It’s Gin O’Clock with Gines by Robert Rudler

I love a good gin and tonic. While I wouldn’t call myself an expert (much like my appreciation for wine, I’m not familiar with the nuances or varieties), I know what I like—and that’s exactly what Robert Rudler, founder of the Tyrolean Gin brand Gines, emphasized during his gin workshop: "There is no good or bad gin, if you like it, it’s a good gin." And I couldn’t agree more. I can’t recommend Robert Rudler’s gin workshop in Zirl enough. Whether you're a gin enthusiast or someone eager to explore the fascinating process of gin creation, this workshop is a must! It’s a perfect blend of history, craftsmanship, and, of course, flavor.

Gines Gin is not made in a huge factory, with a large warehouse storing hundreds of bottles at any given time. Robert Rudler is more hands-on, small batch, made to order gin - not only boasting 6 original flavors but also constantly experimenting and creating. Gines is produced in his basement, the workshop also taking place in his home. His wife cooked delicious food to ensure we had a good base before trying all the gins, and even his son stopped by to assist him getting water and ice cubes. It is a family affair and the Rudler’s invite you to be part of the family for the workshop! But I’m getting ahead of myself.

When arriving at the Gines Workshop, we were greeted by Robert and his wife Ines who was the inspiration not only for the gin but also for the name. Gin + Ines = Gines, created as a gift, which has expanded into a thriving business. They took me down to his production area, the gin room with all the various spices and tools to create gin, his fully stocked bar and home theater area. We were then offered a beverage and waited on the other workshop participants to arrive.

Normally the number of participants is limited to 6, but exceptions can be made and for this particular event we were 9. Therefore, we were split into two groups to make sure everyone got personal attention. Robert greeted us, telling the history of Gines, some information about gin in general and a run down for how the next circa 4 hours would be spent. We would be creating our own gin, picking the spices, the flavors, then distilling it and tasting all in one night. We decided to split the group up, girls versus boys.

My group started with the ingredients, deciding what to add to our gin. There was lime, orange, ginger, mango, apple and pears to choose from, and you could put in as much or little as you wanted. Under the guidance of Robert but with full free will to create and explore. After that we switched stations and headed to the spices. There were so many containers of various spices. I had no idea how many kinds of pepper there were!! We smelled and mixed and tested, and tried, explored and had fun! After the spices were added, so too was the alcohol, the water, and all put into the copper stills to start the process of becoming gin! Weighing, peeling, chopping fruits and herbs, and finding the right mix for my perfect gin was incredibly exciting.

While we waited for this process to be completed we were treated to a short presentation on how gin is made from the scientific view of it and what was happening in the next room. He has an absolutely impressive home theater, and made the presentation fun and interactive. From there we moved to the bar where Ines brought down homemade chili, bread and desert to ensure we had a good base before the tasting started. We sat around and chatted as a group, enjoying our dinner. Then the tasting began!

Robert makes 6 kinds of gin and a Limoncello, but he is also always creating and exploring new flavors. We each got a workbook and a pen to write our notes to each of the Gines gins we got to try. I used this workbook as a notepad for which gins I would buy! Each was so different and had a backstory. For example, Jonynator was created from inspiration by his son. Gin is personal for the Rudler family! Each type of gin was described as Robert set out small glasses with a single ice cube, and combined the gin and tonic in a shaker to swirl and expertly pour for us to try. It was fascinating to hear everyone's opinions and how different it could be. My favorite was the least favorite of someone else, Robert is right ‘good’ is an opinion!

Robert is so passionate about ensuring that every workshop feels personal and tailored to the participants. I’ve always loved how gin brings together such a wide range of botanicals and flavors, and Robert’s workshop makes it all come alive. The anecdotes about gin that Robert shares add even more layers to the experience, making you appreciate the spirit even more.The workshop lasts around 3.5 to 4 hours, but honestly, time flies when you’re having this much fun. For just 85 euros per person, you get a thorough, hands-on gin experience that you’ll cherish forever. The workshop is a relaxed, informative and unforgettable experience.

So, if you’re visiting Innsbruck and looking for something truly special to do, don’t miss out on this gin tour. You’ll leave with not only a deeper love for gin but also a bottle of your very own creation.

All Photos : @Laura Wunsch