West Wales has emerged as a vibrant destination for food and drink enthusiasts, particularly those seeking authentic craft spirits and vineyard experiences. The region's cooler climate and coastal character have created ideal conditions for small-batch distilleries and award-winning vineyards, many of which welcome visitors for tastings, tours and hands-on experiences. Whether you're a whisky connoisseur, gin lover or wine enthusiast, the vineyards and distilleries scattered across Pembrokeshire and Ceredigion offer a compelling reason to extend your stay and explore the area's growing reputation for quality production.
In the Welsh Wind Distillery: Craft Spirits on the Cardigan Coast
Perched in Tanygroes, just north of Cardigan, In the Welsh Wind Distillery stands as one of West Wales's most celebrated craft producers.[1] This award-winning distillery specialises in small-batch spirits including premium gin, 100% Welsh whisky, vodka and rum, all crafted in copper pot stills and a state-of-the-art 5,000 litre whisky still.[2] The distillery's Eccentric Spirits range has earned recognition for its innovative approach to Welsh spirit production.
Visitors can book gin-making and gin tasting experiences by appointment, with non-alcoholic tastings available for those who prefer them.[1] The Gin Tasting experience includes a guided tour of the distillery, giving you insight into the production process before sampling the spirits. You can even create your own bespoke botanical blend, a hands-on experience that captures the creative spirit of the operation. The on-site shop allows you to purchase bottles to take home, and the distillery remains open until 5 p.m. on weekdays.
Velfrey Vineyard: Pembrokeshire's Award-Winning Wines
Established in 2016, Velfrey Vineyard represents the new generation of Welsh wine producers.[3] Located in the Pembrokeshire countryside, this family-run estate has quickly built a reputation for award-winning wines and immersive vineyard experiences. The vineyard welcomes visitors to explore its operations and taste the fruits of its labour, offering a more intimate alternative to larger commercial operations.
Pembrokeshire vineyards pair naturally with coastal holidays, making Velfrey an ideal addition to a West Wales break.[8] The combination of rural charm and quality wine production creates a memorable afternoon, particularly when paired with local food and the region's renowned hospitality.
Exploring West Wales's Distillery Scene
Beyond In the Welsh Wind, West Wales hosts a growing number of craft distilleries worth visiting. Coles Distillery near Carmarthen in Llanddarog welcomes groups and offers guided tours that explain the distillery's unique approach to spirit production, with group discounts available.[4] The South West Wales region has become increasingly known for its artisan gin producers, reflecting a broader Welsh trend that began in earnest after 2009, when legislation was relaxed to allow smaller stills to operate.[6]
The list of Welsh gin producers continues to expand, with names like Eccentric, Gower, Clwydian and Cygnet gaining recognition. Many distilleries now offer bespoke experiences where you can design your own gin blend, combining traditional production methods with contemporary creativity.
The Welsh Wine Trail and Vineyard Culture
Wales is home to over 30 vineyards producing award-winning red, white, rosé and sparkling wines.[5] While the cooler climate means red wines are less common, recent successes—such as White Castle Vineyard's silver medal at the International Wine Challenge and gold at the Decanter World Wine Awards—demonstrate that Welsh winemakers are competing at the highest level.[5] Monmouthshire and the Wye Valley have the strongest concentration of vineyards for multi-stop weekends, though Pembrokeshire's coastal vineyards offer a distinctive experience.[8]
Many vineyards offer guided tours, tastings and private events. Some, like Sugar Loaf Vineyards near Abergavenny, combine vineyard tours with local food platters and tasting trays in their café.[5] The Dell Vineyard in Raglan, winner of the Best Rosé at the Welsh Wine Awards 2023, holds regular tours and tasting sessions throughout the year.[5]
Food and Drink Experiences Beyond the Tasting Room
A visit to West Wales's vineyards and distilleries pairs beautifully with the region's broader food and drink culture. Explore the best pubs with rooms and country inns in West Wales for evening meals and local ales, or discover where to find the best Welsh cakes and bakeries in West Wales for traditional treats. Many visitors also enjoy the best cafes and brunch spots in West Wales before or after their distillery and vineyard visits, creating a full day of culinary exploration.
Planning Your Distillery and Vineyard Route
Most distilleries and vineyards require advance booking, particularly for group tours and tasting experiences, so plan ahead to secure your preferred times. Many close on Sundays or operate limited hours, so check ahead before visiting. The coastal location of In the Welsh Wind makes it an excellent starting point for a West Wales spirits tour, while Pembrokeshire's vineyards can be combined with beach visits and heritage sites.
Plan Your Stay
To make the most of West Wales's vineyards and distilleries, consider basing yourself at The Courtyard, a luxury 5-bedroom ensuite property on the Glaneirw Estate near Cardigan. With its gourmet kitchen, wood burner and space for up to 10 guests, The Courtyard provides the perfect retreat after a day of tastings and tours. The estate's location puts you within easy reach of In the Welsh Wind Distillery and other regional producers, while offering the comfort and privacy of a self-catering home. You might also explore the local area to discover other attractions and dining options, or consult our itinerary suggestions for a fully planned West Wales break.