LCBO Food & Drink Summer 2021

KINDRED SPIRITS

Georgian Bay Spirit Co.

A new 8,200-square- foot distillery in Collingwood is the home of more than award-winning Ontario gin and vodka. Georgian Bay Spirit Co., the cottage-country brand created by Denzil Wadds (shown) and Tim Keenleyside seven years ago, also supplies the base spirit for cans of Smash, Soda and Tea that fly off the shelves. Back in 2015, they felt they couldn’t find canned drinks they’d like to sip. The pair took their passion for mixing cocktails for friends and family, and set out to create their own ready-to-drink ver-

sions. They liked the convenience of cans but aimed to make themmore sophisti- cated. “We wanted to make canned cocktails made with all-natural flavours, like Ontario raspberries and cran- berries, that weren’t as sweet as some others on the market,” says Wadds. In 2016, they launched the citrusy Original Gin Smash— an instant success. Pick of the crop Each summer, employees gather near Georgian Bay to pick ripe juniper berries to be used in their signature gin (also used in the canned cocktails) and enjoy a picnic lunch.

“When developing new products, it comes down to this: Does it taste good? We thought we had something that did.”

Georgian Bay Citrus Half Smash LCBO 19137, 355 mL, $2.75

This is citrus with a twist, courtesy of yuzu, which lends its distinct flavour and aroma. Serve ice-cold with a sprig of charred rosemary and pair with sushi. New for 2021: This variety has just 2.5% alcohol!

Georgian Bay Raspberry Rhubarb Vodka Smash LCBO 14525, 473 mL, $3.05

Sweet raspberry flavours shine through with tart rhubarb and a hint of mint taking a back seat. Pour into a wine goblet and garnish with fresh raspberries and a sage leaf. Georgian Bay Cranberry Gin Smash LCBO 570705, 473 mL, $3.05 Pop open the can to a burst of cranberry scent, followed by hints of citrus and a herbaceous note. Dress up your cocktail glass with a sugared rim and fresh cranberries. Serve with turkey sandwiches.

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SUMMER 2021 FOOD & DRINK