Cologne: Gin Tasting at The Bär with Welcome Cocktail

If you’re searching for a fun, laid-back way to explore Cologne’s vibrant drink scene, the Gin Tasting at The Bär offers an excellent choice. This small-group experience takes you into one of the city’s favorite hidden bars, where expert guidance elevates your appreciation of gin beyond just the sip. Whether you’re a seasoned gin enthusiast or simply curious about botanicals, this tour promises a relaxed, informative, and friendly atmosphere that makes every moment enjoyable.

What makes this experience particularly appealing are three key aspects: the cozy candle-lit setting that feels like visiting a friend’s living room, the chance to taste three distinctive gins from around the world, including a local house infusion, and the personalized attention from passionate staff. A potential drawback is the limited duration—just an hour—which might leave some guests wishing for more tasting time or additional snacks. Still, for those seeking an intimate, educational, and fun introduction to gin, this tour suits travelers who value quality over quantity and appreciate authentic, small-scale experiences.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or part of a small group, this gin tasting is ideal for anyone keen on discovering Cologne’s spirited side in a relaxed environment. It’s a perfect pre-dinner activity or a cozy evening activity after a day of sightseeing.

Good To Know

• Intimate Experience: Small groups of no more than 12 guests ensure personalized service and interaction.
• Local Touch: Includes a house-infused gin made right in Cologne, giving you a taste of local craftsmanship.
• Guided Learning: Fun, casual explanations about botanicals, flavors, and gin history without any pretension.
• Surprise Cocktail: End on a high note with a specially crafted signature drink.
• Flexible Booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance, offering peace of mind for spontaneous travelers.
• Accessible: The venue is wheelchair accessible and conveniently located in Ehrenfeld, reachable by tram.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Venue: The Bär Cocktail Bar

The Bär is a well-loved, tucked-away gem in Cologne’s Ehrenfeld district, known for its cozy, living-room vibe. The black entrance with a gold bear logo hints at a secret spot for cocktail enthusiasts. Once inside, you’re greeted with warm lighting, soft music, and an inviting atmosphere that immediately puts you at ease. This is not a flashy tourist trap but a genuine local favorite, perfect for those who enjoy authentic, unpretentious venues.

The Welcome Cocktail

Your journey begins with a welcome gin cocktail, a thoughtful gesture that immediately sets the tone. Guests often mention the quality of the drinks and the friendly, personal service from the staff, who are fluent in both English and Spanish. This initial sip serves as a teaser, hinting at the varied botanicals and profiles you’ll explore during the tasting.

Tasting the Gins

You will be served three different gins, carefully selected for their unique styles, origins, and flavor profiles. One of the standout features is the local house infusion, which adds a personal and regional touch to this experience. Guests comment that the infusions are “delicious” and “a nice surprise,” providing a taste of Cologne’s craftsmanship.

Throughout the tasting, the guides share fun facts about gin, botanicals, and flavor differences—without any snobbery, just passion. These explanations help make even newcomers feel confident in understanding what makes each gin special. It’s common to hear guests say they learned more about what botanicals like juniper, coriander, or citrus bring to the glass, making each sip more meaningful.

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The Atmosphere

The candle-lit setting, combined with good music and a small, friendly crowd, creates an intimate environment. Reviewers often mention the personalized service and appreciation for the fact that the group size is kept small. This fosters genuine conversations and makes it easier for everyone to ask questions or get recommendations.

The Surprise Signature Cocktail

The experience concludes with a surprise cocktail crafted just for the group. Guests report that this signature drink is a delightful way to finish, often described as “creative” and “delicious.” It’s a thoughtful touch that leaves a memorable impression and sometimes encourages a few extra rounds at the bar, which remains open afterward.

Additional Perks

Guests receive a small souvenir or bonus gift for a future visit, a nice incentive for those who want to return and deepen their appreciation for the bar’s offerings. The bar’s flexible policy allowing free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand makes booking low-risk, especially for spontaneous travelers.

Practical Details

Duration & Availability

The tour lasts approximately one hour, with specific start times depending on availability. Check ahead to find a slot that fits your schedule because the bar opens at 19:00 Wednesday through Saturday, with the tasting starting shortly thereafter.

Meeting Point & Accessibility

Located at Thebäerstrasse 10, near tram stops Piusstraße or Rewe supermarket, the venue is easy to reach by public transport—lines 3, 4, 5, and 13 all service this area. The bar is wheelchair accessible, ensuring inclusive access for all guests. Arriving 5 minutes early is recommended to settle in comfortably.

What’s Included & What’s Not

For the ticket price, you receive the welcome cocktail, guided tasting of three gins, a surprise signature drink, and a small souvenir. Food options are minimal—mainly snacks—so don’t expect a full meal. Additional drinks can be purchased afterward if you wish to extend your evening.

Cost & Value

While the exact price isn’t specified here, reviews suggest that the experience offers good value for those interested in quality, intimate tastings rather than large-scale tours. The personalized attention and exclusive nature make it a worthwhile purchase for gin lovers or anyone wanting a relaxed, authentic taste of Cologne’s drink scene.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This gin tasting is perfect for travelers who enjoy exploring local spirits in an intimate, cozy setting. It’s well-suited for small groups, couples, or solo visitors looking for an engaging activity that combines education, tasting, and socializing. It’s also ideal for those who prefer a relaxed, no-pressure environment where passion for gin is shared openly.

Ideal for:

• Curious drinkers eager to learn more about botanicals
• Visitors seeking an authentic, local experience
• People who appreciate personalized service and small-group atmospheres
• Travelers interested in a flexible booking with free cancellation options

Final Thoughts

The Cologne Gin Tasting at The Bär stands out as a genuine, heartfelt experience for those interested in spirits and local culture. The cozy setting, knowledgeable guides, and expertly curated gins create a memorable evening that’s more than just a tasting—it’s a friendly introduction to Cologne’s vibrant bar scene.

While the hour-long format might leave some craving more, the quality and personal touch make this tour a worthwhile addition to any Cologne itinerary. It’s especially suited for travelers who value authenticity, intimacy, and a little bit of fun along the way.

In short, this experience is a delightful way to unwind, learn, and savor some of the city’s best gins in a welcoming environment.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
No, participants must be 18 or older, and the activity involves tasting alcohol. However, non-drinkers can still enjoy the atmosphere and learn about gin.

Can I visit The Bär after the tasting?
Yes, the bar remains open after the tasting for anyone who wishes to stay longer and enjoy more drinks or just soak in the cozy vibe.

How long does the experience last?
The tour typically lasts about one hour, with starting times based on availability.

Is the venue accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, The Bär is wheelchair accessible.

What’s included in the ticket price?
Your ticket covers a welcome cocktail, a guided tasting of three gins, a surprise signature cocktail, and a small souvenir or bonus gift.

How do I find the bar?
Look for the black entrance with a golden bear logo on Thebäerstrasse 10, near the Piusstraße tram stop and Rewe supermarket.

This gin tasting experience offers a wonderful slice of Cologne’s local charm, perfect for those who enjoy good company, crafted spirits, and authentic atmospheres. Whether you’re a gin novice or a seasoned enthusiast, you’re likely to leave with new favorites and a few fun stories to tell.

You can check if your dates are available here: