There’s something special brewing in the heart of New Brunswick. A local distillery is getting a fresh infusion of energy, vision and deep community roots as entrepreneurs Ashley and Matt Graham, owners of Homestead Orchards in Woodstock, take the reins at Moonshine Creek Distillery, relaunching it as Downriver Beverage Co.
At the heart of this story is a love for local. What started as a small orchard side hustle in 2017 has grown into a thriving agritourism destination with 3,000 apple trees, a popular cider line and, now, a full-fledged expansion into craft spirits. For Ashley, the new venture is more than a business move – it’s a way to support fellow farmers, create local jobs and showcase the incredible flavours grown in N.B. “I’m excited to be starting this next venture with Downriver Bev Co.,” said Ashley. “We hope to continue collaborating with local producers and to help find markets for more [N.B.] goods.”
Fans of Moonshine Creek’s unique spirits, like the Chicken Bones Liqueur™ or the Downriver Whisky, will be glad to know the legacy is in good hands. Former head distiller Jeremiah Clark is staying on as the lead distiller at Downriver Beverage Co., ensuring continuity in quality and creativity. “We have new creations to come and will continue to make the same products people know and love,” said Clark. “People love natural products that connect to their community … It’s great to share my passion with dedicated entrepreneurs who want our region to succeed.”
With the Grahams’ acquisition, customers can expect to see an expansion not only in traditional spirits, but in exciting new directions, like barrel-aged ciders, and an expanded sparkling cider line that celebrates the rich agricultural bounty of the region.
The Grahams’ business model has always been community-first. Their Homestead Orchards property doubles as a working farm and welcoming agritourism destination. It’s a place where school groups learn about farming, families shop at the farm market and locals gather to enjoy cider made on-site. The move into distilling builds on that foundation, creating new opportunities for collaboration with other N.B. growers and producers.
The location of the distillery – just off the Trans-Canada Highway at Exit 172 – makes it an ideal stop for both locals and visitors. Whether a curious tourist or a long-time fan of craft spirits, Downriver Beverage Co. offers a distinctly N.B. taste of home and hospitality.
One of the most exciting parts of this new chapter is the opportunity to further develop non-alcoholic offerings. While Homestead Orchard’s fresh cider is a seasonal favourite, its sparkling cider is available year-round, and the Grahams plan to grow that line to reflect the same dedication to local sourcing and flavour. “Our beverages should welcome visitors to [N.B.] and give residents a taste of home they will enjoy,” said Ashley. “[N.B. residents] are hospitable, helpful and caring. That’s the message we want everyone to receive.”
Downriver Beverage Co. products are available at the Waterville distillery online at downriverbevco.com and moonshinecreek.ca.
