If Alberta’s own Corb Lund ever does decide to make the switch to whisky, the provincial government wants to make sure it’s truly Alberta made.
Proposed Bill 24, the Alberta Whisky Act, would define what can be labelled “Alberta whisky,” giving the province’s spirit a protected regional identity similar to bourbon from Kentucky or scotch from Scotland.
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WHY IT MATTERS: Alberta distilleries are already producing internationally awarded whiskies. The proposed legislation would formalize the connection between those spirits and the province’s agricultural sector, while building a whisky trail aimed at growing a tourism industry with a $25-billion annual visitor spending target.
The act would require Alberta whisky to be made with 100 per cent Alberta water and a defined proportion of grains sourced from local farms. Participation would be voluntary — distillers could continue producing whisky products that don’t meet the Alberta Whisky definition.
It supports farmers across the province, while showcasing Alberta whisky as a reflection of the province’s agricultural strength in helping power the province.
From prairie grain to poured glass, the Alberta Whisky Act would tell the story of the people and places behind it according to Premier Danielle Smith.
“The world wants more of everything Alberta has to offer. Our distillers craft some of the finest whisky in the world, using the highest quality ingredients that only Alberta can offer. This legislation would ensure Alberta distillers have the recognition they need to flourish on the world stage,” said Smith in a government press release.
Award-winning industry
According to Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis (AGLC), there are 45 whisky distillers in the province, of which 43 are small-craft distillers.
Alberta-made whiskies have earned significant recognition in recent years, including Rye Whisky of the Year at the 2024 Canadian Whisky Awards, Best Whisky Aged Over 15 Years at the 2025 Canadian Whisky Awards, and World’s Best Rye at the 2025 World Whiskies Awards. Provincial distillers have also taken home medals at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
“The Alberta Whisky Act affirms our world-class whisky industry, rooted in Alberta’s blessed agricultural lands. We are thrilled to drive economic growth through the Whisky Trail, while continuing to craft internationally award-winning whiskies,” said Bryce Parsons, president and chair of Alberta Craft Distillers Association.
The act would not alter availability, pricing structures or retail access to whisky. If passed, the Alberta government would work with industry to implement the framework, with AGLC overseeing compliance and enforcement.
The legislation also envisions an industry-led Alberta Whisky Trail, creating visitor experiences at local distilleries to showcase the province’s craft spirits sector.
“The Alberta Whisky Act is a landmark step to showcase Alberta’s whiskies globally. Spirits Canada is proud to have helped shape this initiative and looks forward to supporting its successful roll out,” said Cal Bricker, president and CEO of Spirits Canada.
