Vikre Distillery Tour — Duluth, Minnesota

Discover the Vikre Distillery Tour in Minnesota

Located in downtown Duluth, Minnesota, the Vikre Distillery Tour offers visitors an inside look at a working craft distillery producing small-batch gin, whiskey, and aquavit. This guided experience introduces guests to traditional distillation methods, local ingredients, and the hands-on craftsmanship behind spirits inspired by Nordic heritage and the North Shore.

Why it’s special:
Vikre Distillery blends Old World distilling traditions with a modern, small-scale approach. Visitors experience an authentic production space where spirits are distilled and aged on-site, followed by tastings in a cozy cocktail lounge overlooking Lake Superior.

History/Story of Vikre Distillery

Vikre Distillery was founded in 2014 by Joel Vikre with a mission to revive traditional Scandinavian-style spirits using regional ingredients. Named after the Norwegian word for “bay,” the distillery reflects Duluth’s cultural and geographic ties to Lake Superior. Today, Vikre is known nationally for its aquavit and gin, while remaining deeply rooted in local craftsmanship and community.

What You’ll See & Do on the Vikre Distillery Tour

• Tour an active craft distillery in downtown Duluth

• Learn how grains and botanicals are mashed, fermented, and distilled

• See copper stills, fermentation tanks, and aging barrels up close

• Discover the influence of Nordic traditions on spirit styles

• Enjoy guided tastings of Vikre Distillery spirits

Hands-On Elements: Guided spirit tastings and sensory discussions
Photo/Video Policy: Photography allowed throughout the distillery
Souvenirs & Extras: Bottle shop and cocktail lounge offering spirits, glassware, and branded merchandise

Pricing of the Vikre Distillery Tour

Distillery tours require paid admission.
Pricing varies by experience and tasting inclusions.

Visiting information

Duration: Approximately 45–60 minutes
Format: Guided distillery tour with tasting
Schedule & Seasonality: Tours offered year-round on select days
Audience: Adults 21+, spirit enthusiasts, tourists
Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible
Safety & Restrictions: Valid government-issued ID required; 21+ only
Languages: English
Group & Private Visits: Private tours and group tastings available by reservation
What to Bring/Wear: Comfortable shoes; bring valid ID
Facilities: Distillery, cocktail lounge, bottle shop, restrooms
Closures & Downtime: Closed select holidays
Working hours:

• Wednesday–Thursday: 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM

• Friday–Saturday: 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM

• Sunday: 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM

• Closed: Monday–Tuesday

Nearby

• Duluth Lakewalk

• Canal Park

• Aerial Lift Bridge

FAQs About Visiting Vikre Distillery

Is Vikre Distillery a working distillery?
Yes. Spirits are distilled and aged on-site in downtown Duluth.

Does the tour include tastings?
Yes. Standard tours include guided tastings of Vikre spirits.

Do I need to book in advance?
Advance booking is recommended, especially during weekends and peak travel seasons.

Can I visit without taking a tour?
Yes. The cocktail lounge and bottle shop are open during public hours.

What types of spirits does Vikre produce?
Vikre specializes in gin, aquavit, and whiskey inspired by Nordic traditions.