Melbourne: Whisky Bars & Gin Joints

If you’re a fan of spirits or just curious about Melbourne’s burgeoning craft scene, the Whisky Bars & Gin Joints Tour offers a fun, educational way to spend a few hours. It’s a well-balanced experience that combines history, tastings, and a dash of local flavor, all led by knowledgeable guides.

We love the chance to explore Melbourne’s coolest bars, especially the chance to learn about Victoria’s surprisingly influential whisky and gin history. The visit to the city’s oldest dedicated whisky bar and the only CBD distillery are definite highlights, offering authentic local experiences. The tour’s small-group setting makes it personable and engaging, and the storytelling makes spirits much more interesting.

However, one thing to consider is the tour’s duration—just three hours—which is enough for a quick, lively snapshot but may leave some wanting more in-depth tastings or history. Also, it’s not suitable for children or pregnant women, so it’s best for adult spirits enthusiasts.

This experience is perfect for those interested in local history, spirits lovers wanting to expand their tasting palate, or travelers who enjoy guided tours that combine education and fun without breaking the bank.

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Key Points

Authentic Local Spirit Scene: Focuses on Victoria’s whisky and gin heritage and contemporary scene
Three Bar Visits: Includes Melbourne’s oldest whisky bar and a CBD distillery
Tastings & Stories: Learn interesting facts about spirits’ history while sampling local products
Small Group: Limited to 10 people, making for an intimate and engaging experience
Knowledgeable Guides: Guides are well-informed and enhance the storytelling
Great Value: For $118, you get tastings, expert insights, photos, and a Melbourne bar map

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The Melbourne Whisky Bars & Gin Joints Tour does a great job of blending education with entertainment. Victoria has become a hotspot for craft spirits, and this tour shines a spotlight on how Melbourne is leading that charge. The fact that you visit both historic and contemporary venues means you get a taste of the past and present in Melbourne’s spirited scene.

The price point at $118 per person is reasonable considering it includes tastings at three bars, a tour guide, photos, and a bar map. For spirits lovers, it offers tangible value—sampling some of Victoria’s best local whiskies and gins while learning about the personalities and events that shaped the industry. The guide, who is described as knowledgeable, makes the stories come alive—like that of the man dubbed the Ned Kelly of Victorian whisky or the tale of a local distillery so good its overseas owners had to demand a drop in quality to stay competitive.

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Itinerary Breakdown: What Can You Expect?

Meeting Point & First Impressions

The tour begins on the steps of State Parliament in East Melbourne. Your guide, easy to spot in a black polo or jacket, greets you with a friendly, knowledgeable vibe. Expect to start in a relaxed, small-group setting, limited to 10 participants, which encourages conversations and questions. You’ll appreciate the intimate atmosphere, making it easier to absorb stories and ask questions.

First Stop: Melbourne’s Oldest Whisky Bar

The first venue is Melbourne’s oldest dedicated whisky bar, an hotel rich in character and history. Here, you can expect a warm ambiance, with knowledgeable staff guiding you through tastings of Victorian whiskies. Past reviewers mention the fascinating tales your guide shares about the local industry, like the story of the man who became the Ned Kelly of Victorian whisky.

The focus is on understanding the key factors that made Melbourne the whisky hub of the 19th and early 20th centuries, often overshadowed by Tasmania’s reputation. You might find that the bar is not just about tastings but also about appreciating how Melbourne helped shape Australia’s spirits scene.

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Second Stop: A Hidden CBD Distillery

Next, you’ll visit the only distillery located right in Melbourne’s CBD. This is a rare find—most whisky and gin production in Australia takes place out of town. Here, you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at the distilling process and taste some of Victoria’s best local spirits.

Reviews highlight the distillery’s quality, with one describing it as so good that overseas owners requested they lower their quality to help foreign competitors. This venue offers a clearer picture of how Melbourne’s spirits are crafted, and the guide’s insights make the experience especially memorable.

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Third Stop: The Trendiest Whisky & Gin Bars

Your final venue is one of Melbourne’s coolest, blending modern mixology with traditional spirits. Here, you’ll sample different liquors and learn about the global history of gin and whisky, with fun facts sprinkled throughout.

This part of the tour wraps up on a lively note, with guests appreciating the vibrant atmosphere and the chance to ask more questions about spirits and their origins.

