Shelter Point Distillery takes its inspiration from the few remaining traditional Scotch distilleries such as Highland Park, Glenfiddich and Springbank, which still process their own barley on site. In an age when technology renders products obsolete in a few short years, and beverage manufacturers churn out new drinks based on trendy graphics and sugared carbonation, Shelter Point is concerned with doing it right, from the beginning. If it takes a few years, so be it.

To this end, the facility will be constructed to not only house the practical apparatus of the distillery, but to allow visitors an opportunity to enjoy the educational experience through tours and tastings. West Coast inspired building designs will feature natural wood and stone from Vancouver Island. The Copper Stills and Condensers will be constructed in Scotland to exacting standards and installed in time for use in fall of 2009. Used white oak barrels are now on order from independent bourbon makers in Kentucky for long term storage and cask aging.

Plans call for a first run of 25,000 litres, gradually ramping up to a full capacity of 50,000 litres per year, which is still a far cry from the million litre production runs which is average for the giants in the industry. Shelter Point will be a true boutique distillery, endeavoring to produce a single malt whisky and other specialty products that capture the spirit of Vancouver Island while paying homage to our Scottish traditions and ancestors. After all, there’s a little Scotch in all of us!