This is Alberta Whisky

Alberta’s government has introduced legislation aimed at defining and protecting what can be labelled as “Alberta Whisky,” in a move it says will strengthen the province’s global reputation in the spirits industry.

Bill 24, the Alberta Whisky Act, would establish criteria for products marketed under the Alberta Whisky name, similar to how regions such as Kentucky and Scotland are associated with bourbon and scotch.

The proposed law would require whisky labelled as Alberta Whisky to be made using 100 per cent Alberta water and a specified proportion of grains grown in the province. The government says the measure is intended to support local agriculture while reinforcing authenticity and quality standards.

Premier Danielle Smith said the legislation would help Alberta distillers gain greater recognition internationally.

“The world wants more of everything Alberta has to offer,” Smith said in a statement. “This legislation would ensure Alberta distillers have the recognition they need to flourish on the world stage.”

Service Alberta and Red Tape Reduction Minister Dale Nally said the act is designed to highlight the craftsmanship behind the province’s spirits sector.

“Across Alberta, distillers are turning local ingredients into something very special that we can all be proud of,” Nally said.

Industry groups welcomed the proposed legislation, saying it would help elevate Alberta whisky’s profile globally and support economic growth.

Cal Bricker, president and CEO of Spirits Canada, called the act a “landmark step,” while Bryce Parsons of the Alberta Craft Distillers Association said it would help promote the province’s whisky industry and tourism potential.

The government says the legislation could also support initiatives such as a potential Alberta Whisky Trail, aimed at boosting tourism and visitor spending.

According to Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis, there are 45 whisky distillers in the province, including 43 small craft operations. Alberta-made whiskies have earned multiple national and international awards in recent years.

If passed, the act would be implemented in partnership with industry, with Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis overseeing compliance. Participation would be voluntary, and distillers could continue producing whisky that does not meet the Alberta Whisky definition.

The government said the legislation would not affect pricing, availability or retail access to whisky.