J.P. Wiser's

J.P. Wiser's Distillery

Region
  • Canada, Ontario
Awards
  • Industry Recognition , High-Quality Ingredients and Production
Website
  • https://www.jpwisers.com/en-us/
Phone Number
  • +15195615596
Address
  • 2072 Riverside Dr E, Windsor, ON N8Y 1A7, Canada

J.P. Wiser's Experience Centre sign with landscaping.

History of J.P. Wiser 

Established in 1857 in Prescott, Ontario, before Canada became a nation, the distillery was founded by John Philip Wiser. His innovative approach, particularly his decision to age whisky longer than was customary at the time, significantly contributed to the brand’s quality and popularity.

By the early 1900s, J.P. Wiser’s had become Canada’s third-largest distiller, with its products reaching global markets.

John Philip Wiser, the founder, was instrumental in transforming his whisky business from modest beginnings into Canada’s top-selling family of whiskies.

His commitment to using only high-quality ingredients and his strategy of longer ageing periods have left a lasting legacy that continues to influence the brand’s products.

The current Master Blender, Dr. Don Livermore, started as a microbiologist at the historic Hiram Walker & Sons Ltd. distillery.

He later earned a Ph.D. in Brewing and Distilling and took on his role at J.P. Wiser’s in early 2012. Dr. Livermore’s dedication to quality, care, and craftsmanship is evident in every bottle of J.P. Wiser’s whisky produced today.

The distillery’s focus on quality from “grain to glass” and its commitment to maintaining the legacy of its founder are central to its operations.

This dedication ensures that Canadian whisky’s tradition and quality are preserved and celebrated globally.

Awards Won by J.P. Wiser 

  • J.P. Wiser’s Deluxe: This is Wiser’s signature blend, featuring a mix of five to nine-year-old whiskies. It is known for its distinct oak, toasted grains, and toffee flavours.
  • J.P. Wiser’s 18 Years Old: A premium blended Canadian whisky aged for at least 18 years, offering a rich profile of mature oak, baked apples, spice, caramel, fresh pine, and autumn floral notes.
  • Environmental Commitment: J.P. Wiser’s has made significant strides in environmental sustainability, including a 60% reduction in water wastage, a 90% decrease in wastewater contaminants, and a 40% cut in overall energy consumption.
  • Diverse Whisky Range: The brand offers a variety of other products, each with its unique flavour profile, such as J.P. Wiser’s Spiced, Wiser’s Special Blend, Wiser’s Small Batch, and J.P. Wiser’s Rye.
  • Traditional Production Methods: The whisky production involves sourcing grains from the Great Lakes Region, separate processing of corn, rye, barley, and wheat, and aging in a variety of casks.
  • Innovative Blending Process: Blending is a critical step in J.P. Wiser’s whisky-making, where different aged spirits are combined following unique recipes by the Master Blender.
  • Master Blender Expertise: Dr. Don Livermore has been the J.P. Wiser’s Master Blender since 2012, bringing extensive expertise in brewing and distilling to the brand.
  • Canadian Whisky Standards: As per Canada’s Food and Drugs Act, their whiskies are mashed, distilled, and aged for three years in wooden casks, adhering to the standards for Canadian Whisky.

J.P. Wiser Tour Information and Experience

The J.P. Wiser’s Experience, as detailed on their website, offers a unique opportunity to explore the world of Canadian whisky at the Hiram Walker & Sons Distillery in Windsor, Ontario.

While the website primarily focuses on its online shop, featuring a selection of Ontario-made craft whiskies and limited-release distillery-exclusive blends, it also provides information about the distillery tours.

Visitors to the J.P. Wiser’s Experience can expect to learn about the intricate process of barrelled, blended, and bottled whisky. The tour likely provides an in-depth look into the craftsmanship and tradition behind each bottle of J.P. Wiser’s whisky.

