Reykjavik: Eimverk Distillery Guided Tour with Tasting

If you’re visiting Reykjavik and have an interest in spirits or want to understand a bit more about Iceland’s unique approach to distilling, the Eimverk Distillery tour offers a fascinating peek behind the scenes. While it’s not a massive production line experience, what makes this tour stand out is the personal touch, the quality of the spirits, and the engaging guides who are full of stories and insights.

Two things we really like about this experience are the comprehensive tasting session—which often exceeds expectations—and the knowledgeable guides who make the complicated process of distilling accessible and fun. Plus, you get to sample Iceland’s first and only whiskey, Flóki, which is pretty special.

One thing to consider is the location logistics—it’s not right in central Reykjavik, so you’ll need to plan your transportation, especially if you’re relying on public transit. That said, the journey is straightforward, and many find the value of the experience well worth a little extra effort.

This tour is well-suited for travelers who enjoy spirits, are curious about craft production, or want a memorable, educational experience during their Iceland trip. It’s especially great for those who appreciate quality tastings and engaging storytelling.

Key Points

• Authentic Icelandic Spirits: The distillery produces unique spirits using Icelandic ingredients, with a focus on quality and heritage.
• Educational & Personal: Guides share detailed insights about the distilling process, Icelandic history, and the story behind each spirit.
• Generous Tastings: Expect to sample multiple spirits, including whiskey, gin, and Brennivín, often in quantities that make the experience feel rewarding.
• Accessible & Convenient: Located about an 8-minute walk from the bus stop in Reykjavik, with options to reach via public transit.
• Value for Money: At $34 per person, the tour includes a full tour, guide, and tastings that many guests find more than worth the price.
• Highly Rated: With a 4.9 out of 5 based on over 300 reviews, this experience is consistently praised for its quality and friendliness.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

What the Tour Involves

The tour kicks off with a warm welcome and an introduction to the distillery, where you’ll get a sense of the family business behind Iceland’s first whiskey. The guides are praised for their enthusiasm, depth of knowledge, and storytelling skills—making what could be a technical process surprisingly engaging.

You’ll start with a brief history of Icelandic spirits, specifically how the local environment and ingredients influence the flavors. The guide might share stories about prohibition or the challenges of distilling in such a cold climate, adding some local flavor to the technical details.

As you move into the tasting room, expect a well-rounded sampling of three core spirits: Flóki Iceland’s first whiskey, Vor Premium Gin, and Víti Brennivín. Many reviews mention that they were surprised by the generous pours—some guests have tasted upwards of a dozen different spirits during their visit, far more than they expected.

The Production Process

One of the highlights is the visit to the distillery’s production area. Here, you’ll see where the magic happens, from barley harvesting to fermentation and distillation. The guides explain each step in clear language, making it easy to appreciate the craftsmanship involved. Guests can take photos of the equipment and production lines, which adds a tangible sense of connection to the process.

Tasting & Stories

Post-tour, the second half of the experience focuses on tasting. The spirits are described with passion, and the guide often shares fascinating stories about the ingredients and techniques used. Guests love the personalized approach, which feels more like a social gathering than a formal tasting.

Many reviewers note that they appreciated the variety of spirits and the opportunity to compare flavors, especially with Icelandic ingredients. The Gin, in particular, gets high marks for its smoothness and unique Icelandic character.

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Group Size & Atmosphere

The experience tends to be intimate, with most tours having only a handful of guests, which allows for questions and casual conversation. Multiple reviews mention how friendly and enthusiastic the guides are—sometimes even humorous—making the tour feel personal rather than scripted.

Practical Details & Logistics

The tour lasts about 75 minutes, making it a perfect quick activity that fits well into a day of exploring Reykjavik. The price of $34 is quite reasonable considering the amount of tastings and the depth of information provided. No food is included, so plan accordingly if you want to have a meal before or after, but a small snack or drink beforehand isn’t a bad idea.

Getting to the distillery involves taking the bus from downtown Reykjavik to Ásgarður, then walking about 8 minutes. Many find this straightforward, and the reviews confirm that the journey is part of the experience—adding a bit of local transit to the adventure.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This is a fantastic choice for spirits enthusiasts, curious travelers, or anyone eager to learn about Icelandic craft production. It’s also suitable if you enjoy tasting sessions and want a more personalized experience. If you’re traveling with friends who share an interest in alcohol or storytelling, this tour will be a hit.

Final Thoughts

The Eimverk Distillery tour offers a well-rounded, engaging experience that combines education, tasting, and storytelling. Its friendly guides and quality spirits make it stand out among similar experiences, especially considering the reasonable price point.

While it’s a short activity, it packs in plenty of value—especially if you love to learn how things are made and enjoy tasting local spirits. The fact that many guests have rated it nearly perfect speaks volumes about its quality and appeal.

If you’re in Reykjavik and want to add a touch of Icelandic craftsmanship to your trip, this tour is a solid pick. It’s especially ideal for those who enjoy spirits, are curious about the distilling process, or simply want an authentic, behind-the-scenes look at Iceland’s burgeoning craft scene.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, the tour is not suitable for children under 18 years old, as it involves tasting and alcohol-related content.

How long does the tour last?
The experience takes about 75 minutes, giving you a good amount of time to explore the distillery and enjoy the tastings.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the distillery tour, a guide, and tastings of three premium spirits.

How do I get there?
You can take bus number 1 from downtown Reykjavik to Ásgarður, then walk approximately 8 minutes. The walk is straightforward and well signposted.

Are there options for different starting times?
Yes, check the availability for the specific tour times, as the schedule varies.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the experience is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for most travelers.

Can I buy spirits at the end of the tour?
Yes, there’s a shop where you can purchase bottles of the spirits you’ve tasted, ideal for souvenirs or gifts.

Do I need to reserve in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended, especially during peak times, and you can reserve and pay later to keep your plans flexible.

What is the general vibe of the tour?
Guests frequently describe the tour as friendly, informative, and fun, with guides who are both knowledgeable and personable. Many reviews mention feeling well taken care of and learning a lot while enjoying themselves.

If you’re after a relaxed, educational, and tasty experience during your Reykjavik stay, the Eimverk Distillery tour hits the mark. It’s a chance to see Iceland’s spirit-making up close and leave with a new appreciation for Icelandic craftsmanship—and perhaps a bottle or two to remember the trip by.

You can check availability for your dates here: