Kempton Distillery Tour: Gin & Whisky Tasting Review

Thinking of checking out the Kempton Craft Distillery Tour with Gin and Whisky Tasting? So, very, recently I popped over there and thought I’d share the things I picked up! Really, you might like to know exactly what’s involved, if it’s worth the money and how it compares to other tours I’ve actually been on. Basically, I aim to give you a complete view so, that you can decide if this local distillery is right up your alley. That is, let’s get straight to all the facts!

Booking and Initial Expectations

Arguably, getting tickets was quite a simple process; it’s almost all handled online via their website. The thing is, there’s a selection of times available, so that you should find something that fits your day. Unlike other tours, that tend to limit the possibilities to certain days, that is pretty convenient! A little bit, just a bit, prior to the scheduled time, I received a reminder email, yet it’s one of those details that I like. Clearly, leading up to the tour, I tried not to build it up too, too much, though I was really curious about the distillery’s approach, mostly, because it has a relatively small-scale operation.

The Distillery’s Vibe and Setting

Nestled just outside Kempton Park, the distillery’s location feels nicely removed from it all, while also still being really reachable. That said, on arrival, it felt like a pretty welcoming, no-frills place; don’t go in expecting some super polished experience, as you’d be disappointed. A bit, actually a little bit, more like showing up to someone’s workshop. Arguably, in a way, this down-to-earth setting adds a layer of charm; you realize they are much more about substance than a flashy style. Now, very quickly, the staff were friendly and quick to direct everyone. It’s almost a relief! You know, there are no complicated check-in procedures! The whole atmosphere suggests it’ll be a more genuine peek into what they’re doing.

The Gin Tasting Experience

Oh, very, so, let’s talk gin! Initially, there was a concise overview of the gin-making procedure. Actually, it’s handy information to lay the foundations! A little, only a little, was I expecting to taste a variety of gins. Just saying, it provided a balanced sense of their range; unlike some tasting experiences that just showcase one or two things. I was so glad I made a trip here, and I’d do it again if I had the chance. Obviously, what really stood out to me was the attention to flavors and botanicals, and, very, personally I am a great fun of juniper berries. It’s almost an experience you don’t want to pass up. With help from our guide we learned to appreciate all the differences, very unlike merely knocking it back. As I was saying, they also discussed what foods and flavors each gin can be paired with.

Whisky Tasting Insights

The whisky part was next, and it was definitely different from the gin bit! You know, their approach to whisky seems super considered. Just, truly, this seems born out of some true passion! As a matter of fact, even as somebody who doesn’t often drink whisky, I actually found their breakdown super interesting. Like your friend describing it to you in layman’s terms. Arguably, with all the talk about the aging process, various casks, and everything in between, it provided an excellent look behind the curtain. Unlike bigger distilleries where things are pretty impersonal! You get an inkling of the attention involved and, clearly, it also adds another degree to the tasting experience, making one consider nuances one may often skip past. This insight can be extremely beneficial if you didn’t know too much before!

The Tour Itself and the Knowledge Gained

The tour element really takes one across the distillery’s working areas. As a matter of fact, it brings one up close with all equipment, the stills, and production area. That’s, in other words, no faking it! At some point, you do actually see what happens and not in some fancy video! Pretty much, our guide went deeply into all stages. From getting things going all the way up to bottling, and was keen to answer what anyone asked. Instead, this, really, made one realize just how much work and patience goes into crafting spirits! At the end of the day, in short, what I mean is, you gain much more regard for the spirits on offer, also, obviously, an understanding of all those tiny steps.

Value for Money

For all one gets during the tour, and for all the spirits one tastes, this does appear good value, as a matter of fact, considering what similar setups may bill you! You know, it’s not just about knocking back samples, as you come away understanding much more of all processes involved, yet one thing to bear in mind, right? It is probably better suited to more enthusiastic individuals than your common tourist. I mean, that is, that way one gets more value from knowledge-sharing portions and sees value in behind-the-scenes glimpses. At the end of the day, essentially, If those things excite one, this does come across a good return.

Final Thoughts

This tour is actually ideal if one wishes for a small-scale, very informative distillery session, really showcasing all inner workings in their enterprise. In other words, one will find this less slick than corporate-styled counterparts, obviously, however, arguably it’s that home-style feel that makes this so very worthwhile!