Ketchikan: Distillery Tour with Infusion Class

If you’re cruising through Ketchikan and have a curiosity for spirits or enjoy a hands-on activity, the Distillery Tour with Infusion Class offered by Uncharted Alaska Distillery might catch your eye. It’s a two-hour experience that combines a guided tour of a historic fire station-turned-distillery with a chance to craft your own infused alcohol.

What we really like about this experience is how approachable and interactive it is—you’re not just watching from the sidelines but actively participating in the infusion process. Plus, you’ll get to enjoy tastings of house spirits and leave with a personalized bottle, making it a memorable souvenir.

On the flip side, one thing to consider is the cost — $161 per person. While that might seem steep for some, the value lies in the unique, craft-your-own aspect and the quality of the education. This tour suits travelers who appreciate good spirits, love a bit of DIY, and want a more intimate, memorable activity in Ketchikan.

Key Points

• Hands-on infusion class lets you customize your spirit with botanicals, herbs, and spices.
• Guided tour offers insight into the distilling process and the history of the historic fire station.
• Create a signature bottle and a personalized label to take home.
• Taste the house spirits and learn about their background.
• Duration is just 2 hours, making it a manageable addition to your day.
• Suitable for those 18+; not appropriate for children or drivers under 21.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

The Setting: An Historic Fire Station

Starting your journey at the Uncharted Alaska Distillery in downtown Ketchikan, you immediately get a sense of place. The distillery is housed in a historic fire station, adding a touch of local charm and character. It’s a reminder that this isn’t just a factory; it’s a part of Ketchikan’s story, and you’ll learn about its background during the tour.

What the Tour Entails

The tour begins with a rundown of the distilling process. Expect to hear about the history of the distillery and its approach to crafting spirits. This is a chance to learn about local traditions and the science behind the spirits—whether gin, vodka, whiskey, or agave spirits.

Guests have highlighted that the tour is both informative and engaging, with many appreciating the detailed explanations. One reviewer mentions, “We loved the way the guide explained the process in a way that was accessible but not overly simplified.”

The Infusion Class

The highlight—if you’re into DIY or want something personalized—is the infusion class. All botanicals, herbs, and spices are included, so you can experiment with flavors to craft a spirit that suits your taste. The process is hands-on, and you get to take part in blending and infusing your own alcohol.

It’s worth noting that several reviewers mention the enjoyment of this segment, with comments like, “It was surprisingly easy to create a well-balanced infusion, and I loved being part of the process.”

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Creating Your Signature Bottle

Once your infusion is ready, you’ll create a custom label for your bottle, which is then filled with 375ml of your own creation. It’s a fun way to add a personal touch to your souvenir, and many find it a satisfying conclusion to the class.

Some travelers appreciate the chance to take home something truly unique, saying, “My friends were impressed when I brought out my own infused spirit with a custom label!”

Tasting and Learning

Before the infusion part, you’ll sample some of the house spirits. This tasting offers insight into the distillery’s style and the flavors they focus on. The staff are knowledgeable and eager to share stories, which enhances the experience.

Several reviews mention how the tasting added context to the infusion process, making it more meaningful. One person said, “It’s great to taste the spirits first and then see how I can replicate or modify the flavors I liked.”

Practical Details and Considerations

Pricing and Value

At $161 per person, this experience is on the higher side for a two-hour activity. However, much of the value comes from the hands-on infusion class, the personalized bottle, and the educational aspect. If you’re a spirits enthusiast or looking for a unique, creative activity, it can be well worth it.

Duration and Accessibility

The tour lasts about 2 hours, with options available in the morning and afternoon. It’s wheelchair accessible, making it easier for travelers with mobility needs. The group size isn’t specified but given the personalized nature, it’s likely intimate.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adults 18 and over who appreciate spirits, enjoy a creative activity, or want a meaningful souvenir. It’s not for kids or those avoiding alcohol, obviously. If you’re traveling alone or as a couple, you’ll probably find it a charming, boutique activity. Families with older children who have an interest in distilling might also find it interesting, but younger kids aren’t appropriate here.

Booking and Cancellation

The activity offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing some flexibility if your plans change. You can reserve now and pay later, which is handy if you’re trying to keep your options open.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Right For?

This distillery and infusion class in Ketchikan offers more than just a quick tour. It’s about learning, creating, and leaving with a tangible, personalized souvenir. The experience is especially suited for those who enjoy spirits, appreciate craft and DIY projects, and want to add a special touch to their Alaska trip. It’s a bit pricier, but the combination of education, hands-on activity, and take-home item can justify the cost for many.

If you’re after a straightforward sightseeing tour or a large group experience, this might not be your best fit. But for travelers looking for something memorable, different, and engaging, it’s a worthwhile choice. Plus, the setting in a historic fire station adds a layer of local charm that’s hard to beat.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, the tour is only for travelers 18 years and older. It involves alcohol infusion and tasting, which aren’t suitable for children or minors.

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 needed.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes the distillery visit, tastings of the house spirits, and 375ml of your custom-infused alcohol to take home with a personalized label.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the experience is wheelchair accessible.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, with options available in both the morning and afternoon.

Can I infuse more than one type of spirit?
The package mentions crafting a signature spirit, but it’s likely designed for one infusion per person. Additional infusions or bottles are not included in the price.

Are drinks available at the bar before or after the tour?
Extra cocktails at the bar are not included in the tour price, so if you want more drinks, you’ll need to pay separately.

What spirits can I choose to craft?
You can craft gin, vodka, whiskey, or agave spirits, depending on your preference.

Where does the tour meet?
Meet directly at the distillery in downtown Ketchikan.

In all, this distillery experience offers a balanced blend of education, creativity, and local charm. If you’re ready to enjoy a unique activity that’s both fun and flavorful, it’s worth considering for your Ketchikan visit.

You can check availability for your dates here: