Toronto: Nickel 9 Distillery Tour and Tasting

Introduction

If you’re keen to explore Toronto’s vibrant craft spirits scene, the Nickel 9 Distillery Tour and Tasting offers a thoughtfully curated glimpse into the world of small-batch distillation. While I haven’t personally taken this tour, the details paint a picture of an engaging experience suited for lovers of good spirits and authentic craftsmanship alike.

What I find especially appealing is the inclusion of a welcome cocktail—a warm, welcoming start—and a guided tasting of signature spirits like Northern Temple Vodka and Hidden Temple Gin. These spirits are made using locally sourced ingredients, which adds a layer of authenticity and pride to each sip. Plus, the insider look at the fermentation and distillation process promises a behind-the-scenes peek that many casual drinkers and enthusiasts will appreciate.

One consideration for travelers is that the tour lasts only about an hour, so those seeking a more in-depth or extended experience might find it a bit brief. Also, since the tour is designed for adults, it’s best suited for those over 13 years old, with no smoking allowed in the distillery.

This experience seems perfect for small groups, couples, or anyone curious about the craft of spirits, especially those interested in learning more about bitters and mixology.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Craft Experience: Learn how locally sourced ingredients are transformed into spirits in a modern, well-designed distillery.
• Tasting and Sampling: Enjoy guided tastings of Northern Temple Vodka and Hidden Temple Gin, plus the chance to discover new favorite flavors.
• Educational Focus: Gain insights into fermentation, distillation, and the art of bitters, enhancing your appreciation of spirits.
• Value for Money: At $25 and about an hour long, it offers a practical, accessible way to explore Toronto’s spirits scene.
• Small Group Setting: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Ideal for Enthusiasts: Perfect for those interested in spirits, cocktails, or simply looking for a fun, educational activity in Toronto.

Exploring the Distillery Atmosphere

Walking into Nickel 9 Distillery, you’re greeted with a sense of intimacy; the building is described as “cute” and “little”*, tucked away in Toronto’s west end neighborhood of The Junction. This suggests a cozy, unpretentious environment that emphasizes quality over size. It’s exactly the kind of place where you can imagine the passion of the craft distiller shining through.

The tour begins with a welcome cocktail, which sets a friendly, relaxed tone—no stiff formalities here. It’s a chance for visitors to settle in, get comfortable, and prepare for what’s to come. From the reviews, it’s clear that guides like Scotty make the experience approachable and engaging, sharing knowledge in a friendly manner.

As you move through the space, you’ll see the distillation equipment, get explanations on how ingredients are sourced, and observe the process of transforming raw materials into spirits. This behind-the-scenes look tells you that Nickel 9 isn’t just about tasting—it’s about understanding the craftsmanship involved.

Tasting the Signature Spirits

The core of the experience revolves around the guided tasting of Northern Temple Vodka and Hidden Temple Gin. Both spirits are crafted with local ingredients, which often means a more nuanced, fresh flavor profile compared to mass-produced options.

From the reviews, guests mention enjoying multiple samples and appreciating the variety. One traveler raved, “Had so much fun with the group enjoying different samples,” highlighting the social and interactive aspect of the tour. The spirits are likely to showcase the distillery’s commitment to quality, and as you taste, you’ll get insights into what makes each one unique.

This part of the tour offers a perfect opportunity to develop a more discerning palate, especially if you’re a fan of gin or vodka. You might find yourself discovering new notes and appreciating the subtle differences that craft distillation can bring.

The Bitters Class and Mixology Insights

One of the special features of this tour is the class on Ni9 Bitters. This is a rare chance to learn how bitters are made and how they can be used to elevate cocktails or even enhance spirits on their own.

Guests have noted that this part of the experience deepens their understanding of flavors and provides new tools to experiment with at home. It’s especially appealing for those who enjoy mixing drinks or want to make their cocktails more sophisticated. The bitters class is a neat way to extend the value of the tour beyond just tasting, turning knowledge into practical skills.

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The Experience in Context

For just $25, this tour offers a solid value for those interested in spirits, mixology, or Toronto’s local craft scene. The hour-long format might be brief compared to more extensive tasting events, but it’s a good snapshot of the distillery’s craft and philosophy.

The small group size (limited to 10 participants) ensures a relaxed atmosphere where questions are encouraged, and you really get a sense of personal interaction. The fact that the experience is held in a central location within Toronto’s Junction neighborhood makes it easy to combine with other sightseeing or dining plans.

What truly stands out from reviews is the knowledge and friendliness of guides like Scotty. Guests mention how well-informed and welcoming the hosts are, making the tour not just educational but also fun and memorable.

Practical Details and Tips

• The tour runs for about an hour and is typically available in the afternoon or evening, perfect for a post-lunch activity or a relaxed evening outing.
• The cost is $25 per person, which includes the welcome cocktail, tastings, and bitters class—this is a reasonable price for such an intimate, guided experience.
• Since alcohol is served to adults only, it’s not suitable for children under 13.
• You’ll want to arrive on time, as the tour is scheduled for specific hours, and the small group size means a limited number of spots.
• Reservations can be made with the flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance with a full refund, making it easy to plan around your Toronto itinerary.

The Sum Up

This Nickel 9 Distillery Tour and Tasting is an engaging, affordable way to connect with Toronto’s burgeoning craft spirits scene. It’s especially suited for spirits enthusiasts, curious travelers, or those interested in mixology. With guided tastings, insider insights, and a bitters-making class, it offers a well-rounded experience packed into just an hour.

The knowledgeable guides, the chance to taste local spirits, and the opportunity to learn about bitters and distillation make this tour stand out. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a fun, authentic activity that’s both educational and social. The cozy setting in The Junction ensures a friendly atmosphere, and the small group size guarantees personal attention.

Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or just starting to explore the world of spirits, this tour provides a valuable glimpse behind the scenes in a relaxed, approachable way. It’s a smart addition to any Toronto visit, particularly if you enjoy tasting unique, locally crafted beverages and want to deepen your appreciation for the craft of distilling.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, the tour is designed for adults and is not suitable for children under 13 years old.

What is included in the price?
The $25 fee includes a welcome cocktail, guided spirit tastings, an insider look at the distillation process, and a bitters class.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for about 1 hour, making it a concise but informative experience.

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

Where is the distillery located?
It’s located in Toronto’s west end neighborhood called The Junction, a central spot that’s easy to reach and explore afterward.

Is the tour available in multiple languages?
The tour is conducted in English, which is suitable for most visitors.

Do I need to make a reservation in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended, and you can reserve your spot with the option to pay later, ensuring flexibility in planning your trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: