Distilling Class @ Spirited Union Rum Co. (Amsterdam)

Unlock the Secrets of Rum Making in Amsterdam for $91.65

For those seeking a hands-on experience beyond the typical sightseeing in Amsterdam, the Distilling Class @ Spirited Union Rum Co. offers a unique chance to become a distiller for a day. Priced at $91.65 per person, this 1.5-hour workshop takes place at the Spirited Union Rum Co. distillery, located about 15 minutes from Amsterdam’s central area. The class is perfect for curious travelers eager to learn a new skill, create a personalized souvenir, and enjoy an authentic taste of craftsmanship. With a rating of 5.0 based on 39 reviews and 97% recommending the experience, it stands out as an engaging alternative to traditional city tours.

This experience is limited to 20 participants, ensuring a friendly, interactive environment led by knowledgeable distillery ambassadors. Booking is typically made around 49 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. The class includes a tour of the distillery, a hands-on operation of a copper pot still, and the opportunity to bottle and label your own botanical rum — a memorable keepsake from Amsterdam.

Key Points

• Hands-on distilling experience lasting 1.5 hours at Spirited Union Rum Co.
• Create your own botanical rum using four unique recipes: floral, citrus, spiced, or tropical.
• Operate a copper pot still under guidance from expert distillery ambassadors.
• Take home a personalized bottle of your self-distilled rum, complete with custom label.
• Located 15 minutes from Amsterdam city center, with nearby public transportation options.
• Free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the experience.

Starting at Spirited Union Rum Co. & Distillery in Amsterdam

The tour begins at Spirited Union Rum Co. & Distillery, situated at Helicopterstraat 32, 1059 CG Amsterdam. The meeting point is easy to reach via public transportation, and the tour starts promptly at 3:00 pm. This location is a dedicated space where the art of rum distilling is explained and demonstrated, making it suitable for those interested in spirits, DIY projects, or unique souvenirs.

The distillery tour provides context on the process of creating botanical rum, setting the stage for the hands-on activity. The guided nature of the experience ensures you understand each step, from selecting your recipe to operating the copper still.

Choosing Your Custom Rum Recipe from Four Unique Options

Participants select from four distinctive recipes: floral, citrus, spiced, or tropical. This choice influences the flavor profile of the rum you will craft. The process involves operating your own copper pot still, a key part of the class that many reviews praise for being both educational and fun.

The operating process is supervised by friendly distillery ambassadors, making sure everyone feels confident in handling the equipment. This step offers a real sense of achievement, especially knowing that the resulting bottle is entirely your creation.

Crafting and Bottling Your Personalized Botanical Rum

After distilling, the fun continues with bottling and labeling your own rum. This personalized bottle acts as a tangible souvenir of your time in Amsterdam, often highlighted as a favorite part of the experience. The custom labels add a special touch, making this more than just a tasting or class — it’s a memorable craft that you can take home.

Participants also enjoy a complimentary welcome drink at the Union cocktail bar before or after the class, helping to set a relaxed tone for the evening.

The Distillery Tour and Learning Experience

The short tour around the Spirited Union distillery introduces participants to the equipment and techniques used in botanical rum production. The guides are praised for being informative, friendly, and hospitable, with reviewers highlighting Callum as a standout instructor.

The pace of the class ensures that everyone gets a chance to operate the still and to ask questions, making it especially suitable for those interested in spirits or DIY projects. The learning process is complemented by the opportunity to sample different spirits, with reviews emphasizing the tasty and easy nature of the process.

Location Advantages and Accessibility

Although the distillery is about 35 minutes walk from the main train station, the proximity to public transportation makes it accessible. The location outside the main tourist districts offers a more relaxed environment, away from the crowds, with many reviewers calling it worth the walk.

The group size of up to 20 travelers ensures an intimate experience, where guides can give personalized attention and foster a friendly atmosphere. The mobile ticket format allows for easy booking and entry.

Customer Experience and Host Expertise

The reviews unanimously praise the guides and hosts for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to entertain. Callum is often mentioned as an informative and hospitable instructor, who makes the class both enjoyable and educational.

Participants mention that the experience is “amazing,” “fun,” and “well worth the money.” The ability to leave with a bottle of self-distilled rum is frequently highlighted as a significant highlight, transforming this activity into a tangible, lasting memory of Amsterdam.

Flexibility and Cancellation Policy

The free cancellation policy allows cancellations up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind for travelers unsure about their plans. Changes less than 24 hours before the start are not accepted, so early planning is recommended.

The process is straightforward, with booking confirmation received immediately at the time of reservation. The limited group size and scheduled start time at 3:00 pm help ensure a smooth and manageable experience.

Final Thoughts on the Distilling Class @ Spirited Union Rum Co.

This distilling class provides a rare, hands-on opportunity to learn the craft of botanical rum making in Amsterdam. It’s a great choice for spirits enthusiasts, DIY lovers, or anyone seeking a memorable, personalized experience beyond sightseeing.

While a bit outside the main tourist hub, the location’s relaxed atmosphere and friendly guides make it worthwhile. The personalized bottle of rum you craft serves as a lasting souvenir, and the knowledge gained can spark an interest in spirits or home distilling.

For $91.65, this experience combines education, entertainment, and a tangible keepsake, making it a valuable addition to any Amsterdam itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the distilling class last?
The class lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

What is the price of this experience?
It costs $91.65 per person.

Where does the tour start?
The tour begins at Spirited Union Rum Co. & Distillery, Helicopterstraat 32, Amsterdam.

Is it suitable for beginners?
Yes, the class is designed to be accessible, with guides explaining each step and ensuring everyone can operate the still safely.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

What recipes can I choose from?
Participants select from four recipes: floral, citrus, spiced, or tropical.

Will I get to taste the rum?
Participants bottle their own rum, which they can take home, offering a personalized souvenir.

Is transportation needed to reach the distillery?
The distillery is near public transportation, making it easy to reach from central Amsterdam.

How many people participate in each class?
A maximum of 20 travelers can join each session.

Is food or drink included?
A welcome drink is included at the start, and the focus is on the distilling process itself.

What do reviewers say about this experience?
Reviews consistently rate it 5 out of 5, praising the expert guides and fun atmosphere.