Best Coast Distillers, located on a North Saanich farm, has introduced Canada’s first Agricole Rum, made from hand-harvested sorghum, marking a significant milestone in Canadian spirits. This innovative rum takes inspiration from Martinique, where Agricole refers to rum produced from sugar cane juice rather than molasses.

With the Saanich Peninsula’s unique microclimate providing just over 120 days for optimal sorghum growth, the process is inherently labor-intensive and deeply connected to the land. The co-founder of Best Coast, Corey Wood, emphasized the personal connection to farming, recalling how their family has cultivated this land since 1927.

This initial batch of Agricole Rum is a limited offering with only 170 bottles priced just under $140, each featuring hand-written labels. Wood explained, “This batch is very personal to us. We’ve done something nobody else has done.” The handcrafted nature of the rum involves not only the adults but also children actively participating in the harvest.

The rum itself has an earthy and slightly fruity flavor profile, attributed to its resting in French oak barrels for a year. Wood recommends enjoying it in a traditional Ti’ Punch, which combines the rum with cane sugar and lime.

Although Best Coast Distillers launched its products just a year ago, they have plans for further exploration in the spirits industry, including vodka-based teas and a bourbon made with local ingredients aimed for release in late 2026 as the farm celebrates its centennial. The distillery is also experimenting with agave spirits, having successfully grown agave that survived the winter.

For those interested, Agricole Rum is available for purchase online at bestcoastdistillers.com as well as at the distillery located at 1725 McTavish Rd.