When I tell you I got to do one of the coolest things ever, I am not exaggerating. I don’t get out much or do anything overly exciting ever, so maybe you think this isn’t saying much, but I can guarantee you that it was a day I will never forget. From the sound and looks of it, I knew the Lough Ree Distillery Gin School experience would be unique, but was not expecting such an amazing afternoon.

Back in November, I came across an Instagram post somehow about a “Gin School” that had just opened in Dublin. Mindlessly, I saved the post and came across it again last month. Bored and intrigued, I found the website and discovered that they were offering a one-of-a-kind experience where you would create your own botanical recipe, then mix and distil your very own gin. Make. my. own. alcohol? Say what!?

Dying to get out of the city center and do something different, I recruited my adventure buddy and we set off to the Churchtown Stores in Dublin 14 where our “class” would convene. Nestled in the coolest little room in the back, we were seated and greeted with our first (of 3!) Slingshot Gin and Tonic. Our two “professors” for the afternoon started our course by explaining the history of the award-winning Slingshot Gin (distilled and bottled in Co Longford). The class was then briefed on the assignment: measure and weigh whichever and whatever botanicals and herbs you want in your recipe- up to 25g grams. The combinations of flavors was unlimited as a plethora of choices were in reach… everything from lemon verbena, to Angelica Root… and 30 others!

This was quite a struggle, as I am the world’s WORST decision-maker and every little jar was tempting me. “Which one?! How much!? Eventually, I had to call it a day and start distilling! We each poured our herbs in to the neat-o contraption and followed instructions. The process took about 1 hour; but don’t fear! Patience wasn’t too hard with another Gin & Tonic in hand!

Finally, my very own gin was READY! The final Gin & Tonic was presented, but this time… It was with OUR gin and our garnish of choice! It was so cool being able to taste all of the specific botanicals and herbs I mixed in actually come out in the drink.

At the end of our class, we were each gifted with a 700mL bottle of our very own, signature gin to take home. The bottle itself also came equipped with a blank label and markers for creative purposes. This was actually harder than a written exam. I had no idea what to call it, but after an hour of pondering… I decided to just write down all kinds of names and terms that bring back memories to me. In the future when I serve my gin to friends and family, everyone will have to sign something memorable on the bottle.

A special gin made for special occasions and memories.

The whole afternoon was just so unlike anything you are likely to do anywhere else, and 100% worth it. If you are looking to do something fun, treat someone special, or just make your own gin, check out their website for booking inquiries and help these guys grow!