Toronto: Nickel 9 Distillery Tour and Tasting

Toronto: Nickel 9 Distillery Tour and Tasting — A Genuine Look

If you’re into spirits or just curious about how craft distilleries operate, the Nickel 9 Distillery Tour and Tasting in Toronto is worth considering. This experience offers a close-up view of the distillation process, along with tastings of some standout local spirits. While it’s not a sprawling, multi-hour extravaganza, it packs enough flavor and insight to make it a worthwhile stop in the city’s West End.

What we really appreciate about this tour is the chance to savor Northern Temple Vodka and Hidden Temple Gin, both crafted with care and attention to detail. Plus, the class on Ni9 Bitters adds a fun, interactive element that elevates your understanding of flavor profiles and mixology. On the flip side, it’s a one-hour experience, which means if you’re after a deep dive into spirits or a more leisurely exploration, this might feel a bit brief.

This tour seems ideal for adults interested in craft spirits, whether you’re a local, a visitor, or looking for a unique activity to share with friends. It’s not suited for children under 13, so plan accordingly. If you’re after a quick, engaging taste of Toronto’s craft scene, this could be a solid choice.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Intimate Group Size: Limited to 10 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.
• Expert-Led Experience: Guides are knowledgeable and friendly, making complex distillation processes accessible.
• Tastings of Signature Spirits: Enjoy guided samplings of Northern Temple Vodka and Hidden Temple Gin.
• Interactive Bitters Class: Learn how to use Ni9 Bitters to amp up your cocktail game.
• Location: Situated in Toronto’s vibrant Junction neighborhood, perfect for exploring afterward.
• Cost-Effective: At $25 per person, it offers a lot of value for a focused hour.

A Closer Look at the Experience

Starting with a welcoming cocktail, you’re greeted with a relaxed vibe that sets the tone for the hour ahead. The distillery itself is described as a “cute little building”—not a huge production facility, but well-designed and modern, offering a chance to see firsthand how locally sourced ingredients are turned into spirits.

Your guide takes you through a step-by-step look at the fermenting and distillation process, making what can seem complicated surprisingly understandable. We liked the way the guide explained each stage clearly, with enough detail to satisfy curious minds but without overwhelming beginners. This behind-the-scenes peek is what separates this experience from just tasting at a bar.

The tastings are a highlight—each spirit is served with a bit of background about its inspiration and production. Both reviewers mentioned the flavorful quality of the spirits: one called the tour “absolutely brilliant,” and appreciated the “delicious drinks” served during the session. The spirits are crafted locally, and you get a real sense of Toronto’s emerging craft scene through these small-batch products.

The class on Ni9 Bitters adds an extra layer to the experience. You’ll learn how these bitters are made and how to incorporate them into cocktails. It’s a fun, practical skill, especially if you enjoy mixing drinks at home or want to deepen your appreciation for craft cocktails. Many found this part of the experience to be both educational and enjoyable.

The Setting and Group Atmosphere

The small group size (limited to 10) ensures a cozy, engaging environment. We’ve seen reviews praising the knowledgeable guides, with one traveler noting, “Big thanks to Scotty for looking after us and all the delicious drinks!” That friendly, approachable style makes the experience feel more personal—like hanging out with friends who happen to be experts.

Since the tour lasts about an hour, it’s a compact experience, perfect for an afternoon or evening activity. It’s enough time to enjoy the spirits, learn something new, and walk away with a few tips for your own cocktail making.

The location in Toronto’s West End, especially in the Junction, is a nice bonus. After the tour, you’re free to explore the neighborhood’s restaurants, cafes, or shops. It’s a good way to turn a short activity into a mini-adventure.

Price and Value

At $25 per person, this tour is pretty reasonably priced, especially considering the guided tastings and the educational component. You’re not just paying for drinks; you’re paying for insights and skills you can use later. For those interested in spirits or craft liquor, this price point offers solid value, particularly since the tour is intimate and guided by a friendly expert.

However, it’s a one-hour experience, so if you’re craving an in-depth, multi-layered tour, you might find it somewhat brief. Still, for a quick, engaging activity that offers a taste of Toronto’s distilling scene, it’s hard to beat.

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Authentic Feedback from Travelers

One traveler from Canada called it “amazing,” emphasizing the fun of sampling different spirits in a “cute little building.” They also recommended it as a date or group activity, noting the enjoyable atmosphere.

Another from the UK praised the knowledgeable and friendly guide and mentioned they’d return when next in Toronto. That enthusiasm hints at the overall positive vibe and memorable experience this tour provides.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is especially good for adults who enjoy craft spirits, cocktails, or local food and drink culture. If you’re looking for a quick activity that’s both fun and educational, it fits the bill. It’s also a nice option for those wanting to learn about the distillation process without committing to a lengthy class.

It’s not suitable for kids under 13, so leave the little ones at home or opt for other family-friendly activities. If you’re visiting Toronto and want a taste of its local craft scene, this tour offers a neat snapshot with a friendly guide and a relaxed atmosphere.

Final Thoughts

The Nickel 9 Distillery Tour and Tasting makes for an enjoyable, well-priced peek into Toronto’s burgeoning craft spirits scene. Its small group setting and knowledgeable guides make it a friendly, accessible experience that’s perfect for spirits enthusiasts, couples, or friends looking for a fun outing. With guided tastings, behind-the-scenes insights, and a bitters class, you’ll walk away with not only a few new favorite drinks but also some handy mixology tips.

While it’s a brief experience, the quality of the guide and the spirits makes it stand out. If you’re in Toronto and want a straightforward, engaging way to learn about local distilling, this is a solid choice that balances education and enjoyment.

FAQ

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

How long does the tour last?
The experience takes about 1 hour, making it a perfect quick activity in your day.

What is included in the tour?
You’ll get a welcome cocktail, guided tastings of Northern Temple Vodka and Hidden Temple Gin, an inside look at the fermentation and distillation process, and a class on Ni9 Bitters.

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

Where is the distillery located?
It’s in Toronto’s West End neighborhood, in the Junction area, a lively spot perfect for exploring after your tour.

Is the tour bilingual?
The guide speaks English.

Is there a group size limit?
Yes, groups are limited to 10 participants for a more personalized experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: