Distillery tours are both fun and informative, giving visitors the chance to learn how distillers make certain liquors and to sample the product. Taking a tour of a distillery is not something that most people often do, so you should make a plan to ensure you get the most out of your visit. Below are a few items to think about when you’re preparing for a distillery tour.

5 Distillery Tour Tips

1. Arrange Proper Transportation

Distillery tours usually involve an opportunity for tasting, so you should leave the car at home and arrange transportation. You could hire a car service or a limo to make the visit special, or if you’re in a group, then someone may be happy to be the designated driver.

2. Plan to Eat

If you plan to eat on your day out, find out if the distillery you are visiting has an on-site eatery or if there are any nearby. If you’re out, you might like to bring back something that would pair nicely with the products you picked up at the distillery. Keep in mind that eating reduces the effects of alcohol, so plan accordingly.

3. Aim to Learn About the Process

Distillery tours are about more than tastings. Your visit will take you through every step of the distilling process and is an excellent chance to learn new facts. You might want to prepare a question or two because guides love talking about their products and are a wealth of interesting information.

4. Dress the Part

Remember that the design of the premises you visit is primarily for distilling rather than tours, and they might have conditions that require certain clothing and footwear. Different areas of the premises may be warmer or colder than average room temperatures. Distillery tours could also involve a substantial amount of walking or climbing stairs.

5. Think About Buying Something

At the end of your trip, you should have the opportunity to buy the products made at the distillery. Keep in mind that you could have a few extra items when you’re planning transportation home. There could be rare or exclusive products that are challenging to find elsewhere, and prices are typically lower than buying through a distributor.

Bluestem Vodka in Bethalto, IL, offers educational distillery tours that include vodka tastings and a free glass to take home. Their dedicated team used their combined 50 years of alcohol production experience to create a unique product that’s gluten-free. Their vodka is also widely available in stores and bars throughout the area. To learn more or book a tour, call (309) 712-1697 or visit their website.