A Warm Welcome and a Sip of History

Arriving at the Shakespeare Distillery in Stratford upon Avon felt like stepping into a time capsule. The Tudor-inspired spirits and the charming atmosphere immediately transported me to a different era. Harvey, our guide for the day, greeted us with a warm smile and directed us to the cozy cafe area. I couldn’t resist the allure of a hot chocolate, while others in the group opted for a beautifully presented gin and tonic. The seating was comfortable, and the ambiance was perfect for settling in before the tour began.

Harvey’s introduction to the history of gin was both informative and entertaining. His sense of humor made the learning experience enjoyable, and I found myself captivated by the stories of gin’s evolution over the centuries. The tour was well-organized, and Harvey’s passion for the craft was evident in every word he spoke.

Behind the Scenes: The Art of Distilling

The next part of the tour took us behind the scenes, where we met David, another knowledgeable and enthusiastic member of the team. David’s expertise in the distillation process was impressive, and he guided us through the various stages with clarity and enthusiasm. Seeing the distillers up close and learning about the intricate process of creating gin was a highlight of the tour.

David’s passion for his work was contagious, and I found myself eager to learn more about the art of distilling. The bottling area was particularly fascinating, showcasing the meticulous attention to detail that goes into every bottle of Shakespeare Gin. The cleanliness and organization of the facility were commendable, reflecting the team’s dedication to quality.

Tasting the Tudor-Inspired Spirits

Returning to the tasting area, we were welcomed back by Harvey, who had prepared a delightful selection of spirits for us to sample. The tasting included the Shakespeare dry gin, rhubarb gin, elderflower, and quince, as well as a sample of their rum. Harvey guided us through each tasting, encouraging us to savor the flavors both neat and with tonic.

The opportunity to choose our preferred tonic added a personal touch to the experience, and Harvey’s recommendations were spot on. The tasting was a sensory delight, and I appreciated the chance to take home a miniature bottle as a memento of the day. The staff’s passion and knowledge were evident throughout the experience, making it a truly memorable visit.

Before leaving, I couldn’t resist purchasing a few stylish Shakespeare glasses and bottles of gin, taking advantage of the 10% discount offered to tour participants. The team’s hospitality extended to packaging our purchases with care, ensuring a seamless end to a fantastic day.

The Shakespeare Distillery Tour was a delightful blend of history, craftsmanship, and flavor, and I left with a newfound appreciation for the art of distilling. If you find yourself in Stratford upon Avon, I highly recommend checking out this tour for a unique and enriching experience.