History

Arbutus Distillery, located in Nanaimo, British Columbia, pursues the unconventional, truly unique and flavor-forward spirits and cocktails. Award-winning spirits are brewed, fermented and bottled on-site in Nanaimo. Arbutus Distillery is a BC-classified Craft Distillery, sourcing exclusively 100% BC-grown fermentable raw materials and cultivating many of their own botanical ingredients. The products are available at local retailers, or you can visit our Tasting Lounge for tastings, bottle sales and weekend cocktail service.

Production

Arbutus Distillery uses 100% BC-grown malted barley and is distilled with a traditional copper pot and column still. Our Canadian Single Malt Whisky ages a minimum of three years in Bourbon barrels and is blended to 43% ABV. Non-chill filtered and without caramelization or artificial colorings. Canadian Rye Whisky is made with 100% BC-grown rye and also ages for three years in bourbon barrels, finished in new oak barrels (char #4) to highlight spicy notes. Non-chill filtered.

Products / Whisky Series

• Canadian Single Malt Whisky: 750 ml, 43% ABV. Tasting notes: pear, milk chocolate and vanilla; texture: thick and round. Best enjoyed neat, on the rocks or as a base in your favorite whisky cocktails. Non-chill filtered, without caramelization or artificial coloring.
• Canadian Rye Whisky: 750 ml (40% ABV) and 200 ml (40% ABV), while stocks last. Tasting notes: spiced honey with hints of brown sugar and black currant. Best enjoyed neat or in whisky-based cocktails. Non-chill filtered.
• Arbutus Brandy: complex, lively brandy distilled from 100% Vancouver Island grapes and patiently aged in new oak barrels. Tasting notes: oak and spice with a rich fruity sweetness. Best enjoyed in a brandy snifter.

Visits and Experiences

Our team loves thinking outside the box and sharing unique, flavorful spirits and cocktails in The Arbutus Lounge. Whether you come for a spirit tasting, take a bottle home, or enjoy cocktails and snacks in the lounge, we look forward to welcoming you. The Arbutus Lounge offers, among other things, signature drinks and classics, and there are tastings and bottle sales. Hours: Wednesday–Saturday 11:00–18:00, Friday 12:00–18:00, Monday and Tuesday as well as Sunday: Closed.

Philosophy

Our philosophy is to pursue the unconventional, truly unique and flavor-forward spirits and cocktails. We produce award-winning spirits on-site in Nanaimo and focus on using 100% BC-grown fermentable raw materials and many of our own botanicals. We place emphasis on craftsmanship, sustainability and an intense flavor experience.