When most people picture nightlife, they might not think of stargazing and the northern lights. But Jasperites aren’t most people, and during the Jasper Dark Sky Festival the lives of both locals and visitors become a tad nocturnal in a very outdoorsy way.  

But that doesn’t mean we don’t also enjoy raising a glass when the sun goes down. Toast to the beauty of the night sky with Dark Sky Distillery’s Aurora Gin, the official liquor partner of the Jasper Dark Sky Festival. This unique three-week celebration of science, art, and culture was a perfect fit for the international award-winning Alberta distillery, whose identity is rooted in community and sustainability. It’s a celestial match that brings people together under the stars, one sip at a time.

Aurora Gin will be available in Jasper throughout the festival. Dedicated events include:

• Oct. 20 – Science of Cocktails – Enjoy a flavourful evening experience at Jasper Pizza Place as we add the fun into cocktail/pizza pairings.
• Oct. 21 – Science of Distilling – Join Kristina Craig, owner/distiller of Dark Sky Distillery, as she shares her passion behind the craft. Learn about the distillery’s cutting-edge, state-of-the-art stills as well as other innovations used to reduce the carbon footprint while leaving an unforgettable impression.
• Oct. 21 – Dark Sky Distillery Tasting – Gather at Jasper Liquor Store & Wine Cellar as we welcome the award-winning Dark Sky Distillery! Sample the Official Gin of the Jasper Dark Sky Festival along with their platinum award winning Stormy Vodka and try their newest addition, Nova, delicious ready-to-drink crushable sparkling cocktails.

The family-operated Dark Sky Distillery is part of a dark sky community located in Sturgeon County, Alberta. Their eco-friendly, grain-to-glass process minimizes the company’s carbon footprint by using solar power and recycling water to power their energy-efficient stills.

‍Tasting Notes for Aurora Gin

This vibrant and exotic gin dances on the palate. Whether savoured on the rocks or mixed into your preferred cocktail, it will win over even those who aren’t typically gin enthusiasts. It was carefully curated using a harmonious blend of eight handpicked botanicals, including locally grown haskap berries. As you indulge, the smooth and well-balanced profile reveals a delightful spiciness. With an intoxicatingly full-bodied experience, this exceptional gin boasts a remarkable 44% ABV, ensuring a truly memorable drinking experience.

Pairings:

Dark Sky Distillery is driven by our mission to embrace uniqueness and dare to be different. While we take great pride in our premium sippable spirits, designed to be savoured straight over ice, we recognize that not everyone prefers the intensity of a 44% ABV spirit on its own. Rather than masking the remarkable flavours of our gin, we meticulously craft cocktails that elevate and enhance its distinctive character. Here are some of our curated suggestions:

Northern Lights Martini:

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Aurora Gin
• 1 oz Elderflower Liqueur
• 1/2 oz Fresh Lemon Juice
• 1/2 oz Simple Syrup
• Edible Glitter or Shimmer Dust (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.

2. Add Aurora Gin, elderflower liqueur, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup to the shaker.

3. Shake vigorously until well chilled.

4. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.

5. If desired, sprinkle a pinch of edible glitter or shimmer dust on top for a mesmerizing effect reminiscent of the Northern Lights.

6. Serve and enjoy this enchanting gin cocktail that captures the vibrancy of Aurora Gin.

Jasper Frost:

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Aurora Gin

• 1 oz Fresh Grapefruit Juice
• 1/2 oz Fresh Lime Juice
• 1/2 oz Simple Syrup
• 4-6 Fresh Mint Leaves
• Grapefruit Twist (for garnish)

• Sprig of Fresh Mint (for garnish)

Instructions:

7. Muddle the fresh mint leaves gently in a mixing glass to release their aromatic oils.

8. Fill the glass with ice and add Aurora Gin, fresh grapefruit juice, fresh lime juice, and simple syrup.

9. Stir well to combine the ingredients.

10. Strain the mixture into a chilled cocktail glass.

11. Garnish with a twist of grapefruit peel and a sprig of fresh mint.

12. Take a sip and let the refreshing flavours of the Jasper Frost cocktail transport you to the stunning landscapes of Jasper, perfectly complementing the vibrant and exotic nature of Aurora Gin with the bright citrus notes of grapefruit and the coolness of fresh mint.