The 13 Peaks Story

Nestled in the valley that houses the impressive Valhalla Mountains, Tonik Distillery has small, humble, beginnings. This rustic and rural Kootenay distillery creates the most incredible products, most notably the 13 Peaks spirits. Our libations are crafted with only pure, natural ingredients resulting in complex flavours and aromas added to each of the delightful spirits we create. Using pure glacier water that has made its way down from the Valhalla Mountains, each spirit is uniquely touched by these heavenly-inspired mountains.

There’s something magical about taking a sip of one of the amazing creations made by this small rural distillery. Tonik does not use the trendy, flowery, botanicals that many of our competitors have introduced, rather the flavours are traditional yet unique and pure. You will be coming back for more once you have tasted these products.

Inspired by our pristine, natural surroundings 13 Peaks is a tribute to those peaks surrounding Mulvey Basin and the stories of locals who have inspired us. In 2017, Vince Hempsall and David Lussier climbed all 13 Peaks of this Valhalla range in one day – a feat never accomplished before. These peaks included Gimli Peak, Gladsheim Peak, and Wolf’s Ears Twin Peaks, which inspired our product line. Their incredible story can be found here.

Tonik Distillery is owned by a small group of people with deep connections to Nelson. Our master distiller was raised on a family farm that grew grains for the sole purpose of beer and spirit production. He knows first-hand how quality ingredients, traditional distilling methods and innovative techniques combine to make products that are truly amazing! The other owners have family roots that go back generations, ensuring that each creation is truly Nelson-inspired.

Whether you’re an experienced connoisseur of spirits or just starting to explore, take a journey with this small rural distillery and discover why our creations are so special!