Tukuche distillery and Mustang fruit brandy

Fruit growing came to the Kali Gandaki valley in the second half of the 20th century, after the salt trade declined. Apples and apricots grow well in the cold, dry climate between Tukuche and Jomsom, and distilling turned surplus fruit into something that keeps and travels. Tukuche's distillery is one of the best-known producers in the valley, and its bottles are sold in shops and lodges from Jomsom to Pokhara.

On a visit you see the simple process: fruit is crushed and fermented in tanks, then distilled in copper or steel stills and rested before bottling. In autumn you may see fresh fruit coming in from the orchards. Production is small and seasonal, so what is on show depends on the month, and someone needs to be there to open up. The scale is small, a few rooms and a handful of people, which is part of its appeal.

Tastings are informal, a small glass of apple or apricot brandy. Bottles are sold on site. We usually combine this stop with the village walk, ending here before lunch. As with any alcohol at altitude, keep it small if you are going higher the next day. Visits are subject to the distillery being open; we confirm the day before. Bottles are heavy, so plan around flight baggage limits from Jomsom.