In a world that increasingly values authenticity, some passionate artisans are showcasing the best of our terroir. Today, we're taking a look at a local treasure: Origine Québec's local distilleries! By choosing local ingredients and adhering to quality standards, they offer us drinks that tell a story with every sip.
What is the Origine Québec sticker?
Proudly crafted from grain to bottle by local artisans using ingredients grown in Quebec. This means that a distillery produces its own neutral alcohol from grains sourced from Quebec farms, sometimes even on their own land!
For example, to create a gin, we start by distilling a neutral, flavorless spirit, to which we add aromatics, traditionally including juniper berries. However, our local distillers, who don't always have access to this traditional berry, are exploring northern alternatives, as well as herbs, roots, and flowers from our region.
This label stands out by highlighting not only the local agri-food products present in each bottle, but also the passion of the distiller who develops his elixir from A to Z. It reflects the terroir both in its manufacturing process and in its content!
Why the Origine Québec sticker is interesting for local distillers
Just like the Aliments du Québec certification, but this time for alcohol, distilleries must prove that their ingredients come primarily from Quebec, meet quality standards, and affirm their commitment to the local economy. While these requirements can be challenging, they are often seen as an asset, allowing producers to showcase their authenticity and expertise.
The Origine Québec sticker is therefore particularly relevant for distillers, as it strengthens their visibility and supports the regional economy by promoting local producers.
By covering a wide range of spirits, such as gins, vodkas, whiskies, and liqueurs, it offers consumers a diverse selection while raising awareness of the importance of favoring local products. In addition, the label encourages innovation by encouraging distillers to use local ingredients, while ensuring transparency and trust through clear information on the supply chain.
Where can I get products bearing the Origine Québec label?
Origine Québec products are mainly found in SAQs , which offer more than 850 products , but they are also available in specialty grocery stores, public markets and some online stores. However, spirits are only available in SAQs and from the producers themselves!
It is therefore advisable to check both in the SAQ and local businesses to discover these products! We are introducing you to a remarkable producer a little further on!
A fine example of a local distiller who carries the Origine Québec label
With its mission to develop distilled products that promote Quebec terroir, particularly that of Shefford, the Shefford Distillery is proud to have the Origine Québec label!
By growing its own grains and operating a maple grove, the distillery obtains a wide variety of ingredients needed to craft its spirits. Visitors can discover a unique place where passion and terroir come together to offer a multitude of exceptional flavors. What's more, the distillery even grows its own grain for its whisky, underscoring its commitment to authenticity and quality.
Our Signature Tour, " The Prohibition Tour - Discover Granby and its region ," offers a chance to meet Charles Bourassa, owner of the Shefford Distillery, the first producer of Acerum in Quebec, a spirit made from the fermentation and distillation of maple reductose. During this tour, you can discover how it is made, as well as how their vodka, whiskey, and maple cream are made!
Choosing an Origine Québec product therefore means…
To taste our own products, appreciate the quality of our know-how, explore the diversity of our regions and meet passionate and proud producers!
