The Proof is in the Barrel

The Proof is in the Barrel is an exclusive guided private tour and spirit tasting offered at the Halifax Citadel. Taste exclusive Halifax Citadel-aged spirits, learn about spirit making from a professional distiller, and experience a spirited tour and rifle firing demonstration.

A truly Nova Scotian experience in a unique historic setting!

Start your experience with an exclusive and spirited private tour of the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site with a uniformed 78th Highlander guide. Learn more about the history of alcohol in the British military and watch a firing demonstration of an authentic 19th-century Snider-Enfield rifle.

Next, you will march over to the barreling room where you'll meet a professional distiller from Compass Distillers. They will explain the story of how each of the exclusive Halifax Citadel-aged spirits were created. Continuing the hands-on experience, you'll take samples from the barrels and help the distiller with a process called ‘proof them down’, which reduces the alcohol content.

Finally, you will gather in the North Magazine’s Garrison Room for a delicious culinary experience featuring local charcuterie chosen with care to pair perfectly with each spirit. In this private space, you'll learn how to properly taste each spirit and have the opportunity to ask questions of the distiller.

But the fun doesn’t stop here! All participants receive a gift box set of 78th Highlanders-branded Glencairn glasses and two bottles of Halifax Citadel-aged spirits of your choice to continue your tasting experience at home. 

Availability

Dates and times

Available year-round except on a few special event days

Duration

3 hours

Group sizes

Maximum: 6 people

Languages

Available in English or French

Reservations and payment

Prices

Cost: See Halifax Citadel Society prices

Participants must be 19 years of age or older.

Cancellation policy

Cancellations are accepted up to 72 hours prior to the scheduled day of the tour.

Contact Halifax Citadel Society to cancel. For more information, call 902-426-1990.

Participants will be notified 48 hours in advance if the tour is cancelled due to inclement weather forecast, if the minimum number of participants to run the tour hasn't been met, or for unforeseen circumstances. 

Travel trade

Suitability

Suitable for small groups

Suitable for FIT (Fully Independent Travelers)

Facilities and services

Motorcoach parking available

On site café/restaurant

Washrooms on site

Gift shop