FREE SHIPPING ON SHOP ORDERS $150+

877-542-0610

Gin Tasting Toronto And Ontario – In Person or Virtual

Love your gin and want to understand more about this wonderful spirit? We have you covered with our gin tasting experience. You have come to the perfect place. Our tasting classes are meticulously crafted to expand your palate, ignite your senses, and create lasting memories.

At our tasting events, we cater to both groups and individuals, offering a range of options to suit your preferences. Whether you desire a self-directed exploration or crave the expertise of a seasoned gin connoisseur to guide you through the nuances of this remarkable spirit, we have the perfect solution.

Immerse yourself in the captivating world of gin at our licensed tasting room at 180 Drinks. Alternatively, indulge in the convenience of our mobile tasting service, bringing the world of gin directly to your doorstep. And for those unable to join us in person or seeking the convenience of virtual experiences, our online gin tasting events still provide you with an opportunity to enjoy your gin, no matter where you are located.

Why gin? Gin has a rich history. It was first introduced in the Netherlands, where it was known as genever. Eventually, British soldiers discovered the drink, using it to boost morale during the Thirty Years’ War. Have you heard of the term ‘Dutch Courage?’ Now you know how it came into being!

A gin tasting event can be a fun and enjoyable experience. This is a versatile spirit that is best enjoyed in such classic cocktails as the Gin & Tonic or a Martini. Want to try your hands at understanding more of this classic drink? Come on over!

What We Cover During Our Gin Classes

Get ready to embark on a remarkable gin tasting adventure that will leave an indelible impression.

Gin Appearance

Gin often is a clear colourless spirit. But don’t be swayed by that yet. Gin is incredibly versatile as it can be aged in a barrel giving it a caramel hue, or infused with various botanicals, fruits, or flowers modifying its colour.

The colour can provide a clue as to what type of botanicals have been used or even the type of gin. For example London Dry gin cannot be coloured or a colour of ink blue could indicate that the gin is using a pea flower infusion.

During your tasting session, you will learn more about the appearance of gin.

Overall, the appearance of gin is characterised by its transparency, allowing the other sensory aspects, such as aroma and taste, to take centre stage during the gin tasting experience.

Gin Night
Gin Tasting Evening

Gin Aroma

The aroma of gin is a delightful and complex combination of botanicals and other ingredients used during its production.

Each gin brand and style may have its own unique aromatic profile, but there are common elements that can be found in many gins.

Juniper berries, the key ingredient in gin, contribute a distinctive and prominent aroma. Juniper imparts a refreshing, pine-like scent that is often described as resinous or herbal. It is the juniper aroma that defines gin and sets it apart from other spirits.

In addition to juniper, gins may feature a variety of botanicals, such as coriander, citrus peel, angelica root, orris root, cinnamon, cardamom, and many more.

These botanicals contribute a range of aromas, adding complexity and depth to the overall fragrance of gin. Some gins may have a dominant citrus or floral aroma, while others may showcase more earthy or spicy notes.

Gin Taste

Much as with the aroma, the taste of gin comes from the interplay of different botanicals and the distinct character of juniper. All these flavours tend to balance and lend complexity.

Each gin is unique, however at the same time you can cluster them into groups with similar interests and characters called flavour camps. A description of the following four core gin flavour camps are below: juniper, citric, spicy, and floral.

  1. Juniper: These gins are considered traditional since these allow the juniper its fullest expression. The initial aroma will therefore be filled with pine, heather, and lavender, which will continue to have a major say through the palate. If you want to understand where gin came from, or even what juniper smells like, then start here.
  2. Citric: Citrus peels began to be widely used in the mid- to late nineteenth century for gin. Here, the aroma is given lift by citrus peels, but coriander seeds also move further forward, though juniper retains importance.
  3. Spicy: A more modern style, where coriander seed’s pepperiness is apparent, as are its cohorts cassia/cinnamon and peppers. The juniper has been dialled down.
  4. Floral: These gins have a fragrant, perfumed aspect sometimes coming from flowers in the botanical mix, or by dint of the juniper and roots being scaled back. Gins with a herbal element, though slightly bolder, fall into this camp.

You will learn to identify not just the predominant juniper flavour but also zesty notes such as lemon, orange, and grapefruit as well as earthy and spicy undertones such as cardamom or coriander. Even other botanicals such as lavender or rose petals can further test your palate. Identifying these different notes and flavours are all part of your gin tasting experience.

