Bellevue House National Historic Site serves up a wee dram of history

Whisky tastings on the heritage grounds in July and August

June 14, 2018                                 Kingston, Ontario                          Parks Canada Agency

Back by popular demand, Bellevue House National Historic site will present two whisky tasting seminars on the heritage grounds this summer. Join whisky sommelier, Sylvain Bouffard of Just a Wee Dram, as he inspires your senses with whisky tasting and food pairings.

For two nights only, Parks Canada will be hosting whisky tastings at Bellevue House with Just a Wee Dram Whisky Seminars on Thursday, July 5, and on Thursday, August 9, from 5:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Sylvain Bouffard, a retired Canadian Armed Forces Colonel, will lead guests through a selection of fine whiskies. This spirited journey from grain, to cask, to glass will also reveal how whisky is connected to the establishment of modern Canada. Guests will learn about whisky making and a variety of whisky sampling techniques. Each tasting will be matched with a specific food sample that will bring out the flavours in each 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 serene grounds of Bellevue House National Historic Site offer an intimate location that will inspire the senses. Early in his political career, Sir John A. Macdonald chose to live at Bellevue House for its whimsical character and tranquil surroundings. Visitors can enjoy the same tranquility, and a wee dram, as they contemplate the history of Canada while surrounded by the backdrop of the Italianate Villa, an heirloom orchard and manicured grounds.

Bellevue House National Historic Site has begun welcoming visitors for the 2018 season. While the historic house itself will be closed during the 2018 season for restoration work, the site will remain open with exhibits in the Visitor Centre, a new gift shop, heritage gardens, heirloom orchards, and dynamic interpretive programming.

Admission to the national historic site is free while the restoration work is underway. Fees remain for enhanced programming such as the whisky tastings and personally guided tours. Don’t be disappointed, reserve your whisky seminar spot early by calling 613-545-8666 – last chance is 24 hours in advance. Tickets are $75 plus tax, per evening, and guests to the whisky tasting seminars must be 19 years of age and older.

Keep up with these exciting programs and events by visiting the Parks Canada website at www.pc.gc.ca/bellevue and by following Bellevue House on Facebook.