Achi news desk-
A Newfoundland-made vodka has been named one of the best in the world by judges at this year’s World Vodka Awards.
Wooden Walls Distilling took the top prize in the varietal vodka category, beating competitors in North America, Europe and Australia. The judges said their Evening Tide Vodka had a “funky and unique aroma,” and a “compelling unique quality.”
“To be recognized on the world stage was really, you know, unexpected for us and exciting at the same time,” said Matthew Pribag, who manages the distillery in downtown St. John’s.
The distillery uses a blend of wheat, rye and oats in their Evening Tide Vodka, and co-founder Peter Madden said a long fermentation process helps set the spirit apart.
The vodka spends about a week fermenting in the distillery in St. John’s, before it is distilled, filtered and bottled.
“We do it at a lower temperature, just to have a process that’s slow, controlled and brings out those flavors really well,” Madden said.
He said all of the grain comes from farms in Atlantic Canada.
The award is early recognition for the young distillery, which opened its doors in St. John’s at the end of 2022.
“It only takes one sip, I think, for people to recognize the quality and craftsmanship that goes into our product,” says Pribag.
Madden said business has been tougher than expected, but he hopes an international award will help the distillery make more progress in Newfoundland and Labrador.
“We are the only distillery and the first ever in St. John’s,” Madden said.
“First legal distillery, we always say,” he added with a laugh.
The business draws from many traditional elements in Newfoundland and Labrador. The name Wooden Walls is a tribute to the large boats that transported men from St. John’s to the sealing grounds near the turn of the 20th century.
The tasting room is located in the heart of St. John’s, in a building that was once home to Templeton – a well-known and long-standing family paint shop.
Staff have overseen extensive renovations to project a “comfortable, chatty vibe,” Pribag said.
In a state with specific alcohol preferences—and some heavy favorites—it can be difficult for newcomers to break into the market.
“It’s very difficult to differentiate,” Madden said. “We want people to know that we are actually doing these things in the city.”
“There is a difference. It’s done here. There is so much care in every bottle. It’s different from the other products you see on the shelves in that way.”
Madden’s true love is whiskey, and his staff plan to spend more time and energy in that market in the future — but he said Evening Tide vodka will always be the distillery’s signature vodka.
The drink capped off their “Maiden Voyage” series of vodkas, where staff created four single grain vodkas, sent them into customers’ cups for feedback, and tried to combine the best parts into one drink.
The vodka is available for purchase in liquor stores in Newfoundland and Labrador, and Madden said he hopes to make the spirit available nationwide soon.
“It will take some time, and then we will get there.”