Gin Tasting Experience
Gin Tasting Bar

Gin Knowledge

During the gin tasting experience, we aim to provide you with factual gin knowledge, covering important aspects such as production methods, historical context, interrelationships, and the versatile use of gin in cocktails. Here’s an overview of each topic we explore during the tour:

Production Methods: Learn about the selection of botanicals to the distillation process, and then delve into the techniques used to create gin. You’ll learn about different styles of gin, such as London Dry, Old Tom, and Navy Strength, and how these production methods shape the unique characteristics of each.

Historical Context: Gin has a fascinating history, with its origins tracing back to the 17th century in the Netherlands. We explore the historical development of gin, including its association with British culture and the infamous “Gin Craze” in the 18th century.

Interrelationships: During the gin tour, we uncover the connections and influences that exist between gin and other alcoholic drinks. You’ll gain insights into shared botanical ingredients, cask maturation techniques, and the impact of these interrelationships on the world of gin.

Use In Cocktails: Most of us have had gin as a cocktail. Explore classic cocktails like the Martini and Negroni to modern creations. Discover the art of mixology and how gin can be creatively combined with other ingredients to craft delightful cocktails.

By the end of the gin tour, you will come back refreshed, in more ways than one!

In Person And Virtual Gin Tasting Formats

Gin Tasting Kit

Self Guided

Looking to explore the delightful world of gin at your own pace? We understand!

Which is why we offer self-guided gin tasting events that allow you to indulge in the wonders of gin at a time and place of your choosing.

With this option, you receive a self-guided gin tasting kit. This kit contains a carefully curated selection of gin samples. We choose these samples to showcase different styles, flavours, and botanical profiles.

Accompanying the gin samples, you will find a comprehensive guide that will walk you through the art of gin tasting. Here, you will learn about the history of gin, production methods, the botanicals used in gin, and distillation techniques. Our detailed tasting notes help you to appreciate the nuances and complexities of each sample.

To enhance your self-guided gin tasting experience, we offer a tasting sheet to record your impressions, an optional tasting glass designed to enhance the aromas and flavours of the gins, and suggested food pairings that complement the gin.

Click the link below to discover more about our self-guided gin tasting kits and start your gin adventure today.

Shop Gin Tasting Kit

In Person Gin Master Class

While self-guided tastings are great, nothing can beat the experience of being guided through your gin discovery with a gin master.

Our gin masterclass is designed to give you an immersive experience. Flexibility is key, as we offer the choice between a mobile gin tasting class, where we bring the tasting experience directly to your preferred location, or the option to join us at our dedicated tasting room at 180 Drinks, where the perfect ambiance awaits.

  • Curated collection of 5-6 gin samples
  • Comprehensive tasting guide
  • Premium tasting glasses
  • Bottle of water
  • Optional chocolates and light snacks
  • Optional table rentals

Reach out to us today for a personalised quote tailored to your specific needs and preferences. As the details of a gin-tasting guided event can vary based on the number of guests and the hosting arrangements, we will work closely with you to create a memorable and enjoyable gin-tasting experience.

Private Gin Tasting
Virtual Gin Tasting

Virtual GinTasting or Hybrid (In-Person & Online Gin Tasting)

Our online gin tasting experience offers a cost-effective alternative to in-person tastings, making it accessible for virtual teams or those that are geographically distant from each other.  Experience the same level of engagement and knowledge as our in-person events, all from the comfort of your own location.

For teams working both in the office and remotely, our hybrid gin tasting event provides the best of both worlds. This flexible option allows for inclusivity and collaboration, accommodating the needs of diverse work environments.

During our virtual gin tasting, you will enjoy the same comprehensive range of options and features similar to our in-person experiences.

Our virtual gin tasting kits are available for pick-up at our head office or can be shipped directly to your guests. These kits contain all the essential elements for an exceptional gin tasting journey, providing an immersive experience no matter where you are located.

Frequently Asked Questions

faq What does a typical gin experience look like?

No gin tasting experience is ever the same. Having said that, at 180 Drinks, you can expect your gin tasting event to include the following:

  1. Introduction: The experience usually begins with an introduction to the history and production of gin. This includes insights into the botanical ingredients, distillation techniques, and the different styles of gin.
  2. Tasting Flight: A curated selection of gin samples will be shared. Here, we typically arrange the gins in a specific order to allow for a progression of tastes.
  3. Tasting Notes: Our expert guide leads the tasting and provides detailed tasting notes for each gin. They help you understand the botanical profiles, aroma, taste, and finish of each gin.
  4. Tasting Techniques: You will be guided on how to properly taste gin, including the importance of nosing (smelling) the gin, sipping it, and experiencing the flavours on the palate.
  5. Pairings and Cocktails: Depending on the event, there may be optional food pairings or discussions on how to create gin-based cocktails. This allows you to explore the versatility of gin in mixology and discover how different flavours can complement or enhance the gin experience.
  6. Q&A and Discussion: Throughout the tasting, we encourage you to ask questions, share observations, and engage in discussions about the gins being sampled.

