All images copyright Compass Distillers. Used with permission.

local. authentic. honest. delicious.

Graham, Josh, and David were friends who grew up together in Halifax. One day over drinks, they realised that there was no local company making uniquely Nova Scotian spirits. Who was capturing the essence of the province in a bottle? From that conversation (and many more), a plan emerged and Compass Distillers was born.

Compass did not want to create another generic spirit; they wanted to make something world-class. The only way to do that was the old fashioned way, using fresh ingredients and distilling in small batches. Making a different type of spirit also meant building relationships with farmers and foragers who—whenever possible—provide the necessary raw ingredients. In 2020 alone they used over 50 tonnes of locally-grown grain. 

It’s easy to look back and say “mission accomplished”—their products continue to rack up domestic and international awards. They were recently awarded “Best in Class – Contemporary Gin” at the Canadian Artisan Spirits Competition 2021. They continue to innovate, inspired by their city and their province.

While their award-winning Gin Royal may be their best-known product, spirit lovers will be equally impressed by their gin, rum, vodka, whiskey and aquavit. 

Compass Distillers is located in the North End neighbourhood of Halifax, Nova Scotia. The bar serves all of their creations and is open to the public. As a craft distillery, they have successfully woven themselves into the fabric of their community. They distill all of their spirits on site—take the tour for the full experience. The tasting room and retail space is at the front and the fact that the building is a giant tower makes it hard to miss and easy to remember.