Whisky Bars & Gin Joints: Melbourne Walking Tour

Experience the Best of Melbourne’s Whiskey and Gin Culture

If you’re a fan of spirits and enjoy discovering local hotspots, the Whisky Bars & Gin Joints: Melbourne Walking Tour offers a fascinating peek into the city’s cocktail culture. For around $115 per person, you get about two and a half hours exploring some of Melbourne’s coolest hidden bars, tasting a variety of whiskeys, gins, and even pairing drinks with cheese and chocolates. Led by a knowledgeable guide, this intimate tour (max 10 people) is perfect for those wanting a relaxed, social way to learn about Melbourne’s spirited past and present.

Two things we love about this tour: first, the chance to visit secret, character-filled bars that you might never find on your own — places that have been around for years, hiding in plain sight. Second, the inclusive tastings at each venue make it easy to appreciate the flavors, without worrying about extra costs.

A potential consideration is the tour’s focus on adults aged 18-90. While that broad age range invites diverse participants, it’s mainly suited for those comfortable with alcohol tastings and a bit of a lively bar scene. If you’re interested in history, drinks, and a small-group atmosphere, this tour is a great fit.

This experience suits travelers who love authentic local spots, enjoy learning stories behind the drinks, and want a fun, social afternoon. It’s especially ideal if you’re curious about Melbourne’s spirits scene or looking for a memorable way to explore the city’s nightlife.

Key Points

• Small Group Intimacy: Max 10 participants ensures personalized attention and a cozy atmosphere.
• Inclusive Tastings: Sample signature gins, whiskeys, and a beer pairing, all included in the price.
• Hidden Gems: Visit some of Melbourne’s coolest, lesser-known bars with character and history.
• Authentic Stories: Learn about Australia’s prohibition days, shipwrecks, and bootlegging through engaging stories from your guide.
• Exclusive Final Stop: End at a secret distillery, a highlight for spirits enthusiasts.
• Take-Home Material: Receive a special Melbourne Bar Map to remember your adventure and find your way back later.

A Deep Dive into the Melbourne Walking Tour

Starting Point and Overview

Meet at the Parliament of Victoria on Spring Street, a central and accessible location in Melbourne’s CBD. The tour kicks off around 3:30 pm, making it an ideal afternoon activity—just enough time to enjoy some local spirits without it interfering with your evening plans. The tour wraps up on Lonsdale Street, a lively part of the city with plenty of options for dinner or a nightcap.

With a duration of roughly 2 hours and 30 minutes, the tour strikes a good balance—long enough to get a good feel for Melbourne’s spirit scene but not so long that it becomes a full-day commitment. The small size of the group (up to 10) helps keep the experience personal and relaxed, allowing plenty of time to ask questions and chat with your guide.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Stop 1: Little Lon Distilling Co.
Your journey begins with a tasting of three signature gins paired with cheese. This cozy, local distillery offers a fresh perspective on Australian gin-making. The guide, possibly Mer based on reviews, shares stories about how these spirits are crafted, giving you insights into Melbourne’s craft gin scene. The pairing with cheese makes it a delicious start, and the 45-minute visit lets you savor the flavors without feeling rushed.

Stop 2: Whisky & Alement
Next, you’ll head to a bar renowned for its focus on Victorian and Australian whiskeys. Here, the tasting includes three different whiskeys, each from local distillers, paired with chocolates. This combination is a highlight, as it allows you to compare different styles and flavors while indulging in some sweet accompaniments. The stories behind each distiller add depth to the tasting, and many reviews mention the well-informed, friendly guides.

Stop 3: Boilermaker House
The tour concludes with a boilermaker, a classic pairing of beer and whiskey. This hour-long stop emphasizes the social aspect of drinking, and you’ll likely find it a lively, fun end to your afternoon. This bar is known for its vibrant atmosphere and creative drink options, making it a perfect setting for conversation and relaxation.

The Hidden Distillery Finale

One of the tour’s unique features is ending at a secret, hidden distillery. The element of surprise adds excitement and a sense of discovery. Here, you might find yourself in an atmosphere that feels like a well-kept secret—ideal for spirits aficionados wanting to see a more intimate side of Melbourne’s distilling scene.

Why This Tour Works Well

The tastings at each bar are included, removing the hassle of paying separately or worrying about overspending. This makes the experience great value, especially when considering the quality of the venues and the stories you’ll hear. The Melbourne Bar Map given at the end is a thoughtful touch, helping you continue your exploration on your own.

The reviews reinforce how engaging and memorable this tour is. One customer called it “very informative and entertaining,” praising the “lots of character” at the secret bars and the “delightful” guide, Mer. The focus on local spirits and hidden venues makes it clear that this isn’t just a drinking tour but an authentic glimpse into Melbourne’s lively beverage scene.

Practical Details and Considerations

• The tour is open to most travelers, but it’s tailored for those who enjoy alcohol tastings and are comfortable in a bar setting.
• Public transportation nearby makes it easy to reach the starting point.
• The price of $115.44 includes all tastings, making it straightforward to budget.
• Since service animals are allowed, if you require assistance, this tour can accommodate.

Final Thoughts

This walking tour offers a fun, educational, and tasty way to spend an afternoon in Melbourne. Whether you’re a spirits lover, a history buff, or simply looking for a different way to experience the city’s nightlife, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. The small-group setting means you get a personalized experience, and the inclusion of hidden bars and a secret distillery adds a layer of intrigue that larger tours often lack.

If you appreciate delicious drinks, engaging stories, and authentic venues, this tour hits all the right notes. It’s particularly suited for those interested in craft spirits, local history, and social experiences. Just be prepared for a lively atmosphere and a fair amount of tasting—perfect for those ready to explore Melbourne’s spirited side.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
It’s designed for 18 to 90-year-olds, so as long as you’re of legal drinking age and enjoy spirits, you’ll be fine.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, giving ample time for tastings and stories without tiring out.

Are the tastings included in the price?
Yes, the tastings at each bar are included, covering three gins, three whiskeys, and a beer pairing.

Can I participate if I don’t drink alcohol?
While the focus is on spirits and tastings, non-drinkers can still enjoy the stories, the venues, and the social atmosphere but should be aware that the main experience revolves around alcohol.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Parliament of Victoria on Spring Street and finishes on Lonsdale Street in Melbourne’s CBD.

Is the tour accessible by public transportation?
Yes, the meeting point is near public transit options, making it easy to reach.

What is the group size?
A maximum of 10 participants ensures a small, personalized experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, allowing flexibility.

Do I receive a guide’s contact information?
Yes, the tour provider, Drinking History Tours, can be contacted via [email protected] or +61402242982 for questions or special arrangements.

In the end, this Melbourne Whisky & Gin Walking Tour combines the pleasures of tasting with engaging storytelling and a peek into some of the city’s best-kept bar secrets. Whether you’re a spirits enthusiast or a curious traveler, it’s a delightful way to spend an afternoon—and you might just leave with a new appreciation for Melbourne’s spirited past and present.