Discover Tasmania’s Premier Gin Scene on a Small-Group Tour from Hobart
Imagine spending a day learning about the craft that turns local botanicals into some of Australia’s finest gins. This Signature Gin Tour in Hobart offers a relaxed, intimate way to explore the region’s vibrant distilling scene. Priced at $211 per person for a 7-hour journey, you’ll visit 3 to 4 carefully selected distilleries with a private driver, enjoying tastings and behind-the-scenes insights.
What we love most? First, the small group setting makes for a friendly, personalized experience. Second, the knowledgeable guides, like Ross, bring genuine enthusiasm and local expertise that elevate the tour. You’ll also appreciate the chance to sample a variety of gins—each with its own story and flavor profile—without worrying about driving afterward.
A possible consideration is that lunch isn’t included in the tour price, so you’ll want to budget for that separately. The tour is tailored for adults and those keen on spirits, making it perfect for couples or small groups of friends who enjoy tasting new flavors and learning the craft behind them.
If you’re curious about Tasmania’s craft spirits, especially gin, and enjoy relaxed, small-group experiences, this tour is an excellent fit. It’s particularly well-suited for those looking to combine education, tasting, and a bit of local sightseeing into one day.
Key Points
- Intimate Group: Limited to six participants for a personalized experience.
- All-Inclusive Tastings: Cost covers all gin tastings and distillery tours.
- Comfortable Transportation: Private driver with air conditioning, pick-up, and drop-off within 5 km of Hobart CBD.
- Local Insights: Guides like Ross share personal favorites and stories behind each distillery.
- Flexible Itinerary: Visit 3–4 distilleries; possible extra stop at Richmond or a local shop on the way home.
- Adults Only: Designed for those 18+ who enjoy spirits and social experiences.
An In-Depth Look at the Signature Gin Tour in Tasmania
This tour offers more than just a day of tasting—it’s about understanding the story of gin from its humble origins to Tasmania’s booming modern scene. With a carefully curated route, knowledgeable guides, and a relaxed pace, you’ll get a real feel for the local craft spirit industry.
Planning more time in Hobart? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
The Itinerary: What to Expect
The day begins with a hotel pickup around 9:30 a.m. within five kilometers of Hobart’s CBD. The guide will transport you in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle—a welcome relief on warm days—setting the tone for a stress-free experience. We loved the emphasis on small group size, which ensures you’re not just another passenger but part of a friendly, engaging group.
Your first stop takes you to a local distillery where you’ll taste and learn about their unique gin production. The guide will share insights about the distilling process and what makes these gins special. This initial tasting sets the stage for the day, giving you a solid foundation of what to look for in a quality gin.
The next stops could include Spring Bay Distillery or Killara Distillery—both known for their handcrafted spirits. Here, you’ll get to meet the distillers, see the equipment, and hear about the inspiration behind each small-batch gin. We found that meeting the makers adds a lot of authenticity and depth to the tasting experience.
Depending on timing and weather, the tour might make a quick stop in Richmond, where you can stroll on Australia’s oldest bridge or browse a traditional lolly shop. This offers a light, scenic break and a chance to stretch your legs before the final distillery visit.
The last main stop is at Drifters End Distillery, where you’ll explore their distilling process in more detail, often including a short tour before tasting their latest creations. The tastings are included in the tour price, and you’ll likely sample a broad spectrum of flavors—from juniper-forward to more botanical, fruit-infused options.
The Interpersonal Touch and Knowledgeable Guides
Many reviewers highlight the excellent knowledge and friendliness of guides like Ross. Marie-Claude from Canada shared, “Ross brought us to four of his favorite distilleries and even diverted to another spot for extra tastings,” which she found to be a perfect ending to her day. Her comment underscores how guides often go beyond the basic itinerary, tailoring the experience based on the group’s interests.
This personalized approach makes the experience feel genuine. Guides are passionate about sharing Tasmania’s growing gin industry and are eager to answer questions, making it more than just a tasting tour. Expect fun anecdotes, expert insights, and recommendations for further exploring Tasmania’s food and drink scene.
The Value of the Tour
While $211 may seem like a steep price, it includes all tastings, transport, and a bottle of water—which adds real value considering the cost of individual tastings at multiple distilleries. The convenience of having a private driver means you can relax and focus solely on enjoying the experience, without the worry of driving afterward.
