Victoria Distillers sits on the waterfront at 9891 Seaport Place in Sidney, where it makes small-batch spirits, including Empress 1908 gin. A guided tour takes about 30 minutes and introduces the distilling process, from botanicals to bottling, before a tasting of five items. You can also sample spirits and order a gin and tonic. The indigo colour of Empress 1908 and the gleaming copper stills make this a worthwhile stop for gin fans, with the waterfront nearby for a walk afterward.
A waterfront distillery in Sidney
Victoria Distillers moved to its Sidney waterfront location in 2016 as the business grew. The site gives visitors a chance to see where the spirits are made, close to the water and within walking distance of the shoreline. The distillery produces handmade spirits, including gin, vodka, whisky and bitters.
A visit can combine a look inside the production space with time by the water. The cocktail lounge has been described as a place to sample classic drinks, including gin and tonics. A shop area also gives visitors the chance to taste and buy spirits.
How the spirits are made
The guided tour covers the distilling process, including the selection of botanicals, blending and bottling. Copper pot stills are part of the production space. The tour lasts about 30 minutes, followed by a tasting of five items. There is time to ask questions along the way.
The tasting is a practical way to compare the distillery’s spirits and decide which style suits you. Empress gin and chocolate liqueur are among the products visitors have tried. A gin and tonic is another option if you want to sample a cocktail during your stop.
Empress 1908 gin
Empress 1908 is the distillery’s best-known gin. Its indigo colour comes from butterfly pea flowers in Blue Suede Shoes tea, a blend associated with Victoria’s Empress Hotel. The gin launched in 2017 and uses eight botanicals.
You can taste it at the distillery and buy a bottle if you want to take some home. The tasting also lets you compare it with other gin blends, which is useful if you are choosing a bottle for a particular cocktail or for your own collection.
Häufige Fragen
How long does a visit to Victoria Distillers take?
The guided tour takes about 30 minutes, followed by a tasting. Allow around one to one and a half hours for the tour and tasting together.
How much does the distillery tour cost?
The tour has been reported at $7 per person. Check the distillery’s current details before visiting, as the price may have changed.
What can you taste at Victoria Distillers?
A tour tasting includes five items. Empress 1908 gin and chocolate liqueur are among the spirits visitors have sampled.
Is Victoria Distillers wheelchair accessible?
The entrance and parking are listed as wheelchair accessible.
