Reykjavik: Eimverk Distillery Guided Tour with Tasting

If you’re seeking an authentic peek into Iceland’s burgeoning distilling scene, the Eimverk Distillery tour in Reykjavik offers a fascinating, flavorful experience. With a stellar 4.9-star rating from over 300 reviews, this tour combines education, tasting, and storytelling—delivering a memorable intro to Iceland’s unique approach to spirits.

What we love most is the knowledgeable guides who bring the process to life, the opportunity to sample Iceland’s first whiskey, Vor Premium Gin, and the chance to witness the production process firsthand. Plus, the tour’s approachable price point makes it a fantastic value. The only caveat? It’s not suitable for children under 18, so keep that in mind if you’re traveling with family.

This experience suits spirits enthusiasts, curious travelers, and those interested in local craftsmanship. Whether you’re a gin lover or a whiskey novice, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. Now, let’s walk through what you can expect from this engaging and insightful tour.

Good To Know

• Authentic Icelandic Spirits: Taste Iceland’s first whiskey, Vor Premium Gin, and Víti Brennivín.
• Educational Tour: Learn about the history and process behind Iceland’s spirit-making, guided by experts.
• Behind-the-Scenes Access: See the distillery’s production area, from barley harvest to bottling.
• Personalized Experience: Small group sizes create an intimate, friendly environment.
• Great Value for Money: For around $34, enjoy a 75-minute tour with multiple tastings.
• Excellent Reviews: The guides and overall experience consistently impress visitors.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Setting the Scene: What’s the Tour All About?

The Eimverk Distillery is Iceland’s only whiskey producer, and it’s a prime example of the country’s emerging craft spirit scene. The guided tour lasts around 75 minutes, making it a perfect short activity that’s both fun and packed with information.

You start with a warm welcome and an introduction to the distillery, where you’ll learn about its short but impressive history. Despite being a relatively young operation, Eimverk has made a mark with its unique Icelandic spirits, which are crafted using ingredients native to the country.

The tour is led by friendly, knowledgeable guides, often with entertaining storytelling—reviewers frequently mention guides like Paul and Eva, who blend facts with humor and keep the atmosphere lively. One reviewer even claimed, “Paul was absolutely incredible! Great tour with in-depth technical knowledge and a story for every sip,” which sums up the quality of the guiding.

Exploring the Production Process

One of the tour’s highlights is the walkthrough of the production process. You’ll see where the magic begins, with the barley harvest, and follow the journey through distillation, fermentation, and aging. Seeing the equipment in action allows you to appreciate the craftsmanship behind each sip.

Guests consistently mention how the photos of the production area help them understand the process better. As one reviewer noted, “Learn about the steps of the process right from barley harvesting to the finished product,” which adds depth and context to the tasting experience.

This behind-the-scenes glimpse isn’t just for show—it’s an educational moment that connects you more deeply with the spirits you taste later. Plus, the guides are happy to answer questions, whether about ingredients, techniques, or the distillery’s story.

The Tasting Experience: What You Can Expect

The tasting is where the tour really shines. You’ll sample three premium spirits, including Iceland’s first whiskey, Flóki, Vor Premium Gin, and Víti Brennivín, a traditional Icelandic schnapps.

Many reviewers rave about the generous pours—some mention tasting up to 13 different spirits during their session, far exceeding expectations. The tasting isn’t rushed; you’ll learn how to appreciate each drink’s unique notes and characteristics. One guest even said, “The tasting was extensive and super informative,” emphasizing the educational aspect.

The guides share fascinating stories about each spirit. For instance, Víti Brennivín has a bold, smoky character, reflecting Iceland’s volcanic origins, while Vor Gin offers a smooth, aromatic profile, perfect for those who enjoy herbal and floral notes. The whiskey, being Iceland’s first, is a smooth, nuanced drink that appeals even to those new to whiskey.

