The holiday spirit has already set in; why not? After the record-breaking temperatures, it’s time to start with a little bit of history and sample some of George Washington’s new Rye Whiskey. Simple translation: This is the first whiskey made and sold at Historic Mount Vernon in over 200 years, and it follows the First President’s original recipe. If you’re looking for a free taste, then be one of the first visitors to the new Distillery and Gristmill on July 1 for free samples between 12P-1P. Note that the timing is perfect in keeping with the state’s new liquor tasting law!

It’s interesting that our Virginia Presidents played such a long-lasting role in our nation’s food and wine culture. (Consider Thomas Jefferson as the founder of the Virginia wine industry)! Washington erected the gristmill in 1771 to increase flour and cornmeal production and sales. Within two years, they opened a newly constructed distillery which became the largest in the country and produced 11,000 gallons of whiskey! Consider this as a major entrepreneurial business inroad!

Admission to the Distillery and Gristmill site are free only on Thursday, July 1. (Mount Vernon Estate itself is 3 miles away and has a general admission fee). As for other activities at the Distillery and Gristmill, there will be wheat-treading demos and distillers will show 18th century techniques for operating the copper stills and mash tubs. If it’s distillery history you’re focused on, then consider this stop as the gateway to the American Whiskey Trail.

How ’bout this for a taste of history to kick off a Holiday weekend!