Victoria BC: Tour & Tasting Around Award Winning Distillery

Exploring Victoria’s craft spirits scene has never been more engaging than with a visit to Macaloney’s Island Distillery & Twa Dogs Brewery. This tour combines a behind-the-scenes look at their award-winning production with the chance to sample some of the best whisky and beer in Canada — all in just 45 minutes. While short in duration, it offers a surprisingly comprehensive glimpse into the craft process, making it a perfect stop for spirits enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the knowledgeable guides dressed in kilts add a fun Scottish flair and genuine expertise. Second, the five tastings—including three beers and two whiskies—offer excellent value and variety. Third, the opportunity to see North America’s largest pot stills and learn how local Pacific Northwest ingredients are used to craft award-winning products.

A possible consideration? The tour’s limited duration might leave some wanting a deeper dive into the production process. It’s a quick yet immersive experience, so if you’re after a full-day distillery visit, this might feel a bit condensed.

This tour is ideal for spirits lovers, curious travelers, and anyone wanting a taste of Victoria’s thriving craft beverage scene in a friendly, engaging setting.

Good To Know

• Short, engaging experience perfect for a quick visit
• Five tastings included, providing great value
• Knowledgeable, fun guides in traditional kilts
• Behind-the-scenes access to award-winning whisky and beer production
• Locally inspired products made with Pacific Northwest ingredients
• Member of The Northwest Whiskey Trail, a mark of quality

You can check if your dates are available here:

Introduction to the Experience

The tour at Macaloney’s Island Distillery & Twa Dogs Brewery is designed to give visitors a quick but meaningful peek into the world of craft spirits and beer production. We loved the way it combines education and tasting in a lively, approachable manner. Whether you’re a seasoned whisky aficionado or just looking to sample some local brews, you’ll appreciate the friendly vibe and expert storytelling.

One of the standout features is the guides dressed in kilts, which instantly add a Scottish charm and authenticity. They’re not just there for show—they’re knowledgeable, eager to share insights about the distilling process and the awards their products have won. Plus, standing under the iconic ‘Forsythye’ copper pot stills shipped from Scotland is a memorable visual highlight that adds a sense of tradition and craftsmanship.

While the tour spans only 45 minutes, it packs in enough detail to satisfy most curiosity without feeling rushed. The inclusion of five tastings—three beers and two whiskies—means you’ll leave with a solid sense of what makes these products special. A small downside? For those wanting an in-depth, lengthy exploration of whisky making, this concise experience might leave some questions unanswered.

This tour suits travelers who value quality, authenticity, and value. It’s perfect for those looking to add a fun, educational stop to their Victoria itinerary without devoting an entire day or breaking the bank.

What to Expect During the Tour

The experience begins at the Visitor Centre bar, where you’ll check in and meet your guides. From there, the 45-minute tour takes you around the production floor, giving you a behind-the-scenes look at the machinery and processes involved in crafting award-winning spirits. Expect to see some of North America’s largest pot stills, which underscore the scale and seriousness of this operation.

Your guides, often dressed in kilts, will lead you through the distilling and brewing areas, explaining the significance of various equipment and ingredients. They’re known for being friendly, approachable, and well-informed. You’ll also have the chance to step onto the still-stage, standing beneath the famous Forsythye pot stills—an iconic photo op that underscores the Scottish influence on the process.

Throughout the tour, plenty of tastings are included—three beers and two whiskies—so you can sample the results of their craftsmanship. The whiskies include three “World’s Best” and eight “Canada’s Best” winners, a testament to their quality and dedication. These tastings are served in a relaxed setting, allowing you to savor and compare the different flavors.

After the tour, you’ll be offered a 10% discount on bottles purchased on-site, which adds to the value. The experience is capped with a stamp from the Northwest Whiskey Trail, marking your visit to one of the region’s top distilleries.

Detailed Breakdown of the Experience

The Production Floor

The main highlight of the tour is the walk around the production floor, where you’ll see some of North America’s largest pot stills. These impressive copper stills, shipped directly from Scotland, are the focal point of the distillery’s traditional approach. Guides will explain how they combine Scottish practices with Pacific Northwest ingredients, resulting in spirits that are both authentic and distinctively local.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Still-Stage & Copper Pot Stills

Standing under the Forsythye stills, you’ll understand why they’re so integral to the distillery’s success. The stills produce the spirits that have earned international awards and national acclaim. Guides often point out interesting details, like the craftsmanship involved and the importance of temperature control, which influences flavor.

