Kamloops offers a growing selection of cideries and distilleries, each with its own distinct character and approach to craft beverages. Here we will explore the unique offerings, locations, and experiences provided by these establishments, highlighting what makes them stand out in British Columbia’s craft beverage scene.
Woodward Cider Co.
Woodward Cider Co. is Kamloops’ first craft cidery. It was started by three brothers who left their engineering careers to return to their family farm. The cidery is located 20 kilometres from downtown Kamloops and is surrounded by beautiful apple orchards. The brothers focus on small-batch production using apples sourced exclusively from British Columbia.
The ciders offered at Woodward Cider Co. include a variety of refreshing flavours, from classic apple to unique blends incorporating seasonal fruits and spices. Their commitment to innovation ensures that there is always something new for visitors to try. The outdoor tasting area offers a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere where visitors can play games like cornhole or simply enjoy the view of the orchards. This combination of quality products and a friendly environment makes it a popular choice for both locals and tourists.
Left Field Cider Co.
Left Field Cider Co. operates on a family ranch north of Merritt, a short drive from Kamloops. Two sisters manage the cidery, blending traditional English and French cider apple varieties with BC dessert apples. This mix produces balanced ciders with depth and complexity.
The cidery’s offerings include a range of dry and semi-sweet ciders, catering to different tastes. Visitors can sample these in a simple, rustic tasting area that emphasizes the connection to the land. The ranch setting allows guests to witness the cidermaking process firsthand, from the apple selection to fermentation. The family-run nature of the business adds a personal touch to the experience, with the owners often available to share their knowledge and passion for cider making.
Route 1 Distillery
Route 1 Distillery draws its name and inspiration from the iconic Canadian highway. The distillery employs a triple distillation process, using a 20-plate still to produce spirits with a clean finish. Their product line includes Mile 0 Vodka and various gins, each made with precision and consistency.
What sets Route 1 Distillery apart is their focus on creating spirits that reflect the Canadian landscape. Their gins incorporate botanicals sourced from local regions, adding a unique flavour profile to their products. The distillery offers guided tours where visitors can learn about the intricacies of distillation and the craftsmanship behind each bottle. The tasting room provides an intimate setting to sample their spirits and learn about pairing options from knowledgeable staff.
Red Bridge Distilling
Red Bridge Distilling, named after the iconic Kamloops bridge, produces a range of small-batch spirits. The lineup includes Devil’s Flower Garden Gin and Cold Brew Coffee Vodka. These products reflect a willingness to experiment with flavours while maintaining quality.
The distillery’s emphasis on innovation is evident in their creative product line. For instance, their Cold Brew Coffee Vodka combines the richness of locally sourced coffee with the smoothness of their distilled vodka. The tasting room is designed to encourage exploration, with staff guiding visitors through the flavours and origins of each spirit. The connection to Kamloops’ history through the distillery’s name adds an extra layer of local pride to the experience.
Gin Lane
Gin Lane operates within Red Collar Brewing, combining the appeal of craft beer and gin. This dual focus creates a unique destination for fans of both beverages. The menu features inventive cocktails, such as the Habanero Gin Daisy, alongside the brewery’s signature beers.
The cocktail program at Gin Lane highlights their creativity, with options that blend traditional gin flavours with unexpected ingredients like chili peppers and herbs. The shared space with Red Collar Brewing allows visitors to enjoy a diverse menu, making it an ideal location for groups with varied preferences. The informal, social atmosphere encourages conversation and experimentation, making it a standout spot in Kamloops’ beverage scene.
Experiences and Events
Kamloops provides opportunities for both self-guided and organized tasting tours. These tours often include multiple cideries and distilleries, allowing visitors to sample a variety of beverages in one outing. The proximity of these locations makes it easy to explore several in a single day.
Local events often highlight Kamloops’ craft beverages. Seasonal festivals and markets bring producers and the community together, offering visitors a chance to experience new products and meet the people behind them. These events are an important part of the region’s craft culture, fostering connections and showcasing the creativity of local producers.
Conclusion
Kamloops’ cideries and distilleries demonstrate a commitment to quality, local ingredients, and unique production methods. Each establishment provides a distinct experience, reflecting the diversity and innovation in the region’s craft beverage industry. Exploring these businesses supports local producers and offers insight into the creativity driving the industry forward.
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