In the heart of Summerland, BC, Controlled Entropy Distilling pioneers craft spirits with precision and passion, blending innovation, sustainability, and local pride into each meticulously crafted bottle.

In the quaint town of Summerland, BC, a new venture is shaking up the craft spirits scene through innovation, sustainability, and local heart. Controlled Entropy Distilling, founded in 2023, is the brainchild of husband and wife Shea and Nahome, who turned their passion for spirits and love for their hometown into a business that reflects both. 

The memorial name ‘Controlled Entropy’—with ‘entropy’ meaning chaos, disorganisation, or randomness—encapsulates the core of their distillation process. It’s a deliberate play on the scientific principle that distilling is essentially the manipulation of alcohol’s entropy. Creating quality spirits is about knowing how to properly control this entropy, which this duo has mastered. 

At the heart of Controlled Entropy is a commitment to quality and creativity. Unlike the mass-produced spirits that dominate the market, this distillery takes pride in its grain-to-glass philosophy. Every bottle that comes out of Controlled Entropy is the result of meticulous selection of wheat grown in Northern BC, fermented and distilled on-site in Summerland. This hands-on approach ensures that every sip carries the essence of its origin, a tribute to the local land and its bounty.

Shea and Nahome are not just business owners, they’re craftsmen, artists, and scientists. Their journey into the world of distilling wasn’t a mere chance encounter but a culmination of a lifelong curiosity about how things are made and a desire to create something truly exceptional. This journey has led to a distillery where art meets science, where each batch of spirits is not just produced but created with precision and care.

The choice of Summerland as the home base for their craft spirits company was no coincidence. Raised in the South Okanagan, the founders wanted to contribute to the region’s growing reputation as a hub for alcohol tourism. They saw an opportunity not just to add to the local economy but to become part of a community that values quality, sustainability, and innovation. Summerland, with its vibrant food and drink scene, small-town charm, and stunning landscapes, was the perfect backdrop for their vision.

Starting a distillery from scratch is no small feat, especially in a competitive industry that’s as much about tradition as it is about innovation. Controlled Entropy has faced its share of challenges, from construction delays due to a worker shortage to navigating the unforeseen obstacles posed by nature itself, like forest fires and rockslides. Yet, these hurdles only strengthened their resolve and commitment to their vision.

One of the most rewarding aspects of this venture for Shea and Nahome has been the community’s response. Meeting craft distillery enthusiasts who share their excitement for unique, artisanal spirits has served as a wealth of inspiration. Their lineup—featuring Toasted Coconut Vodka, Amaro, and Dry Hopped Gin (Shea’s personal favourite)—has reached cult-level popularity. But for them, it’s not merely about selling products; it’s about sharing a piece of their passion and story with every customer who walks through their doors.

Controlled Entropy’s approach to business is a reflection of their broader ethos: a blend of artisanal dedication and scientific precision, fun, and meticulousness. This unique balance is what sets them apart in a saturated market. They’re not just making spirits, they’re creating experiences, memories, and perhaps most importantly, connections.

This Valentine’s Day saw Controlled Entropy partner with Detonate Brewing, a craft brewery also based in Summerland building a strong reputation. Controlled Entropy was at the brewery, shaking, stirring, and pouring up love day inspired cocktails like their signature Love Bites and Kiss from a Rose, while Detonate Brewing brought the zest with their Key Lime Pie and a lineup of their best brews. The event was a perfect blend of craft spirits and beer, a showcase of how two artisanal worlds can merge to create an exceptional (and delicious) experience. 

This collaboration embodies the essence of community spirit, especially crucial in a post-COVID world where businesses are still rebounding. Such camaraderie and mutual support are pivotal in rebuilding, strengthening the local economy, and creating an atmosphere of resilience and unity—which is sorely needed in the liquor market. 

For those looking to make their mark in the craft spirits industry, Shea and Nahome offer a piece of advice: planning and patience are key. Understanding the intricacies of licensing, navigating the logistical challenges, and maintaining a clear vision amidst the chaos are essential components of success. But more than anything, it’s the passion for the craft, the belief in one’s product, and the support of a community that truly make a difference.

As Controlled Entropy Distilling continues to grow and evolve, it remains a testament to the power of innovation, the value of local sourcing, and the importance of community in the world of craft spirits. 

Their story is not just about creating ingenious liquor; it’s about a couple, in life and business, who dared to dream, to create, and to share their love for spirits with the world, one carefully crafted bottle at a time.

To learn more we invite you to visit them below:

https://controlledentropy.ca/ – Website

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