Last Best Brewing & Distilling
Last Best Brewing & Distilling opened its doors in May 2015. The name Last Best draws from Calgary’s eclectic history. At the end of the 1800s, the Canadian government launched a campaign called ‘The Last Best West’; it’s purpose was to populate the western prairies and grow agriculture in Canada. The administration believed that this area was the Last Best chance in the modern world for homesteaders to lay roots and shape their futures. The accomplishments resulting from the Last Best initiative have paved the way for the budding craft beer and distilling industries here in Alberta. Last Best Brewing & Distilling honours this historical spirit through its name and unwavering commitment to making delicious well-crafted beer, spirits and Alberta-inspired cuisine.
Author: Caroline Porsiel
Caroline Porsiel is a master distiller and liqueurist based in East Ellijay, Georgia. She founded House of Applejay, a fine spirits and liqueur distillery, in 2022 with her mother, Sabine, crafting award-winning products like Applejay from Ellijay, Mt. Frozen Knob Vodka, and Winter Cherry Mountain Liqueur. The distillery won a 2024 Best of Georgia Award and a 2025 Double Gold Medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition for its Winter Cherry Mountain Liqueur. As a founding member of the AMBRU Campaign, launched in 2020, Porsiel advocates for the global recognition of American Brandy and Rum. She continues to drive innovation in the craft spirits industry from her active distillery in the heart of Georgia’s apple country.
