Alberta Whisky Act

Effective May 22, 2026, the Alberta Whisky Act (Bill 24) establishes a legal standard, including input requirements and production criteria, for products labelled as 'Alberta Whisky'.

Participation is voluntary, and distillers may continue to produce whisky products that do not use this designation, provided they meet applicable Canadian whisky requirements.

Products labelled as "Alberta Whisky" on or after May 22, 2026 must meet these requirements:

a) the spirit meets the standards for Canadian whisky established under the Food and Drug Regulations 

b) the production of the spirit takes place entirely in Alberta

c) at least 2/3 of the total weight of the cereal grain or cereal grain products used to produce the mash is grown in Alberta; 

d) the water used in the production of the spirit is obtained from a source or water supply in Alberta;

e) the spirit is not blended or modified after distillation other than by

1. blending the spirit with flavouring that has been aged for not less than two years
2. adding water that meets the standard in clause (d) to adjust the spirit to a required strength, or
3. adding plain caramel.

Additional implementation guidance, including labelling requirements, will be posted as it becomes available.

AGLC is responsible for compliance and enforcement under the legislation.

Manufacturers interested in pursuing the “Alberta Whisky” designation can contact AGLC at product@aglc.ca.