The Yaletown Distilling Company opened its doors to the public late last week (the newest venture brought to life by the Mark James Group) and offered a preview tour and tasting of their latest goods perfect for seasonal cocktail creations.
In keeping with the tradition of in-house craft production and bottling pioneered by the Yaletown Brewing Company, they’re presently distilling vodka and gin made with 100% B.C. ingredients with future plans extending to the production of eau de vie, grappa, house liqueurs and whiskey.
Located in Yaletown’s SOHO building, the distillery space looks into neighbouring newcomer, Paulie’s Kitchen and The Distillery Bar and features its own tasting room and retail store (with craft cocktails expertly created by barman Shaun Layton).
The custom-made distillery is the vision of Head Brewmaster Iain Hill of the Mark James Group for the past 18 years. An award-winning brewer, Hill has been instrumental in designing and commissioning many of the Mark James Group’s iconic brewpubs and served as judge at The Brewing Industry International Awards.
As Master Distiller for The Yaletown Distilling Company (with four current operations on the go), Hill’s got his work cut out for him, especially with all the shiny new Bavarian Brewing Technology he’s chosen to employ.
Post tasting and tour head next door (like we did) and grab a tasty bite at Paulie’s Kitchen. This Italian-style pasta house offers up plenty of charm, features perfectly placed couches and lounge chairs you’ll want to curl up in and a menu guaranteed to please.
Curious cocktail aficionados can make a holiday shopping pit stop at The Yaletown Distilling Company six days a week. Their tasting room is open for private tours Tuesday-Wednesday (noon until 5), Thursday from noon until 7PM and Friday-Saturday from noon until 10PM.
Photos courtesy of: www.urbancowboy.net
