09/03/2026
We’re about to release a new cocktail syrup. And, while I’d LOVE to talk about that syrup in detail… instead I’m using it to mix up a cocktail called ‘The Margaret’, named after Margaret Rygiel CEO of Macaloney’s Distillery.
2 oz Macaloney’s Cathedral Grove
0.5 oz lemon juice25 oz Berry Song Syrup
6 dashes vegan cocktail foam
Build in a shaker, shake over ice, strain into a coupe.
Last year, we visited an astounding number of distilleries across Canada. I’ve toured Scottish distilleries. Scandinavian distilleries. Asian distilleries. I’ve sampled the best of the Kentucky bourbon trail. And, I love regional spirits & aperitifs that honour both regions & the teams who create them.
What strikes me is that the women-lead, queer-lead, and BIPOC-lead teams always have stories about the needless abuse they’ve persevered in the spirits industry. I won’t name the podcast I listened to, but I will call the creators IN on a challenge to DO BETTER.
For the industry. But, also for common decency.
I have a lot of respect for what Macaloney’s is doing. Not simply because they are one of Canada’s most award-winning distilleries, not simply because they are Vancouver Island based. But, because they are risk-tolerant enough to lead an evolution that the spirit industry needs… And frankly, an attitude to innovate while our Canadian economy is under attack.
**ky **ky
