Overview: Six Cats Distillery has opened in Squamish, British Columbia, marking a new era in craft spirits. Founded by David Butler after years of experimenting with small stills and navigating the complex process of federal and provincial licensing, this distillery is a testament to the power of perseverance and innovation.
The Full Story
David Butler’s journey into spirit-making began during his time in the Middle East, where he started experimenting with small stills. However, it wasn’t until he returned to Canada that he committed fully to building Six Cats Distillery. After searching for suitable space in Vancouver for a year and a half, Butler expanded his search and ultimately landed on Squamish as the perfect location.
The buildout process was no easy feat, involving nine months of provisional approval alone, engineering drawings, construction from February to October 2025, and finally gaining legal permission to turn it on in January. During this time, Butler had already purchased a still back in 2022 but couldn’t legally use it until two years later.
Today, Six Cats Distillery produces an apple brandy and a gin using BC orchard apples pressed in Chilliwack. The distillery’s signature offering is its personalized service allowing customers to bring their own fruit for Butler to turn into either a bespoke gin or brandy. With about fifty kilos of apples yielding roughly four bottles, this unique aspect not only reflects the distiller’s commitment to community but also acknowledges the often-wasted potential in backyard apple trees.
Production & Profile
The spirit-making process at Six Cats Distillery is a blend of tradition and innovation. The gin is bottled and sold much closer to when it comes off the still, showcasing Butler’s dedication to speed without compromising on quality. However, for their brandy, he employs oak chips in the bottle to accelerate aging that would otherwise take years in a barrel.
The distillery currently produces an apple brandy made from BC orchard apples pressed in Chilliwack and delivered in large one-thousand litre totes with active fermentation on site. The gin, named after Butler’s six cats, is crafted using the same high-quality ingredients but can be bottled and sold sooner due to its accelerated aging process.
Brand & Industry History
Six Cats Distillery is not just a new name in the craft spirits landscape; it represents a shift towards community engagement and innovation. Butler’s commitment to using BC apples, supporting local farmers, and offering personalized service sets him apart from his peers. By bringing people together through shared passion for artisanal spirits, he aims to create an experience that goes beyond mere consumption.
The story of Six Cats Distillery is deeply rooted in its founder’s personal journey. From the Middle East to Vancouver, Butler navigated complex regulations and persevered despite setbacks, ultimately finding success in Squamish. His passion for spirit-making and commitment to community engagement have created a unique distillery that not only offers exceptional products but also serves as a model for industry growth.
What This Means
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