Paris Craft Distillery Make Your Own Gin Workshop

If you’re visiting Paris and seeking a fascinating, flavorful experience beyond the usual landmarks, the Paris Craft Distillery Make Your Own Gin Workshop offers a truly unique activity. This two-and-a-half-hour session combines education, creativity, and tasting, all set in a real micro-distillery right in the city center. It’s perfect for spirit enthusiasts, curious travelers, or anyone eager to craft a personalized bottle of gin while learning about the art of distillation.

What we love about this experience is how it balances fun with education. First, you get to select your botanicals, crafting a recipe that reflects your taste. Second, the guided tour of the distillery offers insider insights into the distillation process, making it much more than just a craft class. That said, it’s worth noting that the workshop’s intimate size—no more than eight participants—means reservations should be made well in advance, especially if you want to secure a spot during peak tourist season.

This activity would suit adventurous travelers who enjoy hands-on experiences, small-group settings, and a bit of creative indulgence. If you’re interested in spirits, looking for a memorable souvenir, or simply want to try something different in Paris, this workshop can be a highlight of your trip. Just remember, it’s a bit more involved than a typical city tour, so come ready to participate actively.

Key Points

• Authentic Craft Experience: You’ll distill your own gin on a copper still guided by professional distillers.
• Educational and Fun: Learn about gin’s history, styles, and the art of distillation while tasting homemade cocktails.
• Personalized Recipe: Choose from a large variety of botanicals to create a signature gin.
• Memorable Souvenir: Leave with a 70cl bottle of your custom gin, beautifully labeled.
• Small Group & Intimate Setting: Limited to 8 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Value for Money: For around $127, you get a guided tour, tastings, a personalized bottle, and snacks—an engaging, interactive way to spend time in Paris.

An In-Depth Look at the Gin Making Workshop in Paris

The Start: Meeting at the Heart of Paris

The experience begins at 52 Rue de l’Arbre Sec, a central location easily accessible by public transportation. This proximity to Paris’s historic core makes it convenient for travelers to incorporate into their day. As you arrive, a friendly staff member or guide greets you, setting a welcoming tone. The small group size ensures you’ll receive plenty of individual attention, and the intimate setting fosters a sense of camaraderie among participants.

Guided Tour & Education

The first part of your two-and-a-half hours involves a guided tour of the distillery—a real, working craft distillery. Expect about an hour of expert-led explanation about the distillation process, the history of gin, and the different styles of spirits. The guide’s knowledge shines through as they share insights into how botanicals influence flavor and the importance of quality ingredients.

One reviewer, Leslie_B, mentions that it’s “a great learning experience,” highlighting that the professional guides make complex topics accessible. You’ll discover how a tiny copper still works, and why certain herbs and spices are key to creating distinctive gins. This educational component adds significant value, turning what could be just a tasting session into a genuine learning opportunity.

Botanical Selection & Recipe Creation

After the tour, the fun begins: creating your own gin recipe. Here, you’re invited to select from a variety of botanicals—herbs, plants, and spices—guided by the professionals. This hands-on process allows you to design a flavor profile that suits your tastes. Whether you prefer something with a citrus twist, spicy notes, or herbal undertones, the large range of options encourages experimentation.

This part of the workshop is especially popular. As Leslie_B noted, she enjoyed “making my own bottle of Christmas Gin,” illustrating how personalized recipes can be both fun and satisfying. The ability to tailor your spirit enhances the overall experience, making it memorable long after your trip.

Distillation & Tasting

Once your botanical mix is selected, you’ll move to the still—a tiny copper pot still—where you’ll distill your custom blend. Watching the process in action deepens your appreciation for the craft and the skill involved. During the distillation, you’ll taste various homemade cocktails, which help you understand the different ways gin can be enjoyed.

The workshop emphasizes tasting and understanding flavor. The guide and professional distillers will advise on how botanicals influence flavor, and you’ll sample your creations along the way. This interactive tasting makes the process lively and informative, not just a demonstration.

The Finale: Your Custom Bottle

The workshop concludes with personalizing and labeling your own bottle. You’ll leave with a 70cl bottle of your own gin—an authentic souvenir that captures your creativity. The included snacks and food plate add a nice touch, balancing the spirits with some light bites.

Value and Practicalities

For about $126.76 per person, the experience packs a lot into a short window. The price covers the guided tour, tastings, your distilled gin, and a personalized label—providing excellent value for a unique, boutique activity in Paris. Keep in mind, the workshop is booked on average 61 days in advance, testament to its popularity.

Transportation isn’t included, so plan to arrive via public transit or a short walk from central Paris. The workshop runs in a small group setting, which enhances the intimacy and allows for more in-depth guidance—something many reviews praise.

What Past Participants Say

Leslie_B’s glowing review reflects the workshop’s appeal: “A great learning experience and my own bottle of Christmas Gin to take home for the holidays.” Participants consistently comment on the guides’ expertise, the quality of the cocktails, and the fun of creating a truly personalized spirit.

Some feedback emphasizes the deliciousness of the cocktails served. The inclusion of snacks makes the workshop feel more like a social event than just a class, which adds to the enjoyment.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This workshop suits travelers who are curious about spirits, enjoy hands-on activities, and appreciate small, personalized groups. It’s also perfect for those looking for an authentic, craft experience rather than a touristy tasting tour. If you’re interested in learning about distillation or creating a custom gift, this is a prime choice.

It’s less suitable for travelers on a tight schedule or those who prefer quick, passive activities. Because it involves active participation and a bit of patience during the distillation process, it’s best approached with a relaxed mindset.

Final Thoughts

The Paris Craft Distillery Make Your Own Gin Workshop offers a rare combination of education, creativity, and flavor in the heart of Paris. It’s a hands-on activity that transforms a typical sightseeing day into an interactive experience. The professional guidance, combined with the ability to craft your own spirit and leave with a personalized bottle, makes it a standout choice for spirits enthusiasts or anyone eager to try something truly different.

For about two and a half hours, you’ll learn, taste, and create—adding a memorable story to your Paris trip. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to indulge in a new skill, this workshop offers authentic, engaging fun.

FAQ

How long does the workshop last?
The entire experience takes about 2 hours 30 minutes, including the tour, recipe creation, distillation, and tasting.

Where does the workshop take place?
It starts at 52 Rue de l’Arbre Sec, in central Paris, making it easy to reach from most parts of the city through public transportation.

Is there a limit on group size?
Yes, the workshop is limited to a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a more personalized and relaxed atmosphere.

Do I get to keep my bottle?
Absolutely. You’ll leave with a 70cl bottle of your own distilled gin, complete with a custom label.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers the guided distillery tour, tastings, cocktails, your own distillation, snacks, and the personalized bottle.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the experience are not refundable.

Is this activity suitable for children or non-drinkers?
It’s mainly aimed at adults interested in spirits and distillation. The focus on alcohol production makes it less suitable for children or non-drinkers.

In sum, this workshop offers a rich, hands-on introduction to gin-making in Paris, perfect for curious spirits lovers wanting a memorable, authentic experience. It’s a rare chance to craft your own gin, learn from experts, and enjoy some delightful tastings—all in a cozy, small-group setting.