Wine tastings have long been a go-to for parties, client events and team socials. They’re familiar, polished and widely appreciated. But ask around and you’ll likely find that most people have never been to a gin tasting - and that’s where the magic lies.

A well-crafted gin tasting isn’t just a drinking experience. It’s a guided journey through history, flavour and storytelling – with plenty of surprises along the way.

So how do gin tastings compare to wine tastings, and which one’s right for your next event?

A Tale in Every Glass

Wine tastings are all about the grape - the variety, the region, the vintage. You’ll learn about the land, the weather, the winemaker’s choices. It’s a deep dive into nature and nurture, with centuries of tradition behind every bottle.

Gin tastings, by contrast, tell a different kind of story. Gin’s history is filled with drama - from its medicinal beginnings to the wild days of London’s Gin Craze, right through to today’s renaissance of craft distilling. Each brand has its own tale to tell, and each bottle is a blend of culture, chemistry and character.

Guests often leave a gin tasting not just knowing what they like - but with stories they’ll be retelling for weeks.

The Element of Surprise

Everyone knows what to expect from a wine tasting.

Gin tastings, however, feel fresh. Most people have never been to one, which means the experience comes with a real sense of discovery. The variety of flavours in modern gins - citrusy, floral, spicy, fruity, herbal - surprises even seasoned drinkers.

And then there’s this: very few people have ever sipped gin neat. That first taste - the right gin properly introduced, sipped slowly, with context and care is a genuine eye-opener. You see the complexity. You taste the balance. And more often than not, you hear someone say: “I didn’t know gin could taste like this.” It’s the kind of moment that changes hearts and minds.

The Experience Itself

Wine tastings tend to follow a formal format: a seated line-up of wines, discussed one by one, often in a hushed or reflective setting.

Gin tastings are usually more relaxed and conversational. The host plays a key role - weaving in stories, historical quirks, and flavour notes in a way that keeps the energy light and the group engaged. It’s not about taking notes, it’s about making memories.

What Kind of Group Suits Each?

Wine tastings are a great match for groups who already enjoy wine, or who are looking for a classic, elegant experience. They’re well-suited to formal client events or foodie groups with a clear interest in wine.

Gin tastings work brilliantly for teams, friends, or mixed groups where you want something inclusive, engaging and a little out of the ordinary. They often appeal even to those who say “I don’t usually like gin” - because they discover something they didn’t expect to.

So Which One Is Right for You?

It depends on the experience you want to create.

Wine tastings are timeless - reliable, informative, and quietly refined. But if you’re after something your guests haven’t done before - something rich in story, full of character, and genuinely memorable - then a gin tasting offers something truly different.

Discover Nautilus Gin Experiences

At Nautilus, we believe that every great gin has a story worth telling. Our tastings are built around narrative and discovery - helping your guests explore the fascinating world of gin in a way that’s engaging, unexpected and fun.

Whether you’re planning a corporate event, private party or virtual get-together, we’ll help you create a tasting that’s as distinctive as your group.

Ready to do something different?
Get in touch and let’s plan a gin experience your guests won’t forget.

Gin Tastings vs Wine Tastings: which is best for your event