Your gin tasting experience typically concludes with a recap of the key takeaways, recommendations for further exploration, and an opportunity to purchase any favourite gins or related products.

faq What is Juniper?

When it comes to making gin there is one rule that matters above all others – to have gin you must have juniper. If you want to really understand gin, it’s important to know juniper.

Juniper shrubs vary in size and shape, are evergreen and are usually low spreading bush-type plants. The ‘berries’ are, technically, pinecones, and they can vary quite dramatically in size depending on where they are grown and how old they are.

Most of the global supply of juniper for the gin industry comes from Macedonia and Tuscany, although there are more producers emerging from other regions (such as Croatia and Bulgaria in Europe or Vermont and Oregon in the US). Just like grapes, each crop of juniper is affected differently by the sun, soil and the climatic conditions in which it grows. For the variety of juniper (there are over 40), almost all gin makers use Juniperus communis.

There is no other way to harvest juniper berries than by hand. Harvest time involves pickers with big bags and sticks gently beating down the bushes in a procession that is still like what it might have been in the Middle Ages.

faq Can I do gin classes at 180 Drinks?

Absolutely! We are licensed for up to 25 guests at our location: 400 Matheson Blvd E Unit 20, Mississauga, ON L4Z 1N8

If your guest count is greater than 25 guests we can also travel to your location in Ontario. Please see which areas we serve below.

faq Do you offer a gin tasting bar for events?

Absolutely! This is a great option for a more high level gin tasting event. Our gin tasting bars are tailored to your service to your requirements and budget.

Get in touch today for a quote on a gin tasting bar for your next corporate event, party, or wedding!

faq Do you do non-alcoholic gin tastings?

We understand that some individuals prefer non-alcoholic options. We are delighted to offer a non-alcoholic spirit tasting experience for those who wish to enjoy the flavours and aromas of gin without consuming alcohol.

faq What platform do you use for your virtual gin tastings?

We realise that different customers have different platforms they prefer to use. At 180 Drinks we are platform agnostic, so for your virtual gin tasting event we can provide the virtual platform or we can adapt to use your own platform. For example if you prefer to do a Zoom gin tasting we can accommodate this. Other platforms commonly used are Microsoft Teams, Google Meet, or Webex.

faq What areas do you serve in Ontario for your gin classes?

For virtual gin tasting experiences we serve all of Ontario.

For in-person private gin tasting Toronto and Ontario experiences at your location we serve the the following cities:

  • Ajax
  • Aurora
  • Barrie
  • Brampton
  • Brant
  • Brantford
  • Burlington
  • Caledon
  • Cambridge
  • Fort Erie
  • Grimsby
  • Guelph
  • Halton Hills
  • Hamilton
  • Ingersoll
  • King City
  • Kitchener
  • Lincoln
  • London
  • Markham
  • Milton
  • Mississauga
  • Newmarket
  • Niagara Falls
  • Niagara-on-the-Lake
  • Oakville
  • Oshawa
  • Pelham
  • Pickering
  • Port Colborne
  • Richmond Hill
  • Schomberg
  • Catharines
  • Stratford
  • Thorold
  • Toronto (Downtown Core, East End, East York, Etobicoke, GTA, North York, North End, Old Toronto, Scarborough, West End, and York)
  • Vaughan
  • Waterloo
  • Stratford
  • Welland
  • Whitby
  • Woodbridge
  • Woodstock

Get in touch today for your next in person or virtual gin tasting Toronto event!

Request a Quote

  • If available please let us know guest count, event date(s), preferred start time, target budget per guest, event location (if in-person), virtual participant locations (if outside Ontario), and occasion.

  • If available please let us know guest count, event date(s), preferred start time, target budget per guest, event location (if in-person), virtual participant locations (if outside Ontario), and occasion.

  • If available please let us know which items you would like to order, quantity, preferred delivery date, and delivery province/country.

  • If available please let us know event date(s), event location, occasion, guest count, service start and end time, beverage types, equipment rentals required.

  • How can we help you?

Our Clients

Card
Serving The Greater Toronto Area (GTA) and Ontario - Made In Canada Flag

© Copyright 2024. All rights reserved.