PONTA DELGADA HISTORY TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Behind the Shelves at Solar Branco: An Intimate Gin Masterclass in Ponta Delgada
A 90-minute, expert-led tasting inside The Gin Library and Senhor Raposa’s Secret Drinking Den that traces gin’s craft and modern renaissance while sampling three Azorean expressions.
Behind the Shelves at Solar Branco: An Intimate Gin Masterclass in Ponta Delgada.
Adventure brief
Behind the Shelves at Solar Branco: An Intimate Gin Masterclass in Ponta Delgada
At Solar Branco Eco Estate in Ponta Delgada, the Azorean Gin Masterclass unfolds amid shelves that hold one of the world’s largest gin collections. In a tucked-away speakeasy known as Senhor Raposa’s Secret Drinking Den, a Gin Librarian leads a focused, small-group session that pairs three Azorean gins with tailored tonics and garnishes and explains the craft and history of gin.
Ponta Delgada, the vibrant gateway to the Azores archipelago in Portugal, is known for its dramatic volcanic landscapes and Atlantic coastlines, but a visit here also offers a chance to engage with a less typical adventure: the art of Azorean gin. Solar Branco Eco Estate offers a refined experience that bridges nature, culture, and craft spirits in one intimate setting. Hosted at a sustainable estate located just outside Ponta Delgada, the Azorean Gin Masterclass reveals the island’s burgeoning craft distillery scene through a journey of taste and history.
Guided by Ali Bullock, an authority on contemporary gin, guests sample three distinct local gins painstakingly crafted from native ingredients and botanicals endemic to the Azores. As the masterclass unfolds, participants learn about the region's unique microclimate and volcanic soil, which influence the delicate flavor profiles found in these gins. The tasting experience pairs each gin with bespoke tonics and locally sourced snacks, elevating the nuanced layers of flavor. With just ten guests per session, the setting remains intimate—ideal for both gin connoisseurs and curious travelers looking to expand their palates.
Solar Branco stands out for its eco-conscious ethos, reflecting the Azores’ broader commitment to sustainability and respect for the environment. This class is more than a tasting; it’s a way to connect with the living landscape of the islands through one of its most modern artisanal expressions. Sitting picturesque yet discreet among Azorean laurel trees and volcanic stone outcrops, the estate blends rustic charm with thoughtful design.
Beyond the class, Ponta Delgada offers easy access to natural wonders like Sete Cidades caldera and Lagoa do Fogo, making Solar Branco’s masterclass a perfect complement to days spent hiking or kayaking. This unique combination of sensory delight and untouched wilderness places the Azorean Gin Masterclass firmly on the map for travelers who want to taste the essence of the islands alongside their dramatic scenery.
Route Schematic
Itinerary Route Schematic
A sequence of indoor stops traces the collection, the craft primer, and a guided tasting.
Arrival at The Gin Library
Enter Solar Branco’s Gin Library, surrounded by the estate’s extensive bottle collection and prepare for the masterclass setting.
Introduction to Gin
A Gin Librarian explains what defines gin, how it is made, and distinctions between styles such as London Dry versus other gins.
Senhor Raposa’s Secret Drinking Den
Move into the hidden speakeasy space for a discussion of Gin & Tonic principles—balance, garnish, and serve style—before the tasting.
Guided Tasting
Taste three gins from the Ghosts of The Ocean range, each paired with selected tonics and garnishes; the session closes with the note that pours support the Ocean Azores Foundation.
Strictly adults only—children under 16 and babies are not permitted anywhere on site; the operator may limit capacity to maintain an intimate setting.
What the day feels like
What the Masterclass Feels Like
Over 90 minutes, the experience moves from an orientation inside The Gin Library into Senhor Raposa’s Secret Drinking Den, where a Gin Librarian guides a compact group through gin’s craft, the modern renaissance of the spirit, how gins are made, and the principles of a balanced Gin & Tonic before leading a focused tasting of three Azorean expressions.
THE COLLECTION
A Library of Gins
The Gin Library’s stacks hold more than 2,500 bottles from 80 countries, creating an evocative backdrop for a tasting that places local Azorean bottlings within a global context.
THE TASTING
Three Azorean Serves, Expertly Paired
Guests taste three gins from the Ghosts of The Ocean range, each served with a chosen tonic and garnish to illuminate its profile while the session covers what defines gin and the distinctions between styles such as London Dry.
THE SETTING
An Intimate, Conservation-Minded Session
The masterclass is held in the hidden speakeasy and led by a Gin Librarian (expert Ali Bullock is a named guide), limited to just ten guests, and every pour supports marine conservation via donations to the Ocean Azores Foundation.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this masterclass suits — and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
The masterclass runs for 90 minutes and is delivered as a single, indoor session inside The Gin Library and its speakeasy.
This is an indoor tasting in a library/speakeasy setting; the operator does not list special equipment requirements for participants.
The session is intentionally small and intimate; confirm any accessibility needs with the operator in advance.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the masterclass?
The experience lasts 90 minutes.
Where does the tasting take place?
The masterclass takes place inside The Gin Library and the hidden speakeasy known as Senhor Raposa’s Secret Drinking Den at Solar Branco Estate in Ponta Delgada.
How many gins will we taste?
You will taste three gins from the Ghosts of The Ocean range, each paired with a complementary tonic and garnish.
Is there a guest limit?
Yes—sessions are limited to just ten guests to keep the setting intimate.
Are children allowed?
No—this is strictly an adults-only experience; children under 16 and babies are not permitted anywhere on site.
Does the operator support conservation?
Every pour supports marine conservation via a donation to the Ocean Azores Foundation.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-09-08T19:51:44.325Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.