Cape Town‘s rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning scenery make it a haven for wine lovers and gin enthusiasts alike. Gin distilleries in the city offer unique tasting experiences that will make you love this iconic spirit. These six gin tasting experiences will leave you with memories (and perhaps a few bottles) you won’t soon forget.
Key Takeaways
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Known as one of the world’s premier gin destinations, Cape Town offers a wide range of distilleries, each offering a unique experience to gin enthusiasts.
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With a variety of options to choose from, there’s a gin that’s sure to suit every taste, from coastal-themed gins to family-owned distilleries.
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Several distilleries offer immersive experiences that go beyond tasting, including tours of the distillery and an opportunity to learn more about the art of making gin, which go far beyond just tasting.
1. Deep South DistilleryÂ
Located in the scenic Noordhoek area, Deep South Distillery is a hidden gem offering a truly authentic gin-tasting experience. The distillery is nestled amidst nature, giving it a relaxed and intimate atmosphere that is perfect for sipping gin and learning about the distilling process.
What Makes Deep South Distillery Special
Deep South Distillery is known for its small-batch, handcrafted gins made from locally sourced ingredients. Their gin-making process is a blend of modern techniques and age-old traditions. The distillery offers a personal touch, with detailed explanations from the knowledgeable staff. The gin tasting experience is accompanied by a tour of the distillery, where you can observe the art of distilling and learn about the botanicals that go into creating their signature gins.
Gin Tasting Experience
Expect to taste a variety of gins, including their popular Deep South Classic Gin and the Fynbos Gin. The tasting includes a guided session on how to appreciate gin’s aromas and flavors. Each gin is paired with mixers, creating a truly delightful experience.
Address: Deep South Distillery, 57 Kommetjie Rd, Noordhoek, Cape Town
Phone: +27 21 785 0612
Hours: Monday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Website: www.deepsouthdistillery.com
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Scenic, tranquil location
- Personal and educational experience
- Wide variety of gins
Cons:
- Limited hours (only weekdays)
- Relatively out of the way for those staying in the city center
2. Distillers UnionÂ
If you’re in the mood for a contemporary and stylish gin experience, Distillers Union should be at the top of your list. Situated in the heart of Woodstock, Cape Town, this distillery offers a chic setting with a wide selection of gins, making it a perfect spot for both beginners and gin aficionados.
What Makes Distillers Union Special
Distillers Union is known for its innovative approach to gin making, combining local botanicals with international influences. They offer a variety of tasting options, including bespoke gin tasting experiences. The intimate setting and knowledgeable staff make it easy to learn about the complex world of gin distilling.
Gin Tasting Experience
The tasting experience includes a range of craft gins, with some of the most popular options being their Union Gin and the Honeybush Gin. What makes this tasting unique is their emphasis on the history and craftsmanship behind each bottle. You’ll also get a chance to sample some experimental gins, making it a fun and dynamic experience.
Address: Distillers Union, 101 Roodebloem Rd, Woodstock, Cape Town
Phone: +27 21 448 9739
Hours: Monday – Friday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Website: www.distillersunion.co.za
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Contemporary, stylish setting
- Wide variety of gins to taste
- Educational experience with an emphasis on craftsmanship
Cons:
- Smaller space, so booking in advance is recommended
3. Hout Bay Harbour Distillery
Nestled in the charming coastal town of Hout Bay, this distillery offers a gin tasting experience that combines the love for spirits with the beauty of the ocean. If you’re looking for an immersive, coastal-themed gin adventure, this is the place to be.
What Makes Hout Bay Harbour Distillery Special
As one of Cape Town’s newest distilleries, Hout Bay Harbour Distillery offers visitors an intimate and relaxed environment. Their gin range is inspired by the coastal surroundings, with botanicals sourced from the local environment. The distillery’s commitment to sustainability adds a layer of charm, with eco-friendly practices integrated into the distillation process.
Gin Tasting Experience
The tasting experience includes a selection of their finest gins, including the Hout Bay Harbour Gin, which features unique local ingredients like kelp, and the Bay Gin, made with fynbos and citrus. Visitors can enjoy these gins in the tasting room while taking in views of the harbor.
Address: Hout Bay Harbour Distillery, 25 Harbour Rd, Hout Bay, Cape Town
Phone: +27 21 791 8232
Hours: Monday – Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Website: www.houtbayharbourdistillery.co.za
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Coastal, scenic location
- Unique gins made with local botanicals
- Relaxed, intimate experience
Cons:
- Limited to the area of Hout Bay, which may not be convenient for city center visitors
4. Woodstock Gin CoÂ
Situated in the eclectic and vibrant Woodstock neighborhood, Woodstock Gin Co combines art, culture, and gin. The space is modern and stylish, featuring an open-plan distillery where you can watch the magic happen.
What Makes Woodstock Gin Co Special
This gin brand has become a staple in Cape Town’s gin scene. The distillery is known for using quality botanicals and premium grains, and they focus heavily on the creative and artistic side of the gin-making process. The team behind Woodstock Gin Co is passionate about infusing creativity and craftsmanship into every bottle.
Gin Tasting Experience
Woodstock Gin Co offers a variety of tasting experiences, including signature gin flights and tasting sessions with mixers and garnishes. The Woodstock Gin is their flagship, known for its refreshing citrus notes, while the Rooibos Gin adds a unique South African twist.
Address: Woodstock Gin Co, 28 Albert Rd, Woodstock, Cape Town
Phone: +27 21 448 4130
Hours: Tuesday – Saturday: 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Website: www.woodstockgin.co.za
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Great blend of art, culture, and gin
- Offers a variety of gin tasting experiences
- Beautiful, modern distillery
Cons:
- Not open on Mondays (limited availability)
5. Pienaar & SonÂ
This family-owned distillery, located in the heart of Cape Town, offers a unique tasting experience that focuses on tradition, craftsmanship, and local ingredients. The Pienaar & Son distillery is a celebration of their family heritage, offering gin lovers a taste of something truly special.
What Makes Pienaar & Son Special
Pienaar & Son’s distilling process is deeply rooted in the legacy of its founders, and they pride themselves on making gin with locally sourced botanicals. The distillery is known for its innovative flavors and attention to detail. It’s a place where you can feel the passion behind every bottle.
Gin Tasting Experience
Visitors to Pienaar & Son can enjoy a range of signature gins, including their popular Cape Citrus Gin and the Cape Fynbos Gin, both of which highlight the natural beauty of the region.
Address: Pienaar & Son, 103 Lower Main Rd, Observatory, Cape Town
Phone: +27 21 448 4094
Hours: Monday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Website: www.pienaarandson.co.za
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Family-owned with a rich heritage
- Focus on local botanicals and traditional methods
- Personalized gin tasting sessions
Cons:
- Smaller venue, so it can get busy during peak times
6. The Gin BarÂ
Located in the heart of Cape Town’s city center, The Gin Bar is a must-visit for any gin lover. This trendy bar boasts an impressive selection of local and international gins, as well as a stylish and welcoming atmosphere.
What Makes The Gin Bar Special
The Gin Bar stands out for its relaxed and sociable vibe, making it a fantastic place for both locals and tourists. The bartenders are gin experts, eager to share their knowledge and help you discover new gins to enjoy. The bar offers a range of gin cocktails, gin flights, and tastings.
Gin Tasting Experience
The Gin Bar’s gin tasting experience includes a curated selection of their finest gins, paired with mixers and garnishes. Their tasting menu changes regularly, offering new and exciting options to explore. It’s a perfect stop for anyone looking to enjoy an evening of gin in a lively and inviting atmosphere.
Address: The Gin Bar, 1st Floor, 39 Wale St, Cape Town City Centre
Phone: +27 21 422 0134
Hours: Monday – Saturday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Website: www.theginbar.co.za
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Centrally located in Cape Town
- Great variety of gin cocktails
- Knowledgeable bartenders
Cons:
- Can get crowded on weekends
The Best of Cape Town’s Gin Scene
Cape Town’s gin scene is an exciting blend of tradition, innovation, and local flavors. Whether you’re visiting Deep South Distillery for a tranquil experience in Noordhoek, exploring Distillers Union’s stylish setting, or enjoying a maritime-inspired tasting at Hout Bay Harbour Distillery, there’s something for every gin lover in this city.
FAQ
- How much does a gin tasting experience cost? Prices typically range from R150 to R400 per person, depending on the distillery and tasting options. It’s always a good idea to check with the venue for current pricing.
- Do I need to book in advance? While some distilleries accept walk-ins, it’s highly recommended to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Are the gin tastings family-friendly? Most distilleries are family-friendly, though you should check with the individual venues regarding their policy on children.
Final Thoughts
Cape Town is a gin lover’s paradise, offering a variety of distilleries, each with its own unique charm and offerings. Whether you’re looking to discover new flavors, learn about the art of distilling, or simply enjoy a great gin cocktail in a beautiful setting, Cape Town has something for you. So, grab your gin-loving friends, book a tasting tour, and let the adventure begin!
