For most of us, our first taste of American whiskey came through names like Jack Daniel’s or Jim Beam, but there’s a whole universe beyond those familiar bottles.
In fact, according to Euromonitor International, sales of American whiskey in Canada have soared by nearly 20% in the past five years, showing that Canadian importers, VIPs and industry professionals are becoming ever more curious about what our neighbours to the south are crafting.
That’s why we were excited to attend the Vancouver stop of Cheers! American Spirits’ tasting tour, which brings some of the most innovative and exciting American whiskeys straight to Canadian cities.
The exclusive event, held at The Kent, was an intimate gathering where we mingled with Vancouver’s whiskey aficionados, importers and industry insiders—and, of course, the distillers themselves. With over 12 unique spirits to sample, we quickly found ourselves immersed in the passion and craftsmanship behind each brand. This wasn’t just a tasting; it was a full-sensory journey into the diverse world of American whiskeys, from Bourbon to Tennessee Whiskey to American Single Malts.
One of the standout stories was that of Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey. This Tennessee distillery honours Nearest Green, the first known African American master distiller. The brand was founded by Fawn Weaver, who unearthed Green’s legacy and dedicated herself to sharing his story. Uncle Nearest’s 1856 Premium Aged Tennessee Whiskey, with rich caramel and vanilla notes, had our team talking—and sipping—well into the evening. It was a smooth, memorable favourite that perfectly matched the warmth of the distillery's story.
As we explored further, we came across Copper City Bourbon, which pays tribute to Arizona’s copper-mining history. Their Straight Bourbon Whiskey, finished in a Cabernet cask, won over the wine lovers among us. And then there was Old Forester’s Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey—bold, with notes of oak, mint and vanilla, and perfect for mixing up a classic whiskey sour. It’s fair to say we all agreed that a bottle of Old Forester would be coming home with at least one of us for holiday cocktail experiments!
Next on our tasting adventure was Angel’s Envy, a brand that immediately stood out with its intriguing name—a nod to the “angel’s share,” the bit of spirit that evaporates each year as it ages. Their Kentucky Straight Bourbon, finished in port wine barrels, was nothing short of elegant, with an aroma of red fruit that lingered. And their Finished Rye Whiskey, aged in rum casks, brought tropical hints of maple syrup and spice, making it ideal for a unique twist on cocktails. The evening took a turn toward the iconic with Maker’s Mark. Known for their red wax-dipped bottles, Maker’s Mark uses red winter wheat instead of the usual rye, giving their Bourbon a softer, complex flavour profile that just sings. The Maker’s 46, with its layered aromas of oak, caramel and warm spices, was a sensory experience we won’t soon forget. We were impressed with the Whiskey lineup at Shankar Spirits, which featured one of America’s oldest distilleries, Reservoir Distillery, offering samples of their wheated bourbons and ryes.
We closed the night with a true standout: Gadwall Whiskey. Inspired by the Gadwall duck’s understated elegance, this Bourbon is all about taking sippers by surprise with its subtle yet rich profile. With its nature-inspired branding and approachable flavours, Gadwall stood out to us as a brand that truly embodies the spirit of the North Shore—unpretentious, grounded, yet full of character.
This tour was a perfect reminder that American whiskey has so much to offer, no matter your palate or preference. Whether neat, on the rocks or mixed into a cocktail, there’s an American whiskey out there for everyone. And for us? We left the event with a list of new favourites and a newfound appreciation for the stories behind the spirits.
Curious about where to find these gems in Vancouver? Some of these American whiskeys are available at BC Liquor Stores and independent retailers throughout Metro Vancouver. For more on American whiskeys, visit cheersspiritsfromtheusa.com and to see highlights from the Vancouver Cheers! American Spirits event, click HERE.
