Along the Garden Route, there’s one hidden gem that shouldn’t be missed – especially by gin enthusiasts. Nestled in the heart of the Cape Floral Kingdom, and surrounded by fynbos, lies the Inverroche Distillery in the charming seaside town of Still Bay.
Loved by locals for their world-class gins, Inverroche offers an array of tastings and a gin-making masterclass that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for the art of gin production.
We cannot recommend it enough. Book a gin tasting in advance and add this one-of-a-kind stop to your itinerary.
Experiences
Tutored gin tasting and chocolate pairing
Price: R165 per person
Dates: Tuesday to Saturday, 11h00 – 16h00
Booking essential. No under-18s in the tasting rooms.
To explore the full Inverroche range and the uniquely South African flavours on offer, the tutored tasting experience is an excellent choice. Presented in one of the 3 private tasting rooms – Classic, Verdant and Amber – the knowledgeable Inverroche team will take you through a guided tasting and chocolate pairing.
The Inverroche-infused chocolate pairing (pictured above) allows you to explore the fascinating, and delicious, interplay between the botanicals in the gins and the sweet, gin-infused truffles. The tasting takes roughly 45 minutes and the chocolates are vegan-friendly.
While no under-18s will be allowed in the tasting rooms, children are more than welcome to come along and tuck into some toasted sarmies while you enjoy an untutored tasting in the beautiful gardens.
Gin Academy Experience
Price: R1050 per person
Dates: Tuesday – Saturday
Bookable times: 11h00 and 14h00
Duration: 2 hours
Booking essential. Limited to 12 participants. No under-18s in the tasting rooms.
For the gin aficionados looking for a more hands-on adventure, the Gin Academy Experience is an absolute must. This immersive masterclass includes a welcome drink and a 2-hour distillation session in the Sensorium where you will get to bottle and label your very own 500ml bottle of gin to take home. You’ll also be treated to an in-depth tasting of all the Inverroche gins, accompanied by tasty snack platters to pick on.
Expert distillers will guide you every step of the way, sharing their knowledge on the art of botanical selection, blending techniques, and finding the perfect balance of flavours. It’s an unforgettable experience that allows you to take home not just memories but also a unique gin creation to cherish.
About Inverroche – It’s all the name
The name Inverroche is derived from the Scottish word “inver,” meaning a meeting of waters, and the French word “roche,” meaning rock or stone. It perfectly encapsulates the essence of Still Bay, where these two elements converge; creating the ideal conditions for crafting their botanical gins.
Founded by Lorna Scott and her family in 2017, Inverroche Distillery has become a pioneer in South African craft gin. Lorna is driven by her vision to create not only delicious spirits but also to support the local community and use ingredients that pay homage to the Cape’s rich floral heritage.
Hi do you offer gin experiences in Joburg
creating your gin, while gin tasting and taking your bottle home
Hi Ora, Inverroche hosts Gin Academy events at The Westcliff – The Four Seasons Hotel in Johannesburg. Please visit their website to see when the next event will be held – visit Inverroche.com.
Good day.
This sounds delightful!
Do you perhaps do any gin tastings / tutored classes on the 24th of December?
Hi Esmarie, you can have a look at the available dates and book here for the tutored tastings. Happy holidays!