Okanagan Spirits Craft Distillery logo.

Okanagan Spirits Craft Distillery

Region
  • Canada, British Columbia
Awards
  • Artisanal Distillery of the Year (2022) at the Canadian Whisky Awards., 3 Gold Medals and 2 Silver Medals at the Canadian Whisky Awards (2022).
Website
  • https://okanaganspirits.com/
Phone Number
  • +12505493120
Address
  • 5204 24 St, Vernon, BC V1T 8X2, Canada

Okanagan Spirits Craft Distillery storefront with barrels.

History of Okanagan Spirits Craft Distillery

Founding and Early Years

Okanagan Spirits Craft Distillery, a pioneering name in the Canadian craft spirits industry, was founded in the early 2000s. The distillery was established with a vision to produce premium spirits using locally sourced ingredients. The founder, inspired by the rich agricultural heritage of the Okanagan region, sought to create spirits that reflected the quality and diversity of local produce.

Evolution and Expansion

Over the years, Okanagan Spirits has evolved significantly. The distillery expanded its operations to include a more diverse range of spirits and adopted innovative distillation techniques. The growth phase was marked by the introduction of state-of-the-art equipment and an expansion in production capacity. This period also saw Okanagan Spirits gaining recognition for its commitment to sustainable practices and community involvement.

Legacy and Impact

Okanagan Spirits has significantly impacted the craft spirits industry in Canada. The distillery’s commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainability has set a benchmark in the industry. The legacy of Okanagan Spirits is not only in the spirits they produce but also in their contribution to promoting Canadian craft spirits on a global stage.

Commitment to Sustainability

Sustainability has been a cornerstone of Okanagan Spirits’ philosophy. The distillery emphasizes eco-friendly practices, from sourcing ingredients to the distillation process. Their commitment to reducing environmental impact extends to packaging and distribution as well.

Whiskey Offerings

Okanagan Spirits is renowned for its diverse selection of whiskeys, each with unique characteristics:

Single Malt Whiskey: A flagship product, known for its smooth texture and rich flavor profile.

Rye Whiskey: Offering a spicy and complex taste, this whiskey is a favorite among connoisseurs.

Bourbon-Style Whiskey: A nod to traditional American bourbon, made with a distinct Canadian twist.

Awards Won by Okanagan Spirits Craft Distillery

Artisanal Distillery of the Year (2022) at the Canadian Whisky Awards.

3 Gold Medals and 2 Silver Medals at the Canadian Whisky Awards (2022).

Distillery of the Year at the World-Spirits Awards in 2020.

Distillery of the Year at the World Spirits Awards in 2013, 2015, and 2020.

Recognized as North America’s only World-Class rated distillery in 2013.

Okanagan Spirits Craft Distillery Tour Information and Experience

Guided Tour of the Distillery

This part of the tour is a deep dive into the distillation process. As a visitor, you get to see each stage, from the initial fermentation of local ingredients to the final bottling. It’s an enlightening experience, especially to see how each spirit type – whisky, gin, vodka, and brandies – is uniquely crafted with meticulous care.

Tasting Sessions

This is where you get to indulge your senses. The distillery offers a range of spirits for tasting, allowing you to appreciate the nuances of flavor in each. As a whiskey aficionado, you can discern the distinct profiles and craftsmanship that go into each blend.

Insight into Local Ingredients

The distillery prides itself on using locally sourced ingredients, and this aspect of the tour gives you an understanding of how the local terroir influences the taste and quality of their spirits. It’s a celebration of local produce and how it contributes to the uniqueness of their products.

Flask & Barrel Review of Okanagan Spirits Craft Distillery

As someone who’s toured plenty of distilleries and has a serious passion for whiskey, I’d rate my experience at Okanagan Spirits Craft Distillery a solid 4.7 out of 5. Right off the bat, the vibe there was just fantastic, a perfect mix of professionalism and warmth.

Their tour was super informative, diving into how they use local ingredients to create these amazing flavors. And, let me tell you, the tasting part? Absolutely top-notch. Each whiskey had its unique character, really showcasing their craftsmanship. If I had to nitpick, I’d say I wanted just a bit more depth on their aging process.

But honestly, for anyone into spirits, this place is a must-visit. Their dedication to craft distilling really shines through.

What To Do Nearby Okanagan Spirits Craft Distillery

Davison Orchards Country Village: A family-owned attraction offering farm tours, fresh produce, and a country market.

Planet Bee Honey Farm & Meadery: Experience beekeeping and honey-making processes along with mead tasting.

Historic O’Keefe Ranch: Step back in time at this historic ranch offering insights into the region’s pioneer era.

Polson Park: A beautiful public park ideal for leisurely walks and picnics.

Kalamalka Lake Provincial Park: A natural paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering trails, beaches, and stunning views.

Ellison Provincial Park: A scenic park known for its hiking trails and camping facilities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What restaurants are near Okanagan Spirits Craft Distillery?

The Roster Sports Club Bar & Grill: It has a rating of 4.4 stars on Google Maps. Located at 2319 53 Ave, Vernon, BC V1T 8K1, Canada and you can contact them at +12505490444.

Bourbon Street Bar and Grill: It has a rating of 4.4 stars on Google Maps. Located at 4411 32 St, Vernon, BC V1T 9G8, Canada and contact them at +17784757224.

Cora Breakfast and Lunch: It has a rating of 4.2 stars on Google Maps. Located at 5601 Anderson Way Unit 302, Vernon, BC V1T 9V1, Canada and to contact you can call them at +12505492672.

What hotels are near Okanagan Spirits Craft Distillery?

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Vernon, an IHG Hotel: It has a rating of 4.0 stars on Google Maps. Located at 4716 34 St, Vernon, BC V1T 5Y9, Canada you can contact them at +12505507777.

Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Vernon: It has a rating of 4.1 stars on Google Maps. Located at 4716 34 St, Vernon, BC V1T 5Y9, Canada and contact them at +12505507777.

Best Western Pacific Inn: It has a rating of 4.0 stars on Google Maps. Located at 4790 34 St, Vernon, BC V1T 5Y9, Canada. You can contact them at +12505581800.