Distillerie O’Dwyer: A Young Business on the Rise

In just one year of activity, O’Dwyer Distillery has established itself as one of the major commercial success stories in Gaspésie. Known for its flagship creation, the Radoune gin — the world’s first craft gin made from wild mushrooms — the distillery continues to grow while staying deeply rooted in its territory.

A Name Rich in History

The name O’Dwyer pays tribute to Gaspésie’s Irish roots and to two important figures in the founders’ lives. In Gaelic, “O’Dwyer” means son of, symbolizing heritage and transmission — values at the very heart of the company’s identity.

A Defining Encounter

The project was born from the meeting of Michael Briand, an engineer, and Frédéric Jacques, a Ph.D. in organic chemistry. Both passionate about distillation, they combined their skills and benefited from strong family support to bring their vision to life.

Beginnings Marked by Challenges

Obtaining the necessary permits, meeting strict regulations, and convincing the SAQ (Société des alcools du Québec) required rigor and perseverance. Thanks to an early marketing strategy, the distillery secured its first order of 4,800 bottles — despite having an initial production capacity for only 1,200.

Steady Growth and Expanded Distribution

Today, O’Dwyer products are available in Quebec, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Ontario, with projects in the works for expansion into the United States, Europe, and Japan. Each new market involves careful adaptation to local regulations and targeted promotional efforts.

Local Ingredients and Unique Expertise

The Radoune gin recipe is based on wild mushrooms harvested in Gaspésie by certified partners. This approach ensures both authenticity and a distinctive aromatic signature for every batch produced.

Diversification and Long-Term Vision

Beyond gin, the distillery is developing aged spirits — rum and whisky — and is investing in barley cultivation to produce its own grains. It also advocates for the growth of local support industries, such as cooperage, to strengthen the regional economy.