Experience A Unique Tasting Opportunity
In 1799, George Washington's distillery produced nearly 11,000 gallons, making it one of the largest whiskey distilleries in America.
Today, a faithfully reconstructed working distillery produces small batch spirits on-site.
Enjoy a rare opportunity to taste Mount Vernon's one-of-a-kind distilled spirits.
What's Included in Your Visit
Distillery & Gristmill Tour
Discover the history of George Washington's whiskey from Mount Vernon's Historic Trades team, and find out how they distill spirits today.
Your Tour is 1 Hour Before Your Tasting
For instance, if your tasting is at 2 p.m., your distillery tour will begin at 1 p.m. Please allow a few minutes for check-in.
Tastings of 3 Distilled Spirits
Sample 3 distilled spirits, made using 18th-century distilling methods and techniques.
- George Washington's Rye Whiskey (unaged)
- George Washington’s Straight Rye Whiskey® (aged 2 to 4 years)
- George Washington Straight Rye Premium Whiskey® (aged a minimum of 4 years, currently up to 8 years)
Bottled older ryes, aged between 6 and 7 years, will also be available.
Virginia ABC Law dictates that tasting pours cannot exceed a total of 3 oz. in a 24-hour period.
The tasting takes place outdoors, as Virginia Law prevents us from holding tasting events in the same building where our whiskey is stored.
Commemorative Glencairn Glass
You will take home a commemorative shot glass to remember your experience.
Admission to Mount Vernon
Ticket holders also receive general admission to Mount Vernon on the day of their tasting (a $30 value), which is located 2.7 miles from the Distillery & Gristmill. Please allow adequate time for travel. Show your tasting ticket at the Mount Vernon ticket window for admittance.
Save 20% on Distilled Spirits in September
For the month of September, save 20% on all whiskey varieties and our limited-edition peach brandy made at George Washington's reconstructed distillery.
For residents of Virginia, Washington, D.C., and select military bases, pick up a bottle from the Shops at Mount Vernon or order online while supplies last. This offer excludes mini bottles, and additional discounts cannot be applied.
Get Directions
This event is held at George Washington's Distillery & Gristmill which is located 2.7 miles from the main estate entrance. Guests may arrive directly at the facility and free parking is available on-site.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to the Distillery & Gristmill for my whiskey tasting?
The tasting is held at George Washington's Distillery & Gristmill at 5513 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway in Alexandria, Virginia, located 2.7 miles from the main Mount Vernon estate entrance.
How far is the Distillery & Gristmill from the main Mount Vernon estate?
George Washington's Distillery & Gristmill is located 2.7 miles from the main estate entrance. Allow adequate time to travel between the two locations if you plan to visit both.
Where do I park for the whiskey tasting?
Free parking is available on-site at George Washington's Distillery & Gristmill.
What time should I arrive for the whiskey tasting?
Your Distillery & Gristmill tour begins one hour before your tasting. For example, if your tasting is at 2 p.m., your tour begins at 1 p.m. Please allow a few minutes for check-in.
Does the whiskey tasting ticket include admission to Mount Vernon?
Yes. Your tasting ticket includes same-day general admission to Mount Vernon, a $30 value. Show your tasting ticket at the Mount Vernon ticket window for admission.
Does the whiskey tasting ticket include the Distillery & Gristmill tour?
Yes. Your ticket includes a tour of George Washington's Distillery & Gristmill. The tour begins one hour before your tasting time.
Can I purchase whiskey at the event?
Distilled spirits and other items made at the Distillery & Gristmill are available to purchase on site and online.
Are do allowed at the whiskey tasting?
No. Due to the nature of this event, dogs are not permitted for Trick-or-Treating.
Is the whiskey tasting accessible to visitors with disabilities?
Whiskey tastings take place in a tent on compacted grass appropriate for wheelchairs and accessible by a paved path. However, the event space does not have fully paved, level surfaces. Distances between tasting areas are relatively short, and benches are available for seating.
Take a Look at the Operation That Turns Grain to Grits and Spirits
Photos of George Washington's reconstructed Distillery
