Drinks event explores the past

DELVE into the history of a popular alcoholic beverage found on the goldfields this weekend.

Whisky on the Goldfields is a one-hour performance about the history of the spirit, shown through songs, stories and tastings.

Covering the place of whisky in every day goldrush bars as well as important events like the Eureka Stockade, the event is a multisensory experience that includes a tasting and a performance by musician and drinks expert Amie Brûlée.

“It came about because I have a background in wine and whisky is kind of the next step on from there,” she said.

“I realised the story of whisky in Australia is not really being told so I thought somebody ought to do that, particularly in Ballarat.”

Brûlée said the afternoon will be a lot of fun for people who love whisky and attendees will have the chance to try different versions of the sprit alongside the entertainment.

“It’s going to be entertaining and engaging and those who come along will have a laugh,” she said.

“They’re going to taste three great Australian whiskies and the one from Bakery Hill Distillery is not one you find in bottle shops or any bar. It’s quite a small production.”

With whisky playing a significant role in life on the goldfields, Brûlée said she was looking forward to exploring the impact of the drink.

“Whisky on the goldfields was far more important than anyone thinks,” she said.

“Alcohol and particularly spirits really were part of the economy, part of the social fabric and were being made and consumed by a really broad section of society.”

“The whisky they were consuming then was not the very nice whisky we consume now.”