Meet the Makers

Spirits · Victoria, British Columbia

Victoria Distillers

Vancouver Island distillery behind the indigo-hued Empress 1908 Gin.

Founded by
Peter Hunt
Based in
Victoria, British Columbia

Their story

Victoria Distillers works on the waterfront on Vancouver Island, distilling on copper pot stills since 2008 under the leadership of founder and president Peter Hunt.

Its best-known spirit, Empress 1908 Gin, launched in 2017 and takes its cue from the city's landmark Fairmont Empress hotel. The deep blue gin caught on fast and became one of the top-selling super premium gins in Canada and the United States.

In 2022 the distillery was acquired by Milestone Brands of Austin, Texas, which kept the Victoria team in place, with Hunt continuing as president.

How it's made

The spirits are distilled in small batches on copper pot stills at the waterfront distillery. Empress 1908 is built around a balance of citrus and spice, with a light floral aroma and a smooth texture.

I am excited to see the next chapter of growth for Empress 1908 Gin
Peter Hunt, President of Victoria Distillers, to BevNET (2022)

Why we carry them

We love how striking Empress 1908 looks in the glass, and it makes a well-balanced gin and tonic. It is a fun bottle to bring to a party.

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