Fruit alcohol tasting + Velvet Orchards audio tour

If you’re looking for a distinctive way to enjoy Quebec’s local flavors, the Fruit Alcohol Tasting + Velvet Orchards audio tour offers a compelling mix of tasting and storytelling. This experience invites you to taste four handcrafted Nordic berry spirits right on a scenic outdoor terrace overlooking Lac-St-Jean, complemented by a self-guided audio tour that brings the story of the orchard and its products to life. It’s an excellent choice for travelers craving authentic regional delights and a bit of scenic tranquility.

What makes this experience particularly appealing is its combination of tasting and storytelling—a true delight for those who want more than just sipping. The terrace setting offers stunning views, and the audio guide ensures you learn about the company, the orchards, and the spirits without feeling rushed. One potential consideration is that weather can influence your experience, as it’s primarily an outdoor activity, though indoor seating is available when needed. This tour suits visitors who enjoy small-group, relaxed experiences and are curious about local craft spirits.

Key Points

• Authentic regional product: Handcrafted Nordic berry spirits made on-site.
• Scenic setting: Outdoors on a terrace facing Lac-St-Jean, with indoor options in bad weather.
• Educational and engaging: Audio-guided tour explains the orchard’s story, processing, and tasting notes.
• Affordable and accessible: Priced at just over $14 per person, booked on average 12 days in advance.
• Ideal group size: Limited to 30 travelers, ensuring personalized attention.
• Flexible timing: Available daily from late spring to early fall, matching Quebec’s best weather months.

A Detailed Look at the Experience

The Setting and Atmosphere

From the moment you arrive at 324 QC-169 in Saint-Henri-de-Taillon, you’ll notice the inviting atmosphere. The outdoor terrace faces Lac-St-Jean, offering sweeping vistas that make the tasting more than just about the spirits — it’s about enjoying a moment of peace with nature. On a clear day, the view is postcard-perfect, with the lake stretching out behind you, adding a soothing backdrop to the tasting.

If the weather isn’t cooperative, don’t worry. The indoor seating at the boutique bar is just as cozy and offers a chance to continue enjoying the spirits without getting drenched or chilled. This flexibility is a real plus, especially for Quebec’s unpredictable spring and fall weather.

The Tasting

For just $14.07 per person, you are treated to four Nordic berry spirits created right on the site from local fruits. These spirits are crafted to highlight the unique flavors of Nordic berries, which you might not find easily elsewhere. The spirits are not just ordinary liquors; they’re carefully made to showcase the flavors of the region, which makes this tasting quite special.

Two reviews highlight the quality of these products — one mentions that the spirits and chocolates tasting was “excellent,” with very good products, and notes how tough it is to pick a favorite. Others were pleasantly surprised by how “succulent” the spirits were, with one reviewer mentioning the proprietor took time to share insights about the company, the spirits, and the production process.

The Audio-Guided Tour

What sets this experience apart is the audio guide accessible via QR codes. As you sip and savor, you’ll listen to four capsules explaining the history of the company, the orchards, the processing methods, and tasting notes. This setup allows you to learn at your own pace, pausing or re-listening as needed. It adds depth to the tasting, transforming it from a simple sip into an educational journey.

The owner’s personal touch, mentioned by a reviewer who appreciated her taking the time to talk about the enterprise, also adds authenticity. The combination of self-guided storytelling and tasting makes this activity both informative and relaxed.

The Duration and Group Size

Clocking in at about one hour, it’s a compact but satisfying experience that fits well into a day of exploring Quebec. With a maximum of 30 travelers, the group size helps ensure your experience feels more intimate than a bus tour. This allows for a relaxed pace and more opportunity to ask questions or just enjoy the scenery.

Practical Details and Booking

The tour is available from mid-May to early September — Quebec’s prime outdoor months. Bookings are recommended about 12 days in advance, which suggests it’s not a hugely popular activity but still worth planning ahead. The activity is suitable for most travelers, including those with service animals, and is designed for those interested in sampling local craft spirits in a scenic setting.

The price point makes it a good value, especially considering the quality of the spirits and the educational aspect. Plus, the free cancellation policy offers peace of mind should weather or other plans change.

Why Travelers Will Love This Tour

This tasting is less about quantity and more about quality and authenticity. The spirits are crafted on-site from regional fruits, meaning you’re sampling something genuinely local. The scenic location facing Lac-St-Jean amplifies the experience, turning a tasting into a memorable moment of Quebec’s natural beauty.

The audio-guided tour enriches the experience, giving context and background that elevates the tasting from simple sipping to an understanding of local craftsmanship. If you’re a curious traveler wanting to learn about regional products while enjoying a relaxing setting, this activity hits the mark.

Who Would Enjoy It Most?

It’s perfect for adventurous spirits enthusiasts, foodies, or anyone interested in local Quebec culture. It’s also suitable for small groups, couples, or solo travelers looking for a laid-back activity that combines education with scenic beauty. If you enjoy tasting specialty spirits and want to learn about their origins, this tour offers excellent value.

Final Thoughts

The Fruit Alcohol Tasting + Velvet Orchards audio tour provides more than just a sip of local spirits — it offers a chance to connect with Quebec’s regional produce and craftsmanship in a beautiful outdoor setting. The combination of scenic views, quality products, and educational content makes it stand out among many tastings. It’s relaxed, informative, and reasonably priced, making it a worthwhile addition to any Quebec itinerary.

If you’re someone who appreciates authentic, small-scale craft experiences and enjoys learning about local food and drink, this tour is a great choice. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to combine scenic beauty with a taste of Quebec’s unique flavors without the need for a large group or a lengthy commitment.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and it’s appropriate for those interested in tasting spirits and learning about their origins.

What should I wear or bring?
Bring comfortable outdoor clothing, especially if you want to enjoy the terrace. An umbrella or raincoat might be helpful in case of bad weather.

Can I book this activity last minute?
Booking about 12 days in advance is recommended, but it may be available sooner depending on the season and availability.

What happens in bad weather?
The outdoor terrace might be closed, but indoor seating at the boutique bar is available, so the tasting can continue without interruption.

Is there an age restriction?
While not explicitly stated, the activity involves tasting alcohol, so it’s intended for adults. Service animals are allowed.

How long does the tour last?
Expect approximately one hour, including tasting and listening to the audio capsules.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there is free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled time.

Is the price worth it?
At just over $14, the experience offers good value considering the handcrafted spirits, scenic setting, and educational content.

In summary, the Fruit Alcohol Tasting + Velvet Orchards audio tour offers a charming, educational peek into Quebec’s craft spirit scene with stunning lake views, making it a worthwhile stop for curious travelers.