Tasting Experience

The five tastings are spread across the tour, providing a variety of flavors to enjoy. The whiskies include some of the best in the world, with three holding titles of “World’s Best.” Expect to taste a mix of smooth, smoky, and complex profiles, all crafted with care. The beers, meanwhile, reflect local flavors and brewing excellence, perfect for those who prefer beer over spirits or want to compare the different styles.

The Guides & Their Stories

The guides—often dressed in kilts—bring humor and personality, making the tour engaging. Their knowledge about the distilling process and the awards their products have won is evident. One reviewer noted, “The guides were very friendly and knew their stuff, making the experience fun and educational.”

Post-Tour Shopping & Discounts

Before leaving, you’ll have the opportunity to purchase bottles at a 10% discount. This is especially appealing given the high quality of the spirits and beers on offer. The stamps from the Northwest Whiskey Trail add a collectible touch for enthusiasts.

Analyzing the Value

At $22 per person, the tour offers exceptional value considering the length, access, and tastings included. Compared to longer, more expensive distillery visits, this experience provides a concentrated dose of education and tasting, perfect for a quick activity. The 45-minute duration makes it suitable for combining with other Victoria attractions, especially if you’re short on time.

The inclusion of five tastings—a generous amount for such a brief tour—makes the overall experience feel like a good deal. Plus, the opportunity to taste award-winning spirits that have been recognized internationally adds a layer of credibility and excitement.

Authenticity and Unique Features

One of the things we appreciate most about this tour is its authenticity. The use of traditional Scottish copper stills and the commitment to combining Scottish practices with local ingredients highlight the distillery’s dedication to quality and tradition.

Being a Founder Member of The Northwest Whiskey Trail adds a badge of distinction, signaling to visitors that this is a notable stop for whisky lovers. The tour’s energetic guides, dressed in kilts, lend a fun and memorable atmosphere—rarely found in more corporate or sterile distillery visits.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is a great fit for:

• Travelers interested in spirits and brewing
• Those who want a quick, informative activity with tastings
• Visitors seeking local, award-winning products
• People who enjoy engaging, lively tour guides
• Visitors looking for good value and quality

It’s less suited for travelers with mobility challenges, as it isn’t wheelchair accessible, or those seeking an in-depth, lengthy distillery immersion.

The Victoria BC distillery tour at Macaloney’s Island Distillery & Twa Dogs Brewery offers a fun, quick insight into the craft of whisky and beer making. By combining knowledgeable guides, traditional equipment, award-winning spirits, and generous tastings, it delivers a memorable experience packed into just 45 minutes. Its affordability and authentic atmosphere make it particularly appealing for casual visitors and spirits enthusiasts alike.

If you’re after a taste of local excellence, a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the distilling process, or just a fun way to spend a short afternoon in Victoria, this tour hits the mark. It’s ideal for those who appreciate quality without the long commitment, and for anyone eager to learn about BC’s thriving craft beverage scene.

For the discerning traveler, it’s an opportunity to connect with local craftsmanship, enjoy some fantastic samples, and take home a little souvenir of your Victoria visit—either in a bottle or a stamp from the trail.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 45 minutes, making it a quick but comprehensive experience.

What is included in the tour?
Your ticket includes a guided walk around the production floor, five tastings (three beers and two whiskies), and a 10% discount on bottles purchased afterward.

Are there any age restrictions?
While not explicitly stated, alcohol tastings generally mean participants should be of legal drinking age, and a passport or ID is required for proof.

Is the tour accessible for people with disabilities?
No, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users.

What should I bring?
You should bring a valid ID or passport for check-in and age verification.

Can I purchase bottles after the tour?
Yes, there is a 10% discount on any bottles purchased post-tour.

How do guides make the experience special?
Guides are known for their friendly demeanor, Scottish kilts, and insightful storytelling about the distillery’s methods and awards.

Is there a place to buy food during the visit?
Food isn’t included, but pizza and pretzels can be purchased separately.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead ensures a spot, with options to reserve and pay later, offering flexibility in planning.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

In sum, this Victoria distillery tour offers a well-rounded, spirited experience that’s perfect for those wanting a quick, engaging, and tasty peek into BC’s craft scene.

You can check if your dates are available here: