The Pacific Northwest region of Canada has become a new and exciting destination for whisky enthusiasts. With several established brands and a growing craft distillery scene, the region is quickly gaining recognition as a hub for whisky production.
The rise of whisky trails
The popularity of whisky trails, which offer visitors the chance to tour multiple distilleries, learn about the history and production of whisky, and sample different varieties, is on the rise. A trip to Canada’s Pacific Northwest offers visitors the opportunity not only to experience the beauty of the area, but also explore the vibrant whisky culture that has taken root in the region.
The term “whisky trail” is often associated with Scotland, which is home to some of the most famous whisky distilleries in the world. The concept has evolved over the years, and today there are many different types of trails available to visitors. Some trails focus on the historical and cultural aspects of whisky production, while others are geared towards tasting and education. Some whisky trails are self-guided, while others are led by experts who provide a deeper understanding of the industry and its history. However, whisky trails are not limited to Scotland.
The United States has a burgeoning whisky industry, particularly in Kentucky, which is home to some of the most famous bourbon distilleries in the world. In addition to Scotland and the United States, there are whisky trails in Ireland, Japan, and now Canada. Each of these countries has its own unique approach to whisky production, and a visit to one of their distilleries can provide fascinating insight into the world of whisky.
Macaloney Distillery and the Northwest Whisky Trail
Macaloney’s Island Distillery, based in Victoria, B.C., recently collaborated with other distillers to launch the Northwest Whisky Trail. The trail is a unique experience that showcases single malt whiskies in the Pacific Northwest.
Macaloney is a small-batch distillery that specializes in producing premium craft spirits. The distillery was founded by Stuart Macaloney, a seasoned distiller with over three decades of experience in the industry, who is known for his passion for creating high-quality spirits. They proudly produce a wide range of spirits, including whisky, gin and vodka, each of which is made using locally sourced, high-quality ingredients, and a unique distilling process that ensures the optimal flavour and character of the spirit.
They must have single malt whisky, the most premium of all spirits, whose connoisseurs are so committed that they participate in whisky trails.
Graeme Macaloney, Macaloney’s Island Distillery
One of the unique features of Macaloney’s Island Distillery is its commitment to sustainability. The distillery employs an innovative closed-loop water system, which recycles water used in the distilling process, reducing overall water usage by 80 per cent. The distillery also uses renewable energy sources and biodegradable materials in its packaging, ensuring that its environmental footprint is minimized.
In addition to its commitment to sustainability, Macaloney’s Island Distillery is also dedicated to supporting the local community. The distillery regularly hosts events and tastings, and partners with local charities to donate a portion of its profits to community initiatives. They are a shining example of a modern, socially responsible distillery that is dedicated to producing premium craft spirits while minimizing its environmental impact and supporting the local community.
Furthermore, Graeme Macaloney, Ph.D., president and whisky maker at Macaloney’s Island Distillery, recently travelled to London, U.K., to attend the World Whiskies Awards. He brought home four awards, including the World’s Best Pot Still award for one of Macaloney’s flagship whiskies, Kildara Signature Expression.
Collaborating to form the Northwest Whisky Trail
It’s no surprise that Macaloney’s Island Distillery is behind the first Whisky Trail project in Canada. Graeme was inspired to launch the Northwest Whisky Trail to give regional distilleries an international profile. “There are some great distilleries in the region that deserve an international profile,” he said. “My view in initiating and championing this is that we all float up together.”
The Northwest Whisky Trail spans across Oregon, Washington, and B.C., making it the world’s first international whisky trail. Visitors to the trail can earn a complimentary Glencairn glass branded with the unique Northwest Whisky Trail logo after they have visited every distillery on the map and received a distillery stamp at each location. They will also have bragging rights to say that they have completed the entire trail.
The process of collaborating with other distillers on the project was straightforward. “They must have single malt whisky, the most premium of all spirits, whose connoisseurs are so committed that they participate in whisky trails,” said Graeme. The Northwest Whisky Trail showcases the unique character of the region by bringing a West Coast vibe with excellence in distilling.
The Northwest Whisky Trail has the potential to benefit local communities and the broader whisky industry by boosting tourism sales. “Tourism sales are an export, which is the single most impactful thing you can do for the local economy,” said Graeme. “Accommodation providers and other tourism service providers all benefit. By putting the [Pacific Northwest] region on the map, other Canadian and U.S. single malt distilleries benefit from the increased profile created for international single malts.”
The most challenging aspect of launching the Northwest Whisky Trail was not being able to obtain government support due to the international structure. The trail has been entirely self-funded. Graeme hopes that visitors to the trail will take away a fantastic introduction to great single malts. “We have some of the best single malt whiskies anywhere in the world,” he said. “Connoisseurs and general tourists alike get a fantastic introduction to great single malts. There is a sea-spring of interest in international craft single malts versus the old traditional big spirits offerings. Here in the [Pacific] Northwest, we’re in the vanguard!”
The launch of the Northwest Whisky Trail is set for June. While there are no special events or activities planned for the launch, participants are eagerly looking forward to exploring the diverse range of whiskies that will be available on the trail.
The future of the Northwest Whisky Trail and visitor experience
Looking to the future, Graeme hopes to include other single malt distilleries as they develop. He believes that as members export their whiskies to more countries and win more international awards, the trail will continue to grow in popularity with regional and international tourists. The Northwest Whisky Trail is a unique experience that showcases some of the best single malt whiskies in the Pacific Northwest – and, according to Graeme, in the world.
The trail promises an unforgettable experience for both whisky lovers and tourists looking to explore the beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