Tasting Experience & Educational Highlights

The tastings are well curated, with each spirit offering a unique story. You might taste a Victorian whisky with a complex, smoky profile or a gin crafted with local botanicals. The guide’s storytelling is a highlight; they share engaging anecdotes about the spirits’ history and the personalities behind them.

Past reviews note the guide’s ability to make spirits accessible. One reviewer said, “The stories about Victoria’s whisky scene are so interesting I forgot I was just sampling drinks.” The tastings are designed to teach you how to appreciate different flavor profiles while understanding the history behind them.

Practical Details: What to Know Before You Book

The tour costs $118 per person, which is a fair price considering the inclusions. Tastings are the main focus, so it’s not intended as a full meal, just an educational and tasting experience. The tour lasts around 3 hours, usually scheduled in the afternoon, making it a perfect post-lunch activity.

Travelers should bring a driver’s license and wear comfortable shoes—the walking is moderate, and the venues are accessible. The group size is limited, ensuring personalized attention and plenty of interaction.

The meeting point on the steps of State Parliament is easy to locate, and the guide’s identifiable attire makes them easy to spot. Cancelations are free up to 24 hours in advance, adding flexibility for travelers.

This tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or children under 18, which is typical for alcohol-focused experiences. It’s best suited for adults who enjoy spirits, history, or both.

The Value for Spirit Connoisseurs and Curious Travelers

For those who enjoy exploring local cultures through their spirits, this tour offers a taste of Melbourne’s unique character. The mix of historic venues and modern bars provides a well-rounded perspective. Plus, the stories you’ll hear about Melbourne’s past as a spirits producer add a layer of depth that plain tastings rarely offer.

The educational element, combined with generous tastings and a small-group atmosphere, makes this an excellent choice for anyone wanting to understand what makes Victorian whisky and gin special. The guide’s knowledge and engaging storytelling are frequently praised, making the experience more than just a tasting.

The price—considering what’s included—represents good value. You’re paying for not only the drinks but also for expert insights, a bar map, and photos to remember the day.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience suits spirits enthusiasts, history buffs, and curious travelers seeking a convivial, informative outing in Melbourne. It’s particularly good for those who appreciate small-group experiences with personal attention.

If you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or with friends who share an interest in craft spirits, this tour will deliver both education and entertainment. Keep in mind it’s not designed for families or non-drinkers, but for adult groups looking for a lively, authentic taste of Melbourne’s spirit scene.

FAQ about Melbourne: Whisky Bars & Gin Joints

Is this tour suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
It’s primarily focused on tastings of spirits; dietary restrictions aren’t specifically catered for, but you can discuss options with the guide beforehand.

Can I join if I don’t drink alcohol?
This tour is specifically about whisky and gin tastings, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with alcohol consumption.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, casual shoes are recommended as there’s some walking involved. No open-toed shoes or shorts, please.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 3 hours, typically in the afternoon.

Does the tour run rain or shine?
Yes, unless there are extreme weather conditions. The venues are sheltered, and the experience is indoors.

Are children allowed?
No, the tour isn’t suitable for children under 18 or pregnant women.

Is there a minimum group size?
Yes, the tour is limited to a small group of 10, ensuring a personalized experience.

How do I find the meeting point?
Meet on the steps of State Parliament facing Bourke Street in East Melbourne. The guide wears a black polo or jacket for easy identification.

What’s included in the price?
Whisky and gin tastings, a tour guide, photos, and a Melbourne bar map.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Final Thoughts

The Melbourne Whisky Bars & Gin Joints Tour offers a lively, educational glimpse into Victoria’s spirit scene, wrapped in stories and tastings. It’s ideal for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with a bit of adult-focused fun, learning about Melbourne’s role in shaping Australia’s whisky and gin industries.

The knowledgeable guides make all the difference, turning what could be just a tasting into a memorable cultural experience. While three hours might not be enough for a deep dive into every aspect of spirits, it’s perfect for a quick, engaging snapshot.

If you’re curious about Melbourne’s spirited past or want to sample some of the city’s best local liquors, this tour is certainly worth considering. It balances value, authenticity, and fun—an easy way to add a unique flavor to your Melbourne trip.

In summary, this tour is best suited for adult spirits fans who enjoy a guided, story-rich experience with tastings at historic and trendy venues. It’s ideal if you appreciate small groups, expert guides, and learning about Melbourne’s hidden distilling gems. Whether you’re a seasoned whisky connoisseur or a curious traveler, it offers a spirited exploration you won’t forget.