Top EU Gin Distilleries Worth Touring
Gin, once dubbed as "mother's ruin," has permanently left its infamous past behind, emerging as one of the most sought-after spirits globally. Artisanal distilleries are continually introducing new varieties, exotic recipes, and eccentric mixes, catapulting gin as a beverage of choice for adventurous drinkers. Accompanying the escalating interest in this spirits category is a surge in requests for distillery tours. Europe, particularly the northern nations, stands out as the epicenter, with Scotland spearheading the title as the world's largest producer, and London recognized as the "capital of Gin." For those yearning to explore the continent's leading gin scenes, here are some outstanding choices:
Monkey 47 Distillery, Schaberhof, GermanyEmbark on a two-hour journey through the historic Wild Monkey Distillery, nestled in a 19th-century farmhouse deep within the Black Forest. The distillery houses an impressive laboratory site, showcasing copper stills and exhibiting the concoction of French molasses-based alcohol and 47 diverse botanicals that make up Monkey 47. Tickets include one Monkey Tonic, a discount voucher for the onsite shop, and tastings of Schwarzwald Dry Gin. Pair your visit with a stay at Fritz Lauterbad for an unforgettable Black Forest experience.
Plymouth Gin Distillery, Devon, EnglandEngland plays host to one of the oldest gin distilleries in the world, the Black Friar's Distillery. Steeped in history, its recipe traces back to 1793. Tour-goers can select from a classic Plymouth Gin Distillery Tour, an enhanced Gin Connoisseur's Tour, or a Master Distillers Tour, where visitors can handpick their botanicals and even distill a bottle to take home. For those unable to travel, Plymouth Gin also provides an at-home experience.
Hernö Gin Distillery, Härnösand, SwedenThe most awarded gin in the world, Hernö Gin, offers an educational and sensory experience. The distillery is nestled near the Swedish city of Härnösand, where you'll explore the processes behind its celebrated nose and palate. Tours within the off-season consist of two select visits per month, increasing to five to seven times per week during summer. Besides the standard tours, guests can engage in a gin cocktail workshop or arrange a customized activity. Be forewarned that tours are conducted in Swedish.
Peter in Florence Distillery, Pelago, ItalyHailing from London, this London Dry Gin distillery is located in Italy, specifically Pelago, a picturesque settlement in the Tuscan hills. Peter in Florence is crafted using the first-ever carterhead, replicating methods from the 19th century. The distillery's recipe features the Iris flower, an ancient motif for Florence, as well as 14 botanicals, including indigenous juniper. After a 30-minute tour with the Master Distiller, guests will sample the blend, appreciating the breathtaking views offered by any distillery. Tours are available with a minimum of two participants.
Sharish Gin Distillery, Alentejo, PortugalExperience the Science and Mechanics behind the production of this Gin Interpretive Center's exceptional liquor, housed in a state-of-the-art distillery in Alentejo. The Sharish team has meticulously created a multi-sensory experience, incorporating multimedia, virtual reality content, thematic workshops, and knowledge sharing. By the tour's end, participants will graduate as gin specialists, followed by relaxation in the tasting lounge and shopping at the Sharish boutique. Tours occur daily at 11:00 am and 3:30 pm.
Helsinki Gin Distillery, Helsinki, FinlandFinland's gin industry lay dormant for nearly a century until The Helsinki Distilling Company brought it back to life. Its handcrafted recipes allow visitors to sample four varieties during tours and tastings that last 30 minutes each, available on Fridays and Saturdays at 6 pm. Participants can opt for both experiences or just one, with the price adjusted accordingly. Following the tour, relax with a meal at the distillery's restaurant or a cocktail at Tislaamo bar. Private tours can also be arranged.
Eimverk Distillery, Garðabær, IcelandRanked as the number one attraction in Garðabær on Trip Advisor, this Icelandic distillery is just outside Reykjavík. As the nation's first whisky distillery, it produces liquors from 100% native barley. However, don't worry if you're there for the gin; its Vor Premium spirit offers a pure, excellent taste made from Icelandic herbs and botanicals. The one-hour tour is both entertaining and informative, but reservations are essential to join. Learn about the small-batch gin's triple distillation process, which plays a significant role in its success.
- At the Monkey 47 Distillery in Schaberhof, Germany, visitors can delve into an engaging lifestyle experience, not only exploring the fascinating craftsmanship of gin production but also enjoying local food-and-drink offerings such as the Monkey Tonic and Schwarzwald Dry Gin during tastings.
- The Peter in Florence Distillery in Pelago, Italy, provides a captivating entertainment journey through its 19th-century distilling process, complete with performances by the Master Distiller and the opportunity to appreciate the breathtaking views while savoring their London Dry Gin blend.
