The mystery behind what constitutes an “Alberta whisky” remains unsolved. The Alberta government has embarked on a mission to define the criteria for legally labeling a product as Alberta whisky. Various distillers have differing perspectives on this definition.
Eau Claire Distillery, situated in Diamond Valley, has been operational for over a decade. David Farran, the president and CEO, believes that Alberta possesses all the necessary elements for producing exceptional whisky, such as its renowned barley and suitable climate. He anticipates that upcoming reforms could highlight these qualities.
Historically, Alberta whisky has not garnered top rankings globally and has often been undervalued. Farran aspires for Alberta to establish itself as a producer of premium and super-premium whisky. Service Alberta and Red Tape Reduction Minister Dale Nally is drawing inspiration from Kentucky’s Bourbon Trail to potentially create an Alberta Whisky Act.
Davin de Kergommeaux, the founder of the Canadian Whisky Awards, expresses skepticism about legislating the definition of “Alberta whisky.” He suggests a broader outline for classification, emphasizing factors like utilizing Alberta grains or qualifying for Alberta tax incentives.
As the global whisky industry faces challenges, Alberta aims to make its mark in the whisky domain. The concept of an “Alberta whisky trail” excites industry operators like Charlie Bredo of Troubled Monk and GrainHenge Whisky. Bredo, whose Arrowwood whisky recently won accolades, sees the trail as a promising tourism attraction that could spotlight Alberta’s grain, climate, and water resources.
