First introduced in 1958, Alberta Premium is produced by Alberta Distillers Ltd. in Calgary, Alberta, and is now owned by Suntory Global Spirits (formerly Beam Suntory). It’s renowned for using 100% Canadian rye grain, a rarity in the whisky world, and for its commitment to traditional distillation methods.
🏭 Distillery Highlights
- Location: Calgary, Alberta, Canada
- Founded: 1946 (brand launched in 1958)
- Ownership: Suntory Global Spirits
- Grain: 100% Canadian rye
- Distillation: Continuous distillation and copper pot stills
- Water Source: Glacier-fed aquifers from the Rocky Mountains
🥃 Core Whisky Range
| Expression | ABV | Notes |
| Alberta Premium Original | 40% | Smooth, mellow, with light rye spice |
| Alberta Premium Cask Strength | ~65–66% | Bold, intense, with deep rye character |
| Alberta Premium 20 Year Old | 42% | Aged elegance, with oak, vanilla, and spice |
| Limited Editions | Varies | Includes wine cask finishes and rare age statements |
Sources: 1†source, 2†source, 3†source
🌟 What Makes Alberta Premium Unique
- 100% Rye Grain: One of the few distilleries globally to use pure rye
- Award-Winning: Named “Canadian Whisky of the Year” multiple times by Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible
- Cask Strength Releases: Highly sought after for their intensity and complexity
- Western Canadian Heritage: Founded by ranchers and oilmen with a commitment to quality
- Global Reach: Originally Canada-only, now available in the U.S. and beyond
Alberta Premium is a cornerstone of Canadian whisky—bold, spicy, and steeped in prairie tradition. Whether you’re sipping the smooth original or exploring the fiery cask strength edition, it’s a must-try for rye lovers.