First things first – I want to give you the opportunity to practice what I am about to preach by offering the space for a mindful moment.

Take a deep breath for 4 seconds – I mean really deep – feel your belly expand. Hold for 4 seconds. Exhale for 6 seconds. Repeat 3 times. CONGRATULATIONS! You’ve just calmed your nervous system and I am about to tell you why we should do that way more often!

My move to Victoria, BC coincided with a newfound appreciation for a “quality over quantity” approach to alcohol, and fortunately Vancouver Island hosts some of the best-of-the-best artisanal spirit creators. So, where does the post-pandemic path lead for distilleries and how will their role in local tourism be impacted?