There’s no doubt that this holiday season more than ever is all about supporting local. And with Covid restrictions in place, it can be hard to come up with that perfect gift idea. Well, if your friends and family are anything like us, there’s one extracurricular activity that’s still going strong, and that’s indulging in an adult beverage or two!
Whether that person on your list is into beer, wine, or maybe fine-crafted distilled spirits, we’re bringing you our list of some awesome local vendors with some unique, adult-only consumable gift ideas!
**NOTE: Due to COVID-19, all of these businesses are subject to change. Be sure to visit their websites before going to ensure you are aware of any procedures, practices, or closures.
Spirit Hills Flower Winery
A family farm turned winery is a unique and unexpected find in the hills south of Millarville founded on strong European traditions. Frequently touted as the “Napa of the Foothills”, Spirit Hills Flower Wintery is a haven for wine connoisseurs and those who might be new to tasting Alberta wines. Order Spirit Hills products here.
Eau Claire Distillery
The Foothills’ very own farm-to-glass distillery, Eau Claire Distillery is home to award-winning, world-renowned, locally made spirits. Check them out online or (when restrictions allow) in-person at either their Turner Valley location or various merchants throughout the province.
Brauerei Fahr
Internationally recognized, Brauerei Fahr, located in Turner Valley, has won four World Beer Awards! Celebrated around the world and locally, this small brewery focuses on perfection and quality. Definitely a great gift idea for the German wine lover in your life!
Hard Knox
Hard Knox Brewery in Black Diamond is known for being high-quality yet unpretentious. Be sure to try fan-favourite’s Dusty Trail IPA and the Hoof Hearted dark lager. Hard Knox beers are available online for curbside pickup and delivery.
Hub Town
Located in Okotoks, this family-run business produces over two dozen beers and a variety of ciders. For any homebodies you might be buying for, they also offer a weekly beer delivery (perfect for the extended lockdown that likely awaits us in the New Year!) Their online store is extensive and the beer is always great!
Chinook Arch Meadery
Often referred to as “honey wine” or “nectar of the gods”, mead is an ancient beverage made from fermented honey. (And probably makes you want to rewatch Game of Thrones!) Alberta is home to the award-winning Chinook Honey Meadery offering over a dozen different flavours on their online shop!
Tippa Inc. Distillery
This micro-micro distillery based in Okotoks only produces small batches including their handcrafted Lovebird Gin. This refined and smooth gin is the perfect gift idea for anyone who likes to enjoy a good-quality martini! Produced in a gluten-free facility, Tippa is considered an environmentally responsible nano distiller. (Fun fact…. Distiller Paul Poutanen is of Finnish descent and Tippa means “drop” in Finnish!) Visit their online store to check out all of their products!
High River Brewing Company
The taproom may be closed right now due to current restrictions, not to worry, because the beer is still flowing! Order for pick-up at the brewery or for delivery within High River, Okotoks, and Calgary areas! Hit up their online store for more details.
Six Corners Brew Works
Technically brewed out of the Foothills, Six Corners are currently constructing their brand new facility in Okotoks! In the meantime, Six Corners is contract-brewing to keep the suds flowing until the new facility is open. You can pick up their products at various fine liquor stores both in the city and throughout the Foothills areas and even get some swag from their online store!
So there you have it Calgary, some great local adult-beverage options perfect for the Albertan drinker this holiday season! Cheers!
