Sip Locally: From Coastline to Tree Line
Local Cocktails & Spirits from Canada’s Pacific Northwest to the Rocky Mountains
Is there something in the coastal waters or mountain air that makes the flavors of bespoke cocktails, ales, and spirits in BC and Alberta so iconic? Cocktail connoisseurs, sommeliers, and spirited travelers who have journeyed through Canada’s Western Mountains to the Pacific Northwest know that each sip tells a story. Every libation and sip is a gateway to connect closer to each destination.
From the regal elegance of Victoria to the vibrant streets of Vancouver, the enchanting alpine wonderland of Whistler, and the awe-inspiring natural beauty of Jasper, Lake Louise, and Banff in the Canadian Rockies, discover a true taste of place at these landmark destinations, one sip at a time!
Sip locally in Victoria – Empress Gin
Victoria, the capital city of British Columbia, is known for its blend of history, culture, and outdoor attractions. The famous Butchart Gardens and the stunning Inner Harbor set the stage beautifully for this picturesque coastal capital. When it comes to spirits that are synonymous with this coastal city, any local would agree it’s Empress 1908 Gin. Since 1908, The Fairmont Empress has been delighting guests with beautifully crafted cocktails. Hence the name of this iconic indigo gin crafted in partnership with Victoria Distillers – one of the oldest small-batch spirit distilleries in Canada.
Sip & Savor at The Empress
Enjoy masterpiece cocktails made with Empress 1908 Gin at Q at The Empress on your next visit to Victoria. Sip in serene harbor views on the patio and terrace that pair perfectly with delectable food. Or discover a new evening cocktail and culinary experience that offers an intoxicating new twist on tradition. The Lobby Lounge, known for hosting Afternoon Tea Service, transforms into a magical sunset atmosphere for Sunset Sips. Guests can unwind with a tapas-style menu served on a classic three-tiered tea stand.
Natural Color-Changing Empress Gin with 8 Organic Botanicals
Empress 1908 Gin is infused with butterfly pea blossom. This creates a vivid indigo blue color that is instantly recognizable and stands out on bar shelves. When mixed with citrus or tonic, the color can transform from indigo to soft pink. Depending on the mixer, it can also transform to bright lavender and fuchsia. It’s truly an exciting ingredient for mixologists to work with.
EMPRESS 1908 GIN COCKTAIL RECIPES
Mixologists love using Empress 1908 as a versatile and visually striking base to create innovative and memorable cocktails. If you’re feeling thirsty at home, be your own bartender and try 5 cocktails with 5 ingredients made with Empress 1908.
sip locally in Vancover – The Botanist Bar
Discover the hidden gem of Vancouver’s cocktail scene at The Botanist bar. The Fairmont Pacific Rim is home to one of the best bars in the continent. The Botanist is ranked no.19 of North America’s 50 Best Bars 2023 & no. 4 of Canada’s 50 Best Bars. Tucked away in the heart of the city, this flagship restaurant and bar is adorned with lush greenery and elegant floral accents. It’s the perfect setting for an unforgettable experience.
The Botanist Bar
Led under the guidance of Creative Beverage Director Grant Sceney, and spearheaded by Head Bartender Jeff Savage, The Botanist Bar celebrates the Pacific Northwest’s unique biodiversity. It is renowned for its innovative approach to mixology, using locally sourced ingredients and rare botanicals. Every culinary-forward cocktail reflects the Pacific Northwest.
Whether you’re a seasoned cocktail connoisseur or simply seeking a unique and memorable night out, The Botanist delivers. Their expert bartenders will guide you through their imaginative menu and create artful concoctions that delight the senses. Immerse yourself in the botanical tapestry of flavors at The Botanist Bar. Indulge in a cocktail experience that promises to leave a lasting impression.
sip locally in Whistler – Libations with the Locals
Whistler is a picturesque mountain town nestled in British Columbia’s Coast Mountains. It is not only a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, but also a haven for those seeking unique flavors and spirited adventures. Indulging in the local libations becomes an unforgettable part of the Whistler experience.
