PONTA DELGADA HISTORY TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Behind Closed Doors at Solar Branco: An Intimate Gin Masterclass Above Ponta Delgada
A focused 1.5-hour tasting at the Gin Library of Solar Branco Eco Estate — sample curated gins paired with tonics and garnishes while touring one of the world’s largest private gin collections.
Behind Closed Doors at Solar Branco: An Intimate Gin Masterclass Above Ponta Delgada.
Set on the hills above Ponta Delgada, the VIP Gin Masterclass at the Gin Library of Solar Branco Eco Estate pairs a compact, expert-led tasting with a short tour of the estate; guests move through a private collection of gins while learning the spirit’s history and the estate’s own role in São Miguel’s citrus trade.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
One of the largest private gin libraries
The tasting takes place in the Gin Library, home to a privately held collection considered among the world’s largest; VIP guests taste top bottles selected by the library’s curators.
Curated pours with perfect tonic and garnish pairings
Each gin is presented with a chosen tonic water and garnish; light snacks are served during the 1.5-hour masterclass to complement the tasting.
Estate grounds and coastal views
When weather allows the library doors open to reveal the green hills of São Miguel and the ocean beyond; guests are invited to tour the Solar Branco grounds with a G&T in hand.
What the day feels like
What the masterclass feels like
The session is intimate and paced: an expert guides the group through selected gins from the library, explains each spirit’s place in gin’s history and modern revival, and pairs samples with the chosen tonic and garnish while light snacks are served. The experience finishes with a short walk through the estate when weather permits, or a relaxed wrap-up indoors if it rains.
THE COLLECTION
One of the largest private gin libraries
The tasting takes place in the Gin Library, home to a privately held collection considered among the world’s largest; VIP guests taste top bottles selected by the library’s curators.
THE TASTING
Curated pours with perfect tonic and garnish pairings
Each gin is presented with a chosen tonic water and garnish; light snacks are served during the 1.5-hour masterclass to complement the tasting.
THE SETTING
Estate grounds and coastal views
When weather allows the library doors open to reveal the green hills of São Miguel and the ocean beyond; guests are invited to tour the Solar Branco grounds with a G&T in hand.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this masterclass suits—and who it excludes.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
This is an alcohol-focused tasting; consider arranging a designated driver or booking a taxi for your return.
The experience runs rain or shine. When weather is good the library doors open and there is ample outside seating; on rainy days comfortable indoor seating is provided.
Top gin selections with paired tonics and garnishes, plus light snacks served during the tasting.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the masterclass?
The VIP Gin Masterclass runs for 1.5 hours.
What is the price per person?
The adult rate is €150 per person.
Are children allowed?
No—this experience is strictly for adults; guests may not bring babies or children under 16.
How many people are in each tasting?
Standard tastings are limited to a maximum of six guests; private tastings for larger groups can be arranged by contacting the operator.
What happens if it rains?
The experience is held rain or shine; there is comfortable indoor seating if the weather is poor and the library doors open to the outside when weather permits.
Is transport provided?
Transport is not provided. Because the experience involves alcohol, consider a designated driver or book a taxi.