Oxford: Sky Wave Gin Distillery Tour & Guided Tasting

Summary

Gin tasting in Oxford with stories, laughter, and smooth pours

You’ll sip a Sky Wave G&T as soon as you arrive in Oxford, then get guided through the story behind the distillery and see their copper stills up close. Taste three unique gins with expert tips from your host, learn about local botanicals, and take home a 10% discount on bottles—it’s relaxed, personal, and leaves you wanting another round.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing that happened? I spilled a bit of my welcome G&T. Not much, just enough to make the glass sticky — classic me. But honestly, it broke the ice. The woman next to me laughed and said she’d done the same last time she was here. So we stood together, sipping Sky Wave gin (which really is as smooth as they claim), while one of the founders started telling us how this whole distillery thing almost didn’t happen. I love when people admit things went sideways before they got it right.

Our guide—Rachel, I think?—walked us over to these two big copper stills (they’ve got names, but I forgot one already). There was this warm herbal smell in the air, kind of citrusy but not sharp. She explained how they pick their botanicals and why their gin tastes different from most. At one point she let us touch some dried juniper berries; they felt like tiny marbles and left my fingers smelling piney for ages. We tried three gins in little glasses lined up like a science experiment—each one had its own weirdly specific flavor story. I never thought I’d care about “mouthfeel” in gin but here we are.

I kept thinking about how everyone there seemed genuinely into what they were doing—not just reading off a script. Someone asked if you could buy bottles on site and Rachel grinned, pointing out the 10% discount for anyone on the tour (I caved and grabbed a bottle for my dad). There’s a bar area where you can hang out after if you want another drink or just chat with whoever’s around. Felt more like being at someone’s kitchen table than at an Oxford gin distillery tour, honestly.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sky Wave Gin Distillery Experience

• Enjoy complimentary Sky Wave G&T
• Listen to Sky Wave Gin story
• Meet two production stills
• Learn gin distillation process
• Taste three gins with guidance
• Relax in bar and shop

Top questions

How long does the Sky Wave Gin Distillery Experience last?

The tour lasts about 75 minutes from arrival to finish.

What is included in the Oxford gin distillery tour?

You get an arrival G&T, guided tasting of three gins, and a 10% shop discount valid that day.

Is there wheelchair access at the distillery?

Yes, all areas are wheelchair accessible including restrooms and entrances.

Can drivers or non-drinkers participate?

Yes—Drivers’ Packs are available to take home if you can’t drink during the tour.

Do you need to book in advance?

It’s recommended to book ahead as spaces can fill up quickly.

Is public transport available nearby?

Yes, there are public transportation options close to the distillery.

Are service animals allowed at Sky Wave Gin Distillery?

Yes, service animals are welcome throughout the experience.

Can pregnant travelers join this gin tasting tour?

The experience is not recommended for pregnant travelers due to alcohol tastings.

What’s included

Your visit includes an arrival Sky Wave G&T made fresh as you walk in, a guided introduction to their distilling process with stories from your local host, professional tasting of three distinct gins (with tips on flavor), plus a 10% discount on any bottle purchases that day—Drivers’ Packs available if needed.