Is this experience suitable for vegans?

No, as the cheese served is artisanal dairy-based and cannot be substituted for vegan options at this time.

Can you accommodate gluten-free diets?

Yes, gluten-free options are available upon prior notice to the distillery.

Are children allowed on this tour?

This experience involves alcohol tasting and is therefore restricted to adults aged 18 and over.

How long does the tasting last?

The session typically lasts between 1 and 1.5 hours from start to finish.

Is there an opportunity to buy bottles onsite?

Yes, guests can purchase Edinburgh Gin products and select cheeses at the distillery shop.

Do I need to book in advance?

Advance booking is highly recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons and weekends.

Gin & Cheese Tastings at Edinburgh Gin Distillery | Events

Located in the vibrant heart of Edinburgh, Scotland’s storied capital, the Edinburgh Gin Distillery offers a uniquely spirited adventure for visitors seeking a taste of local craft culture. Not your typical outdoor excursion, the “Sip & Savour: Gin Meets Mellis Cheese” experience is a sensory journey that brings together Edinburgh's renowned gin craftsmanship and Scotland’s finest artisanal cheeses in an intimate urban setting.

Set within The Arches on East Market Street, the distillery is housed in a peculiar industrial space that contrasts sharply with the rolling hills and rugged coastline that characterize Scottish outdoor adventures nearby. Yet, this indoor experience complements the region’s outdoor ethos, showcasing the rich traditions of craftsmanship that echo through Scotland’s landscapes and heritage.

Participants are welcomed with a classic Edinburgh Gin serve—a refreshing introduction that hints at the botanical complexity to come. Led by expertly trained guides, guests progress through a tasting of four miniature cocktails, each masterfully paired with cheeses from IJ Mellis, Scotland’s celebrated cheesemonger known for its dairy excellence and regional authenticity. Accompaniments like artisanal crackers and chutneys further accentuate the pairing, bridging flavors in novel ways.

The highlight is a hands-on cocktail-making session, where guests shake up their own creations under guidance, making the experience as interactive as it is indulgent. This combination of craft distilling and fine cheese appreciation offers a rare chance to savor Scotland’s culinary and artisan spirit in a single memorable outing.

Whether you’re an ardent foodie or a gin aficionado, this experience provides a distinct perspective on Scotland’s remarkable food and drink scene, nestled inside one of Edinburgh’s most approachable and atmospheric venues. It stands out in the local landscape as a refined serve of Scottish culture alongside your typical hiking or sightseeing pursuits, making it a perfect complement to any outdoor exploration of the city and surrounds.

About Edinburgh Gin Distillery

Edinburgh Gin Distillery is a dedicated gin producer and visitor experience located in Edinburgh, Scotland. The distillery offers a range of curated experiences that combine education, tasting and hands-on activity. Visitors can join guided distillery tours led by Distillery Ambassadors, explore the Flavour Arch to learn about botanicals, and sample curated gin serves in a stylish Tasting Room.

Experiences include sensory pairings, cocktail classes, guided tastings and a gin-making workshop. Signature offerings are the Decadent Duo: Gin & Chocolate Pairing, the Mix & Muddle Cocktail Class held at the Roof Garden Bar, The Classic Tour & Tasting in Edinburgh’s Old Town, Sip & Savour: Gin Meets Mellis Cheese, the Gin Making Experience in The Arches Gin Lab, and the Aroma Alchemy: Gin Tasting Masterclass. Each experience blends practical demonstration with tasting, often concluding with a take-home element such as a bespoke bottle label or a personal infusion.

The distillery emphasises botanical education and craftsmanship. Sessions explain distillation, aroma identification and garnish pairing, and many experiences feature seasonal or award-winning gins. The venue caters to both casual visitors and enthusiasts seeking deeper engagement, offering options suitable for couples, groups and private bookings. Safety and professionalism are prioritised by trained hosts, and the experiences are designed to be accessible and enjoyable while showcasing Edinburgh’s gin heritage and contemporary production.

On-site spaces include a Roof Garden Bar for cocktail classes and a stylish Tasting Room for curated samples, with bookings available for public sessions, group visits and private events hosted by the distillery.