Whistler Brewery & Distillery Tours
To help you drink in the essence of Whistler, local guides at Fairmont Chateau Whistler offer curated tours of the region’s finest distilleries and breweries for registered hotel guests. At Montis Distillery, visitors can savor the handcrafted spirits that reflect the natural beauty of the surrounding mountains. The Whistler Brewing Company, on the other hand, offers a delightful range of locally brewed beers. Each sip captures the spirit of Whistler’s vibrant outdoor culture. Stop by with a Whistler Experience Guide and discover why both are beloved by locals.
FAIRMONT FRIDAYS AT THE MALLARD LOUNGE
To jumpstart the weekend just right, the Mallard Lounge is THE place to be. Featuring live music, refreshing cocktails and delectable sharable plates, every Friday until October 27, 2023 from 5 PM – 7 PM. Sip and savor the alpine atmosphere while enjoying a selection of expertly crafted cocktails and beverages. The lounge provides a cozy and elegant setting to let flavors mingle, while the terrace and fire pits pair perfectly with the stunning mountain vistas.
sip locally in Jasper – Drink in the rockies
Lager lovers rejoice! Experience the refreshingly crisp taste of The Rockies with Fairmont JPL Premium Lager. This craft beer is perfect year-round, with a summer edition brewed in collaboration with Campio Brewing Co. and a winter edition brewed with Folding Mountain Brewing Co. It’s the perfect companion for grilling on the BBQ or unwinding by the crackling fire pit of your very own Signature Cabin. Taste a true testament to the beauty and grandeur of Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, Alberta’s iconic 700-acre property
SUmmer Lager
Drink in the view from the peak of Pyramid Mountain to the lakeshores of Jasper Park Lodge. Celebrate our glorious homeland, wherever you’re from, with an Alberta lager as clear as a glacial stream, and crisp as the alpine winds.
JPL Premium Lager is made with Olli heritage barley farmed in Clear Hills, Alberta. This crushable lager has a sharp malt presence.
Winter Dark LAger
Quench your soul in a snow-covered wilderness. Framed by mighty mountain peaks, drink in the crisp Rocky Mountain air and savor the satisfaction of a strong winter brew, made locally at the foot of the Rockies.
JPL Premium Dark Lager is brewed slowly during the winter months to develop a strong, dark beer with smooth yet intense flavor.
Where to Enjoy JPL Premium Lager
Enjoy this lager with the welcoming ambiance of the Emerald Lounge. Or stock up at Fitzhugh’s Fine Foods or Jasper Brewing Co. while in town to pick up a bottle (or case) to enjoy at home. Whether you’re seeking a refreshing brew après-adventure or looking to unwind with a cold one, raise a glass to an unforgettable taste of Jasper.
sip locally in Lake Louise – Fairview Gin
Nestled amidst the breathtaking grandeur of the Canadian Rockies, the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise stands as an epitome of luxury and natural beauty. Adding to the allure of this iconic destination is the Chateau’s Fairview Gin. It is a testament to the harmonious collaboration between Wild Life Distillery and the Chateau’s service team. This gem of Canadian gins not only embodies the essence of Lake Louise, but also reflects a blend of tradition and class, resulting in the creation of the perfect martini companion in the Fairview Bar & Restaurant.
A Symphony of Flavors: Tasting Fairview Gin
Each sip of Fairview Gin is a sensory journey that starts with the invigorating aroma of fresh lime peel. As you take a sip, the dance of juniper and angelica unfolds, enveloping your palate with the quintessential notes of a London Dry style gin, elegantly intertwined with the vibrant essence of citrus oils. The finish is a crescendo of clean, dry, and subtle spice, leaving a lasting impression that resonates with the spirit of the Rockies.
Crafted in the Heart of Alberta
Wild Life Distillery proudly holds the distinction of being the first craft distillery in the area. Their commitment to showcasing Alberta’s bounties is evident in the Fairview Gin, meticulously produced on-site using 100% Albertan grains. Every sip of Fairview Gin is a tribute to the region’s rich agricultural heritage and a testament to the seamless fusion of modern craftsmanship with timeless elegance.
