Ketchikan: Distillery Tour with Infusion Class

If you’re visiting Ketchikan and have a taste for spirits—and more importantly, the stories behind them—this Distillery Tour with Infusion Class offers a unique chance to see the distilling process up close while crafting your own personalized bottle. It’s perfect for those who enjoy hands-on experiences, appreciate local craft, and want a memorable souvenir that’s truly their own.

What makes this tour stand out is its blend of educational insight and creative fun. You’ll gain a behind-the-scenes look at a historic fire station turned distillery, and then dive into the art of botanicals and flavor blending. Plus, the chance to label your own bottle adds a personal touch many other tours don’t offer. That said, it is a fairly intimate, 2-hour experience, so it’s best suited for those who don’t mind a relaxed pace and some guided tasting.

One thing to keep in mind is that this experience focuses on spirits infusion, not a full tasting or a pub crawl. It’s more about crafting and learning than drinking in vast quantities. And with a price of $161 per person, it’s an investment in both education and a high-quality keepsake. Overall, if you’re into spirits, hands-on activities, and learning about local craftsmanship, this tour could be a highlight of your Ketchikan visit.

Key Points

• Hands-on infusion experience that lets you craft a custom spirit with botanicals, herbs, and spices.
• Educational tour of the distillery housed in a historic fire station—an interesting setting with local flavor.
• Create a personalized label to take home, making it a special souvenir.
• Sample house spirits and learn about their history and production.
• Duration of 2 hours makes it a manageable, engaging activity without taking up your whole day.
• Accessible for most guests; wheelchair accessible and suitable for travelers over 16.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Ketchikan Distillery Tour with Infusion Class

The Setting: A Historic Fire Station Turned Distillery

As you arrive at the Uncharted Alaska Distillery, you’ll be struck by the unique location in a historic fire station. This isn’t just a quirky backdrop; it’s a reflection of local history and craftsmanship. We loved the way the old building lends character and authenticity to the experience, creating a tangible sense of place.

The tour begins with an overview of the distillery’s history, giving context to the spirits they produce today. Here, you’ll get a glimpse of the local roots, which adds depth to the tasting and infusion process. The fact that the distillery is housed in a building with a storied past makes your experience more meaningful than a typical commercial distillery.

The Tour: Learning the Art of Distilling

Next, your guide (likely in English) will walk you through the distilling process—from raw ingredients to the final spirit. The focus isn’t just on the technical steps; it’s about appreciating how local ingredients and traditions influence their spirits. Some reviews mention the guide’s enthusiasm and ability to explain complex processes with clarity, making it accessible even if you’re new to spirits.

While the distillery doesn’t seem massive, the intimate size of the tour allows for plenty of questions and interaction. You’ll taste some of the house spirits, which are crafted on-site, and learn about their flavor profiles and history. This tasting experience is designed to be educational rather than just indulgent, with the host sharing stories that connect you to the local culture.

The Infusion Class: A Creative Workshop

The highlight for many is the hands-on infusion class. Here, you get to blend your own spirits—whether gin, vodka, whiskey, or agave spirits—by infusing botanicals, herbs, and spices. All botanicals are included, which means you can experiment freely. We found that this part of the experience is both fun and informative, allowing you to understand how different ingredients influence flavor.

Participants have raved about the approachability of the class—it’s suitable for beginners but still offers enough nuance for seasoned enthusiasts. The guided instructions ensure your infusion turns out delicious and balanced. When your bottle is ready, you’ll be able to create a custom label—a nice touch that makes your souvenir truly your own.

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Tasting & Learning: What You’ll Take Away

After crafting your infusion, you’ll get to taste the spirits again, now with a new appreciation for how flavors develop. The tour ends with the opportunity to take home 375 ml of your own infused alcohol, which is a generous amount for personal use or as a gift. While extra bottles or infusions aren’t included, it’s easy to see the value in this all-in-one package.

Guests have commented positively on the quality of the spirits and the value of the experience. One reviewer noted, “It’s a fun way to learn about spirits and walk away with a personalized bottle,” which captures the essence of the tour.

Practical Details: Value, Timing, Accessibility

At $161 per person, this experience is a solid value for anyone interested in spirits, craftsmanship, or unique souvenirs. The cost includes the tour, tasting, infusion class, and your own bottle—no hidden fees or extra costs unless you want additional infusions or souvenirs.

The 2-hour duration fits well into a day of exploring Ketchikan, offering a relaxed pace without feeling rushed. Tours are generally available in the morning and afternoon, and the experience is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for many visitors.

For travelers with children, note that the experience isn’t suitable for kids under 16, and drivers under 21 aren’t permitted to participate, aligning with alcohol regulations.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience will resonate most with adults who appreciate craftsmanship, local traditions, and hands-on activities. It’s ideal for those who want more than just a tasting, seeking an educational and creative outlet. If you enjoy learning about spirits in an authentic setting and want a personalized keepsake, this is a great choice.

It’s also perfect for small groups or couples looking for a memorable, intimate activity that combines learning with fun. Travelers who value local history and craftsmanship will find this tour a meaningful way to connect with Ketchikan’s spirit scene.

Final Thoughts

This distillery tour with infusion class offers a rare blend of education, creativity, and local flavor. It’s not a boozy binge but a thoughtful experience that emphasizes the artistry behind spirits. You’ll leave with a personalized bottle and a better understanding of what goes into your favorite drinks.

While the price might seem high compared to a quick tasting, remember you’re paying for both the knowledge and the custom-made souvenir. It’s an experience that appeals to those curious about spirits and eager to learn something new in a friendly, relaxed setting.

If you’re after an activity that’s interactive rather than passive, and want a tangible memento of your Ketchikan visit, this tour deserves a spot on your itinerary. Just bring your curiosity, and you’ll walk away with more than just a bottle—you’ll have a story to tell.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s designed for guests 16 and older due to alcohol content and infusion activities.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a manageable and engaging activity.

What is included in the price?
The tour covers the distillery visit, tastings of house spirits, the infusion class, and a 375 ml bottle of your own infused alcohol.

Can I choose what spirit to craft?
Yes, you can craft gin, vodka, whiskey, or agave spirits, with botanicals, herbs, and spices provided.

Is the distillery accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the experience is wheelchair accessible, making it open to a wide range of guests.

Am I allowed to purchase additional bottles or souvenirs?
While not included, you can buy additional infusions or souvenirs separately, but these are not part of the package.

Do I need to reserve in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended. You can reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility if your plans change.

In all, this Ketchikan distillery experience offers a charming mix of history, craft, and personal touch — ideal for spirits enthusiasts or those seeking a memorable souvenir from Alaska.

You can check availability for your dates here: