Let’s get straight to it, if your opinion on gin is that only your grandmother drinks it – you’re way out. Gin’s been popular for centuries with the Great British drinking public. The term ‘Dutch courage’ comes from English soldiers fighting the Spanish in the Netherlands and getting drunk on Dutch genever gin beforehand. And since then it’s been a popular drink with men. The likes of Hemingway and Humphrey Bogart drank it. It’s even a key ingredient in James Bond’s favourite cocktail. Still think it’s only your nan who drinks it?

So pour a toast to your stag do Lisbon with a sophisticated tasting which – we’re sure – after a few delicious gins might get a little less sophisticated. Across you’re tasting you’ll learn about the history of gin, the methods behind its creation and most importantly you’ll get to sample a wide range of gins. Whether in cocktails, paired with tonics or even on their own you’ll see how diverse this spirit is.

This is a perfect activity for a big group of lads, for example family as well as friends, who might not all know one another. The hands on atmosphere (and plenty of gin) has a way of getting chins wagging and the good times flowing.