Park Distillery: Crafting spirits within Banff National Park

Park Distillery is the latest craft distillery to open in southern Alberta. Staking its claim along one of the main thoroughfares in Banff, Park Distillery specializes in a variety of approachable craft spirits.

Towards the end of 2015, the young operation, which opened its doors in June, launched its flagship vodka–the first vodka to ever be legally distilled and bottled in a national park.

Under the guidance of master distiller Matthew Hendriks, who has long had a passion for spirits and cocktails, Park Distillery creates and bottles an array of spirits, including classic Vodka, Bird’s Eye Chili Vodka, Vanilla Vodka, Espresso Vodka, and Glacier Rye. There is even a plan down the line for the Banff-based distillery to craft its own whisky.

[am2_see_also]

Committed to sourcing locally-grown ingredients, Park Distillery crafts its high-quality liquors using only the best local grains (malt, barley, rye, and wheat), and glacial water, which is a huge plus for drinkers determined to find a local product. The result is what Park Distillery touts as a “glacier to glass” product and philosophy; their water comes from six Rocky Mountain glaciers.

While distilling is at the forefront of Park Distillery’s agenda it’s not the only thing. In addition to running distillery tours and offering daily tastings, the distillery also boasts an on-site bar and restaurant.

Park Distillery keeps patrons happy with a carefully curated cocktail menu (designed by Hendriks), a varied selection of craft beer, and campfire-inspired cooking–think mouthwatering wood-fired offerings.

Currently Park Distillery’s line of spirits are only available at a small retail store situated outside the distillery, and a handful of restaurants in Banff.

Park Distillery

Address: 219 Banff Avenue, Banff
Phone: 403-762-5114
Twitter: @parkdistillery