Whiskey and Local Spirits Tour

This tasting tour samples Irish whiskeys and local gin at three quality bars, with a focus on single malts and craft spirits from Bushmills and nearby producers. The guide explains tasting technique, distillery history, and flavour profiles. Food pairings (included) complement each spirit tasted. Best for whiskey enthusiasts and spirit connoisseurs. This is a easy activity lasting 2.5 hours. Group size: 2-12. You meet at The Merchant Hotel bar. Key highlights: Three tasting pours (20ml each) of Irish whiskeys or local gin, Guide explains production, distillery locations, and tasting notes for each spirit, Food pairings at each venue: cheese, charcuterie, chocolate, nuts.

Price: £28

Duration: 2.5 hours

Difficulty: easy

Group size: 2-12

Minimum age: 18+

Best for: whiskey enthusiasts and spirit connoisseurs

Best time: Evening tours (5pm-7:30pm) work best; bars are quieter before the 8pm crowd. Weekdays (Tuesday-Thursday) recommended to avoid weekend noise. Spirit flavors are better appreciated in quieter environments.

Meeting point: The Merchant Hotel bar

Languages: English

Here is how the experience unfolds:

5:00pm Meet at The Merchant Hotel bar - Group assembles; guide introduces Irish whiskey regions and production methods.

5:15pm First whiskey tasting at The Merchant - Sample a Bushmills single malt or Middleton whiskey (20ml pour). Cheese and crackers pairing.

5:45pm Walk to second venue - 5-minute walk to a bar specializing in craft spirits and local gin.

6:00pm Second tasting: craft gin or whiskey blend - Tasting flight (20ml pour) of a local gin or Irish blend. Charcuterie board pairing.

6:40pm Walk to third venue - Another 5-minute walk to a whiskey bar with extensive Irish collection.

6:55pm Final tasting and food pairing - Third spirit tasting (20ml pour) of a premium single malt. Dark chocolate and nuts pairing.

The whole experience takes 2.5 hours. Difficulty: easy. You meet at The Merchant Hotel bar.

• Three tasting pours (20ml each) of Irish whiskeys or local gin
• Guide explains production, distillery locations, and tasting notes for each spirit
• Food pairings at each venue: cheese, charcuterie, chocolate, nuts
• Small groups (max 12) allow personalized recommendations based on taste preference
• Access to bars with premium selections not listed on public menus
• Accessibility: All three bars have ground-floor or ramp access. Seating available at each stop; standing not required. No significant walking difficulty. Moderate fitness acceptable.

What is included: Three spirit tastings (20ml pours): whiskey, gin, or blended spirit, Food pairings at each venue (cheese, charcuterie, chocolate, nuts), Knowledgeable guide covering distillery history and tasting technique, Walking route connecting three premium spirit bars.

Not included: Full drinks beyond the three tasting pours, Sit-down meals, Transport to/from meeting point, Bottles to take home. You will need to arrange these yourself.

What to bring: Empty stomach (or light lunch) to appreciate flavors, Notebook for tasting notes if you want to remember your preferences, Comfortable shoes for 10-15 minutes of walking. Having these with you makes the experience smoother.

Best time to go: Evening tours (5pm-7:30pm) work best; bars are quieter before the 8pm crowd. Weekdays (Tuesday-Thursday) recommended to avoid weekend noise. Spirit flavors are better appreciated in quieter environments..

Tip: Includes tastings at each stop

Tip: Food pairings available

Accessibility: All three bars have ground-floor or ramp access. Seating available at each stop; standing not required. No significant walking difficulty. Moderate fitness acceptable..

Operator: Belfast Spirits Trail

After this activity, these are within easy reach:

• Crown Liquor Saloon (6 min walk)
• Linen Hall Library (8 min walk)
• St. Anne's Cathedral (10 min walk)

This activity is run by Belfast Spirits Trail.

Cancellation policy: Free cancellation 24 hours before; non-refundable within 24 hours.

Accessibility: All three bars have ground-floor or ramp access. Seating available at each stop; standing not required. No significant walking difficulty. Moderate fitness acceptable..

Best time to go: Evening tours (5pm-7:30pm) work best; bars are quieter before the 8pm crowd. Weekdays (Tuesday-Thursday) recommended to avoid weekend noise. Spirit flavors are better appreciated in quieter environments..

What if I don't like whiskey or gin?

Tell the guide beforehand. Alternative tastings available: Irish coffee liqueur, cream liqueurs, or non-alcoholic spirit alternatives. Venues can provide soft drinks of equal value. The food pairings are the same regardless of spirit chosen.

Are the food pairings vegetarian or vegan?

Cheese and nuts are vegetarian; charcuterie includes cured meats. Mention dietary restrictions when booking. Venues can provide vegetarian alternatives (nuts, vegetables, cured cheese) at each stop. Vegan options may be limited but venues will accommodate.

How much whiskey do I actually drink in three tastings?

Three 20ml pours equals 60ml (about 2 ounces or one small drink). This is tasting volume, not full drink volume. Combined with food and walking between venues, alcohol absorption is slow. Most people feel no impairment after the tour.