Aberdeens Distillery Discovery Tour

Explore Aberdeens Distillery for a Genuine Scottish Gin Experience

The Aberdeens Distillery Discovery Tour offers a compelling glimpse into Scotland’s beloved gin-making craft. Priced at $37.01 per person and lasting approximately 1 hour, this tour provides an authentic look at how Aberdeen Gin is created, from botanical sourcing to distillation processes. It’s ideal for those interested in Scottish spirits, local heritage, or small-batch distilling.

The tour begins with a complementary double gin and tonic upon arrival, setting a welcoming tone. Hosted by knowledgeable staff, including the head distiller, the experience is intimate, with a small group limit of 20 participants. Practical and engaging, this tour balances educational insights with tastings and hands-on exploration. Travelers should note that bookings are typically made about three weeks in advance, emphasizing its popularity.

Key Points

• Duration: Around 1 hour, perfect for a quick yet comprehensive visit
• Cost: $37.01 per person, including tastings and a welcome drink
• Highlights: Botanical garden, distillery tour, gin tasting, Q&A session
• Guides: Led by Alan and Dan, known for their warmth and expertise
• Group size: Limited to 20 participants for an intimate experience
• Booking: Usually booked 21 days ahead, so plan early

The Starting Point at City of Aberdeen Distillery

The tour begins at the City of Aberdeen Distillery located at Arch 10 Palmerston Rd, Aberdeen AB11 5RE. This central location makes it easily accessible, especially since the site is close to public transportation options. On arrival, visitors enjoy a double G&T, which helps set the tone for a relaxed, informative experience.

The meeting point is straightforward, and the tour concludes back at the same location, making it convenient for those with tight schedules or additional plans in Aberdeen. The distillery shop is open for browsing after the tour, offering bottles of Aberdeen Gin and other products.

Discover Aberdeen’s Distilling Heritage and Botanicals

The walking tour takes guests through the distillery’s facilities, where they learn about Aberdeen’s historic relationship with gin production. Guests are guided by the head distiller in restricted areas, who shares insights into the distillation process and the significance of botanicals used.

A key feature is the garden of botanicals, where visitors see the ingredients that give Aberdeen Gin its distinctive aroma and flavor. The guides explain how each botanical contributes to the final product, making the experience both educational and sensory-rich. During the tour, guests sample London Dry and Fruit Gins served directly from French glass demi-johns, highlighting the small-batch nature of these Scottish gins.

Tasting and Sampling from Small Batch Scottish Gins

One of the main attractions of this tour is the gin tasting session. Guests sample different varieties of Aberdeen Gin, including London Dry and Fruit Gins. These are served directly from French glass demi-johns, emphasizing freshness and quality.

The tastings are generous enough to ensure guests feel the aromatic qualities of each gin, and discussions about flavor profiles are encouraged. The informative commentary from the guides enhances the appreciation of the gins’ craftsmanship. After the tasting, visitors are welcome to browse the distillery shop if they wish to purchase a bottle as a souvenir.

Insights into the Gin Making Process

Throughout the hour-long tour, the head distiller shares detailed explanations of how Aberdeen Gin is produced. This includes descriptions of the distillation techniques and the origin of botanicals, which are key to understanding what makes this Scottish gin unique.

Guests learn about the hotel of the distillery and its focus on small-batch production. The guide’s engaging style and expertise help demystify the process, making it accessible even to those unfamiliar with spirits manufacturing. The Q&A session allows visitors to ask questions, deepening their understanding of gin craftsmanship.

The Botanical Garden: A Fragrant Showcase

A standout feature of the tour is the distillery’s botanical garden. Visitors walk through this outdoor space, where a variety of herbs, spices, and botanicals grow. This hands-on element offers a sensory experience, allowing guests to see and smell the ingredients that flavor Aberdeen Gin.

The garden demonstrates the importance of botanical sourcing in gin production and showcases the care and attention involved in selecting ingredients. This part of the tour emphasizes the local and natural approach the distillery takes to crafting their spirits.

The Expertise and Warmth of Guides Alan and Dan

The guides — Alan and Dan — earn praise for their knowledgeable, friendly, and engaging manner. They share stories about the distillery’s history, explain technical details clearly, and make everyone feel comfortable asking questions. Their professional yet warm approach creates an inviting atmosphere conducive to learning and tasting.

Guests appreciate the enthusiasm and personal touch these guides bring, which elevates the experience beyond a standard distillery visit. Their passion for gin and local heritage shines through in their explanations and interactions.

Booking, Cancellation, and Practical Tips

The Aberdeens Distillery Discovery Tour is booked approximately 21 days in advance, emphasizing the importance of planning ahead. The tour is available with a mobile ticket, offering a contactless entry process.

Cancellation is free if done at least 24 hours before the scheduled tour, providing flexibility in case of change of plans. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with service animals allowed and proximity to public transportation.

Participants should wear comfortable shoes as the tour involves walking through the distillery and botanical gardens. The tour is designed for up to 20 participants, ensuring a personalized experience and ample opportunity for interaction.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Others

Unlike larger, more commercial distillery visits, this small-group tour emphasizes personal interaction with the guides and hands-on insights into the gin-making process. The inclusion of botanical gardens, tastings, and the opportunity to buy bottles directly from the distillery makes it a well-rounded experience.

The high praise from previous visitors highlights the knowledgeable guides and warm hospitality as key strengths. The accessible location and affordable price point make it an attractive option for anyone interested in Scottish gin or local culture.

Final Thoughts on the Aberdeens Distillery Discovery Tour

This tour offers an authentic, engaging, and educational peek into Scottish gin craftsmanship. The $37.01 price includes a welcome double G&T, tastings, and the chance to explore botanicals and production areas. It’s a short but rich experience perfect for spirits enthusiasts and curious visitors alike.

The small group size and expert guides make it more personal than many large-scale distillery visits. The opportunity to browse and purchase bottles at the end adds value. While the experience lasts about an hour, its depth and quality make it well worth the time.

Travelers who value local traditions, craftsmanship, and interactive experiences will find this tour a rewarding addition to their Aberdeen trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there an age restriction for this gin tour?
The available data does not specify age restrictions, but as it involves alcohol tastings, it’s generally intended for adults.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancellation is free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations less than 24 hours before will not be refunded.

Are the guides knowledgeable about gin?
Yes, guides Alan and Dan are highly praised for their expertise and engaging explanations.

Is transportation provided?
No, the tour starts at the distillery, which is near public transportation options, but no transport is included.

Can I buy bottles after the tour?
Yes, guests can browse the distillery shop and purchase bottles of Aberdeen Gin.

Is this tour accessible for most travelers?
Yes, the tour is suitable for most travelers and allows service animals.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 1 hour, making it a convenient option for a quick yet thorough experience.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended due to walking through the distillery and botanical gardens.

How far in advance should I book?
It’s best to book about 3 weeks ahead to secure a spot, as the tour is popular.

What makes this tour unique?
The combination of small group size, hands-on botanical garden, and personalized guidance sets this experience apart from larger distillery visits.