Your Next Great Detour: Inside Rig Hand Distillery
You don’t have to go far to find something unexpected. Just a short drive from the Renaissance Edmonton Airport Hotel, Rig Hand Distillery blends Alberta-grown grain with bold ideas and a clear sense of local pride.
It’s more than just a place for good drinks. It’s the kind of spot that turns a free afternoon into something worth remembering.
Crafted Close to Home
Rig Hand was the first craft distillery in the area and they’ve stayed true to their roots from the beginning. Every spirit is made from grain to glass, using ingredients grown nearby. That includes corn from Spruce Grove, barley from Camrose, and wheat from nearby farms. What ends up in your glass is Alberta through and through.
They’re also the creators of Alberta’s own corn whisky. It’s made using the same method as bourbon, offering that same rich and smooth taste. The biggest difference is the label.
This one proudly represents the province.
More Than a Distillery
Rig Hand keeps things interesting with a packed calendar of events. Every Tuesday night, they host Tucker Tuesday, a live music series featuring Bradley Tucker and rotating guests. It’s relaxed, welcoming, and pairs perfectly with whatever you’re sipping.
If you’re curious about how their spirits come to life, sign up for Distilling 101 or 201. These courses are held right inside the working distillery and give you a hands-on look at the craft. It’s educational, but also a lot of fun.
There are seasonal events too. Date Night: Flower Party mixes floral design with cocktails for a creative night out. In September, the Western Canadian Carving Championship brings serious talent and some very loud chainsaws to the property. This year’s event runs from September 17th to 21st.
Laid-Back, Scenic, and Full of Character
Rig Hand’s new location feels like an old western town with a modern twist. The outdoor space has a manicured lawn perfect for lawn games, hangouts, and fireside chats. Inside the tasting room, you’ll find rustic charm and a menu of fresh food made with Rig Hand spirits.
Upstairs, the event hall and patio overlook Saunders Lake. The space features hand-built beams and wide-open views, making it ideal for weddings, birthdays, workshops, and celebrations of all kinds. It can host up to 120 guests comfortably.
They also offer full tours and tastings, a dog-friendly patio, and daily food and drink service. It’s the kind of place where the atmosphere is as welcoming as the people.
Make It Your Next Stop
If Rig Hand Distillery sounds like your kind of place, there’s an easy way to make it part of your stay.
Our Stay & Savour package connects you with local experiences handpicked by our Lead Navigator, and Rig Hand Distillery is one of the featured options. Whether you're into small-batch spirits, live music, or just looking to explore somewhere unexpected, this could be your next great detour.
We take care of the planning so you can focus on the experience. Let us help you discover the best of the region, one sip at a time.
Book your Stay & Savour experience now at halobarbistro.ca/stay-savour-package