Evolution of Gin and Underground Gin Tasting in Edinburgh

Introducing the Underground Gin Tasting Tour in Edinburgh

If you’re on the hunt for something a little different during your Edinburgh visit, the Evolution of Gin and Underground Gin Tasting tour offers a fun, informative, and unexpectedly atmospheric experience. Not your typical bar crawl, this tour combines the spirit of Scottish gin with a peek into a fascinating underground site, all led by knowledgeable guides who love sharing stories as much as they love gin.

What really stands out about this experience is how it’s tailored for those who enjoy learning something new without the feeling of being in a stuffy classroom. The tour’s unique underground venue, The Lost Close, adds a layer of intrigue and history, making the tasting even more memorable. Plus, with a focus on Scottish gins and their modern twists, you’ll get a taste of the local craft scene while soaking in some hidden Edinburgh history.

One thing to consider is that the tour lasts around an hour, so it’s perfect for a quick cultural and taste adventure rather than a full-day commitment. This experience tends to book out well in advance—about 22 days on average—so planning ahead is a good idea. It’s best suited for those who appreciate a laid-back vibe, enjoy learning about spirits and history, and are ready to explore Edinburgh from a different perspective.

This tour is especially ideal if you’re eager for a blend of history, flavor, and a dash of adventure. Whether you’re a gin aficionado or just curious about Scotland’s evolving spirit scene, you’ll find plenty to enjoy. Just keep in mind that the more intimate group size (max 10) makes for a cozy, engaging experience, but it also means booking early is wise.

Key Points

• Unique Underground Venue: Experience Edinburgh’s most recently discovered underground space, The Lost Close, a former bank and prison turned hidden gem.
• In-Depth Learning: Guides are full of stories, blending history with the evolution of gin, making the tour both educational and entertaining.
• Tasting Variety: Sample four different gins, each tied to stories and history, with tips on mixers and serving suggestions to enhance your experience.
• Excellent Value: At just over $34, the tour offers a lot of flavor, history, and fun packed into an hour, with excellent reviews praising the guides and setting.
• Small Group Setting: With a maximum of 10 travelers, the experience feels personal and engaging, perfect for conversation and questions.
• Book in Advance: Given the high recommendation rate (97%) and the popularity, booking about 3 weeks ahead is advisable.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Venue: The Lost Close

The tour’s setting is one of its biggest charms. Tucked beneath Edinburgh’s historic streets is The Lost Close, a space that’s only been recently uncovered. Its layered past—once a bank, then a prison, and finally hidden for years—adds a mysterious, historic ambiance. When the guide leads guests underground, it’s like stepping into a secret world, where the atmosphere immediately sets the mood for tasting and storytelling.

The space’s history isn’t just a backdrop; it’s intertwined with the narrative. As one reviewer put it, “The venue is very fun—it’s a great group or individual activity,” indicating how the environment enhances the overall experience. The underground vibe is not just cool but also immerses participants in Edinburgh’s hidden past.

The Guides: Knowledgeable, Entertaining, and Approachable

Our guides—like Sara—are consistently praised in reviews for their knowledge and humor. They aren’t just here to pour drinks but to tell stories that make each gin and each location come alive. From the origins of gin to its modern Scottish interpretations, guides are ready to answer questions and share fascinating tidbits.

One reviewer summed it up: “Sara was so knowledgeable about both the history of Old Town Edinburgh and gin,” which highlights how the stories are woven into the experience smoothly. The guides’ friendly, personable approach makes the hour fly by, whether you’re a gin enthusiast or just in it for the fun.

The Tasting: Four Distinct Gins

During this tour, you’ll taste four different gins, each with its own character and story. The selection is curated to show the evolution of gin—so expect some unusual, historic, and modern flavors. The gins are mixed to your tastes, and the guide provides tips on the best mixers and serving styles.

Guests repeatedly rave about the quality and variety of the drinks. As one reviewer mentions, “The gins were unusual and some historical but all delicious,” which is a great way to broaden your palate and learn what makes Scottish gin special.

The Stories Behind the Gins

What elevates this tasting beyond just drinking is the storytelling. The guide links each gin to its history or modern Scottish twist, making the experience both educational and entertaining. Guests learn about how distillation evolved and how Scottish gin has carved out its unique niche.

For example, one review notes, “The tour guide had a great knowledge of the history of the building and the creation of gin,” emphasizing how the stories add depth and context. This isn’t just about taste; it’s about understanding the spirit’s journey through time.

The Price and Value

At around $34 per person, the tour offers a lot for the price. You get a fun, small-group environment, four tastings, and the chance to learn from engaging guides—all in an atmospheric underground setting. Considering the praise for the guides and the setting, most visitors agree it’s a good value.

Some reviews highlight that it’s “better than the normal gin tasting,” partly because of the storytelling, the venue, and the chance to try gins you might never find elsewhere. It’s a quick hit of culture and flavor that fits neatly into a day of sightseeing or a relaxed evening in Edinburgh.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Meeting Point: The tour begins at CoDE Pod, located at the Parliament Square, a central spot easily accessible by public transportation. Your guide will meet you here and take you underground.

The Entrance & Venue: Once upstairs, your group will descend into The Lost Close, a recently uncovered underground space that’s steeped in history. The guide will orient you and set the scene, sharing stories of its past as a bank and prison.

The Tasting Sessions: Over the course of approximately an hour, you’ll sample four gins. Each is introduced with a story, highlighting its origins, flavor profile, and Scottish connection. Expect some gins to be unusual or historic, and all to be delicious.

Tips & Learning: Guides will give helpful tips on mixers, serving styles, and even fun facts about gin. You’ll learn how Scottish gin has evolved and what makes it stand out today.

Ending & Return: The tour concludes back at the meeting point. Since it’s a small group, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to chat with the guide or fellow travelers.

Authentic Reviews and What They Highlight

From multiple glowing reviews, a few common themes emerge:

• “Our guide was informative and entertaining and I would recommend that if you like gin you should take this tour,” highlights how engaging guides make all the difference.
• “Sara was an incredible storyteller,” and “Sara was wonderfully brilliant and knowledgeable,” show that the guides’ personalities greatly enhance the experience.
• Many guests appreciate the small group size, noting they felt well cared for and had room for questions.
• Comments about the venue being “very fun,” and the gins being “unusual and some historical but all delicious,” capture what makes this tour stand out in Edinburgh.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

If you’re someone who enjoys learning about spirits, appreciates hidden Edinburgh spots, or just wants a lively, social evening, this tour hits the spot. Its combination of history, Scottish craftsmanship, and atmospheric setting makes it a memorable experience. The small-group environment fosters conversation and makes it easy to ask questions, which adds to the overall enjoyment.

This isn’t a party-heavy pub crawl; it’s more of an engaging, story-rich tasting experience. If you’re traveling solo, in a couple, or even with friends who love gin, you’ll find it a worthwhile addition to your Edinburgh itinerary. It’s especially suited for those who value authentic local experiences and a touch of adventure.

However, keep in mind that the tour lasts just about an hour, so if you’re after a more extensive tasting or a full-day activity, this might be a quick stop rather than a comprehensive deep-dive. Also, booking early is wise since it’s very popular and limited to small groups.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for people new to gin?
Yes, absolutely. The guide explains each gin’s story, flavor profile, and offers tips, making it friendly for beginners.

How long does the tour last?
It’s roughly 1 hour, providing a quick but immersive experience into Edinburgh’s underground gin scene.

Can I join if I’m not a gin fan?
While the focus is on gin, the stories, setting, and atmosphere might still appeal to those interested in Edinburgh’s history and unique venues.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at CoDE Pod in Parliament Square and returns to the same spot.

Is the venue accessible?
The experience takes place underground, which may involve stairs or uneven surfaces. It’s worth checking if accessibility is a concern.

What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations within 24 hours won’t be refunded.

Final Verdict

For travelers seeking a blend of history, Scottish craftsmanship, and a lively social setting, this underground gin tasting in Edinburgh offers a memorable, authentic experience. The small-group size, knowledgeable guides, and atmospheric venue make it stand out from standard tastings. It’s perfect for curious spirits lovers and those eager to discover Edinburgh’s hidden stories, all while savoring some very good gin. Just remember to book early to secure your spot and enjoy an hour of storytelling, flavor, and fun.

Enjoy your trip, and if you love discovering hidden corners and uncovering unique local stories, this tour might just be your next favorite thing in Edinburgh.