Although specific details about the tour experience, such as the duration, the areas of the distillery covered, and the types of activities included, are not explicitly mentioned on the site, guests can anticipate a comprehensive introduction to the brand’s whisky family.

The retail store at the distillery has specific hours for visitors, and it’s noted that they operate as a cashless storefront, accepting all major credit cards.

For those interested in visiting, it’s important to check the website for the most current information regarding opening hours and any special holiday schedules.

Flask & Barrel Review of J.P. Wiser 

As a seasoned whisky collector who’s been on more distillery tours than I can count, I’ve got to say, J.P. Wiser’s stands out. I’m giving it a solid 4.7 out of 5 – and here’s why.

First off, the flavour profile is top-notch. Take their signature Deluxe blend, for example. It’s got this perfect balance of oak and toasted grains, with just a hint of toffee that doesn’t overpower. It’s the kind of whisky that makes you appreciate the subtleties.

Then there’s the 18 Years Old. Now, this one’s a treat. It’s like a cosy autumn evening in a glass – think baked apples and caramel with a touch of spice. It’s complex without being too fancy, which is exactly what I look for in a whisky.

Environmental creds? They’ve got them in spades. I’m all for supporting distilleries that care about their impact, and J.P. Wiser’s reduction in water waste and energy consumption is genuinely impressive.

Of course, no whisky is perfect. I reckon their Spiced variant could use a bit more kick, but that’s just me nitpicking. And while their distillery tour is informative, I’ve seen a few that offer a bit more in terms of hands-on experiences.

But overall, J.P. Wiser’s has earned its spot on my shelf. It’s a blend of tradition and quality that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re new to the whisky game or a seasoned sipper, I’d say it’s well worth a try.

What To Do Nearby J.P. Wiser 

  • Whiskeyjack Boutique: For some local shopping, check out Whiskeyjack Boutique. It’s only about 2.89 km away from the distillery and offers a variety of unique finds. They’re open from 11:00 to 18:00, perfect for a post-tour visit.
  • Accommodation Options: There are several hotels nearby if you’re staying over. TownePlace Suites Windsor is about 3.08 km away, offering comfortable lodgings.
    Four Points by Sheraton Windsor Downtown is slightly closer at 2.8 km, and Holiday Inn Express Windsor Waterfront is 2.79 km from the distillery. These places offer convenient locations and good reviews, with prices around USD 142.
  • Local Dining: After your distillery tour, you might want to grab a bite. There are plenty of restaurants in Windsor that cater to a variety of tastes.
    Whether you’re in the mood for some Lebanese cuisine at Mazaar Lebanese Cuisine or a more casual setting at The Loose Goose RestoPub & Lounge, you won’t be short of options.
  • Explore Windsor: Don’t miss out on exploring more of Windsor. The Windsor Riverfront is a great spot to relax and enjoy scenic views, and it’s only a short drive away. You could also check out local attractions like Dieppe Gardens or Willistead Manor for some history and nature.

Frequently Asked Questions

What restaurants are near J.P. Wiser?

  • The Twisted Apron: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +15192562665. Their address is 1968 Wyandotte St E.
  • Walker Grill Family Restaurant: It has a rating of 4.6 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +15192520997. Their address is 1275 Walker Rd, Windsor, ON N8Y 4X9, Canada.
  • The Harvest Table Restaurant: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +12267834170. Their address is 2109 Ottawa St, Windsor, ON N8Y 1R8, Canada.

What hotels are near J.P. Wiser?

  • Caesars Windsor: It has a rating of 4.3 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, you can contact them on their phone at +18009917777. Their address is 377 Riverside Drive East (Entrance: McDougall Ave, Pitt St E, Windsor, ON N9A 7H7, Canada.
  • Detroit Marriott at the Renaissance Center: It has a rating of 4.3 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, you can contact them on their phone at +13135688000. Their address is Renaissance Center, 400 Renaissance Dr W, Detroit, MI 48243.