Have you ever wanted to make your own gin? As in, proper gin. Not that bootleg bathtub rocket fuel. Well, now you can – and you’ll be learning the craft from some of the best in the business. The Granddad Jack’s Distillery Experience is a must-do masterclass for avid gin sippers. Limited to just six people, the intimate and hands-on four-hour experience will see you make your very own 500-ml bottle of gin from start to finish. On arrival you’ll be given a gin and tonic (of course), before being taken on a tour of Granddad Jack’s to learn the thrilling story behind the Gold Coast’s first gin and whisk(e)y distillery. Then, the action begins. You’ll be armed with your own two-litre copper still as head distiller and gin wizard Luke Ridden guides you through, assisting as you choose your desired botanical combination and taking you through each step to distil your own bespoke creation, which you’ll get to name, label and wax-seal right then and there.

Drinks will be flowing throughout the night (you’ll get dinner too!) and not only will you go home with a bottle of gin made by your fine self, you’ll also be equipped with a whole heap of knowledge and a newfound appreciation for the fine art of gin distilling. Plus, a sample of your gin creation will also be kept on site and will be tasted ahead of an annual awards night, where one talented maker will have their winning recipe distilled and bottled, becoming one of Granddad Jack’s limited releases (oh, the bragging you could do).

If you just want to dip your toe in, the Distillery Tours & Tastings – held on weekends – are a great introduction to the craft-spirit industry and the history of Granddad Jack’s. Limited to just ten people, these intimate 45-minute tours kick off with a gin and tonic, before David and Luke take you on a stroll around the distillery, step you through its fascinating history, informatively answer the 578 questions that you’ll no doubt have, and introduce you to the gin-making process and the city’s thriving craft-spirits culture. You’ll be treated to tastings of the brand’s award-winning spirits and liqueurs throughout the tour, and you can book a table to stick around after for a cocktail or two. Or three. Definitely Uber home.

The Distillery Experience masterclasses are held Wednesday evenings, while the Distillery Tours & Tastings sessions are held on Saturdays and Sundays. For more information and to book, head to the Granddad Jack’s website.