If you’re a fan of cocktails or simply love learning new skills while traveling, the Cocktail Lovers Masterclass at Spirit of Wales in Newport offers a captivating way to spend an evening. This 2-hour experience blends hands-on cocktail making with a touch of Welsh spirit history, all wrapped up in a lively, friendly environment.
What makes this tour stand out? First, you’ll get the chance to craft a delicious Welsh-inspired cocktail—a perfect souvenir to take home. Second, the session is led by knowledgeable guides who make learning both fun and easy, ensuring even novices feel confident behind the bar. Third, the inclusion of music bingo with prizes adds an enjoyable, social element to the evening.
One thing to consider is that food isn’t included, so if you’re hungry, you might want to plan a light snack beforehand or visit the bar afterwards. This masterclass is ideal for adults who enjoy cocktails, social experiences, or local spirits, making it a great choice for couples, groups of friends, or anyone curious about mixology.
Good To Know
- Interactive cocktail making with guidance from expert hosts
- Sample spirits from the Spirit of Wales distillery, including vodka, gin, and rum
- Music bingo and prizes create a lively, social atmosphere
- No food included, so plan accordingly
- Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours
- Last Friday of the month at 7 pm for the scheduled session
An In-Depth Look at the Cocktail Masterclass Experience
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Overview of the Experience
The Cocktail Lovers Masterclass takes place in Newport at the Spirit of Wales distillery, a venue known for its handcrafted spirits. This tour lasts approximately 2 hours, during which you’ll learn the basics of spirits, bar tools, and, most importantly, how to craft three different cocktails. The session is conducted in English and features a friendly, approachable guide—one reviewer even mentioned a guide named Tom, who was praised for his knowledge and engaging style.
One of the big draws here is the opportunity to try spirits directly from the distillery’s range, including Vodka, Gin, and Rum. This allows you not only to make cocktails but also to appreciate the quality and flavors of Welsh-distilled spirits. The experience is set in a cozy, “cave of curiosities” environment, adding a quirky, memorable touch.
What to Expect: Step-by-Step
Introduction to Welsh spirits: The session kicks off with a brief overview of the Spirit of Wales brand, highlighting what makes their spirits special. This sets the tone for the evening, emphasizing local craftsmanship and authentic flavor profiles.
Learning the basics: Before you start mixing, you’ll learn about essential spirits and bar equipment. The guide covers how different spirits behave, the correct way to shake or muddle, and tips for creating balanced cocktails.
Hands-on cocktail making: You’ll then get to mix, muddle, and shake your way through three cocktails. These typically include drinks made with Vodka, Gin, and Rum, giving you a well-rounded introduction to spirits. Reviewers have appreciated that they could use drinks made by the distillery in their creations, adding a local touch.
Tasting and sampling: After each cocktail, there’s an opportunity to sample additional spirits from the distillery’s range. This enhances your understanding of flavor profiles and quality, making the experience both educational and delicious.
Music Bingo and Prizes: To wrap up, the lively music bingo game adds an extra layer of fun, with great prizes to be won. The game encourages a relaxed, social vibe—perfect for making new friends or impressing your partner with your newfound skills.
The Value of the Experience
At a price that typically covers all materials, spirits, and entertainment, this masterclass offers good value for those interested in learning a new skill and enjoying a relaxed evening. The fact that you get to sample multiple spirits means you’re not just paying for the cocktails you make but also for a deeper appreciation of Welsh distilling craftsmanship.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyAuthenticity and Unique Touches
According to reviews, the guides are both knowledgeable and personable, making the session feel informal and friendly. Guests appreciated the opportunity to make cocktails with spirits directly from the distillery, which adds authenticity and a local flavor. Plus, the fact that the bar and shop are open afterward means you can continue your evening with more drinks or pick up some spirits to take home—a practical perk.
Accessibility and Practical Details
The tour is suited for adults over 18, and cancellation is flexible—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Booking is straightforward, with the option to reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility for planning your trip.
The Atmosphere and Environment
Expect a fun, informal atmosphere in a unique environment that resembles a “cave of curiosities.” The setting adds a playful and intimate vibe, making it perfect for small groups or couples seeking a memorable night out. The music and lively group dynamic help keep energy high, and the overall tone is welcoming rather than overly clinical.
Who Will Love This Experience?
This masterclass is perfect for cocktail enthusiasts eager to learn new skills, local spirits lovers, or groups of friends looking for a fun night out. It’s also suitable for couples wanting a unique date idea. However, if you’re after a more in-depth tasting experience, you might find this session more casual and playful rather than a sophisticated tasting tour.
Final Thoughts
This Cocktail Lovers Masterclass offers a great mix of education, fun, and local flavor. The guides are praised for their friendliness and expertise, and the chance to make your own cocktails with Welsh spirits is both engaging and memorable. While food isn’t included, the bar remains open afterward, providing a chance to continue enjoying Welsh drinks in a relaxed setting.
For those who enjoy hands-on activities and social experiences, this masterclass balances practical skills with playful entertainment. It’s especially well-suited for curious travelers, couples, or groups eager to add a personal touch to their Welsh adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a specific start time for the masterclass?
Yes, the session is held on the last Friday of each month at 7 pm. Be sure to check availability as timings can vary.
How long does the experience last?
The class lasts approximately 2 hours, giving enough time to learn, make cocktails, and enjoy some social fun.
Is it suitable for children or under 18s?
No, the activity is not suitable for children under 18 due to the nature of alcohol consumption.
Can I cancel my booking if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind if your plans shift.
Do I need to pay upfront?
No, you can reserve now and pay later, which adds flexibility to your travel schedule.
Are there opportunities to buy more drinks after the class?
Yes, the bar area and shop are open after the session, so you can order more drinks or purchase spirits to take home.
What spirits are included in the tasting?
You’ll have the chance to sample spirits from the Spirit of Wales range, including Vodka, Gin, and Rum.
Is the experience accessible for non-English speakers?
The activity is conducted in English, so fluency is recommended for full understanding, though guides are approachable and friendly.
What is the overall cost of the experience?
While the exact price isn’t specified here, it covers all materials, spirits, and entertainment, making it a good value for a two-hour hands-on activity.
In summary, the Cocktail Lovers Masterclass is a lively, engaging way to learn about Welsh spirits while mastering the art of cocktail making. Its friendly guides, authentic local products, and fun atmosphere make it an appealing choice for those wanting more than just a drink—they want an experience. Whether you’re a seasoned cocktail lover or just looking for a memorable night out, this tour offers a delightful mix of education, entertainment, and local flavor.
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