MEET THE MASTER MIXOLOGIST
Get to know the Regional Manager of Bars and Mixology at Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise & Fairmont Banff Springs, Sam Clark.
sip locally in Banff – Rundle Bar Gin
Nestled amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Banff, the Fairmont Banff Springs stands tall as Canada’s Castle in The Rockies. Within its opulent realm lies the Rundle Bar, a haven of exquisite taste and refined ambiance.
Rundle Bar Gin x Wild Life Distillery
What truly sets Rundle Bar apart is its iconic Rundle Bar Gin, a creation that stems from an exclusive partnership with Wild Life Distillery in Canmore, Alberta. This artisanal gin, crafted with meticulous precision, embodies the essence of the region. Infused with butterfly pea flower, the gin boasts a captivating deep color that mirrors the natural beauty of its surroundings. Despite its unique hue, the gin maintains a timeless flavor profile, rendering it perfect for crafting a variety of gin cocktails that appeal to both classic and contemporary tastes.
A Triumph of Taste and Design
The accolades that adorn Rundle Bar Gin are a testament to its exceptional quality and unrivaled taste. This gin has been honored with the prestigious “Best in Class” title at the esteemed Alberta Beverage Awards in both 2021 and 2022. Not limited to its exquisite taste alone, Rundle Bar has also been recognized for its elegant interior design. FRANK Architecture & Interior’s impeccable work in crafting the bar’s ambiance garnered the coveted “Best of Canada” accolade from Canadian Interiors in 2021. This fusion of impeccable design and exceptional taste creates an unparalleled sensory experience for discerning patrons.
LAST CALL FOR BANFFCHELLA
Sip every last bit of summertime at Banffchella. This daily event is held all summer long, with live DJs every Friday and Saturday from 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm. Delight your taste buds with your best buds and try the Banffchella Cocktail Menu, available poolside at Fairmont Banff Springs.
Signature Cocktails of the Rockies
For a true taste of the Canadian Rockies, indulge in signature bottled cocktails that encapsulate the spirit of each destination – Banff, Lake Louise, and Jasper. Each signature cocktail offer a taste of the remarkable experiences guests can anticipate. Carry a memento of your visit, sharing the magic with dear ones, or relishing the flavors as a cherished memory until your next retreat.
Emerald Glow – Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge
The Emerald Glow cocktail pays homage to Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge’s landmark location. It captures the essence of the vibrant green lakes the lodge is known for. With a blend of vodka, cucumber Vermouth, Chartreuse Verte, and Lime Juice, this cocktail offers a fresh and balanced experience. The infusion of cucumber provides a crisp texture. Complemented by the herbal sweetness of Chartreuse, it presents as an elegant and refreshing drink.
Wildflower Banff Springs Purple Cocktail – Wildflower
Try a contemporary twist on the classic Negroni. The Wildflower cocktail is a captivating and floral creation that reflects the timelessness and innovation of the Fairmont Banff Springs. Crafted with Rundle Bar Gin infused with butterfly pea flower, along with elderflower liqueur, Lillet Blanc, and plum bitters, this drink offers a smooth and fruity profile, leaving a lasting impression.
Iconic Peak Signature Cocktail – Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
Symbolizing the breathtaking Lake Louise and its seasonal transformations, the Iconic Peak cocktail captures the late evening sun’s red and purple glow as it sets behind the majestic mountain range of the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. Blending whisky, tawny port, lemon juice, Campari, honey water, and Fairview Bitters, this cocktail achieves a rich and balanced flavor. The combination of port wine and honey offers a smooth, full-bodied texture, while Campari and lemon provide a subtle bitterness and fresh acidity.
Canada’s Pacific Northwest is a captivating corner of the country renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and untamed wilderness. Explore the coast’s vibrant cultural scene, with cosmopolitan cities boasting art galleries, captivating history, and exceptional cuisine. Planning an outdoor alpine adventure in Whistler, a retreat to Victoria’s coastal harbors? Or are you thinking of venturing a little further to escape to The Canadian Rockies? Make every stretch and sip of your trip memorable with local flavors of each iconic Canadian destination.
Thirsty for More?
Taste the best of the Canadian Rockies and explore our favorite recipes for the classic Canadian Caesar in Western Canada.
