Introducing Whisky Social
Whisky weather is here, and we couldn’t be more excited as Spirit of Toronto gets set to launch Whisky Social, Toronto’s newest whisky festival…
It’s surreal how quickly all of this is coming together, but here’s a mock-up of the tasting glasses that are currently in production as I type. And to think that just a month ago Whisky Social was a glint in our eyes, but that's serendipity for you.
We’d been toying with the idea of a sibling for years, but it wasn’t until last month that we came across the perfect venue, a beautifully renovated heritage building along Lakeshore East in Mississauga.
When we visited the space in August it was love at first sight: the exposed brick, the garage doors, the outdoor courtyard – food trucks! – the bank of large windows, the natural light that floods the space from all angles, including a 50ft skylight. (We just don’t architecture like we used to, do we?)
And location, location, location! Right on Lakeshore East, just 3 stops from Union Station. In short, it’s the perfect blank canvas to paint the kind of relaxed, low-key daytime whisky festival we’ve always enjoyed when traveling to distant lands. No masterclasses, no cocktails, no ice, no dress code, no babysitter, no FOMO. (So many no’s, such bad marketing!) Below is the clever elevator pitch that I’ve crafted for the occasion:
POV: If Spirit of Toronto is the filet mignon of whisky experiences then Whisky Social is a smash burger… laidback and informal, but equally satisfying.
From our many conversations these past few weeks, brands and distillers ‘get it’, and look forward to pouring their wares in a grassroots setting where like-minded whisky stans can gather to revisit old favourites and discover their next go-to bottle.
Brands are still being confirmed, but so far we’re excited that Whisky Social will be featuring a handsome selection of whiskies from Scotland, Ireland, Japan, India and, of course, Canada – including the fantastic range of single malt whisky being made in the Yukon by our friends at Two Brewers, as well as a 28-year-old Canadian whisky finished in Tokaji casks (more to come!)
What? Whisky Social
When? Saturday November 1st from 1pm to 5pm
Where? SAIB on Lakeshore East, 12-minute walk from Long Branch Station (3 GO stops from Union)
Why? Because you're in the mood for a relaxed, comiccon-inspired afternoon of tasting and talking whisky with kindred spirits: no FOMO, no babysitters, no dress code, just come as you are and make it back home in time for dinner
How Much? Tickets for Whisky Social are $139 and include all whisky samples, a tasting glass, and a $10 voucher that can be redeemed at one of the food trucks in our outdoor courtyard. In short, just the drams, ma’am!
Full details are online at https://www.whiskysocial.ca — looking forward to seeing you there!
