Broken Bones Gin Experience

If you’re a fan of spirits or simply love discovering new tastes, the Broken Bones Gin Experience promises an engaging behind-the-scenes look at Slovenia’s only gin and whisky distillery. This tour isn’t just about tasting; it’s about understanding what makes Broken Bones stand out in Ljubljana’s burgeoning craft spirits scene. From the story behind the brand to the art of distilling, this 2-hour experience offers a well-rounded, authentic peek into a local gem.

What we love about this tour: the passionate guides who share insider secrets, the chance to taste signature cocktails made with their unique gin, and the fact that it’s Ljubljana’s first distillery in over 60 years. A possible downside? The 2-hour duration means it’s a quick, focused experience—excellent for a short visit but not for those looking for a lengthy tasting session. This experience suits spirits enthusiasts, curious travelers eager to learn about local production, and anyone wanting a more intimate alternative to bar-hopping.

Key Points

• Unique opportunity to visit Ljubljana’s only gin and whisky distillery.
• Tastings of Broken Bones Gin and three specially crafted cocktails.
• Insightful commentary on the distillery’s history and process.
• Authentic experience with a passionate local team guiding the tour.
• Affordable value for a quality, educational spirits experience.
• Small group setting enhances interaction and personal attention.

Introducing the Broken Bones Gin Experience

The Broken Bones Gin Experience offers a rare chance to step inside Ljubljana’s very first distillery in over six decades, a project born from the friendship and tradition of two locals. Since 2012, they have dedicated themselves to creating spirits that reflect their personal taste—focusing on quality, craft, and authenticity. The tour kicks off at 4:00 pm at the distillery located at Traka c. 132, and runs for approximately 2 hours, making it a perfect late-afternoon activity.

From the moment you arrive, you’ll notice the intimacy of the tour—limited to a maximum of 20 travelers—which helps foster a friendly and engaging atmosphere. The small group size ensures you can ask plenty of questions and get personalized insights, especially from the passionate guides who know the ins and outs of the distillery’s history and production processes.

What to Expect from the Tour

The Setting and Introduction

The tour begins with a warm welcome and a brief overview of Ljubljana’s distilling scene. Our guide, Bostjan, who’s been praised for his clear explanations and friendly demeanor, shares how the distillery was established as a tribute to local tradition and a desire to bring craft spirits back to the city.

The Distillery’s History and Philosophy

We learned that Broken Bones Distillery is a pioneering effort in Ljubljana, with archives showing that it’s the first in at least 60 years. The founders’ background in beer, wine, and liquor production shines through as they explain how their personal tastes and family traditions influence their spirits. The guide’s storytelling adds depth, making the experience more than just a tasting—it’s about appreciating the craftsmanship.

The Spirit Production Process

One of the highlights is learning how the distillery’s signature spirits are developed. The tour includes insights on the idea, philosophy, and meticulous selection process behind each product. The guides reveal insider secrets about how the spirits are crafted on-site, giving a glimpse of their carefully controlled distillation methods.

Tasting the Signature Spirits and Cocktails

The most anticipated part? Tasting Broken Bones Gin straight from the distillery, complemented by three signature cocktails: a gin tonic, BB fizz, and a cocktail of your choice. Each is designed to showcase the gin’s versatility and flavor profile, with reviewers noting how good the taste is and how well the cocktails are prepared.

A guest review happily mentions, “Very good explanations of gin’s history, and overall, very good taste of the Broken Bones gins.” The experience of sipping cocktails made with their own spirits brings a new appreciation for the quality and craft involved.

Why This Experience Is Worth It

Authenticity and Local Flair

The fact that Ljubljana now has a dedicated distillery—its first in centuries—gives this tour a special local charm. You’re not just visiting a tourist spot; you’re engaging with a piece of Ljubljana’s recent craft revival. The guides’ enthusiasm is contagious, and their stories make the spirits’ origins come alive.

Educational Value

For spirits enthusiasts or those interested in the art of distilling, this tour offers detailed insights into how the spirits are created. You’ll learn about the process from concept to bottle, gaining knowledge you can share long after the tour ends. The insider secrets shared about how the spirits are produced make this experience stand out from standard tastings.

Quality and Cost-effectiveness

At around $39.18 per person, the price represents excellent value for a guided experience that combines education, tasting, and a bit of local history. The inclusion of three cocktails allows you to sample different flavor profiles without the need for additional purchases, making it an economical choice for a fun and informative evening.

The Atmosphere and Guides

Reviewers consistently praise the guides—especially Bostjan—for their friendly, clear explanations. The tour’s intimate setting means you get a more personal experience, with ample opportunity to ask questions or explore specific interests about the spirits or distilling process.

The Experience’s Drawbacks

While most visitors find the tour perfect for a short, focused visit, some may wish for a longer experience or more extensive tasting. The 2-hour duration means it’s a quick snapshot rather than an in-depth exploration. Also, it’s not suitable for those under 18, as alcohol is involved. Plus, the tour takes place at a set time, so flexible scheduling might be limited.

Practical Details and Tips

• Meeting Point: Broken Bones Distillery, Traka c. 132, Ljubljana.
• Start Time: 4:00 pm (check for updates or seasonal changes).
• Duration: Approximately 2 hours.
• Price: $39.18 per person, including spirits tasting and cocktails.
• Group Size: Limited to 20 travelers for a more personalized experience.
• Accessibility: Near public transportation; service animals allowed.
• Booking: Usually booked 34 days in advance, so plan ahead.
• Cancellation: Free up to 24 hours before the tour start.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

If you’re looking for an authentic, well-guided spirits experience in Ljubljana, the Broken Bones Gin Experience hits the mark. It’s perfect for those curious about local craftsmanship, fans of gin and whisky, or travelers who want a meaningful, intimate activity that combines education with tasting. The knowledgeable guides and the chance to try signature cocktails crafted with Slovene spirits elevate this beyond a simple tasting.

For spirits lovers, it’s a rare find—Ljubljana’s first distillery in decades—offering a taste of Slovenia’s craft spirit revival in a friendly, small-group setting. If you’re after a quick, engaging experience that combines history, craftsmanship, and good drinks, this tour is a solid choice.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for people under 18?
No, this experience is not suitable for those under 18 because it involves alcohol tasting.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, starting at 4:00 pm.

Can I cancel the tour if I change my mind?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund.

Is the price of around $39 per person worth it?
Given that it includes a guided tour, tasting of spirits, and three cocktails, it offers good value—especially considering the intimate group size and insider information.

What’s included in the experience?
You get a guided visit to the distillery, tasting of Broken Bones Gin, and three signature cocktails.

Are there any accessibility considerations?
The tour is near public transportation, and service animals are allowed, but it’s best to check specific accessibility needs.

What’s the best time to book?
Most bookings are made 34 days in advance; booking early ensures your spot at this popular experience.

Can I customize my cocktail selection?
The tour includes a cocktail of your choice from their signature options, so you can pick your preferred mix.

What makes Broken Bones Distillery special?
It’s Ljubljana’s first distillery in over 60 years, founded by friends passionate about craft spirits, bringing local tradition back to the city.

Will I learn about the distilling process?
Yes, guides share insider secrets about how their spirits are produced, from idea to bottle.

In sum, the Broken Bones Gin Experience offers an enjoyable, informative, and authentic look into Slovenia’s craft spirits scene. It’s ideal for those wanting a taste of local innovation, an intimate group setting, and the chance to learn from passionate guides—all while sipping on some of Ljubljana’s finest gins and cocktails.