Spring is almost here and Stratford celebrates with intimate Savour Stratford Tutored Tastings every Saturday afternoon in March. Local culinary experts share unique pairings and recipes using tasty locally produced foods from chocolate to maple syrup. Innovative tastings are designed to introduce you to new flavours in a learning atmosphere in our restaurants, food shops and on our farms. Group sizes are limited to maximize the enjoyment and personal attention. Tastings in March include two experiences open to all ages and well suited to families. Tickets range from $7.50 to $30.00 per person (plus HST) and can be purchased at Stratford Tourism Alliance in person, by phone or on-line at www.visitstratford.ca/tastings.

There is more to classic cocktails than what’s in the glass! Shake it up with the bartenders of Molly Bloom’s Irish Pub as they explore favourite Classic Cocktails on Saturday, March 3. Learn how to make four classic cocktails and what has made these drinks stand the test of time. The tasting begins at 2:00 pm at Molly Blooms Irish Pub, 26 Brunswick Street. Age of majority is required.

Meet the candy maker for a Chocolate Tour and Taste inside a real ‘candy factory’ using your own ‘golden ticket’ at Rheo Thompson Candies on Saturday, March 10. A world of chocolate magic unfolds as you learn how your favourite candies are made and participate in a hands-on candy making experience. The tour, beginning at 1:00 pm, is limited to eight golden tickets and is open to all ages.

March is maple syrup month. Make your way to McCully’s Hill Farm for Maple Fun at McCully’s on a private guided horse drawn sugarbush tour where you will see how the sap is collected and the process used in making maple syrup. In the sugar shack you will taste different grades of Canada’s delicious liquid gold. The tour and tasting begins at 2:00 pm on March 17 and is open to all ages. Arrive early and add a pancake breakfast to your day.

Take your taste buds on a trip to Belgium at the Beer and Cheese of Belgium tasting at The Milky Whey Fine Cheese Shop on March 24. Liz Payne, cheese expert, will introduce you to some exciting cheeses paired with beers from Belgium available locally. The tasting begins at 3:00 pm. Age of majority is required.

For tickets and more information go to www.visitstratford.ca/tastings , call 519-271-5140 or 1-800-561-7926 or visit us at Stratford Tourism Alliance, 47 Downie Street, Stratford.

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