The Distillery

The Ginstitute experience is now on the second floor of the Portobello Star Bar, Portobello Road Distillery. (I think it was at a nearby location in year's past). I could not rec this experience enough if you are an avid gin drinker (or even if you are a hohum gin drinker, actually!) The location is great in the middle of Notting Hill. I rec getting to the area early and exploring, maybe also having something to eat before participating in the Ginstitute! (as they will tell you on the website, there is no food involved.There is, however, a good bit of alcohol, so you will need food prior to taking the course, or you won't last!) We were there for 4 hrs with our very knowledgeable host, Patrick. We were served a pre-class gin cocktail and then the class got started with the history of gin and what goes into making gin. There were 8 of us in the class, and throughout the class, we were encouraged to ask questions as they came up. We were able to sample all the components of different gin flavorings and were able to compare and contrast. (These components are all in alcohol too, so even the little sips can add up!) Mid class, there was another gin cocktail served as well as at the end. Once we all picked out the components we liked the best to have in our own gin, Patrick worked with us to decide the % of each that may work well and then helped us make our own bottle to bring home. We were able to sample each other's as well. All in all, it was a great experience and I think what made it so great was Patrick's enthusiasm and knowledge base. It's a great class, with a great host, in a great environment.