Xoriguer Gin Factory, Mahon

Distillery in Mahon

Xoriguer Gin Factory
Xoriguer Gin Factory
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Santiago Lap

Set right by the waterfront in Mahon (Maó), the Xoriguer Gin Factory is one of Menorca's most recognizable names in local spirits. It's an easy, satisfying stop if you're curious about how the island's signature gin is made, and it pairs perfectly with a stroll along the port.

Many travelers visit as part of a self-guided walking tour of Mahon's harborfront, popping in for a quick look at the stills and a tasting before continuing to nearby viewpoints, cafés, and the old town streets above the port.

History and Significance of the Xoriguer Gin Factory

Xoriguer is closely tied to Menorca’s long-standing gin culture, which took root during periods of British influence on the island and evolved into a distinctly local style. Over time, the brand became a symbol of Mahon’s port-side commerce and Menorca’s taste for straightforward, aromatic spirits.

The distillery’s significance today is as much cultural as it is culinary: it’s a living piece of Mahon’s working waterfront, where traditional production methods and local identity meet modern visitors. Even if you’re not a spirits expert, the visit offers a tangible connection to how Menorca’s everyday traditions became part of its travel story.

For many visitors, Xoriguer is also a gateway into Menorcan aperitif culture, especially the island's love of gin-based mixed drinks. A short stop here can add context to what you'll see on menus across Mahon and beyond.

Things to See and Do in the Xoriguer Gin Factory

The core experience is the distillery visit: seeing the production area and stills, learning the basics of the process, and understanding what gives Menorcan gin its character. If you book a guided visit, you’ll typically get a more structured walkthrough that connects the history, ingredients, and steps of distillation.

Tasting is the highlight for many travelers. Reviews consistently mention a wide variety of gins to sample, and some visitors note that tastings can feel especially generous, turning a quick stop into a memorable mini-experience.

Don’t skip the shop area, even if you’re not planning to buy a full bottle. It’s a good place to compare different expressions and pick up small souvenirs or travel-friendly gifts, and it’s also where you can ask about tour times and language options.

How to Get to the Xoriguer Gin Factory

The nearest airport is Menorca Airport (MAH), a short drive from Mahon and the port area. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Mahon on Booking.com.

Menorca doesn't have a train network, so you can't reach Mahon by train; instead, most visitors arrive via flight and then use buses, taxis, or transfers to get into the city center.Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

By car, Mahon is straightforward to navigate, but parking near the port can be limited in peak season, so consider parking a bit uphill and walking down to the waterfront.If you are looking to rent a car in Spain I recommend having a look at Discover Cars, first, as they compare prices and review multiple car rental agencies for you.

Practical Tips on Visiting the Xoriguer Gin Factory

  • Official website: https://xoriguer.es/
  • Entrance fee: Check official website.
  • Opening hours: (Summer) April 1 – October 31; Monday – Friday: 10:00–18:00; Saturday: 10:00–14:00. (Winter) November 1 – March 31; Closed.
  • Best time to visit: Aim for a weekday earlier in the day for a calmer experience, especially in summer when the port area gets busy with day-trippers and cruise traffic.
  • How long to spend: Plan 30–60 minutes for a quick visit and tasting; allow longer if you’ve booked a guided tour.
  • Accessibility: The distillery is in the port area with generally easy approaches, but interior access can vary by tour route; contact the distillery in advance if you need step-free access.
  • Facilities: Expect a shop and tasting setup; for full meals and longer breaks, you’ll find plenty of cafés and restaurants along the harborfront nearby.

Where to Stay Close to the Xoriguer Gin Factory

The best area to base yourself is central Mahon near the port and old town, so you can walk to the distillery and still have restaurants, viewpoints, and transport links close by.

If you want a classic city stay with easy access to the harborfront, look for hotels around the center where you can walk down to the port in minutes and return easily for sunset views. For a quieter night, consider properties slightly above the waterfront streets, where you’ll still be close but with less late-evening noise.

Catalonia Mirador des Port Chosen for its harbor views and walkable location that makes popping to the distillery and back effortless.

Artiem Capri A strong pick for travelers who want comfort and amenities after a day of walking around Mahon.

Hotel Hevresac Included for boutique character and a central base that suits short stays and city breaks.

Can Alberti 1740 Hotel Boutique Ideal if you want a more intimate, design-forward stay close to Mahon’s historic streets.

Sindic Hotel A good option for travelers prioritizing a stylish, small-hotel feel within easy reach of the port.

Is the Xoriguer Gin Factory Worth Visiting?

Yes, especially if you enjoy local food-and-drink culture or want an easy, high-reward stop while exploring Mahon’s port. It’s compact, distinctive to Menorca, and the tasting element makes it feel more experiential than a typical shop visit.

Honest Pivot: If you don’t drink alcohol, dislike strong aromas, or prefer big, museum-style attractions with lots of exhibits, you may find it too short and focused. In that case, you’ll likely get more value from Mahon’s viewpoints, harbor walk, and historic streets, using the distillery as a quick photo stop rather than a full visit.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.1 (11)

Overall, reviewers describe the Xoriguer Gin Factory as a worthwhile Mahon stop with a positive vibe (4.1/5 from a small set of reviews). The most common highlights are the tasting experience (often noted for its variety and generosity), the guided tour's interesting behind-the-scenes explanations, and friendly staff who help with language when needed. A couple of travelers mention practical trade-offs: tours may require booking and can be offered in specific languages, and not every product will appeal equally beyond the gin itself.