The tour is catered for adults only, making it ideal for those who appreciate spirits and social outings. Since lunch isn’t included, you might find it advantageous to eat beforehand or plan to grab a bite during the travelling window or at a local stop.
More Great Tours NearbyWhy It’s a Great Match for Travelers
This tour suits spirit lovers, curious travelers, and small groups wanting a more personal, behind-the-scenes look at Tasmania’s distilling culture. If you enjoy learning about local industries and tasting authentic, small-batch spirits, you’ll appreciate the depth of knowledge the guides bring. It’s also an excellent choice for those who prefer small-group experiences over larger, more commercial tours.
Final Thoughts
The Signature Gin Tour from Hobart offers a well-rounded, relaxed way to explore Tasmania’s craft gin scene. It combines education, tasting, and a touch of local sightseeing in a package that respects your palate and curiosity. The small group setting fosters a friendly atmosphere, and the guides’ enthusiasm makes learning about gin genuinely enjoyable.
If you’re someone who appreciates quality spirits, values authentic conversations with makers, and enjoys a leisurely day out, this tour will serve you well. It’s not just about drinking—it’s about understanding the craftsmanship and discovering new flavors along the way.
However, if you’re in a hurry or prefer an included lunch, you might want to plan accordingly. Realistically, this is a premium experience that provides a taste of Tasmania’s innovative distilling industry in a comfortable, engaging format.
FAQs
Is the tour suitable for people who don’t drink alcohol?
This tour is designed for adults 18 and over and is catered for those who enjoy spirits. It’s not suitable for non-drinkers or pregnant women.
How many distilleries will we visit?
You will visit 3 to 4 distilleries, with the itinerary depending on availability, weather, and timing.
Is transportation included?
Yes, a private driver and air-conditioned vehicle are part of the package, with pickup and drop-off within 5 km of Hobart CBD.
Are tastings included in the price?
Absolutely. The cost covers all gin tastings and a distillery tour at each stop.
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, water, and casual clothes are recommended. Bring a phone or camera for photos, but no alcohol in the vehicle.
Can I customize the stops or itinerary?
The stops are based on the guide’s favorites and schedule. Some flexibility exists, such as a possible stop in Richmond or a local shop, depending on timing.
How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for about 7 hours, starting around 9:30 a.m. and returning around 4:30 p.m.
Is lunch included?
No, lunch is at your own expense, so plan to eat beforehand or during a break.
In the end, this gin tour offers a fine blend of learning, tasting, and local charm. It’s a thoughtful way to spend a day in Tasmania, especially if you value personalized experiences and are eager to explore the island’s craft spirits scene.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Tours in Hobart
- From Hobart: Day Tour to Maria Island with Bus Connection
- From Hobart: 2 Day Cradle Mountain Tour
- From Hobart: Mt. Field, Mt. Wellington and Wildlife Day Tour
- From Hobart: Mt Wellington Pinnacle 2 Hour Small Group Tour
- From Hobart: The Ultimate 10-Day Tour of Tasmania’s Regions
- Hobart: Hobart, Richmond, & Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary Tour
More Tour Reviews in Hobart
- From Hobart: Day Tour to Maria Island with Bus Connection
- From Hobart: Port Arthur Cape Raoul Wilderness Cruise
- From Hobart: 2 Day Cradle Mountain Tour
- From Hobart: Mt. Field, Mt. Wellington and Wildlife Day Tour
- From Hobart: Mt Wellington Pinnacle 2 Hour Small Group Tour
- From Hobart: The Ultimate 10-Day Tour of Tasmania’s Regions
More Hobart experiences we've covered
- From Hobart: Day Tour to Maria Island with Bus Connection
- From Hobart: Port Arthur Cape Raoul Wilderness Cruise
- From Hobart: 2 Day Cradle Mountain Tour
- From Hobart: Mt. Field, Mt. Wellington and Wildlife Day Tour
- From Hobart: Mt Wellington Pinnacle 2 Hour Small Group Tour
- From Hobart: The Ultimate 10-Day Tour of Tasmania’s Regions
- Hobart: Hobart, Richmond, & Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary Tour
- Cruise Ship – Wine Shore Excursion – Hobart
- From Hobart: Full-Day Bruny Island Tour with Guide
- Hobart: Bruny Island Gourmet Sightseeing Day Tour