Toronto: Nickel 9 Distillery Tour and Tasting

Introduction

If you’re curious about how the spirits behind your favorite cocktails are made, the Nickel 9 Distillery Tour and Tasting in Toronto offers a hands-on, flavorful peek at Ontario’s craft distilling scene. This well-reviewed experience, with a perfect 5-star rating from just two reviews, promises an intimate look at the art of spirit-making combined with tastings and a bitters class.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its blend of education and enjoyment. You’ll savor Northern Temple Vodka and Hidden Temple Gin, learn the ins and outs of fermenting and distillation, and even get creative with a bitters-making class. A downside? The hour-long duration is brief but packed with info—so don’t expect a deep dive into every aspect of distilling, but rather a taste of its best aspects.

Designed for spirits enthusiasts, curious travelers, or those looking for a unique activity in Toronto’s West End, this tour offers excellent value at just $25 per person. If you’re eager to understand how your favorite drinks are crafted, this experience should definitely be on your list.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Authentic Craft Experience: See how locally sourced ingredients transform into spirits.
• Small Group Setting: Limited to 10 participants, making it intimate and engaging.
• Learn & Taste: Guided tastings of Northern Temple Vodka and Hidden Temple Gin.
• Educational & Fun: Includes a class on Ni9 Bitters to boost your mixology skills.
• Central Location: Perfect for exploring Toronto’s vibrant Junction neighborhood afterward.
• Great for a Quick Escape: An hour-long experience offering lots of insights and samples for a reasonable price.

Exploring the Nickel 9 Distillery Experience in Depth

What to Expect at the Distillery

The tour begins with a warm welcome—literally—with a welcome cocktail designed to set your palate for the journey ahead. From the start, the friendly guides make sure everyone feels comfortable asking questions and sharing their enthusiasm for spirits. Small groups—limited to 10—ensure personal attention, which makes the experience more interactive and fun.

The distillery itself is described as a “cute little building” away from Toronto’s hustle, nestled in the Junction neighborhood. It’s a modern, well-equipped space that emphasizes craft and quality. As you walk through, you’ll get to see the fermenting tanks and distillation apparatus, gaining insight into how the spirits are created from scratch. This is not just a tasting session; it’s an eye-opener into the art of craft distillation.

Guided Tastings of Signature Spirits

The heart of the experience is the tasting of Northern Temple Vodka and Hidden Temple Gin. Both are noted for their flavor profiles, which are enhanced by locally sourced ingredients. Guests appreciate the quality and smoothness of the spirits, often remarking on how they enjoyed the distinct character of each.

Reviewers mention that the guides, especially Scotty, are very knowledgeable and friendly. They share stories behind the spirits, adding a layer of connection that elevates the tasting beyond just sipping from a glass. One traveler even called it a “brilliant experience,” highlighting how engaging and fun the guide was.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Inside Look at Fermentation and Distillation

A significant part of the tour is the insiders’ look at the fermenting and distillation process. This segment demystifies what can seem like complex science, breaking it down into understandable steps. Expect to see the fermentation tanks and learn how yeast and ingredients transform into alcohol. This behind-the-scenes glimpse helps you appreciate the craftsmanship that goes into each bottle.

Guests have shared that this part of the tour “reveals the secrets of craft distillation”, making it especially valuable for budding home bartenders or those interested in spirits production. The guides are eager to answer questions, making it a learning-rich experience.

Participating in the Ni9 Bitters Class

One of the tour’s standout features is the bitters-making class. Ni9 Bitters are a signature part of Nickel 9’s offerings, and the class allows participants to add their own twist to flavor profiles. This interactive element adds a creative and practical layer to the experience, giving you a new skill to take home.

Guests from the reviews note that the class is “very knowledgeable” and enhances their appreciation for mixology. It’s a chance to understand how bitters can elevate cocktails, making it a perfect activity for home bartenders or those wanting to deepen their appreciation for flavor balancing.

Overall Value and Experience

Priced at just $25 per person, the tour offers remarkable value. For an hour, you get a welcome cocktail, guided tastings, an educational behind-the-scenes look, and a bitters class. Reviewers agree it’s a “fun activity for a date or group outing” that balances entertainment and education without feeling rushed.

While the duration is brief, the quality of content and personable guides make it feel more substantial. Plus, the small group size fosters a relaxed environment where everyone feels involved.

Location and Accessibility

Located in Toronto’s West End, in the Junction neighborhood, the distillery’s central location makes it easy to incorporate into a day of exploring Toronto. After the tour, you can continue to enjoy the vibrant local scene, with plenty of nearby cafes, bars, and shops.

Note: The tour isn’t suitable for children under 13, and smoking is not allowed inside—standard for most modern distilleries. The experience is primarily conducted in English, with flexible cancellation policies (full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance).

Why Choose This Tour?

This distillery tour is perfect if you’re interested in learning about craft spirits in a relaxed environment. The guided tastings and bitters class provide a hands-on approach that appeals to both casual drinkers and enthusiasts alike. Its excellent value makes it attractive for those wanting a quality experience without a big price tag.

It’s especially suited for couples, small groups, or solo travelers looking to add a unique activity to their Toronto itinerary. If you enjoy discovering local artisans and want to understand the craftsmanship behind good spirits, this tour will satisfy your curiosity.

Final Thoughts

The Nickel 9 Distillery Tour and Tasting in Toronto offers an engaging, well-rounded experience that highlights the artistry of craft distillation. With knowledgeable guides, quality spirits, and an interactive bitters class, it delivers more than just a tasting—it provides insight into what makes these spirits special.

Whether you’re a cocktail lover, a curious traveler, or someone eager to understand the science and craft behind your favorite drinks, this tour will leave you with new appreciation and some practical skills.

For just $25, it’s a great way to spend an hour in Toronto, especially if you’re in the West End and want a compact but meaningful activity. It’s an experience that combines fun, education, and local flavor, making it a highlight for spirit aficionados and casual drinkers alike.

FAQs

Is there any age restriction for this tour?
Yes, the tour is designed for adults only, with alcohol served to those over 18. Children under 13 are not permitted.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 1 hour, making it a quick but impactful activity.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers a welcome cocktail, guided tastings of two spirits, an inside look at the distillation process, and a bitters-making class.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your schedule.

Is the group size small?
Absolutely, groups are limited to 10 participants, ensuring an intimate and engaging environment.

Where is the distillery located?
It’s in Toronto’s West End, in the Junction neighborhood, a lively area perfect for further exploration.

Is this experience suitable for a romantic outing?
Yes, the small group setting and tasting experience make it an excellent choice for couples or a fun activity for a small group of friends.

Do I need prior knowledge of spirits to enjoy this tour?
Not at all. The guides are friendly and knowledgeable, making it accessible whether you’re a spirits novice or a seasoned enthusiast.

In summary, the Nickel 9 Distillery Tour and Tasting in Toronto offers a charming, insightful glimpse into craft spirits with a friendly atmosphere and great value. It’s perfect for those wanting a taste of local craftsmanship, a fun group activity, or a unique addition to their Toronto itinerary.

You can check if your dates are available here: