After spending years each running their own successful business, hers a popular local grocery/eatery and his a construction company, Dawn and Doug Lennie had a “spiritual” epiphany and made a decision to collaborate.
Legend has it that Doug has joked around for years about rescuing all the guys being dragged around on wine tours and take them to whiskey still in the hills for a wee dram. Well, they have done just that! After locating a gorgeous property overlooking the lake in Naramata – which incidentally used to be the local doctors office – the Lennie’s have built beautiful new Legend Distilling and will be prescribing their own tonics this spring.
Dawn says, “Out of the gate we will be offering vodka and gin. We will also be producing whiskey that will age for at least three years in barrel. From there we have many other ideas for unique products using locally available ingredients…but you will have to stay tuned for what will be next!”
Obviously the building design is gorgeous with Doug able to utilize his years of construction expertise, and there are plans for an outdoor patio where guests will be able to linger over a cocktail with amazing views of Giant’s Head Mountain and Okanagan Lake.
Timely as well, the local spirits industry has exploded lately with the new liquor laws having a dramatic effect. Dawn explains “The liquor changes back in March 2013 allowing craft distilleries using 100% BC raw ingredients to sell direct to the consumer from the tasting room as well as to private liquor stores and restaurants was the big turning point for this industry”.
Congratulations Dawn and Doug! We can’t wait to sample your spirits – we have a good feeling that they will become legendary.
~ Jennifer Schell