Locally Crafted Libations
Fernie draws people from around the world, and fortunately for this small mountain town many fall so in love that they return with their talents and expertise and begin unique businesses, adding to the already impressive array of entrepreneurs and the offerings available here.
When it comes to drinks of all sorts, you will find a surprising number of locally crafted options while in Fernie. Make sure to check out these while here, your tastebuds will thank you.
Breweries and Cafés
Non-alcoholic
Fernie Alpine Springs, 1501 10th Ave
Simon and Ami have been brewing beverages out of passion since 1995, and sold their first brew of kombucha at local farmer’s markets in 2017. Using clear, alpine water, fresh herbs and earthy botanicals, organic and sustainably-grown teas, Fernie Alpine Springs likes to compare their kombucha to a fine champagne, here to help you celebrate through the slow process of fermentation, bubbles and a unique and delicate taste!
Book a tour and tasting at their brewery or enjoy their kombucha at various locations in town for purchase or to accompany a meal.
Beanpod, 691 2nd Ave
One of the original bean-to-bar companies in Canada specializing in making chocolate in the ‘old-fashioned traditional way’ using organic beans sourced directly from farmers, turned into small batches of chocolate using stone grinding machines with no preservatives added.
They also roast their own coffee beans! Serving chocolate on tap, and the best cup of hot chocolate around – both milk and dark. For the adults, try their mocha! Coffee beans and chocolate are also available to purchase and bring home.
Rooftop Coffee Roasters, 492 2nd Ave
This family-run operation all began with a 17-year old who became passionate about roasting, resulting in the launch of a small roastery in 2016. Specializing in lightly roasted coffee, “single origin, single speed,” Rooftop has grown to run its own ‘curbside café’ in the Historic downtown of Fernie, which also holds the roastery in back. Drop in to enjoy an espresso, watch as the coffee roasters work their magic, and don’t forget to grab a bag or few to enjoy a taste of Fernie.
Alcoholic
Fernie Brewing Company, 26 Manitou Rd
Another family-run business, Fernie Brewing Co. started off small in 2003, brewing beer in a garage and quickly grew to a brewery located just off Hwy #3 that has continued to grow and evolve! Fernie Brewing Co.’s tasting room and large patio are busy during the summer months, offering a variety of their popular regular brews along with many seasonals that come and go throughout the year.
Enjoy a flight, with all funds going to local charitable organizations. Complete the Trail to Ale challenge and receive a free pint for your achievement. Peruse the FBC branded merch, take home a growler or a case of beer to enjoy back at your condo or hotel.
Fernie Distillers, 531 1st Ave
Husband and wife team, Andrew Hayden and Jillian Rutherford took the plunge to establish Fernie Distillers in 2016. Jillian is one of the few female distillers in Canada! Fernie Distillers draws inspiration from the community, and features three signature spirits – No. 9 Mine Vodka, Fernie Fog Liqueur, and Prospector Gin. Additionally they produce delicious seasonal spirits and liqueurs.
Located just off the Main Street in downtown Fernie, Fernie Distillers offers a beautifully renovated tasting room with a window into the distilling area, and a wonderful patio. The drink menu will make your decision difficult and will keep you coming back. Enjoy!
To Purchase
Bootleg Spirits
Co-distilling with one of BC’s Craft Distilleries in the Kootenays, Bootleg Spirits uses organic, BC grown ingredients and uses their own recipes to make small batch whiskey, spirits and liqueurs with 15 years of distilling experience. Honeycomb Cream, Oat & Honey, JOE and Cabin Fever are available for purchase at local beer and wine stores, or online at bootlegspirits.ca.
Fernie Roasting Company
New on the scene, Fernie Roasting Company started in 2020 and provides fresh, small batch coffee to locals and visitors of the Elk Valley through custom roasting. You can order online or find them at the Local Store and Mugshots Café in downtown Fernie, and at the Elko Hilltop. Or, order online at fernieroasting.ca.
Passionate about all things local, Krista Turcasso finds it easy to support these unique and tasty brewers, roasters and distillers!