Charles Morris
8 months ago
"Great gin tasting. I have never seen so many different gins at one tasting."
Stefano Casiraghi
4 months ago
"The guided tour of the distillery was wonderful and very interesting. Reservations are required and the tour is in English. At the end, there's anunlimited tasting of their products, with a small sweet and savory buffet. Aside from the gin, the rest isn't the best, but it's still a matter of taste. Highly recommended...."
Dirk DiSc
2 months ago
"Our tour of the distillery was conducted in Spanish, and our guide Nicole translated for us. Thank you so much for the insight into the family'shistory and the art of gin distilling...."

For Different Travelers

Xoriguer works well as a flexible add-on: it can be a quick drop-in during a walking loop of the harbor, or a planned guided tour if you want deeper context. The key is matching the visit style to your pace and interests.

Families with Kids

For families, this is best treated as a brief stop rather than a long activity. If adults want to taste, consider alternating so one person keeps the visit moving and kid-friendly.

Pair it with a harbor stroll and a snack stop afterward so kids have something to look forward to. The port area is visually engaging, which helps keep the outing balanced.

Couples & Romantic Getaways

Couples will enjoy this as a light, local experience that fits neatly into an afternoon of wandering Mahon. It's especially nice before a waterfront dinner, when you can turn the tasting into a “Menorca aperitif” moment.

If you like guided experiences, booking a tour can make it feel more special and less like a quick retail stop. Follow it with a sunset walk along the port for an easy, romantic itinerary.

Budget Travelers

This can be a good-value stop if you keep it simple: visit the shop area, learn a bit, and sample selectively. It’s also easy to reach on foot if you’re staying centrally, which helps avoid transport costs.

If you’re watching spending, decide in advance whether you want a bottle or just a small souvenir. You’ll still get a strong sense of the local gin culture without turning it into a shopping splurge.

FAQs for Visiting Xoriguer Gin Factory

Getting There

Yes, it’s in the port area and is typically reachable on foot from central Mahon. Expect some slopes if you’re coming from the upper old town down to the waterfront.
Local buses and taxis can get you into Mahon and toward the port area. Once you’re near the harborfront, walking is usually the simplest option.
Yes, it fits naturally into a port promenade loop. Many visitors stop in briefly and then continue along the waterfront.

Tickets & Entry

Guided visits may require advance booking, especially in peak season. If you have limited time, booking ahead helps avoid missing out.
Often, yes, and it’s a common way to experience the place quickly. If you want behind-the-scenes context, a guided visit is the better choice.
Tastings are commonly part of the guided-visit experience. What’s included can vary, so confirm when you book.

Visiting Experience

It’s a compact, focused experience centered on production context and tasting. It works best as a short, high-interest stop rather than a half-day attraction.
Yes, the appeal is cultural as much as technical. You can enjoy it as a local tradition without needing deep spirits knowledge.
Visitors often enjoy the variety of gins available to sample and the friendly, informative feel. Many also appreciate learning the brand’s local backstory.

Tours, Context & Itineraries

Do it during a port-and-old-town walking loop, then continue to viewpoints and a waterfront meal. It’s easiest to place it before lunch or before dinner.
Tour language can vary by day and group, and some tours may be offered primarily in English. If language matters, confirm at booking.
If you enjoy learning how things are made, yes. The guided format adds structure and makes the experience feel more complete.

Photography

Policies can vary depending on the area and whether a tour is in progress. Ask staff before photographing production spaces.
The harborfront outside is great for atmospheric shots, especially with boats and port activity. Late afternoon light can be particularly flattering.
At peak times it can be busy, which may limit clean interior shots. Visiting earlier in the day usually helps.

Accessibility & Facilities

Access can depend on the specific route used during tours and any internal steps. Contact the distillery ahead of time for the most accurate guidance.
Facilities can vary depending on whether you’re doing a tour or a quick shop visit. Plan a café stop nearby if you want guaranteed amenities.
Some tastings are set up for standing and quick sampling. If you need seating, ask staff what’s available when you arrive.

Food & Breaks Nearby

It’s primarily a distillery/shop experience rather than a restaurant. For meals, the port area has plenty of nearby options.
Yes, Mahon’s harborfront is ideal for tapas or seafood after a tasting. It’s an easy way to turn the visit into a relaxed evening.
Yes, cafés and casual spots are common along the waterfront. You won’t need to go far for a coffee or pastry.

Safety & Timing

Mahon’s port is generally lively and well-trafficked in the evening. As usual, keep an eye on belongings in busy areas.
If you plan to taste, arrange a designated driver or use a taxi. Alternatively, visit for the history and shop, and save tasting for another day.
Seasonality can affect opening periods and tour availability. Check official details before you go so you don’t arrive to find it closed.

Nearby Attractions to the Xoriguer Gin Factory

  • Port of Mahon (Moll de Ponent): A scenic waterfront promenade lined with boats, bars, and viewpoints.
  • Mahon Old Town: Wander historic streets uphill from the port for architecture, small shops, and local life.
  • Plaça d'Espanya (Mahon): A central square that's a handy anchor point for exploring the city on foot.
  • Mercat des Claustre del Carme: A lively market area for local snacks and a quick look at everyday Menorcan food culture.
  • Museu de Menorca: A solid stop for island history and context if you want more than just the harborfront sights.

The Xoriguer Gin Factory appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Mahon!

Moira & Andy
Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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Planning Your Visit

Hours:

(Summer) April 1 - October 31; Monday - Friday: 10:00-18:00; Saturday: 10:00-14:00.

(Winter) November 1 - March 31; Closed.

Price:

Check official website.

Address: Moll de Ponent, 91, 07701 Maó, Illes Balears, Spain
Mahon: 1 km
Telephone: +34 971 36 21 97
Official Website

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