An award-winning family-owned and operated distillery on the Saanich Peninsula has announced its closure.
On Tuesday, September 17th, the team at DEVINE Distillery shared their difficult decision to close their doors after struggling for several years.
In an interview with co-owner Kevin Titcomb, he shared that there was no single reason, but rather a few contributing factors that steadily piled up, making the reality of operating ‘tremendously difficult.’
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“Our industry in particular right now is struggling, whether it be the small craft producers or larger commercial operations,” Titcomb said.
“Increased operational costs, reduced revenues, the continued reduction of alcohol consumption as a whole, it all has an effect on the bottom line.”
Additionally, because of their farm-based location, they face a number of constraints. The biggest, he shared, was due to their water supply, which comes from a well. Drought conditions forced them to drastically cut back on production.
The birth of DEVINE began in 2007 when Titcomb’s in-laws, John and Catherine Windsor, purchased the property and started the original vineyard and winery business.
Titcomb and his wife Kirsten began operating DEVINE nine years ago, building a wonderful community of loyal staff, local farming partners, fellow distillers, the farmer’s market community, and devoted customers—which is exactly what Titcomb will take away from this experience.
“We consider ourselves so lucky to have been surrounded by such a wonderful community all these years. That is something we will miss dearly.”
When asked what their future will hold, Titcomb shared that his in-laws’ residence is on the property, so they’ll continue to farm the property as a vineyard, with the grapes now being used by Unsworth Vineyards in the Cowichan Valley.
He also mentioned that for those hoping to score some of the last DEVINE spirits, you can purchase directly from them online or at the shop from Monday to Friday, open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Plus, you can find their products at most private liquor stores or restaurants and bars throughout Greater Victoria.
