Shake, Stir, Sip: Cocktail Masterclass at Old Young's Distillery in Swan Valley

Step behind the bar at Old Young's Distillery in Henley Brook, Western Australia, and spend 90 minutes learning to shake, stir and build three classic cocktails in a hands-on Cocktail Masterclass that blends practical technique with local flavor. Located at 10581 West Swan Road in the Swan Valley wine region, this lively tasting room sits where river flats meet remnant jarrah and marri woodlands, a short drive from Perth and a perfect stop on a valley food-and-drink loop. The class opens with a signature-serve spirit on arrival and a brief primer on balance, glassware and tools. Under the guided eye of the distillery team you'll get comfortable with shakers, muddlers and strainers, practice classic techniques and put those skills to work crafting three distinct cocktails. Snacks and nibbles keep the conversation flowing while you taste, adjust and learn why a squeeze of citrus or a different sugar changes everything. The session is capped by enjoying what you've made - expect to sample the equivalent of 5–6 standard drinks, so plan your day accordingly. What makes this offering stand out is its setting: a working distillery on West Swan Road that occupies the same landscape that supports vineyards and orchards. The region's Mediterranean climate and sandy-loam soils shape local spirits and provide seasonal aromatics for barrel finishing and garnishes. For visitors who love food-and-drink culture, this class pairs practical mixology with a sense of place; it's not just about recipes but about how local spirits and local produce influence flavor. The experience is social and approachable: maximum groups are kept small (10 people), the tone is relaxed, and the focus is on skill-building rather than showy flair. It's ideal for date nights, small groups of friends, or anyone looking to add confidence at the home bar. Practical notes: you must be 18+, check in at Old Young's Distillery & Tasting Room on arrival, and be prepared to consume what you make. Beyond the bar, Swan Valley's flat river corridor and nearby cellar doors offer an easy afternoon of exploration; look for pockets of native bush and birdlife as you travel. This masterclass gives visitors a distinct local perspective on alcohol production in Henley Brook - a short, instructive, and very drinkable way to connect with the valley's food and drink scene. Plan to reserve in advance; groups are limited to maintain hands-on time. Wear comfortable shoes for a short walk through the tasting room and distillery, and arrange transport after the class if you intend to sample your cocktails. If you're pairing the masterclass with a vineyard visit, allow an afternoon to visit a few cellar doors and an orchard stall. The distillery staff are welcoming and happy to recommend other local producers.