Authenticity and Local Flavor

The emphasis on using local ingredients makes these spirits stand out. One reviewer appreciated that “they use all ingredients that can be grown in Iceland,” giving each drink a true sense of place. This local focus extends to the storytelling—your guide might share anecdotes about Icelandic history, such as prohibition, creating a cultural context for the spirits.

Many visitors praise the personalized approach of the tour. Since the group sizes tend to be small, you get ample opportunity to ask questions and engage directly with your guide. One guest commented, “The whole experience felt personal and educational,” which adds to the overall value.

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Practical Info: Logistics and Accessibility

Getting to the distillery is straightforward. If you’re using public transit, take bus number 1 from downtown Reykjavik to Ásgarður, then walk about 8 minutes. No need for complicated arrangements or taxis, making this accessible for most travelers.

The tour does not include hotel pickup or food, so plan accordingly. It’s a relatively short activity—just 75 minutes—perfect for fitting into a day of sightseeing or other activities. The tour is wheelchair accessible and available in English and Icelandic.

The cost is about $34 per person, which, considering the multiple tastings and in-depth tour, offers excellent value. Plus, you can reserve your spot and pay later, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

What Reviewers Say

The reviews paint a glowing picture of this experience. Many highlight the expertise and friendliness of the guides—”Eva told us the whole history from the distillery and how it’s connected with Icelandic history,” shared one guest. Others appreciated the generous tastings, with one indicating they “got to sample twelve spirits,” which is quite a feat for the price.

The generally positive feedback underscores the authenticity, educational value, and delightful atmosphere. A guest even remarked, “This is THE BEST excursion we’ve been on in the world,” emphasizing how memorable this tour can be.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This distillery visit is perfect for adventurous spirits lovers eager to discover Iceland’s first whiskey and premium gins. It also appeals to curious travelers who want to learn about local production techniques and history. Given the friendly guides and intimate setting, it’s ideal for small groups or couples seeking a personalized experience.

It’s less suitable for children under 18 or those not interested in tasting spirits. However, adults who appreciate a good story and a quality drink will find plenty to enjoy here. The affordability and the opportunity for multiple tastings make it a worthwhile addition to any Reykjavik itinerary.

Final Word: Is It Worth It?

Absolutely. For just around $34, you get an engaging 75-minute tour with tastings of three premium Icelandic spirits—a deal that offers both value and authenticity. The small-group format, coupled with knowledgeable guides, ensures you won’t just walk away with a few drinks but with a deeper understanding and appreciation of Iceland’s craft spirit scene.

The tour’s blend of education, local flavor, and friendly atmosphere creates a memorable experience for those interested in the stories behind the spirits and the artistry involved in their making. Whether you’re a seasoned whisky drinker or a gin novice, you’ll leave with new knowledge—and perhaps a bottle or two to bring home.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, the tour is not suitable for children under 18 due to the alcohol tastings involved.

How long does the tour last?
The tour takes approximately 75 minutes, including the tasting session.

Do I need to prepare anything in advance?
Just arrive on time at the meeting point. You can reserve your spot in advance and choose to pay later.

Is there transportation provided?
No, transportation isn’t included. You can reach the distillery by taking bus number 1 from downtown Reykjavik to Ásgarður, then walking about 8 minutes.

Can I buy bottles during or after the tour?
Yes, you can purchase bottles of their spirits at the distillery shop, perfect for bringing some Icelandic flavor home.

Are the tastings extensive?
Many reviews mention they sampled well beyond just three drinks—up to 13 different spirits, making it a generous tasting experience.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the distillery is wheelchair accessible.

What languages are available?
Guides speak English and Icelandic, ensuring clear communication for most travelers.

In short, the Eimverk Distillery tour offers a delightful, educational peek into Icelandic spirits, wrapped up in a friendly atmosphere and exceptional value. It’s a must-do for anyone curious about Iceland’s craft scene or looking to add a flavorful touch to their Reykjavik adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: