Skopje: A Unique Gin and Cocktail tasting tour

If you’re a traveler who appreciates a good story behind your spirits and loves authentic, small-group experiences, then the Skopje Gin and Cocktail Tasting Tour from Smidgin Distillery might just be your new favorite activity in North Macedonia’s capital. This tour blends a fascinating peek into the city’s history with an insider’s look at one of Europe’s most acclaimed gins, all wrapped up with thoughtfully crafted cocktails.

We love how this experience manages to be both educational and enjoyable without feeling rushed or overly commercial. It’s a chance to learn about what makes Smidgin gin special—particularly their London Dry, Velvet, and Orient variants—while sipping and sniffing your way through aromatic botanicals. Plus, the setting inside the historic Ruben Palace adds a layer of ambiance that simply can’t be beaten.

One thing to consider is that the tour lasts just about an hour, so while it’s perfect for a quick but meaningful taste of Skopje’s spirits scene, those craving a longer deep dive might want to supplement this with additional explorations.

Still, this tour is ideally suited for curious travelers, cocktail lovers, or anyone eager to discover a piece of Skopje’s modern craft scene in a historic setting. It’s particularly well-suited for small groups or individuals wanting a personalized experience with local guides and expert mixologists.

Key Points

• Exclusive insight into the creation of Smidgin, one of Europe’s finest gins.
• Tutored tasting of three distinct gins: London Dry, Velvet, and Orient.
• Aroma tasting of botanicals, enhancing your appreciation of the ingredients.
• Expertly crafted “Perfect Serve” cocktails that showcase the versatility of Smidgin gin.
• Located inside the historic Ruben Palace, adding an authentic atmosphere to your experience.
• Suitable for adults only, with options to cancel or reschedule with ease.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting Point: Smidgin Distillery in Ruben Palace

The tour begins at Smidgin Distillery, located on the ground floor of the Ruben Palace, known locally as the MCM building. This historic venue, one of the most beautiful and oldest in Skopje, provides a fittingly elegant backdrop for a spirits tour. As you step into the distillery, the blend of old-world architecture with modern craftsmanship immediately sets an inviting tone.

The location’s significance lies in its combination of history and innovation, giving you a tangible sense of the city’s layered past alongside its contemporary artisan scene. The distillery’s setting also makes it easy to access, especially if you’re staying near the city center.

Guided Tour of the Distillery and Botanical Aromas

The experience kicks off with a guided tour of the distillery, led by knowledgeable staff who explain the distillation process—from selecting botanicals to the final bottling. You’ll learn how Smidgin’s London Dry gin is crafted with a particular focus on quality ingredients and traditional techniques, putting to rest any doubts about the modern craft behind this spirit.

A highlight here is the aroma tasting of botanicals—a sensory experience that elevates your understanding of what makes each gin unique. Expect to sniff and compare the different herbs, spices, and botanicals that give Smidgin gin its signature profiles. This part of the tour is especially appreciated by those who enjoy the science and art behind spirits.

Tutored Gin Tasting: Three Distinct Flavors

After the distillery tour, it’s time for the tutored tasting. Here, your guide will walk you through each of the three gins—London Dry, Velvet, and Orient—explaining the flavor profiles, botanicals used, and what makes each one special. Multiple reviews praise the expert guidance, noting that the guides are well-informed and approachable, making complex details accessible and engaging.

For example, the London Dry might be characterized by classic juniper and citrus notes, while Velvet offers a smoother, more rounded profile, and Orient introduces exotic spices and aromatic complexity. This tasting isn’t just about sipping; it’s about understanding how different ingredients impact flavor and aroma, turning your palate into a mini laboratory.

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The “Perfect Serve” Cocktails

Following the tasting, you’ll be served two specially crafted “Perfect Serve” cocktails. These are not your average mixed drinks—each is carefully prepared by a skilled mixologist to highlight the versatility of Smidgin gin. The cocktails are paired with snacks, making this a well-rounded experience.

Guests consistently mention that the cocktails are both delicious and visually appealing, with the presentation adding to the atmosphere. The mixologist’s skill shines through, and the cocktails help you appreciate how a good gin can be transformed into a variety of flavors.

The Atmosphere and Setting

One of the most praised aspects of this tour is the atmosphere inside Ruben Palace. The historic architecture, combined with the warm lighting and attentive staff, creates a relaxed yet refined vibe. It’s a small, intimate setting—perfect for learning and tasting without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

Overall Experience: What Travelers Say

Feedback from participants highlights the knowledgeable guides, who are able to answer questions and share insights with enthusiasm. The stunning views from the location and the engaging, sensory-rich experience make this tour a memorable part of any Skopje visit.

Some reviews note that the duration is just about an hour, which keeps the experience focused but might leave those with a longer afternoon craving more. However, many feel that the value offered—especially considering the expert guidance, the unique setting, and the quality of the spirits—is excellent.

Practical Details and Logistics

The tour lasts approximately one hour, making it ideal for a quick yet meaningful activity. The starting time varies, so it’s best to check availability when planning your day. The meeting point at Ruben Palace is central, easily accessible, and situated in a beautiful historic building.

The activity includes a tutored tasting of three gins, aroma exploration, two cocktails, snacks, and a guided tour of the distillery. It’s suitable for adults only (not recommended for pregnant women or children under 18).

Booking is flexible with a cancelation policy allowing full refunds up to 24 hours in advance. Payment can be made later, giving you flexibility if your plans change.

The tour is offered in several languages—English, Serbian, Macedonian, and Croatian—making it accessible to a broad range of travelers.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for spirit enthusiasts who enjoy learning about the craft behind their drinks. It’s also ideal for history buffs interested in Skopje’s architecture and heritage, as the setting inside Ruben Palace adds a cultural layer.

Couples, small groups, or solo travelers looking for a personalized, high-quality experience will appreciate the intimate nature of this tour. If you like cocktails and want to understand what makes a good gin, this is an ideal activity.

However, those seeking a longer, more immersive tasting or a full-day tour might want to supplement this experience with additional activities in Skopje.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

The Skopje Gin and Cocktail Tasting Tour offers a compelling mix of local craftsmanship, history, and sensory discovery. It’s a well-balanced activity that manages to be both informative and fun, with a setting that elevates the experience beyond just tasting spirits. For travelers who value quality guides and authentic atmospheres, this tour delivers both.

Considering the price—especially when you factor in the guided tour, tastings, cocktails, and snacks—the value is notable. It’s a great way to spend an hour learning and savoring, especially if you’re keen on discovering North Macedonia’s modern craft scene in a historic setting.

This tour is best suited for adults seeking a relaxed yet engaging activity, particularly those with an interest in spirits, craft cocktails, or local culture. Its small-group nature ensures a personal touch, making it a memorable highlight of your Skopje visit.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, the tour is designed for adults only, as it involves alcohol tasting and cocktails.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your schedule shifts.

How long does the tour last?
The experience takes about one hour, making it easy to fit into a busy sightseeing day.

Is the tour conducted in English?
Yes, the tour is available in English and several other languages, including Serbian, Macedonian, and Croatian.

Where exactly does the tour start?
It begins at Smidgin Distillery inside the Ruben Palace, a historic and easily accessible location in central Skopje.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the guided distillery tour, tutored tasting of three gins, aroma exploration, two cocktails, snacks, and an unforgettable atmosphere.

This Skopje gin tour offers a memorable blend of history, craft, and flavor. Whether you’re a gin connoisseur or just curious about local spirits, it’s a small but satisfying window into North Macedonia’s contemporary artisan scene.

You can check availability for your dates here: