Devine, the “Willy Wonka of spirits”, named Canada's Artisanal Distillery of the Year
The Vancouver Island venture wins big at 2021 Canadian Whisky Awards
The grains in the spirit’s name are all grown in B.C.
EVERYTHING IN DEVINE Distillery & Winery’s Ancient Grains “alternative” whisky comes from B.C., including the barley, spelt, emmer, khorasan, and einkorn—the grains that give it the “alt” descriptor. Aged in new American- oak quarter casks, the young whisky won several honours at the 2021 Canadian Whisky Awards: best whisky spirit (for the third year in a row), gold medal (for the second year in a row), and best mixed mash whisky. Smoke, allspice, clove, candied fruit, and macadamia nut all show up in this distinct drink.
Its Glen Saanich Single Malt Whisky, meanwhile, earned a silver medal.
Those nods helped earn Devine—the “Willy Wonka of spirits”— the recognition of Artisanal Distillery of the Year. Recently retired head distiller Ken Winchester received a Lifetime Achievement Award.
“I’ve always believed that Canadians are capable of making whiskies that rank among the best in the world,” Winchester said in a release.
The Canadian Whisky Awards, which are independent from the Canadian whisky industry, are usually held in conjunction with the Victoria Whisky Festival, but were broadcast online this year. The competition recognizes exceptional-quality whiskies that are distilled and matured in Canada, with premium, value, and flavoured whiskies blind-tasted by a panel of independent whisky experts.
The family-run Devine also makes gin, rum, eau de vie, vermouth, and wines. More info is here.
Related Articles
