The Elk Valley will soon have its own craft distillery.

Operated by husband and wife team Andrew Hayden and Jillian Rutherford, Fernie Distillers will be the first licensed craft distillery situated in the the East Kootenay community of Fernie, BC.

Fernie Distillers will produce small batches of vodka, liqueurs, seasonal spirits and barrel-aged products with a modern branding approach that draws inspiration from the rich history of the community. Rutherford will head up production and is one of the few female distillers in Canada.

“We are passionate about making quality products and are excited to share the result with the community,” Rutherford said.

The newly renovated 3,200-square-foot production facility will include a tasting room, lounge and patio. Fernie Distillers will open to the public this winter with specific dates to be confirmed soon.

The distillery is located at 531 1st Avenue in downtown Fernie. Learn more at ferniedistillers.com.