The pillars of the
SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
Here, we see sustainable development not as a constraint, but as a deep-seated conviction that guides all of our activities. It's an approach rooted in our vision of honoring the land, preserving the richness of our terroir, and creating exceptional spirits. It's a true project of love for the land, broken down into four main pillars.
A philosophy that guides all of the Distillery's operations, from farming to production, reflecting a deep respect for the land and its inhabitants.
Regenerative agriculture
At the heart of the project, agriculture and nature are paramount. We are the only distillery in Quebec to produce an organic grain-based whisky by the bottle. This approach is a fundamental philosophy that guarantees the quality of the ingredients by avoiding harmful chemicals, thus ensuring the purity and flavor of the final whisky. Organic farming also promotes biodiversity and the health of local ecosystems, through practices such as crop rotation, soil conservation, and the preservation of natural habitats. We grow barley and rye on 65 hectares, using crop rotations to enrich the soil. Modern agricultural equipment and techniques such as minimal soil compaction and mechanical weeding are employed for environmentally friendly production.
Local and regional sourcing
The distillery uses only the highest quality ingredients, prioritizing local sources. This commitment extends to planting juniper and Iris germanica for our gin, plum trees for other fruity spirits, and even our own oak trees for future barrels, with experiments in inoculating them with black truffles. The pure air of the Eastern Townships is also considered an integral part of the character of our products.
Environmental and waste management
The distillation process requires a significant amount of water. Being off-grid, the distillery treats its wastewater on-site to manage all distillation liquids. We are also exploring the possibility of using vinasse, a nitrogen-rich residue, as fertilizer, in collaboration with the National Research Council of Canada. Our goal is to maintain the lowest possible carbon footprint, using a mix of electricity and propane. We are also working with experts to restore local flora and revitalize the banks of the Missisquoi River and adjacent waterways.
Community Support
The distillery supports the local economy and businesses in the municipality of Potton. Our commitment to local farmers who adopt sustainable methods helps strengthen rural communities. In addition, the large water basin created for the sprinkler system provides a valuable resource for the Mansonville volunteer fire department to secure the site's multiple buildings.