What job could be more perfect for a whisky-lover than brand ambassador for Forty Creek Distillery?
It is that love of whisky, his knowledge and his story-telling ability that make Chris Thompson the perfect host for the annual whisky-tasting event, says Tony Chisholm, president of The Friends of Fort George.
“Chris is very good at what he does. He’s very entertaining, and he has some great stories. He explains the background of whisky evolution in Canada and the gap Forty Creek is filling,” says Chisholm. “This is his full-time job, travelling all over North America to do it. He knows that’s interesting and how to make it fun.”
Back at Navy Hall for the third year, organized by The Friends, the event will pair seven Forty Creek whisky samples with extensive hors d’oeuvres.
Forty Creek introduces one new whisky a year, which will be one of the seven offered at the tasting, says Chisholm. “And Chris is very generous with his servings. They are significant samples.”
Errin Lockard of Sweets and Swirls is providing the food, “and she has some great ideas. She checks with Chris on what goes with what, and does a great job. She’s basically providing seven courses, and we’re pleased to have her involved again.”
Given the size of Navy Hall, where the event will be held, only 75 tickets will be sold, and although there are tickets still available, last year was sold out.
“It’s the perfect venue,” says Chisholm. “There is a fire roaring, and it’s a great atmosphere.”
The Friends of Fort George like to plan events that fit an 1812 theme, and the history of Navy Hall as a place where soldiers might have enjoyed a whisky or two, along with its ambience, make it a great place for a whisky tasting, he added.
He especially likes to see new faces every year — last year, there were some people from upstate New York who attended the event and really enjoyed it.
“It was a whole new experience for them, and they said they wanted to come back this year.”
Tickets for the event, Feb. 21 at 7 p.m., are $45 per person, which includes the food and whisky.
Forty Creek donates the whisky for the event, says Chisholm, which raises much-needed funds to cover wages of the summer program at Fort George.
Call The Friends of Fort George at 905-468-6621 or email [email protected] to reserve your spot.
