Perthshire Hen Do Ideas – Gin Tasting at Alexander House
This activity idea is incredibly popular with our AH guests and the great team at Strathearn Distillery create a fun and interactive Gin Tasting Experience. Perfect for Hen Do weekends and also those big birthday celebrations too!
The Gin Tasting Experience
Strathearn Distillery, near the village of Methven in Perthshire, is probably Scotland’s smallest distillery. The great team there produce a range of spirits including hand-crafted, artisan single cask, single malt whisky by using traditional methods and ideas. They also distil a range of premium gins which are now widely marketed across Scotland and beyond.
Learn how gin is made…
The Gin Tasting Experience starts with some background on gin and how it is made with various botanicals to give each one it’s unique flavour and aromas. Then you get to sample the gins themselves! You will try various gins with different tonics and garnishes like juniper berries, cucumber, mint, lemon, lime or orange slices – to create a surprisingly different end drinks. Which one will be your favourite? This is the really fun bit! Then rate your gins to find your personal favourite.
Session Details
- Price: £65 per person
- Duration: 3 hours of gin knowledge and tasting
- Group Size: Minimum 8, maximum 21 guests
- Bonus: What remains of the Strathearn Distillery gins are left with you to enjoy later in the day!
How to Taste Gin Like a Pro
If you want to make a gin&tonic that stands out, you first need to understand gin in its purest form: this is where the real Gin Tasting begins. Only by savoring gin as it is, you can uncover all those hidden details that make it unique. Recognizing the notes of juniper, citrus, or spices will let you appreciate gin on a deeper level.
Step 1: Evaluation
First thing: look at the color. Did you know that, in general, a clearer gin indicates purity and quality? However, some premium gins have unique hues, such as the golden color of Soero Gin which comes from safflower. Next, focus on the smell. You’ll be able to pick up those notes that would hide from you with just a simple sip.
Step 2: Tasting
Start with pure gin, at room temperature. Why? Because if it’s too cold, it hides the aromas, and if it’s too warm, they evaporate. Add a few drops of cold water and you’ll see how the aromas open up surprisingly. Small details, big difference.
4 Pro Tips for the Perfect Gin & Tonic
- Temperature is Crucial: Keep it between 4 and 10 degrees Celsius: this way, the aromas stay balanced and perfect for tasting.
- The Glass Makes a Difference: Chilling it beforehand is a must to keep the gin at the ideal temperature. Fill it with ice while you’re prepping.
- Choose the Right Ice: Large, whole cubes melt more slowly, keeping the gin cold without watering it down too much.
- Pick the Perfect Tonic: A neutral tonic highlights the gin’s aromas, while a flavored one can add an extra touch. The key is finding the right balance.
Comparison of Small-Batch Tonic Syrups
To help you choose the proper ingredients, we compared two different small-batch tonic syrups mixed into an otherwise identical gin and tonic.
| Feature | Liber & Co Spiced Tonic Syrup | Jack Rudy Cocktail Co. Small Batch |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Significantly darker cocktail | Clear and pale |
| Top Ingredient | Agave nectar | Quinine |
| Flavor Profile | Strong and sweet; citrusy notes with a hint of bitterness | Classic quinine bitterness; subtle flavor that lets the gin shine |
| Verdict | Best for citrusy tropical cocktails (rum or tequila) | Preferred for a classic Gin & Tonic |
Refreshing and simple to make, the gin and tonic is an iconic cocktail that is universally loved. Whether you are hosting a Gin Tasting night at home or visiting a distillery, the secret is to have fun and enjoy the evening.
