North America’s ‘smallest’ distillery opens to public

The ‘smallest’ distillery in North America is set to open its doors to the public for the first time after challenging state liquor laws.

The ‘smallest distillery in North America’ hopes to increase its range of single grain spirits

The Strathcona Spirits Distillery, in Edmonton, Alberta, has been producing Single Grain Wheat Vodka and Badland Seaberry Gin at the site for just over a year. However, due to state liquor licenses the company was unable to sell its spirits on site.

The distillery, which is located 500 metres from an off licence, could not open to the public because of a state law that prevented a rise in the number of liquor stores.

Strathcona Spirits was able to argue that it is not a ‘traditional liquor store’ and, as a result, will be able to open to the public for the first time on 16 November.

Adam Smith, owner of Strathcona Spirits, said: “The city realised things were off when we would have been able to open a pawn shop in 15 minutes, but we could not sell our artisanal spirits in our very unique location.”

He continued: “We’re the first distillery in Edmonton history, the smallest distillery in North America, and we operate a very eclectic operation.”

Members of the public will be able to enjoy tours of the tiny site and visit its shop. The distillery also hopes to start hosting events at the site next spring.

As the Strathcona distillery grows, the company has plans to release further spirits which celebrate local grains and botanicals.