Charles West and Carie DeRuiter at 11th Annual Judging of Craft Spirits in Baltimore Maryland.

— from Charles West —

Orcas Island Distillery was awarded Best in Category Gold, Silver and Bronze Medals at the Award Ceremony for the 11th Annual Judging of Craft Spirits in Baltimore Maryland on Apr. 7.

The Distillery competed with its Eau de Vie, Gin and Apple Brandy against three hundred distilleries from eighteen different countries and forty-four states. More than eight hundred different spirits were entered in the competition.

Says Senior Distiller Charles West, “It’s really exciting to know that although we are a very small distillery that uses only locally grown fruits and grains, our spirits are nationally recognized for their excellence.”

This year marks only the third year that the Distillery has been in business, yet in that time it’s Eau de Vie has been recognized twice as Best in Category and the Distillery has won three Gold Medals, one Silver Medal, and one Bronze.

West adds, “We couldn’t do it without the unique, locally grown, heritage fruit found here in the San Juans and the support of our community. Our thanks to all of you.”

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