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.

Stepping into Smuggler’s Cove at 650 Gough St. in San Francisco is like entering a whimsical dreamscape. The initial adjustment to the dim lighting allows guests to fully embrace the bar’s theme – a blend of tiki culture and maritime adventure. General Manager Christopher Ward highlights the essence of the tiki experience as one of “whimsy,” inviting patrons into a fantasy world where traditional tiki vibes reign supreme.

The atmosphere evokes memories of childhood adventures, resembling a shipwrecked treehouse from classic animated films. However, I was not there to reminisce but rather to explore the captivating realm of tiki cocktails, which have long intimidated me with their complexity and elaborate garnishes.

Smuggler’s Cove, while not the oldest tiki bar in San Francisco, stands out for its deep commitment to rum and an extensive educational program for its customers. Owner Martin Cate pioneered the Rumbustion Society, a journey into the world of rum that includes tasting sessions and quizzes, designed to encourage patrons to truly explore the diverse offerings behind the bar.

As I prepared to tackle creating a classic tiki cocktail, the Dead Reckoning, I found reassurance in my guide, bartender Tim Symes, who’s accumulated considerable experience at the bar. The Dead Reckoning contains ingredients like rum, pineapple, and vanilla liqueur, and is widely regarded as a relatively straightforward drink among the menu’s 80 offerings.

The cocktail-making process was approachable, involving simple measurements and techniques. I carefully mixed pineapple juice, lemon juice, seltzer, and rum in a shaker. A mix of vanilla liqueur, cognac, and maple syrup followed, along with a splash of bitters and shaved ice. The result was a beautifully textured cocktail topped with garnishes that enhanced both aroma and presentation.

Upon my first sip, the balance of sweet and tart was mesmerizing; the Dead Reckoning went down easily—a testament to the craftsmanship that goes into each drink at Smuggler’s Cove. Alderman Ward emphasized that although batch drink preparations are common in many establishments today, their dedicated approach ensures that each cocktail retains its unique charm and quality.

Patrons like Heather Robinson and Jonathan Gilbert attest to the bar’s impactful experience, having returned for over a decade, attracted by the consistently high quality of drinks and the intriguing depth of the rum menu. With a staggering collection of around 1,300 rums, the bar strives to connect guests with the perfect rum experience, whether it sparks fond vacation memories or introduces them to unique flavors.

In summary, Smuggler’s Cove is not just a bar but an immersive journey into the world of rum and tiki culture, where guests can savor exquisite cocktails while embracing an enchanting atmosphere.

Fireball is running a unique contest to celebrate those who have reached the grand age of 90 and over. They are giving away a lifetime supply of their popular cinnamon whiskey to a few lucky seniors. The campaign is a nod to their loyal fanbase, emphasizing how much the elderly enjoy their product, as noted by Danny Suich, Fireball’s Global Brand Director.

To participate, contestants must complete an entry form by March 31. The entry requires a photo of the nominee, along with a response to the question: “How do you (or how does your nominee) keep the mischief alive at 90+?” For those elderly fans who might prefer more traditional methods, there’s also a mail-in option available.

However, it is important to clarify that the notion of a "lifetime supply" may not actually extend to a typical lifetime, considering the average expectancy. Fireball aims to celebrate these spirited individuals while playfully acknowledging the realities of aging.

Participants are subject to a few rules: the lifetime supply cannot be passed down or claimed after death, and every entry must be made by someone born in or before 1935. This means friends and family should act quickly to enter their loved ones before the deadline.

For more details, you can visit LifetimeSupplyOfFireball.com.

Whiskey Acres Blue Popcorn Bourbon, produced in northern Illinois, has earned a spot among the final eight "coolest products made in Illinois" for the 2025 "Maker’s Madness" contest. This unique bourbon combines the flavor of blue popcorn with traditional whiskey-making techniques, making it a standout product in the competition. Fans of craft beverages and local products are excited to see how this innovative spirit fares as voting progresses in the contest.