Think of good whisky – your mind starts wondering about scotches from Scotland and Ireland or blends from the US, New Zealand, India, or any other country in the world. That was not the case recently at an international competition as a local distillery based in Parkland County, Alberta won all the accolades for its outstanding whisky production.

Anohka Distillery’s “This is not Whisky” is now crowned as the Best New Make and Spirit at the World Whiskies Awards in London, England.

Anohka’s owner and distiller Gurpreet Ranu is pleasantly surprised about the win over his much-experienced competitors, some of whom have decades of experience. While Anohka Distillery has only been open for two years, it managed to grab the first prize over distilleries from Scotland, Ireland and Japan.

The local whisky is unique as it has not been aged and has been given a smoky flavour with hints of leather, tar, and bacon, making an interesting combination. The reviews given by judges inside the tasting room were incredibly positive. One of the judges described the whisky by applauding its aroma along with its creamy and fruity taste. “It’s not that spicy, it’s sharp, so that’s my favourite,” he added.

The win at the international award show comes as a fantastic acknowledgement of the whisky’s standards and proof that we can make amazing whisky here in Canada. The orders have picked up significantly since the Anohka team returned with its first international award, says Ranu.

For more information on the whisky, visit the Anohka Distillery website

Source: CTV News