Hand-dipped. One at a time. Every time.
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OUR DISTILLERY
Oldest Distillery in Western Canada
Nestled in the heart of Calgary, Alberta Distillers Ltd. has been a cornerstone of Canadian distilling since its inception in 1946. Founded by visionaries Frank McMahon and Max Bell, alongside master distiller George Reifel, Alberta Distillers emerged as the first distillery in Western Canada with a mission to craft world-class spirits.
The distillery's location, surrounded by rich prairie grain fields and fed by pure Rocky Mountain water, provides an ideal environment for producing exceptional whisky. Today, it stands as the oldest and largest distillery in Western Canada, celebrated for its commitment to quality and craftsmanship, which continues to resonate through its award-winning brands.
Distillation Processes at Alberta Distillers
Alberta Distillers employs a meticulous distillation process that sets it apart. The distillery uses a unique combination of continuous and pot still distillation methods, allowing for a diverse range of flavor profiles in its whiskies. Notably, Alberta Distillers creates its own proprietary enzyme cocktail, which is crucial for converting starches into sugars during fermentation. This innovation, paired with the use of unmalted rye grain sourced from local farmers, contributes to the distinctive spicy and robust character of its spirits. The whisky is aged in a variety of barrels, including ex-bourbon and new oak, which further enhances its complexity .
Alberta Distillers in the Present
As of 2024, Alberta Distillers operates on a 42-acre site and boasts a production capacity of over 20 million liters annually. The distillery is a significant employer in the region, with approximately 113 employees dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of craftsmanship. Alberta Distillers is also recognized as Canada’s largest purchaser of rye grain, sourcing from local farmers to ensure quality and sustainability. The distillery continues to innovate, focusing on environmentally conscious practices aimed at reducing water and energy consumption by 50% by 2030 .
This snapshot reflects Alberta Distillers' commitment to both tradition and modern sustainability, ensuring its place as a leader in the Canadian spirits industry.
Alberta Distillers Today
8 Brands
One of Canada’s most renowned rye whisky and vodka distillers.
447k Barrels
Most barrels are aged for a minimum of 3 years with some aged 5, 8 and 10 years.
23 Warehouses
The place where spirit takes the long sleep and the angels get their share.
19 M Ola Annual Distillation
Beer is converted into High Wine in the Beer Still. High Wine is converted into new spirit in one of three distillation trains: Continuous, Batch or Kettle.
Explore the Heart of Alberta Distillers
MORE TO EXPLORE
OUR BRANDS
Discover Alberta Distillers
Discover the bold spirit of Alberta. Explore our award-winning rye whiskies and crisp, clean vodkas — crafted with pride, tradition, and the finest Canadian grains. Taste Alberta Distillers.
SUSTAINABILITY
Explore Our Commitment to Sustainable Spirits
Join us on our journey towards sustainability and see how Alberta Distillers is dedicated to crafting spirits that honor both tradition and the environment.
