Roiffé (86): Distill your gin and learn about distillation

Master the Art of Gin Distillation in Roiffé

This 2.5-hour gin-making workshop in Roiffé, Nouvelle-Aquitaine offers a hands-on experience that combines practical distillation skills with a taste of local craftsmanship. For a price that includes a personal bottle of gin and expert guidance, participants get to learn the secrets behind gin production on their own mini copper still. Located near the Royal Abbey of Fontevraud, the workshop provides a perfect blend of education and entertainment, ideal for those interested in spirits or looking for a unique activity in France.

The experience is designed for small groups limited to 7 participants, ensuring personalized attention from French expert distillers. While children under 18 are not allowed, adults can expect a fun, interactive, and educational session that ends with them leaving with their own 70cl bottle of custom-made gin. The workshop also offers on-site food options and the possibility to stay at the Domaine de Roiffé, making this a well-rounded day out.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Hands-on distillation on your own mini copper still during the workshop.
• Create your own bottle of gin to take home, with options for two 35cl bottles if sharing.
• Learn about the history and techniques of gin production and distillation.
• Customize your label to add a personal touch to your gin.
• Enjoy a homemade cocktail featuring Wezenn gin as part of the experience.
• Located just outside Royal Abbey of Fontevraud, in Roiffé, France.

Distill Your Own Gin Using a Mini Copper Still

The core of this workshop is distilling gin on your own mini copper still under the guidance of expert distillers. The process involves selecting botanicals, understanding the different styles of gin, and mastering the art of distillation. As you work, you’ll gain insights into the craft of gin-making, which can often seem mysterious to the untrained eye.

After the distillation, you get to personalize your own label, adding a creative touch to your final product. The session culminates with you taking home a 70cl bottle of your own gin, making it a rewarding souvenir of your time in Roiffé. For those sharing the station, two 35cl bottles are provided, allowing a friend or partner to also enjoy their own creation.

Exploring the Secrets of Distillation and Botanicals

During the workshop, the distillers explain the science behind distillation and the role of botanicals in flavoring gin. You’ll learn how different botanicals influence the taste and aroma, and how styles of gin vary depending on the ingredients used and the distillation process.

This segment offers a deep dive into the intricacies of gin, perfect for enthusiasts eager to understand the art behind the spirit. The guides’ explanations are clear and accessible, making complex concepts easy to grasp for both beginners and those with some knowledge of spirits.

The Cocktails and Tasting Experience

An important highlight of the tour is the homemade cocktail featuring Wezenn gin. This allows participants to sample a professionally crafted drink, showcasing how the gin can be used in cocktails. The tasting session adds a flavorful dimension to the experience and emphasizes the versatility of the spirits being made.

In addition, guests can opt to grab a bite to eat on site, enjoying local or homemade food options that complement the drinks. This food component makes the experience more relaxed and allows for socializing after the technical aspects of distillation.

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Meeting Point and Location Details

The workshop departs from a meeting point right across from the Domaine de Roiffé’s reception, with precise coordinates at 47.159095764160156, 0.044753700494766235. Its proximity to the Royal Abbey of Fontevraud makes it easy to combine with sightseeing or other local activities in the region.

The location in Roiffé offers a scenic backdrop, adding to the charm of the hands-on experience. The small group setting, limited to 7 participants, ensures a personal and engaging environment, where everyone receives attention from the French instructor.

Logistics, Accessibility, and Booking Details

This workshop is designed to be accessible, including wheelchair-friendly features. Guests can reserve with flexible options, including free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and pay later to keep travel plans open.

The duration of 2.5 hours is ideal for a half-day activity, leaving plenty of time for both learning and relaxation. Since the activity is conducted entirely in French, some familiarity with the language can enhance the experience, although the visual and practical nature of the session makes it accessible to most.

Additional Options and Nearby Experiences

Participants have the opportunity to stay at the Domaine de Roiffé after the workshop, making it suitable for a relaxed weekend or short break. The area also features other related activities, such as wine tastings, guided tours, and cultural excursions in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region.

For those interested in exploring similar activities, there are options like wine masterclasses and local discovery tours available nearby, offering a broader taste of regional craftsmanship.

Why This Gin Distillation Workshop Stands Out

This interactive workshop offers a rare chance to distill your own gin with professional guidance, making it highly engaging and practical. The personalized label creation and take-home bottle add a special touch that many similar experiences lack. The inclusion of a cocktail tasting further enhances the enjoyment, demonstrating the versatility of homemade gin.

Compared to other experiences, this workshop focuses exclusively on gin distillation, providing deeper insights into spirits production rather than general tasting or sightseeing. Its small group size ensures an intimate setting, where every participant can get hands-on.

Who Will Appreciate This Experience Most

This workshop is ideal for spirits enthusiasts, DIY lovers, or anyone curious about gin production. It’s especially suited for those who want a personalized souvenir and enjoy learning by doing in a scenic French setting.

However, since children under 18 are not allowed, it is best suited for adult groups. Travelers seeking an educational, engaging activity that combines craftsmanship with fun will find this workshop particularly rewarding.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there an age limit for participating in the gin distillation workshop?
Yes, children under 18 years are not permitted to join this activity.

What is included in the workshop price?
Participants receive their own bottle of gin (or two 35cl bottles if sharing), label customization, a cocktail tasting, and guidance from expert distillers.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your plans.

Is the workshop suitable for non-French speakers?
The activity is conducted in French, so some language familiarity is helpful, though the hands-on nature and visual instructions make it accessible.

Where exactly is the meeting point?
The meeting point is right across from the Domaine’s reception in Roiffé, with precise coordinates provided for convenience.

Can I stay at the Domaine after the workshop?
Yes, you can opt to stay on site at the Domaine de Roiffé, making it easy to turn this into a weekend getaway or a relaxing break.

This gin distillation workshop in Roiffé perfectly combines learning, creating, and tasting for anyone eager to understand the craft of gin and take home a custom bottle. Its personal approach, scenic setting, and expert guidance make it a memorable experience worth considering for spirits lovers or curious travelers alike.

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