Aquavit Belle-Isle is a Canadian aquavit produced by Absintherie des Cantons, a family-run microdistillery in Granby, Quebec. It is a clear, unaged eau-de-vie bottled at 40% ABV in 750 ml bottles.
The aquavit is distilled in a traditional Charentais pot still equipped with a bain-marie heating system. According to the producer, this method provides even heating during distillation and helps preserve the balance of the aromatics.
Caraway, dill and fennel form the main botanical profile, accompanied by citrus and spices including coriander, cardamom and grains of paradise (maniguette). The product is described as a flavoured eau-de-vie rather than a conventional gin or absinthe.
Aquavit Belle-Isle received a Silver Medal in the Aquavit category at the World Drinks Awards in 2022. It can be enjoyed on its own or used in cocktails, with the producer specifically mentioning the Bloody Caesar.
Bottle gallery
About the producer
Absintherie des Cantons
Granby, Quebec, Canada
Absintherie des Cantons is a family-run microdistillery located in Granby, in Quebec’s Eastern Townships. The distillery was founded by Jean-Philippe Doyon together with his parents and business partners and began operating commercially in 2017.
Doyon’s interest in absinthe began with a tasting in 2013. He subsequently studied the history and production of absinthe and travelled to France and Switzerland, visiting distilleries and learning about traditional production methods. After returning to Quebec, he established Absintherie des Cantons with a focus on producing spirits rooted in Quebec’s terroir.
The distillery initially launched with three main products: Fleur Bleue absinthe, Joual Vert absinthe and Wendigo sea buckthorn gin. Its range later expanded to include Aquavit Belle-Isle and other spirits.
The distillery produces its spirits in small batches and describes its approach as slow and careful distillation. It also uses plants grown locally and harvested by hand. In 2022, three of its spirits received awards at the World Drinks Awards, including a Silver Medal for Aquavit Belle-Isle. Its Fleur Bleue absinthe was named World’s Best Absinthe at the same competition.
Absintherie des Cantons remains a family business and operates a tasting room at its distillery in Granby.