This beautiful new spirits distillery on the Naramata Bench appeared just as the BC spirit and cocktail scene skyrocketed. Combining local ingredients to make handcrafted, small batch gin, vodka and out-of-this-world ‘Slowpoke’ vodkas (infused with local ingredients in three flavours: Sour Cherry, Rhubarb and Apricot) AND a local coffee infused liqueur (Blasted Brew) – you are going to go gaga for this place. There is such a profound difference in taste when you compare artificially flavoured spirits with the likes of these. And this style reflects their personal brand too—owners Dawn and Doug Lennie are all about protecting their good earth and community. Dawn explains, “we share our spent wheat mash with local farmers–currently Jay and Wendy (at Bella Wines) as well as 3 or 4 other local Naramata small home based farms and Andy’s Animal Acres.” These farmers recycle the mash for use as fertilizer and to feed their animals.
The patio has a killer view on to Okanagan Lake, where visitors can order a cocktail and linger. Dawn also said, “We are also going to be offering distillery tours/tastings. Currently we have one time slot scheduled for Friday and one on Saturday that people can pre-book. The cost is $8.00 per person and includes a tasting of our full line-up of products.”
Doug, who happens to also have a construction business, built the beautiful tasting room, offering large windowed views to sparkling Okanagan Lake just below. And, you can book this gorgeous place for your own private event or wedding!
Make sure to prepare yourself for some shopping as well, the in-store cocktail accessories and local art and goodies is fantastic. Cheers!
~ Jennifer Schell