If you’re a fan of gin, then Edinburgh is the perfect destination for you. Why you ask? With a long and storied history of gin production and consumption, Edinburgh is home to a thriving gin scene which is sure to bring joy to any gin lover. In this blog post, we’ll explore why Edinburgh is such a perfect destination for all gin lovers, or those who simply want to know more about the now world-famous drink.
The History of Gin in Edinburgh
Believe it or not, Edinburgh’s history with gin can be traced right back to the 18th century. This is when the city was very well known for its gin palaces and “gin craze”. The Edinburgh old town was home to many gin shops, where both locals and tourists alike would go to browse & taste gin. This particular gin was often of questionable quality, but that certainly didn’t stop people from drinking it in large quantities.
Over time, the quality of gin improved, and before long, Edinburgh became well known for producing high-quality gin using locally grown botanicals. This rich history is part of what makes us so proud of our gin at The Secret Garden, which is also produced using locally grown botanicals!
Edinburgh Gin Tours and Tastings
One of the best ways to explore Edinburgh's gin scene is by taking a gin tour. You can learn about the history of gin in Edinburgh, as well as how gin is made, and the different botanicals used. And of course, you'll get to sample some of the delicious gins on offer.
If you're looking for gin tastings in Edinburgh, then The Secret Garden Distillery Tour is a must-do for any gin lover visiting the city. The tour takes you into the heart of our secret garden, showing you how our gin is made, and the botanicals used. You'll also get to sample some of our most exciting gin flavours, and learn how to make the perfect gin and tonic.
Gin Bars and Cocktail Lounges in Edinburgh
In addition to gin tours, Edinburgh is home to a number of gin bars and cocktail lounges where you can enjoy a delicious gin and tonic or other gin-based drinks. One of the most popular is The Devil's Advocate, which has an extensive gin list and a knowledgeable staff who can recommend the perfect gin for your tastes. Brasserie Prince at The Balmoral is another great option, with a focus on classic gin cocktails.
If you're looking for something a little different, try The Bon Vivant. This bar serves up creative gin-based cocktails using seasonal ingredients. The staff are passionate about gin and can recommend the perfect cocktail for you.
Heads & Tales is another unique option, located in a former bank vault. The bar has a great atmosphere and a range of gin cocktails on offer.
Edinburgh Gin Festivals and Events
If you’re lucky enough to be in Edinburgh during one of the city’s gin festivals or events, then you’re in for a real treat! Edinburgh’s juniper festival is one of the biggest gin festivals in the UK, taking place in Edinburgh every June. The juniper festival celebrates all things gin, and includes distillers from all around the world showcasing their products, and visitors enjoying tastings and workshops.
Aside from the juniper festival, there are also a number of smaller gin events that take place throughout the year in Edinburgh, such as the Scottish Gin Awards, and the Gin Lounge, which brings gin lovers from all over the city together.
Conclusion
As you can see, Edinburgh really has it all when it comes to activities for gin lovers. With a long history with gin, a thriving modern gin scene, gin tours on offer, bustling gin bars and festivals, there certainly no shortage of opportunities to explore the world of gin in Edinburgh. So whether you’re a seasoned gin aficionado, or just starting to explore the world of gin, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant and historic city. So what are you waiting for? Why not plan your next trip to Edinburgh and discover all that the city has to offer for gin lovers?
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