proof whisky, a toast to Victoria , Vol. 156

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It's May TWO-FOUR! To honour this special occasion, we have put together a few picnic venues that may help you maximize the fun on this festive long weekend. Don’t forget to leave some room in your basket for this refreshing cocktail. If you can't choose between beer and spirits, we have made it easier for you. To learn more about our brand visit www.proofbrands.com.

the queen victoria ½ cup spiced proof whisky* • 1 cup fresh raspberries • 2 cups cranberry juice • ¼ cup lime juice • 1 cup pear juice • 2 bottles craft beer • berries for garnish

To a pitcher, add ½ cup spiced proof whisky*, 1 cup fresh raspberries, 2 cups cranberry juice, ¼ cup lime juice and 1 cup pear juice. Stir to mix, and store in refrigerator, covered if desired. Just prior to serving, add 24 oz (2 bottles) of your favourite lager-style craft beer. Stir gently to chill and pour into glasses with ice. Garnish with more raspberries. (this cocktail was created by the martiniclub.com)

*homemade proof spiced whisky To 1 full bottle of proof whisky add a cinnamon stick, 4 whole allspice, 4 cloves and a piece star anise.  Let steep for 3 days (if you can wait) and then strain out spices. 

We had lunch at Canoe Landing Park. Toronto’s urban eight-acre park is located in the heart of the city and designed by Canadian author Douglas Coupland. It makes a perfect backdrop for a Victoria Day picnic. 

The park incorporates integrated artwork in the form of a landform (the bluff) and stand alone art pieces by Douglas Coupland: a canoe large enough for people to stand in and see over the Gardiner to Lake Ontario, a colourful display of large fishing bobbers, a sculptural beaver dam, programmed tree lighting, a pair of "iceberg benches" situated near the canoe, the "heart-shaped stone" bronze artwork, an all-season astroturf sports field and a one-mile run called the Terry Fox Miracle Mile.

After being cooped up for far too many months, we just don’t want to spend anytime indoors. This is why we are planning every meal, every drink and every social event outside this long weekend. Grab your food, grab a drink and throw your picnic blanket down at one of these great Toronto outdoor spaces: Ashbridge’s Bay Park  • Bluffer’s Park • Centre Island • Rouge Park • Evergreen Brickworks • High Park • Downsview Park • Riverdale Park • Corktown Commons • Withrow Park • Trinity Bellwoods • Park Toronto Music Garden • Kortright Centre • Sugar Beach (opens this weekend!)

If you do happen to walk through Trinity Bellwoods on Saturday, you can stop in at the  Bellwoods Flea (bellwoodsflea.com)



Don't forget to watch the final episode of Mad Men this Sunday night - sob..sob..
If you are thinking of putting together a little soiree for the event, here are some ideas from a past post proof whisky, Episode 8

Have a safe and Happy Victoria Day!