With three world-class distilleries to choose from, there are endless opportunities for seasonal spirits! Try these festive Cowichan Cocktails, and share your creations with us. Tag @cowichantourism on Instagram, or #ExperienceCowichan. Cheers!
Stillhead Distilling’s Old Fashioned
Is there anything more classic than a good Old Fashioned? Stillhead Distillery takes this time-savoured classic and gives it their own spin with their Porty Spice rye whiskey and lemon curl in place of orange, local craft bitters, and organic maple syrup instead of simple syrup. Sip this beautiful cocktail slowly to taste all its nuances of spices and zest.
Porty Spice Whiskey is part of a limited release by Stillhead Distillery. It spent four years in an oak barrel before being transferred to an old, port wine cask to become a profoundly flavoured whiskey with notes of dried fruits, molasses, and brown sugar.
AMPERSAND DISTILLING‘S NOCINO NEGRONI
Negroni’s are having a big moment and for a good reason! This delightful cocktail is the perfect way to warm up on colder days with a delicate balance of sweetness and spice. Ampersand Distilling’s limited-edition Nocino liqueur is released every holiday season and sells out fast, so don’t delay if you’re thinking of gifting it to the Negroni-lover in your life.
MERRIDALE’S AURA GIN & TONIC
Another classic cocktail with an upscale twist. Merridale Cidery & Distillery’s Aura Gin is one of their newer releases and combines lavender, hibiscus and Thai butterfly flowers with their signature gin resulting in its magestic, purple colour and hints of juniper and floral notes. With only a few ingredients, this cocktail is super easy to make (and give) for any occasion this holiday season.
Please drink responsibly. Visit the Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch’s web page from the Province of BC for resources on safe consumption.
From all of us at Tourism Cowichan we wish everyone safe travels this winter and a very happy holiday!
