Dillon’s Small Batch Distillers : The visit

To be honest, although I am a big fan of spirits, the name of Dillon’s Small Batch Distillers doesn’t ring a bell to me. I probably tasted their products without realizing it, but I did not remember (I probably think it was an American gin). So, it’s my friend Stéphane (Rochefort) from PUR Vodka and romeo’s gin who me recommended the place. Knowing the knowledge of Stéphane in terms of spirits and wines, I had no choice but to add Dillon’s to my route. So I send an email my friend Alexandre at Agence Vins Fins (which used to be Dillon’s agency in Québec) to arrange a visit during my time around. In less than two, all was settled.

But what is Dillon’s Small Batch Distillers?

For those who do not know Dillon’s Small Batch Distillers, it is, as the name say,  is a small distillery that make micro production, and everything is done by hand, in a barn the size of about the half of a football field. Everything is made at a human scale, for incredible quality. As a proof, the Rye Whisky 1 has elapsed the day of its release, the next delivery is scheduled for November (be ready). It is also that, taking the tame to do great products. It’s a wonderful experience to set foot there, the place itself is beautiful. Not the exterior appearance, which is more rustic. But inside, it’s modern, up to date, a look borrowed from Brooklyn. In short, simply beautiful and it have some products for the province of Québec: ¾ oz. Tonic Maison & Les Charlatans.

Up to the visit of the production facility & The lab of Dillon’s Small Batch Distillers

I had the honour to make the tour  of the distillery with With Geoff Dillon, it’s not very big as I told you earlier, but it’s very informative, Geoff talks about the process of its products, which are all made from grapes, pears and rye Ontario. So everything is local in production at Dillon’s. The production of a series takes about 3 weeks to a month, the time the product goes through various distillation process, is mixed, etc. I love that the distillery trust the local producers, thus encouraging the economy of the region. That is something we saw a in several companies in the Niagara region. This is something we should do a little more here in the province of Québec.

Dillon’s Small Batch Distillers Rye 1 Whisky

Benn called Canadian Rye Whisky means something to Dillon’s. To be called 100% Rye Whisky made in Canada means something more. For them it is a sign of pride. This means at least three full years of aging in oak barrels. This also means that is made from anything except the pure rye grain – no barley, no wheat, no corn. it is also important to say that a lot distilled in both stills – therefore not permanently in the columns and that there is no addition of flavorings and colorant. What is written on the bottle is really what lies inside, and this is incredible to see that.

After years of work, handicrafts and aging, Dillon’s Small Batch Distillery was proud to present the first 100% Rye Whisky.

This first version was produced in only one of Ontario oak barrel, a barrel full. The perfect product for local Dillon’s. As I said earlier, the first edition sold out in one day. Certainly a unique product (which I unfortunately could not taste).

A perfect product line of multiple spirits

As you can see in the picture right up, Dillon’s Small Batch Distillers has several products, the availability varies constantly due to small production, but normal gins (non-flavored like Rose Gin on right in photo) are available almost all the time. The products are delicious, tastes are different, the grape brings a totally different touch to gin and vodka (called Method 95). I had the chance to taste all the products in the picture, and I must say I was really surprised, a quality that is not found in many products on the market. Each bottle is carefully packed and hand signed, brief as it is quite interesting process. A small team who really cares to make incredible products. An essential visit during your stay in the Niagara region. For more details, pay their website a visit.

A big thanks to all the Dillon’s team that great us.

Dillon’s Small batch Distillers

4833 Tufford Road
Beamsville, ON
L0R 1B1
Canada

Visit their website

You can also get Geoff Dillon cocktail books on Amazon