Melbourne: Gin Masterclass & Make-Your-Own Gin Experience

If you’re a gin lover visiting Melbourne, this hands-on gin masterclass at Heres Looking at You Kid Distillery offers a unique peek behind the scenes of craft distilling. It’s a chance to learn about the intricate art of gin-making, taste a variety of premium spirits, and even craft a personalized bottle to take home.

What makes this experience appealing are the dedicated guidance from knowledgeable experts, the opportunity to get involved in the distilling process, and the chance to explore native Australian botanicals that add a local twist. The relaxed environment keeps things fun and social, making it ideal for both beginners and seasoned spirit enthusiasts.

One thing to keep in mind is that this experience lasts about two and a half hours, which might feel a bit condensed if you’re looking for a more in-depth, extended class. Also, since it’s a private group experience, it’s best suited for those who prefer a more intimate setting with personalized attention.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy craft spirits, want to learn firsthand how gin is made, or simply love the idea of creating a memorable souvenir from their trip—your very own bottle of gin, crafted by you.

Key Points

• Expert-led experience with knowledgeable guides
• Create your own personalized gin as a lasting souvenir
• Explore a variety of botanicals, including native Australian ingredients
• Hands-on involvement with a mini still
• Tastings of premium spirits throughout the session
• Suitable for adults 18+, with private group options for a tailored experience

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

This 2.5-hour session takes place inside the working Heres Looking at You Kid Distillery in North Melbourne, a compact yet vibrant space full of the modern charm that craft distilleries exude. It’s clear that the focus is on making this as informative and enjoyable as possible — and from reviews, it’s evident that the guides excel at that.

Welcome and Introduction

Guests are greeted warmly, and the experience kicks off with an overview of distillation basics. The host, an experienced distiller and qualified trainer, explains each step with clarity, ensuring everyone, regardless of their prior knowledge, stays engaged. The relaxed tone means questions are encouraged, which is perfect if you’re curious about the nitty-gritty of gin production.

Botanical Exploration and Recipe Design

One of the highlights is how much emphasis is placed on botanicals. You’ll get to smell, taste, and even see the wide range of ingredients used, including native Australian options that add a local flavor. The guide helps you design your own gin recipe based on your preferences — whether you’re a juniper traditionalist, citrus lover, floral enthusiast, or experimental mixer.

According to reviews, “I loved the way they guided us through tasting and smelling botanicals, making it easy to understand how different flavors come together,” and “It was fascinating to see how native botanicals are incorporated into modern gin styles.” This part of the session truly personalizes the experience and helps you understand what makes your preferred style unique.

Hands-On Distilling

The mini still is the star here. You’ll get to distill your own gin, observing the process of flavor extraction firsthand. The guide explains how flavors are carefully balanced, and the importance of cuts in distillation to achieve the desired profile. Reviewers mention that “distilling with a mini still was surprisingly straightforward, but it definitely added a sense of achievement,” and “seeing the process from start to finish made me appreciate craft spirits even more.”

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Guided Tastings

Throughout the session, you’ll be sampling various gins and vodkas produced by the distillery. These tastings are guided by knowledgeable staff who explain the nuances of each spirit, helping you understand what makes each one unique. Guests often comment on the high quality of the spirits: “The tastings helped me appreciate the different profiles, from juniper-heavy to more floral or citrusy options.”

Bottling Your Gin

At the end, your personalized gin is prepared for bottling with your chosen label. The bottles are completed shortly after your session, offering the chance to collect them in person or opt for delivery. Many guests say that “having a gin I created myself is a fabulous keepsake,” and it’s a great way to remember your Melbourne trip.

Atmosphere and Group Size

The experience is designed to be relaxed and social, with small group sizes ensuring personal attention. The friendly guides, often praised for their knowledge and approachability, make even beginners feel at ease. “The guides explained everything step-by-step without feeling overwhelmed,” is a common sentiment.

Price and Value

While the experience isn’t the cheapest activity available in Melbourne, it offers a good value considering the hands-on involvement, guided tastings, and your own personalized bottle of gin. It’s not just a tasting tour; it’s an educational and creative activity that results in a tangible souvenir.

Who Will Love It?

This experience is perfect for spirits enthusiasts, curious travelers, or anyone wanting a memorable, authentic Melbourne activity. It’s especially suited for couples, small groups, or individuals who appreciate craft and craftsmanship. The private group option allows for a personalized touch, making it ideal for celebrating a special occasion or a unique activity during your stay.

Final Thoughts

This Melbourne gin masterclass combines education, creativity, and tasting into a cohesive experience that’s as fun as it is insightful. The guides’ expertise and friendliness elevate the session, making complex distillation concepts accessible and engaging. Creating your own gin adds an extra layer of connection, turning a simple tour into a memorable activity.

The relaxed setting and small group sizes foster a friendly atmosphere, perfect for making new friends or simply enjoying the craft of gin-making. With the opportunity to take home a bottle of your own creation, this experience offers both immediate enjoyment and a lasting memento of your Australian trip.

For those who love discovering local flavors, learning new skills, or just want a fun, hands-on activity, this isn’t something to miss. It’s a perfect way to get behind the scenes of Melbourne’s burgeoning craft spirits scene while making something uniquely yours.

FAQs

Is this experience suitable for beginners?
Yes, the session is designed to be accessible for all levels, with guides explaining each step clearly and ensuring everyone can participate comfortably.

Can I create a gin according to my taste preferences?
Absolutely. You will be guided to design a custom recipe based on your flavor preferences—whether you prefer juniper-forward, citrus, floral, or experimental profiles.

How long does the whole experience last?
The session lasts about 2.5 hours, providing enough time for instruction, tasting, distilling, and bottling your gin.

Can I take my gin home immediately?
Your finished gin is prepared for bottling after the session. You can collect it shortly after or opt for delivery if available.

Is this experience suitable for under 18s?
No, the experience is limited to adults aged 18 and over. It’s an adult-only activity due to the nature of alcohol production.

Are private group bookings available?
Yes, private group sessions and bespoke experiences can be arranged, making it ideal for special occasions or tailored activities.

This hands-on gin experience offers a fantastic balance of education, fun, and authenticity. Whether you’re a curious beginner or a seasoned spirit lover, you’ll come away with a deeper understanding of gin and a bottle of your own creation—an authentic Melbourne souvenir you won’t forget.

You can check availability for your dates here: