Gin Blending Masterclass

A Fun and Authentic Way to Learn About Gin in Victoria

Trying to find a memorable, hands-on experience that combines craftsmanship, local flavor, and a little bit of fun? The Gin Blending Masterclass at Otway Estate might just be your answer. This two-hour session invites you to roll up your sleeves and create a gin that’s uniquely yours, all in the beautiful setting of the Otway Ranges. While it’s not a comprehensive distillery tour, it offers a heartfelt glimpse into the art of gin-making, with plenty of tastings and expert guidance along the way.

What we love about this experience is how it makes the process approachable and personalized. You don’t just sip gin here—you get to blend it, choosing botanicals to suit your taste. Plus, the location is simply stunning, surrounded by lush greenery and charming buildings. The inclusion of a share platter and the chance to take home your own bottle makes it feel like a full, satisfying escape. One potential drawback? The experience is designed for adults only, so it’s not suited for families or young travelers.

This tour is ideal for spirits enthusiasts, groups of friends, couples celebrating something special, or anyone curious about gin’s craft. If you’re looking for a relaxed, engaging, and tasty way to spend an afternoon in Victoria, this might be just your ticket.

Key Points

• Personalized Gin Creation: You’ll craft your own gin recipe, choosing from a variety of botanicals under the guidance of expert distillers.
• Authentic Experience: Learn about gin’s history, the role of botanicals, and distillation techniques — not just tasting but understanding.
• Beautiful Setting: Otway Estate’s picturesque location offers a memorable backdrop for your gin adventure.
• Tastings & Food: Enjoy gin tastings, a regional produce share platter, and a G&T to complement your experience.
• Takeaway: You leave with a 500ml bottle of your custom gin—a genuine keepsake.
• Value for Price: At roughly $129 per person, this experience offers hands-on craftsmanship and education, making it good value for spirits aficionados.

An In-Depth Look at the Gin Blending Masterclass

Setting and Arrival

The experience begins at Otway Estate, located at 10 Hoveys Rd, Barongarook. The estate features a blend of a brewery, distillery, and cidery, all set amid the lush greenery of the Otway Ranges. Arrival is straightforward, with the meeting point clearly designated, and the tour is conducted privately for your group — a plus for those who prefer intimacy and focus.

The program starts at 1:00 pm, giving you a relaxed afternoon to enjoy the estate’s surroundings and settle in before the hands-on part begins. Since transportation isn’t included, you’ll want to plan your arrival—whether by car or public transit, which is near the location.

The Welcome & Introduction

Once gathered, your hosts kick off with a warm welcome, offering a brief overview of Otway Estate’s offerings and the day’s agenda. This initial welcome sets a friendly tone, and you’re encouraged to ask questions — the guides are known for their insider knowledge. They’ll give a snapshot of what’s to come, emphasizing the fun of creating something personal and the educational nature of the session.

The World of Gin & Botanicals

The heart of the experience is learning about gin itself — its origins, evolution, and current popularity. You’ll discover the importance of botanicals, which are the essence of gin’s flavor. The guides introduce a vast range of vapour-infused botanicals, each offering distinct flavors. This part is especially engaging if you’re curious about how different herbs and spices influence the final product.

Many reviewers mention how the guides’ expertise enhances the experience. One noted, “We loved the way the guides explained the role of each botanical, blending science with storytelling.” It’s this depth of knowledge that transforms a simple tasting into a meaningful craft lesson.

Hands-On Gin Blending

Next, the real fun begins: blending your own gin. You start with a base spirit and a selection of botanicals, experimenting with different combinations to formulate your personal recipe. Under the watchful eye of the distillers, you taste and tweak your blend to match your preferences.

The process is designed to be approachable, even for beginners. The guides provide tips on balance and flavor intensities, but ultimately, it’s about creating something you’ll enjoy. “It felt like I was a master distiller for a day,” one participant shared, highlighting how empowering and satisfying the process can be.

Tasting & Food Pairings

After your blend is finalized, you get to taste it in a typical G&T, nicely paired with regional produce on a share platter. The gin tasting session features Otway’s own gins, giving you a chance to compare your creation with professional distillations. This part is as much about education as enjoyment—learning how different gins are crafted and the nuances in flavor.

Several reviews emphasize the quality of the tastings: “The gin was smooth and flavorful, and the platter complemented the drinks perfectly.” It’s a delightful way to unwind and reflect on your creative efforts.

Takeaway & Memories

Before departure, you’ll receive a 500ml bottle of your custom gin—a genuine souvenir of your afternoon. Sharing it with friends or keeping it as a personal reminder of your craft effort adds to the authentic feel of the experience. Coupled with the knowledge gained, it’s a gift that keeps on giving.

Final Thoughts on the Value

At $129.10 per person, this is a reasonably priced, well-rounded experience for anyone interested in spirits, craftsmanship, or local scenery. It’s particularly good if you enjoy interactive activities that combine learning and tasting. The inclusion of a personalized bottle makes it stand out from typical tastings or tours.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience works best for adults seeking a relaxed, engaging activity that offers more than just tasting. It’s ideal for groups of friends, couples, or solo travelers wanting to add a crafty flair to their trip. If you’re passionate about spirits or simply curious about gin, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. However, those looking for a full distillery tour or family-friendly activity might want to consider other options.

Practical Tips for Visitors

• Book in advance, especially during peak times, to secure your spot.
• Arrive on time at 1:00 pm to make the most of your afternoon.
• Remember, transportation isn’t included, so plan accordingly.
• Bring questions for the guides—they’re welcoming and knowledgeable.
• Wear comfortable clothing, especially if you plan to spend some time mixing botanicals.
• Take note of your personalized gin recipe if you want to recreate it later.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
No, transportation isn’t provided, so you’ll need to arrange your own way to Otway Estate.

How long does the experience last?
It runs for approximately 2 hours, making it a perfect quick escape without feeling rushed.

Can I take home the gin I create?
Yes, you’ll receive a 500ml bottle of your own crafted gin.

Is this experience suitable for children?
No, this is an adults-only activity, focusing on spirits and tasting.

What’s included in the price?
You get your own gin, tastings, a share platter, and insights from expert distillers.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, offering peace of mind.

Final Word

For anyone looking to add a personal touch to their gin experience, the Otway Estate’s Masterclass combines education, taste, and stunning scenery into a memorable package. It’s a chance to learn craft skills, enjoy regional flavors, and leave with a truly personalized bottle. Perfect for spirits lovers, curious travelers, or those celebrating a special occasion, it offers authentic, hands-on fun that’s well worth the modest price. Just remember to book ahead and prepare for an enjoyable afternoon among friends, botanicals, and beautiful landscapes.