Oldest Gin Distillery: What Makes It Special?

If you love gin, you’ve probably heard about the oldest gin distillery still running today. It’s more than a cool fact – it’s a glimpse into the drinks that shaped a whole culture. This guide breaks down the backstory, what you’ll taste, and why a trip there is worth your time.

Where It All Began

The title of “oldest gin distillery” usually goes to the Dutch Nolet Distillery, founded in 1691 in Schiedam. While many think of London when they hear gin, the spirit actually started in the Netherlands as "jenever". Nolet kept making its original recipe for over three centuries, humming the same copper‑still songs you hear today.

In England, the first commercial gin stills appeared in the early 1700s after the famous Gin Craze. Distilleries like J. & T. Weller (1760) and Gordon’s (1769) followed quickly, but none have the continuous history that Nolet claims.

What to Expect When You Visit

Walking into the oldest gin distillery feels like stepping into a living museum. You’ll see rows of copper stills, wooden barrels, and handwritten logs dating back to the 1700s. Guided tours usually cover three parts: the history of gin, the distillation process, and a tasting session.

During tasting, you’ll meet the classic “juniper‑forward” profile that defines gin, plus the house’s secret botanicals – think orange peel, coriander, and a hint of rose. The staff often share a quick tip: sip slowly, let the flavors open up, and notice the spice that lingers after the finish.

Most tours end with a small bar where you can order the distillery’s signature cocktail. The classic recipe mixes the gin with a splash of tonic, a twist of lemon, and a sprig of rosemary – simple, fresh, and perfect for a first‑time visitor.

If you plan a visit, book in advance. Tours fill up fast, especially in summer. Bring a comfortable pair of shoes – the tour includes a short walk through the old warehouse where barrels are stored.

Beyond the tasting, the distillery often hosts seasonal events, like “Gin & Food Pairing” nights where you can match the spirit with cheese, chocolate, or smoked salmon. These events are a great way to learn how gin balances with different flavors.

When you leave, you’ll have a bottle of the distillery’s own gin. It’s usually sold in a vintage‑styled glass, making it a nice gift for friends who appreciate a story behind their drink.

Whether you’re a seasoned gin fan or just curious, exploring the oldest gin distillery gives you a hands‑on history lesson and a taste of the original spirit that sparked today’s cocktail craze. So grab a notebook, bring your curiosity, and enjoy the journey from copper still to glass.