Ink Gin Experience

Our review explores the Ink Gin Experience at Husk Distillers—a fun, engaging, and educational tour that showcases Australia’s first all-natural color-changing gin. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, the details, reviews, and available information suggest it’s an excellent choice for those curious about craft spirits, looking for a quirky twist on gin tasting, or seeking a relaxed afternoon learning about botanical distillation.

What we love about this experience is its focus on natural ingredients and innovative techniques—you’re not just sipping spirits; you’re discovering the magic of bringing color and flavor from nature into your glass. Plus, the guided behind-the-scenes tour offers genuine insight into the distillation process, which adds a layer of appreciation for these small-batch spirits.

One possible consideration is the limited duration—just one hour—which might not be enough time for those wanting a more extensive or in-depth exploration. However, for a quick yet comprehensive peek into the world of gin making, it’s well worth the price.

This tour is ideal for adventurous spirits, cocktail enthusiasts, and curious travelers who enjoy a mix of tasting, learning, and a touch of fun. It’s also perfect for visitors staying in Northern NSW or those seeking a memorable, interactive experience that combines education with entertainment.

Key Points

• Natural ingredients: The gin uses all-natural botanicals and features the first all-natural colour-changing process in Australia.
• Interactive and educational: The tour includes a behind-the-scenes look at the distillation process and a fun crossword puzzle related to gin.
• Tastings and cocktails: Expect to sample four spirits and learn how to make your own perfect Ink Gin cocktail.
• Value for money: Priced at just over $46 per person, the experience offers a good mix of education, tasting, and fun activities.
• Small group setting: Limited to 20 travelers, ensuring a personalized and engaging atmosphere.
• Convenient scheduling: Held daily from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM at Husk Distillers, with options to dine before or after.

An In-Depth Look at the Ink Gin Experience

What is Ink Gin?

Ink Gin is not your average spirit. Celebrating its 10th birthday, Husk Distillers has crafted a truly unique gin that changes color naturally when mixed with tonic or soda. This makes it not just a drinking experience but a visual one, adding a playful and Instagram-worthy element to your visit. The all-natural color-changing feature is the first of its kind in Australia, highlighting Husk’s commitment to innovation and quality.

Tour Overview and Itinerary

Starting at Husk Distillers on Dulguigan Road, the tour is designed to be engaging and informative within its hour-long format. It begins with a guided walk through the distillery, where you’ll see the facilities and learn about the botanicals used—a key part of understanding what makes Ink Gin special. The guide, often described as engaging and fun—as one reviewer notes, “Mark was engaging, informative, and fun”—really brings the process to life.

Next, you’ll sample four different spirits, each showcasing different botanical blends and flavors. The tasting is designed not only to delight the palate but to educate on how the botanicals influence aroma and flavor. After tasting, you’ll get to try the spirit neat before adding tonic or soda water to see the magical colour change occur right in your glass.

Behind-the-Scenes Insights

The highlight for many is the behind-the-scenes tour of the distillation process. This part offers a real look into how Husk produces their spirits, including where they bottle Ink Gin. Understanding the process adds value for those interested in craft spirits or considering a visit to a distillery in the future.

Interactive and Fun Elements

The interactive crossword puzzle serves as a clever, engaging way to reinforce what you’ve learned during the tour. Completing it gives you the chance to win a 50ml bottle of your favorite Ink Gin—a tangible souvenir of your experience. Many reviews emphasize the fun nature of this activity, with one describing the guide as “lovely” and “engaging,” adding to the overall enjoyment.

Cocktail Making and Additional Dining Options

The tour wraps up with a cocktail-making session, where you can craft your own version of an Ink Gin cocktail. This hands-on approach allows you to take home a personalized drink and a new skill. On top of that, Husk Distillers offers the option to book a table at their restaurant either before or after the tour, perfect for extending your visit with a meal or snack.

Price and Value

At $46.62 per person, this experience offers solid value. The price includes the guided tour, tastings, cocktail making, and the crossword activity, plus a discount on retail purchases. Considering the personalized attention in a small group (up to 20 people), the price feels reasonable for what’s packed into an hour.

What the Reviews Say

Though only one review is available, it’s glowing: “Great ink gin tour! We thoroughly enjoyed the ink gin tour with Mark. He was engaging, informative, and fun! Would highly recommend the experience.” This highlights the importance of a knowledgeable guide and a well-organized experience that keeps participants entertained and informed.

Practical Considerations

The tour runs daily from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM, making it a convenient late-afternoon activity. Confirmations are received upon booking, and free cancellation is available with a 24-hour notice, adding reassurance for travelers. Service animals are permitted, and the activity is suitable for most travelers—making it accessible and flexible for many.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is perfect if you’re interested in craft spirits, especially gin, and want a fun, hands-on activity. It suits travelers looking for a short, memorable activity in NSW, especially those who appreciate learning about production processes and natural ingredients. It’s also well-suited for group outings, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy a relaxed and interactive tasting session.

Final Thoughts

The Ink Gin Experience at Husk Distillers offers a distinctive blend of education, entertainment, and taste. With a focus on natural ingredients and innovative presentation, it elevates a simple gin tasting into an engaging journey. The small-group environment, combined with knowledgeable guides and a fun, interactive approach, creates a memorable outing.

Despite its compact duration, the experience provides meaningful insights into the art of distillation and botanical blending, making it ideal for those curious about the craft behind the bottle. The cocktail-making component ensures you leave with a new skill—and perhaps a favorite drink in hand.

For travelers looking to add a quirky, educational, and delicious activity to their itinerary in New South Wales, the Ink Gin Experience delivers genuine value. It’s especially fitting for those who enjoy learning about natural ingredients, creative cocktails, and small-batch spirits. Whether you’re a seasoned gin lover or a casual drinker, this tour offers a playful yet informative glimpse into the world of innovative distilling.

FAQs

How long does the Ink Gin Experience last?
The tour lasts approximately one hour, from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM, making it a perfect quick activity in your day.

What is included in the tour?
Your ticket includes a guided behind-the-scenes tour of Husk Distillery, tasting of four spirits, a cocktail-making class, and an opportunity to complete a crossword puzzle for a bottle of gin. You also get a discount on retail purchases.

Can I book a table before or after the tour?
Yes, there is an option to reserve a table at Husk’s restaurant, either before or after your tour, allowing for a longer visit and meal.

Is this experience suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. It’s a generally accessible activity, suitable for those aged 18 and over.

What makes Ink Gin special?
Its claim to fame is being the first Australian all-natural colour-changing gin, which reacts to tonic or soda water, creating a visual spectacle.

What is the cost?
The experience costs $46.62 per person, which includes tastings, the tour, cocktail-making, and a fun activity.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours before the scheduled time, providing flexibility in case plans change.

Where does the tour meet?
At Husk Distillers, located at 1152 Dulguigan Rd, North Tumbulgum NSW. The activity is held indoors at the distillery.

To sum it up, the Ink Gin Experience offers a charming, well-rounded introduction to craft distilling and natural ingredients with a playful twist. It suits those seeking a relaxed, educational outing that pairs tastings with a bit of fun and creativity. Whether you’re a gin aficionado or just looking for a memorable activity in NSW, this tour provides both value and authentic, engaging content.