Nice: Craft your own gin with a master – 2 people

If you’re heading to Nice and have even a passing interest in spirits or artisanal crafts, this gin-making workshop could be a highlight of your trip. It’s a hands-on experience that combines learning, creativity, and a bit of history – all wrapped into a couple of hours in the heart of the South of France. While it’s not a massive tour, what makes it special is the chance to leave with your very own bottle of gin, personalized with a label you design yourself.

We like that this experience is approachable and intimate, limited to just two people, so it feels more like a fun, personalized activity rather than a generic group class. The focus on using over 30 botanicals for flavoring and the chance to distill in an authentic copper still makes it seem genuinely craft-oriented. However, it’s not for everyone—it’s a 2-hour activity without much flexibility, and it’s explicitly for adults, so not suitable for children.

If you’re curious about spirits, enjoy DIY projects, or want a memorable keepsake from your trip, this might be just the thing. But if you’re after a larger-scale tour or more sightseeing, you might want to explore other options.

Key Points

• Personalized experience: Create your own gin with guidance from a master distiller.
• Flavor exploration: Use over 30 botanicals, spices, and fruits to craft your unique recipe.
• Authentic distillation: Learn and distill in a real copper still—an artisan’s tool.
• Custom labeling: Leave with a 50cl bottle of your own gin, complete with a label you design.
• Learn and taste: Discover the history of gin and enjoy a tasting of a house cocktail made with Gin Mistello.
• Limited group size: Perfectly suited for couples or small groups wanting an exclusive activity.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Gin Workshop

This experience in Nice offers a well-rounded introduction to gin-making, with a practical approach that balances education and creativity. Starting at the distillery on Rue Bavastro, just a few minutes from the bustling port area, you’ll be greeted and immersed in the art of distillation. The setting is quiet and intimate, ideal for one-on-one or two-person groups that want a more personal touch.

Learning the Basics and the History of Gin

Before rolling up your sleeves, you’ll get a brief overview of gin’s background. The master distiller shares insights into the history of the spirit, from its origins to modern-day craft distilling. Expect a friendly, informative chat that demystifies what makes gin unique, especially in France, where local botanicals and innovations add local flair.

Crafting Your Own Gin Recipe

The core of the experience involves choosing ingredients. With over 30 botanicals, spices, and fruits at your disposal, you’ll get to experiment and develop a flavor profile that suits your palate. Whether you prefer herbal, citrusy, or spicy notes, the selection encourages creativity. The guide helps you balance your ingredients and explains the role each plays in the final product.

Distilling in an Authentic Copper Still

Once your recipe is ready, you’ll move on to the actual distillation process. Guided carefully by the master, you’ll operate a copper still—a traditional piece of equipment renowned for its ability to produce smooth, high-quality spirits. Watching your gin take shape in real-time adds a satisfying sense of accomplishment.

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Personalizing Your Bottle

After distillation, your gin is transferred into a 50cl bottle, which you can personalize by designing a label on-site. This part adds a creative, fun element and makes your final product a perfect gift or keepsake. You’ll leave with a tangible reminder of your time in Nice—your own handcrafted gin.

Final Tasting and House Cocktail

The session wraps up with a tasting of Gin Mistello, the house brand, prepared in a specially crafted cocktail. It’s a convivial moment that lets you appreciate the flavors and the craft behind the spirit. Reviews mention that this tasting is a highlight, offering a chance to compare your creation to professional spirits and enjoy some local flavor.

The Practical Side: Details and Considerations

This workshop lasts about 2 hours, making it a manageable activity even for a busy sightseeing day. The small size—limited to just two people—means more personalized attention, though it also means you’ll need to book ahead, especially during peak seasons.

The cost reflects the exclusivity and the craft involved. While not necessarily cheap, you’re paying for a dedicated experience, expert guidance, and a tangible product to take home. Many reviews note that it’s a good value considering the hands-on nature and the quality of the final bottle.

It’s essential to note that children under 18 are not allowed, which is typical for alcohol-related activities, but worth keeping in mind if you’re traveling as a family. The experience is conducted in both French and English, making it accessible for international visitors.

Ease of Booking and Cancellation

The process is flexible—you can reserve now and pay later and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexibility is helpful if your plans change unexpectedly, common in travel itineraries.

Group Size and Atmosphere

Limited to two participants, the workshop offers a cozy and focused environment. It’s ideal for couples, friends, or anyone wanting a more intimate experience rather than a large group class.

How It Compares to Other Experiences in Nice

This gin-making workshop is quite specific in its focus, but if you’re exploring Nice and want a diverse set of activities, it pairs well with cultural tours, local food tastings, or even a day at the beach. Its niche appeal is for those interested in spirits, DIY projects, or crafting something memorable.

Compared to more traditional sightseeing or broad tours, this activity provides a personal connection to the craft and the local scene. Plus, it results in a unique souvenir that’s more meaningful than a generic photo.

Who Is This Experience Best For?

This workshop is perfect for adults who enjoy hands-on activities and are curious about spirits and distillation. It’s especially suited for couples, small groups, or solo travelers who appreciate artisan craft and want to leave with a personalized product.

If you’re traveling with friends or a partner and want a creative, memorable activity that breaks from the usual, this could be a highlight. Conversely, if you’re looking for a large-group tour or something more relaxed and sightseeing-oriented, you might prefer other options.

This gin-making workshop in Nice offers a rare chance to dive into the craft of spirit-making with an expert guiding every step. It’s engaging, educational, and fun—plus, you get a bottle of your creation to take home. While it’s not a sprawling tour or a sightseeing extravaganza, it’s a focused, quality experience that appeals to those with an interest in artisanal drinks or a desire for a unique souvenir.

It’s especially well-suited for couples or small groups who value personalized activities and are open to learning something new. The price reflects the quality and intimacy of the experience, making it a worthwhile splurge for a special part of your trip. Just remember, it’s an adult-only activity and best suited for those who enjoy a bit of hands-on creativity.

If you’re in Nice and want a fun, memorable way to connect with local craftsmanship—and leave with a bottle of your own gin—this workshop should definitely be on your list.

Is this experience suitable for children?
No, children under 18 are not allowed since it involves alcohol and distillation processes.

Can I cancel my booking if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your schedule changes.

Is the workshop conducted in English?
Yes, the activity is offered in both French and English, making it accessible for international visitors.

How long does the workshop last?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a compact activity that fits easily into a day of sightseeing.

What do I leave with at the end?
You’ll leave with a 50cl bottle of your own gin, personalized with a label you design.

Is this activity suitable for couples?
Absolutely, it’s designed for two people, making it perfect for couples or close friends.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers the ingredients, distillation process, your personalized bottle, and the tasting of a house cocktail.

Do I need prior experience or knowledge?
Not at all. The master distiller guides you through every step, and no prior experience is necessary.

Where is the activity located?
The workshop takes place at 13 Rue Bavastro, just a 5-minute walk from the Port of Nice.

Is there a maximum group size?
Yes, it’s limited to 8 participants, but this particular experience is geared toward small groups of 2.

Considering all this, if you’re looking for a creative, quality activity that combines learning, craftsmanship, and a bit of fun, this gin workshop in Nice is a solid choice. It’s authentic, personal, and leaves you with a memorable story—and a bottle of your own spirit.

You can check availability for your dates here: