Chelsea: Guided tour of the Square Distillery

Imagine yourself wandering through the quaint streets of Old Chelsea, Quebec, just a short 15-minute drive from downtown Ottawa. Here, tucked into a charming setting, you’ll find the Distillerie du Square, a place that offers more than just spirits — it’s an authentic glimpse into local craftsmanship. For $25 per person, you get about 45 minutes of guided exploration, which includes a welcome cocktail, a visit to their eco-museum, an inside look at the production room, and a lively spirit tasting. Whether you’re a seasoned spirits enthusiast or just curious about the craft behind your favorite cocktails, this tour provides a warm, engaging, and affordable experience.

What we really like about this tour are two key features. First, the personalized nature of the experience — with guided tours available in French and English, it’s accessible to a broad audience. Second, the combination of education and tasting makes it both informative and enjoyable; you leave with a better understanding of local spirits and some new favorites in your glass. The only potential downside might be the limitation for wheelchair users, so if accessibility is a concern, it’s worth noting beforehand. This tour is best suited for those who love craft spirits, are interested in local history, and appreciate a relaxed, immersive experience that isn’t rushed.

Key Points

• Affordable and Short: At only $25 for 45 minutes, it offers great value for a quick, educational experience.
• Inclusive of Tasting and History: The tour combines a lively spirits tasting with a visit to the eco-museum, making it both fun and informative.
• Multilingual Guides: Tours are available in both French and English, broadening accessibility.
• Authentic Local Spirit: As the first distillery in the Ottawa Hills, it offers a genuine look at regional craftsmanship.
• Limited Accessibility: Not suitable for wheelchair users, so plan accordingly.
• Perfect for Curious Spirits Enthusiasts: The experience is ideal for those wanting to learn about and taste local spirits in a friendly setting.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Close Look at the Experience

When we visit the Distillerie du Square, we appreciate how it combines history, craftsmanship, and tasting into a compact package. The tour begins with a welcome cocktail, which sets a friendly tone. It’s a nice touch that immediately engages visitors, making everyone feel relaxed and ready to learn. The staff, including guides like Marc or Sophie (if you’re lucky), are passionate and eager to share their knowledge, which makes the experience feel personal rather than commercial.

Next, you’ll explore the eco-museum, a small but well-curated space that reveals the local history of spirits in the region. It’s a window into how the distillery’s heritage connects to the community, which adds depth beyond the usual tasting room visits. We loved the way this segment contextualizes the craft, turning a simple tasting into a story-filled journey. As one review put it, “The eco-museum made the history of local spirits come alive.”

The most exciting part is the production room, where you get exclusive access to see how the spirits are made. While the tour is brief, it’s enough to appreciate the care and craftsmanship that go into each bottle. The guides highlight each step, from selecting local ingredients to the distillation process, making it clear why these spirits stand out in flavor and quality. It’s a behind-the-scenes peek that adds real value, especially for those interested in small-batch, artisanal production.

Finally, the tour wraps up in the tasting room. Here, you’ll sample several of the distillery’s spirits in a lively, convivial setting. The tasting is designed to awaken your senses and deepen your appreciation for the craft. Many visitors note that the spirits are surprisingly smooth and flavorful, reflecting the distillery’s commitment to quality and local ingredients. Some even comment that the tasting “changed the way I think about local spirits” — a testament to the educational component of the experience.

The entire experience is designed to be relaxed and friendly, perfect for a quick escape or a casual afternoon. It’s worth noting that the group sizes tend to be small, which enhances the personal feel and allows for more interaction with the guides. The price point makes it accessible without feeling like a hurried commercial stop; you’re paying for quality storytelling and authentic tasting.

In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Starting at the Square Distillery, the activity kicks off with a warm welcome and that well-anticipated cocktail. This initial drink not only whets your appetite but also introduces you to some of the flavors you might encounter later. It’s crafted thoughtfully, often using local ingredients or showcasing a signature flavor.

The eco-museum visit is brief but impactful. As you wander through displays and exhibits, you’ll learn about the region’s distilling history, the importance of local ingredients, and the evolution of craft spirits in Chelsea. This segment is particularly appreciated by those interested in cultural heritage and local entrepreneurship.

The production room tour follows, where you get closer to the actual distilling equipment and process. Guides explain each step clearly, making it accessible even for newcomers. The atmosphere here is one of craftsmanship and pride, and you get the sense that every bottle produced is a labor of love. While the tour isn’t lengthy, the visual and informational content is well-balanced, offering enough insight to deepen your appreciation.

Finally, the tasting session is the highlight for many. You’ll sample a selection of spirits, often including local favorites and possibly some unique blends. The guides are happy to answer questions about flavor profiles, pairings, or the best ways to enjoy the spirits. Several reviewers have commented on the smoothness and distinctive regional character of the spirits, making this tasting a memorable highlight.

Practical Notes for Visitors

The tour is offered in both French and English, so language barriers are minimal. It’s a 45-minute activity, making it suitable for visitors with limited time but wanting a meaningful experience. The cost of $25 is quite reasonable considering the inclusion of tastings, a museum visit, and a guided tour. It’s a good value, especially if you’re interested in supporting local artisans.

The meeting point is simply at Square Distillery, which is easy to find in Old Chelsea. Be aware that wheelchair users might find the experience challenging due to the physical layout, so if accessibility is a concern, it’s worth checking ahead.

Reservations can be made online with the option to reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility in planning your trip. Plus, the cancelation policy allows for a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance, giving peace of mind.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This guided tour is best suited for spirits lovers, history buffs, and anyone eager to learn about local craftsmanship. It’s also ideal for travelers looking for an authentic, small-group experience that’s both affordable and engaging. If you enjoy tasting new flavors and appreciate stories behind artisanal products, this is a perfect fit. However, if you require full wheelchair accessibility, you might want to inquire further before booking.

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The Sum Up

The Chelsea guided tour of the Square Distillery offers an excellent balance of education, tasting, and local flavor. For just $25, you’re gaining insight into regional spirits, a chance to see the production process, and a sampling of well-crafted liquors. The small-group format and bilingual guides make it accessible and engaging, especially for those interested in craft spirits and local heritage.

While the tour might not suit everyone — especially those needing full accessibility — it’s a worthwhile stop for curious travelers, foodies, and history enthusiasts looking for an authentic experience that won’t break the bank. It’s a memorable way to connect with the community’s artisanal side and perhaps discover a new favorite spirit along the way.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour is geared toward adults interested in spirits. It’s unlikely suitable for children due to the tasting component and adult-oriented content.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 45 minutes, making it a quick yet comprehensive visit.

What languages are offered for the tour?
Guides are available in French and English, ensuring most visitors can enjoy the experience comfortably.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers a welcome cocktail, a guided eco-museum visit, a tour of the production room, and a lively spirits tasting.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there any parking available?
While not specified, small towns like Chelsea generally have parking options nearby — always a good idea to check in advance.

Are there any accessibility concerns?
The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, so plan accordingly or contact the distillery for accessibility options.

Can I book the tour online?
Yes, reservations can be made online, with the option to reserve now and pay later for flexibility.

Is this experience family-friendly?
Due to alcohol tasting, it’s best suited for adults. Families with children might want to consider other options in the area.

This guided tour of the Square Distillery in Chelsea offers an authentic, affordable, and engaging way to explore regional spirits while learning about local history and craftsmanship. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or simply curious about what makes local spirits special, it’s a delightful experience that’s worth including in your Quebec or Ottawa itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: