Distilleries across the province have been receiving international awards and recognition lately, and deservedly so.
From gins to vodkas to whiskies, and grappas, brandies, and fortified spirits…we have some talented distillers in B.C.
While we can’t use some terms such as port, due to international regulations, we can say things like port-style. And we can enjoy some wonderful products and home-grown cocktails.
The world’s best contemporary gin comes from Sheringham Distillery on Vancouver Island, category winner at the World Gin Awards.
In fact, Canada swept that category.
If you’re used to classic dry gins, take a chance on a few different ones.
Aged gin, such as the Barrel Rested gin from Dubh Glas Distillery, is aged in oak barrels and has aromas of Christmas junipers and fruitcake. Perfect for sipping.
The Whole Truth “farm to flask” gin by RauDZ, in collaboration with Okanagan Spirits, can be found in creative cocktails at the RauDZ family of eateries. Its floral notes lead into a smooth, cucumber and mint melange. Refreshing for your summertime G&T.
As for vodka? Legend Distilling’s Blasted Brew Cold Brewed Spiked Coffee is exactly that. Vodka with a twist of organic coffee from Backyard Beans.
If you’re intrigued by vodka with colour, Black Goat Vodka, a silver medal winner at the Canadian Artisan Spirit Competition should be your next adventure.
Did you know we make vermouth here? The Woods Spirit Company in North Vancouver does. Your next martini can be made entirely from local spirits.
Diehard Scotch enthusiasts may scoff at single malts made in B.C., but it wasn’t that long ago when the world was surprised by Japanese whiskies taking top awards.
Urban Distillery and Winery has won Sip Awards, and bottled the first single malt made in the province. Pemberton Distillery went organic with its whisky.
More whiskies are coming from producers in the Okanagan; you simply need to watch for the release before they sell out.
When you’re done wine-ing in the South Okanagan, a last stop near Penticton should be Maple Leaf Spirits.
Your designated driver can enjoy the expansive view while you sample a variety of fruit liqueurs, grappas, and a V.S.O.P. brandy, The Lady of the Cask.
It was a gold medal winner at the aforementioned CASC awards, so grab a bottle and tuck it away for a rainy day.
UPCOMING EVENTS
May 30, Penticton: The BC VQA Wine Centre welcomes Gordon Fitzpatrick to lead a tasting of sparkling wines.
May 31 to June 9, Vancouver: The 10th Annual Vancouver Craft Beer Week takes place around the city, with breweries from around the province.
June 1, Oliver: Tinhorn Creek hosts its 25th Anniversary celebration with a five-course dinner.
June 1, Penticton: Ruby Blues has a vintage pop-up shop and fashion show.
June 2, Kelowna: Concert in the Cellar at Tantalus Vineyards with the Okanagan Symphony Orchestra.
Through till October, Keremeos: The Grist Mill hosts Sunday Night Suppers, each one with a different
This article is written by or on behalf of an outsourced columnist and does not necessarily reflect the views of Castanet.