A Taste Of The High Country – Jun 2023

Have A Taste Of Bragg Creek’s Very Own Distillery

When you think of it, the progression from pharmacology to distillery makes perfect sense. Brett Schönekess’ doctorate gave him an understanding of chemistry and microbiology few distillers can claim. And so is Bragg Creek craft distillery — the result of Brett’s erudition paired with a passion for quality spirits, hands on learning with fine distilleries and a keen sense of entrepreneurship.

Brett started in 2016. Phase one of the distillery consisted in contracting the distillates out of two separate facilities in British Columbia, utilizing his unique recipes and specifications. This year, Brett is completely hands-on distilling in his facility in Calgary. His new line of spirits – “The Hut” – is now available in Bragg Creek’s coolest tasting room, a small log building with a mysterious past.

The “Hammill Cabin” is probably as old as Bragg Creek. The Hammill family purchased the property in 1951 and in the 1960s dug a cold cellar beneath the cabin. In doing so they found a human skull. In honour of the deceased, the Hammills thought it fitting to display the skull, they named Charlie, on the mantel complete with a top hat, sunglasses and an old port cigar. Fast forward to 2007, and in keeping with the theme, the cabin became the setting of a murder scene in the Netflix cult series Fargo (Season 1, Episode 10). How cool is that?

Today the cabin is still tucked in tall evergreen trees on Burnside Drive, across the road from the main shopping area, the small three-room log cabin boasts the original stone fireplace, has low windows, and is furnished with cozy sofas, arm chairs and a raised bar. It is a perfect place to relax and engage in a tasting of fine spirits or elevated cocktails. The cabin extends outdoors in the summer with a patio shaded by the tall trees. Brett and a team of enthusiastic bartenders engage guests in all matters of spirit making and spirit tasting. When not open to the public, the tasting room is available for rent for private gatherings. The room accommodates 10 people, and the patio 22. Food such as charcuterie boards can be ordered to complement the selection of beverages.

Tasting Bragg Creek’s spirits revealed pleasant surprises and some wow factors. The Hut whiskies are delicate, smooth and balanced. The flavours hover between floral, fruity, and nutty, with hints of smoke and spices. The whiskies are single malt and aged in various old wine barrels, each imparting unique aromatics and flavours. This is why the whiskies are referenced with their barrique numbers.

The Snoday vodka is smooth and silky, while the gin is defined by its classic botanical and heavy citrus notes. Many have already received accolades and awards for their quality and distinctiveness.

Bragg Creek Distillery’ spirits can be purchased on-site or ordered online. I however recommend visiting the old cabin with friends to enjoy a tasting of the products and indulge in a cocktail. This way you will become acquainted with the offering and your final selection will be satisfying.

Brett is committed to all that he does. His venture thrives in the minutia of the fine art of spirit-making. He is also committed to the community and the natural environment he and his family feel privileged to share. For this reason, Bragg Creek Distillers recently offered to share some of their sales revenues with Bragg Creek Wild, a new community-based organization committed to building a safe and sustainable environment where wildlife and humans can thrive. It is a collaboration the local organization welcomed wholeheartedly.