Calgary’s craft distilleries are redefining tradition by pushing boundaries and embracing creativity…. And you have front-row seats!
Welcome to The Scene’s guide to distilleries that are putting the city on the map as a serious player in the world of spirits
Burwood Distillery
Few distilleries in the world can say they ferment, distill, and barrel-age honey, but Burwood Distillery has made it their signature. Instead of simply adding honey for sweetness, they fully integrate it into the distilling process, creating whiskies and rums with uniquely rich, floral depths.
“Our company mantra is crafting connections and distilling memories,” says one of the founders, Jordan Ramey.
“We want to tell the story of Alberta agriculture in a fun and engaging way.”
Housed in a restored heritage building, Burwood is more than just a distillery — it’s a gathering place, complete with a scratch kitchen, craft beer, and a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Sustainability is at the heart of their operation, from repurposing spent grain for local farmers to sourcing honey directly from 4,500 beehives.
“Most of the world’s best honey comes from Alberta,” co-founder Ivan Čilić explains. “So we figured, why not showcase it in a way that hasn’t been done before?”
Their Bee Whisperer Prairie Whisky took home Silver at the 2024 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, while Scientist Single Malt Whisky earned Platinum/Best in Class.
100 – 2566 Flanders Ave. S.W., burwooddistillery.ca
Alberta Distillers Ltd.
When it comes to iconic Canadian whisky, Alberta Distillers has earned its place at the top. Known for their multiple award-winning Alberta Premium Whisky, they have built a reputation on locally grown grains, pristine Rocky Mountain water, and expert craftsmanship.
Their whisky has taken home top honours on the international stage (including the International Spirits Challenge and the World Whiskies Awards), proving that Alberta’s landscape plays as much of a role in great spirits as in wine.
1521 34 Ave. S.E., albertadistillers.com
Romero Distilling Co.
While whisky may dominate Alberta’s spirit scene, Romero Distilling Co. has carved out its own lane, proving that rum can thrive in the Canadian climate. Their deep, complex dark rum — which took Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition — pays homage to Alberta’s Prohibition-era rum-running history, when illicit liquor shipments made their way through back roads and hidden cabins.
Wrestling legend Bret “Hitman” Hart partnered with Romero Distilling as their spokesperson in 2020, drawn to their locally crafted rum and deep Calgary roots.
300 – 688 Heritage Dr. S.E., romerodistilling.com
Two Rivers Distillery
Founder Mark Freeland saw an opportunity to elevate Alberta’s distilling scene, taking inspiration from the province’s rich agricultural resources.
“Our raw ingredients are some of the best in the world,” he explains. “Why send our barley thousands of miles away to be turned into whisky when we can do it right here?”
With over 40 unique spirits, Two Rivers is known for relentless experimentation. Their Cockscomb London Dry 12 Botanical Gin, which earned Double Gold at the ‘23 SIP Awards, took over a year and 50 recipe trials to perfect. “I’m never really satisfied,” says Freeland. “I always think, how can I make this better?”
That same dedication applies to their whisky, which follows strict Scottish distilling laws to produce a rich, complex spirit. Nestled in a cozy, turn-of-the-century-inspired space, the distillery has become a go-to spot for live music, craft cocktails, and an inviting atmosphere that keeps people coming back.
“We don’t just want to make great spirits,” Freeland says. “We want to create a place people want to return to — again and again.”
453 42 Ave. S.E., tworiversdistillery.com
