Aberdeen: Gin Distillery Discovery Tour with Welcome Drink

A visit to Aberdeen’s City of Aberdeen Distillery offers a practical and engaging way to explore Scottish gin-making right in the heart of the city. For $36 per person, this 1-hour guided tour combines history, hands-on learning, and tastings, making it ideal for gin enthusiasts or curious travelers interested in Scottish spirits. Led by the head distiller, the experience emphasizes local distilling heritage and provides samples of Aberdeen’s own range of gins, including both London Dry and Fruit gins.

A standout feature is the welcome double G&T, served as you arrive in the historic railway arch setting, where trains rumble overhead, adding a unique charm. The tour is wheelchair accessible and includes a goodie bag and a 50ml miniature to take home, enhancing the value of this experience. While the 1-hour duration might feel brief, the informative narration and tastings make it a memorable, well-rounded introduction to Aberdeen’s gin scene.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: $36 per person for a 1-hour guided tour led by the head distiller
• Location: Situated in a historic railway arch in the city center of Aberdeen
• Welcome Drink: Double G&T served on arrival, with alternative mixers available
• Tastings: Sample at least 3 Aberdeen gins from the local range
• Learning Opportunities: Discover how to make your own gin with over 100 botanicals to choose from
• Extras: Includes a goodie bag and a 50ml miniature to take home

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The Aberdeen Distillery and Its Historic Setting

This distillery is located in a railway arch right in Aberdeen’s city center, giving the experience an authentic industrial feel. The historic structure adds to the atmosphere as trains rumble overhead, creating a backdrop that connects modern gin-making with a touch of local history. The distillery’s setting is on a single level, making it wheelchair accessible and easy to navigate.

Inside, the distilling space is accessible for guests to observe the production process, although some areas are restricted. The guided tour is led by the head distiller, who shares insights about Aberdeen’s distilling heritage and the crafting of Scottish gin.

What You Experience in the 1-Hour Tour

The tour begins with a double G&T welcome drink, allowing guests to relax and settle in. The guide explains the history of gin production in Aberdeen and walks visitors through the distillery process, offering a guided exploration that includes a look into restricted production areas.

A key part of this experience is learning how to make gin at home. Visitors discover how to craft their own gin using over 100 botanicals, gaining knowledge about the variety of botanicals and how they influence flavor profiles. The Q&A session provides an opportunity to ask questions about gin ingredients, distilling techniques, and best practices.

Tasting the Aberdeen Gin Range

One of the most enjoyable aspects is sampling at least 3 gins from the Aberdeen range. The range includes both London Dry and Fruit gins, giving a taste of the diversity in local gin production. The guide introduces each flavor and shares insights into what makes Aberdeen’s gins unique.

Guests can expect to sample various flavors, which may include classic botanicals and more innovative fruit infusions. Non-alcoholic options, such as water and soft drinks, are available for those who prefer them.

Making Your Own Gin

A highlight of the tour is the demonstration of gin-making techniques. Visitors learn about the botanical selection process and how to craft a distinctive gin either at the distillery or at home. With over 100 botanicals available, guests leave with a greater understanding of flavor combinations and the art of gin crafting.

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Shopping for Aberdeen Gins and Souvenirs

After the tour, there is the opportunity to browse the distillery shop, which offers a variety of bottle sizes and tasting boxes. This is a great chance to purchase local gin and related merchandise. The goodie bag and the 50ml miniature provide tangible mementos of the experience and a taste of Aberdeen’s spirits to take home.

Practical Details and Accessibility

The distillery is accessible for wheelchairs, with a single-level layout and a dropped curb near the entrance. Visitors are advised to bring a passport or ID, especially since the minis are only for those 18 and over. The tour involves walking, but seats are available throughout for comfort.

The activity offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and reservation is flexible—you can book now and pay later. The English-speaking guide ensures clear explanations, and complimentary Wi-Fi is provided during the visit.

What Sets This Tour Apart

This gin discovery tour combines local heritage, hands-on learning, and tastings in a central, historic setting. It is particularly appealing for those interested in Scottish gin, history buffs, or anyone wanting a relaxed, informative experience. The inclusion of a welcome drink, personalized gin-making insights, and the chance to purchase locally distilled spirits make it a comprehensive package.

While the 1-hour duration is relatively short, the quality of information and variety of tastings compensate for it. The good reviews highlight the friendly guides and informative nature of the tour, with many noting it as entertaining and well-organized.

Aberdeen Gin Discovery Tour: Who Would Enjoy It?

This tour is well-suited for adults interested in spirits, local history, or craft distilling. It offers a casual atmosphere that makes learning about gin fun and accessible. Visitors who like sampling and tasting will find the range of Aberdeen gins particularly appealing.

The accessible layout and short duration make it a great option for a city break in Aberdeen or as part of a wider day of sightseeing. It is less suitable for children under 18 and pets (except guide dogs) are not permitted.

Final Thoughts on the Aberdeen Gin Tour

The City of Aberdeen Distillery’s Discovery Tour provides a practical, enjoyable way to understand Scottish gin in a historic and central location. The double G&T welcome, guided exploration, and sampling of local gins combine to deliver a well-rounded experience at an accessible price.

While the 1-hour duration means it’s not an exhaustive deep dive, the quality of the guide and tastings makes it a valuable introduction to Aberdeen’s distilling culture. The inclusion of a miniature bottle and goodie bag offers a sweet finishing touch.

This tour delivers on education, taste, and local flavor, making it a worthy choice for anyone curious about Scottish gin or looking for a charming, informative activity in the city.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
Yes, non-alcoholic options like water and soft drinks are available.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 1 hour.

Is the location accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the distillery is wheelchair accessible with a single-level layout and nearby curb.

What should I bring?
Guests are advised to bring a passport or ID card for age verification.

Can I purchase Aberdeen gins after the tour?
Absolutely, the distillery shop offers a variety of bottles and tasting boxes.

What’s included in the price?
The ticket includes a double G&T welcome drink, samples of at least 3 Aberdeen gins, a goodie bag, and a 50ml miniature to take home.

Is the tour family-friendly?
The experience is for adults 18+, especially since minis are for those 18 and over.

How do I book this tour?
You can reserve your spot online, with options for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby