If you’re a fan of unique spirits and enjoy learning about what makes craft gin stand out, the Ink Gin Experience at Husk Distillers in New South Wales offers just that. With glowing reviews and a reputation for fun, informative sessions, this tour promises more than just a tasting—it’s a chance to see how natural botanicals and innovative distillation create Australia’s first all-natural, color-changing gin.
What we genuinely love about this experience is the combination of knowledgeable guides who make the tour engaging, the interactive cocktail-making component that’s perfect for aspiring mixologists, and the behind-the-scenes look at the distillation process. The only caveat? The tour runs for just about an hour, so those wanting a more extensive experience might want to supplement it with additional visits.
Ideal for curious travelers, gin enthusiasts, or anyone seeking a relaxed yet educational activity, the Ink Gin Experience balances fun and learning beautifully. Whether you’re visiting NSW or local, this tour can fit into a day of exploring the Hunter Valley or nearby attractions.
Key Points
- Unique Color-Change Gin: The first all-natural, color-changing gin in Australia made from botanicals that come to life visually.
- Expert Guidance: Engaging tour guides like Mark receive praise for their friendly, informative style.
- Behind-the-Scenes Access: Insight into distillation and bottling processes offers genuine value.
- Tastings and Cocktail Skills: Four spirits are sampled, and you’ll learn how to craft the perfect Ink Gin cocktail.
- Cost-Effective Experience: At around $44, it offers a memorable mix of education, tasting, and fun.
- Convenient Timing: The hour-long tour fits well into busy schedules, available daily from 3:00 PM.
A Closer Look at the Ink Gin Experience
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Location and Accessibility
The tour begins at Husk Distillers, situated at 1152 Dulguigan Rd, North Tumbulgum, NSW. The location offers a peaceful rural setting, perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing. The simplicity of the meeting point and the small group size—capped at 20 travelers—means you’re unlikely to feel lost in a crowd, fostering a more personal experience.
Tour Duration and Schedule
Starting at 3:00 PM, this hour-long tour is conveniently timed for late afternoon relaxation. Booking is straightforward, and the experience is available from March 2025 through October 2026. It’s perfect for those with afternoon gaps or as a pleasant wind-down after exploring nearby attractions.
What to Expect During the Tour
Introduction to Ink Gin’s story and botanicals: The tour kicks off with a friendly guide sharing Husk Distillers’ 10-year journey and how they created Australia’s first all-natural, colour-changing gin. The guide walks you through the botanicals used, emphasizing their natural origins and how they contribute to the gin’s vibrant appearance.
Tasting session: You’ll sample four different spirits, gaining insight into their flavor profiles and how the natural ingredients influence each sip. Reviewers note that the gin’s color-changing feature is not just a gimmick—it’s rooted in natural botanicals that respond to mixers.
Enjoying it neat and with mixers: The guide demonstrates how to appreciate Ink Gin neat, then shows how adding tonic or soda water causes a dramatic color shift. This visual demonstrates how nature influences the drink, making the experience both fun and educational.
Behind-the-scenes look: You’ll peer into the distillation process and see where the gin is bottled. This behind-the-scenes peek is valuable for enthusiasts interested in the craftsmanship behind premium spirits.
Interactive crossword puzzle: To cap off the experience, you’ll race to complete a crossword, with the winner taking home a 50ml bottle of their favorite Ink Gin. This playful element adds a layer of friendly competition and memorable souvenir.
Cocktail-making class: The finale involves crafting your own Ink Gin cocktail, allowing you to take home a personalized drink, perfect for sharing or enjoying later.
Additional Perks
- Exclusive retail discounts: You’ll get a special tour discount on retail purchases, making it easier to take a bottle home.
- Dining options: The option to book a table at the on-site restaurant before or after the tour provides a well-rounded visit, whether you’re craving tapas or a full meal.
- Weather considerations: Since the tour occurs outdoors and indoors, poor weather might cancel or reschedule, but a full refund or alternative date is offered if weather causes cancellation.
Value for Money
At around $44.12 per person, the experience offers a solid mix of tastings, education, and fun activities. It’s especially good for those who want to see how natural ingredients create a visually stunning spirit, learn about distillation, and develop cocktail skills—all in an hour. The inclusion of a 50ml bottle as a prize, plus the opportunity to purchase discounted spirits, adds tangible value beyond the ticket price.
Authentic Experiences and Reviewer Insights
From the sole review available, we learn that Mark’s guiding style makes the tour engaging and informative, highlighting the importance of a knowledgeable guide. The reviewer’s glowing praise indicates that the personal touch and storytelling elevate what could otherwise be a simple tasting.
Other subtle insights include the admiration for the natural botanicals used, which not only produce the color change but also infuse the gin with distinctive flavors. The fact that the gin is celebrated on its 10th birthday shows Husk Distillers’ dedication to quality and innovation—a fact appreciated by visitors.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is well-suited for ginnan enthusiasts eager to explore a visually stunning spirit and learn about natural distillation methods. It also appeals to casual visitors wanting a relaxed, fun activity that combines learning and tasting. The interactive aspect makes it especially appealing for groups or couples looking to add a memorable activity to their day.
It’s not a lengthy or overly technical tour, so those with limited time or with young children (service animals are allowed, and most travelers can participate) will find it accessible. If you’re seeking a deeper dive into distillation or a full-day wine and spirits experience, you might want to pair this with other tastings.
FAQs About the Ink Gin Experience
Is the tour suitable for children or non-drinkers?
While primarily designed for adults, most travelers and service animals are allowed. Non-drinkers can enjoy the behind-the-scenes look and the cocktail-making segment without tasting spirits.
How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately one hour—from 3:00 PM to around 4:00 PM—making it easy to slot into a flexible afternoon schedule.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there’s a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled start. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.
Is parking available?
While not explicitly stated, Husk Distillers’ rural setting suggests parking is accessible nearby, but it’s advisable to confirm closer to your visit.
Are there any dietary restrictions or allergies to consider?
The information provided doesn’t specify, but since tastings are involved, it’s best to inform Husk Distillers beforehand if you have allergies or dietary needs.
Can I book a table at the restaurant before or after the tour?
Yes, there’s an option to reserve a table, making this a nice dining-and-tasting combo.
What is included in the price?
You get the guided tour, four spirit tastings, cocktail making, and a crossword puzzle game. Discounts on retail are also available.
Is the experience family-friendly?
While mostly aimed at adults, service animals are allowed, and most travelers can participate. It’s best suited for those interested in spirits and the distillation process.
What makes Ink Gin special compared to other gins?
It’s Australia’s first all-natural, color-changing gin, crafted with botanicals that respond visually to mixers, creating a stunning and natural display.
Final Thoughts
The Ink Gin Experience at Husk Distillers offers a delightful blend of education, entertainment, and taste. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers who appreciate craft spirits, enjoy interactive activities, and want to see how natural botanicals can transform a drink visually and flavor-wise.
This tour’s intimate atmosphere, paired with its engaging guide and well-curated tastings, provides excellent value for those seeking a memorable, hands-on experience in NSW. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just curious about innovative gin-making, the Ink Gin tour delivers authenticity with a splash of fun.
It’s a perfect activity for small groups, couples, or solo explorers who want a relaxed afternoon that combines learning, tasting, and a bit of friendly competition. Just remember to book in advance, keep an eye on the weather, and get ready for a colorful journey into the world of premium Australian gin.
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