Weekly Roundup: Whisky Developments from Ottawa to Lynchburg
The whisky industry continues to show resilience and innovation. Here’s a look at some of the most exciting recent developments from the Ottawa area to historic Lynchburg, Tennessee.
A New Era for Whisky in Ottawa: Pierre Mantha’s Ambitious Plan
In Hawkesbury, Pierre Mantha is on a mission to become the largest whisky maker in the Ottawa region with his distillery, Artist in Residence Distillerie (AiR). With a staggering $10 million investment and plans to produce 4,000 barrels of whisky annually, Mantha aims to redefine the local whisky landscape. Each of the large, copper-pot stills installed costs around $400,000, and he intends to add more capacity to meet growing demand.
Pierre Mantha stands proud beside his distillery, heralding a new whisky era in Ottawa.
Recently, AiR launched its Mantha-branded smoked maple whisky, now available in 50 LCBOs. Looking ahead, his strategy involves a broader vision, including opening a restaurant and a boutique liquor store, along with plans to penetrate the U.S. market.
Despite facing challenges like rising costs and new Canadian alcohol consumption guidelines, Maltha remains hopeful. “Whisky sales are holding stable compared to other spirits, and I believe in the growth potential for our distillery,” he stated.
The Return of Whisky to Cabrach
In a groundbreaking revival, whisky production has returned to a historic Scottish village after over 170 years. The Cabrach Distillery celebrated its first distillation with a ceremony attended by Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes, emphasizing the distillery’s role in reviving local heritage.
Nestled in the Speyside region, known as the birthplace of malt whisky, Cabrach is set to become a prominent player in the industry once more. The distillery’s community-led regeneration plans also include the development of a bistro and a heritage center.
The Cabrach Distillery celebrates its first distillation, marking a historic revival in whisky production.
As stated by Jonathan Christie, CEO of The Cabrach Trust, “Our first distillation serves as a landmark in our journey to restore The Cabrach’s whisky heritage,” showcasing the local community’s efforts to breathe life back into this storied area.
Exploring Lynchburg: Tennessee’s Whisky Haven
Lynchburg, Tennessee, is known for its rich whisky culture, primarily as the home of Jack Daniel’s Distillery. Visitors to this quaint town can enjoy informative tours that provide insights into the whiskey-making process and stories behind the iconic brand. The community’s charm is matched by its historic attractions, including the Moore County Old Jail Museum and the Lynchburg Winery.
Visitors enjoy the historic charm of Lynchburg at the Jack Daniel Distillery.
For whisky enthusiasts or anyone looking to savor a unique experience, Lynchburg offers a host of delightful activities—from local dining at Miss Mary Bobo’s Restaurant to exploring shops like Velma’s Candy, which features sweet treats infused with local spirits.
Conclusion
As whisky production undergoes a notable resurgence from Ottawa to Scotland and all the way to Tennessee, it is clear that the spirit of whisky remains strong. Whether it’s a new distillery breaking ground, a historic community reclaiming its past, or a town celebrating its whisky heritage, there’s plenty to raise a glass to in the weeks to come.
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