or have some knowledge.

Do I need to prepare anything?
No special preparation is needed, just arrive ready to learn, experiment, and have fun.

What is the age restriction?
Participants must be over 18 to take part in the distillation and tasting.

Final Words

This “Create Your Own Gin” workshop in Nice offers more than just a tasting—it’s a hands-on journey into the art of distillation. You’ll learn about botanicals, craft your unique recipe, and leave with a personalized bottle that’s a meaningful reminder of your trip. It’s a perfect blend of education, creativity, and local craftsmanship that suits anyone eager to add a special touch to their visit.

While it might not be the cheapest activity, the quality of the experience and the authenticity make it worthwhile for those interested in spirits or looking for a memorable, craft-focused activity. It’s especially suitable for couples or friends who appreciate hands-on experiences and want a unique souvenir from Nice.

In the end, this workshop offers a rare chance to step behind the scenes of gin-making, turning a simple spirit into a personal masterpiece. Whether you’re a connoisseur or just curious, it’s a fun, rewarding addition to your French Riviera itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: