Just a “Wee Dram” of Whisky at Fort Wellington National Historic Site
The Voice of Canada News :
Back by popular demand, many are raising their glass to the return of whisky tastings at Fort Wellington National Historic Site. Parks Canada invites you to take part in the ritual of daily rationing with an evening whisky sampling, offered at the historic fort located in the picturesque town of Prescott. While the libation of choice for British troops in Upper Canada was beer, today’s visitors to Fort Wellington can taste sensational whisky this summer.
Together with Just a Wee Dram, Parks Canada is offering whisky seminars this summer on August 10th and August 24th from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Whisky expert and retired Colonel, Sylvain Bouffard, will awaken the palate and stimulate the senses with his personal selection of fine whiskies. Novice and connoisseurs alike are encouraged to attend either one or all three sessions, as each evening features a different theme. Guests will sample whiskies from around Scotland on August 10th, and sample premium Single Malt Scotch whiskies on August 24th. Program participants will learn about whisky making and the variety of techniques of whisky sampling. Each tasting is matched with specific food pairings to bring out the flavours in the whisky. To make the experience even more authentic, the whisky will be served in special crystal sampling glasses imported from Scotland. Whether new to whisky or an aficionado, the historic, and possibly haunted, blockhouse at Fort Wellington offers an authentic and intimate location to inspire the senses.
A daily alcohol ration was an important tradition for soldiers serving during the War of 1812. It was believed that a daily drink would boost morale and enhance the sense of camaraderie between the soldiers. These whisky seminars enable Canadians to experience their rich history and heritage in a special way.
Don’t miss out on this unique, historical experience. Reserve your tickets now as space is limited. For more information and tickets call 613-925-2896 or email ont-wellington@pc.gc.ca.
National historic sites reflect the rich and varied heritage of our nation and provide an opportunity for Canadians to learn more about our diverse history.
Quick facts
- Fort Wellington National Historic Site is located at 370 VanKoughnet Street in Prescott, Ontario and is open 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. from May 19th to October 8th, 2018. The site is open every day in July and August and closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays in May to June and September to October.
- Fort Wellington was built to protect the St. Lawrence River transportation route during periods of Canadian military conflict beginning with the War of 1812, through the Rebellions of 1837 up until Canadian Confederation in 1867.
- Tickets for whisky tasting seminars at Fort Wellington can be reserved up to 24 hours in advance by calling 613-925-2896 or by email at ont-wellington@pc.gc.ca. For the evening of August 10th, the cost per ticket is for $64.95 plus tax, per event. For the August 24th event, the cost is $74.95 plus tax. Guests must be 19 years of age and over.
- At Fort Wellington you can enlist in the Royal Artillery for the day and spend your time training to be a member of the fort’s cannon crew. With this mind-blowing, hands-on experience you actually get to fire a 19th century muzzle-loading cannon
- As reiterated in Budget 2018, the Government of Canada is pleased to offer free admission to all Parks Canada’s places for youth aged 17 and under in 2018 and beyond.
Parks Canada is also proud to continue to offer free admission for one year to new Canadian citizens through the Institute for Canadian Citizenship’s Cultural Access Pass Program.
