Jaime Landry had long dreamed of starting her own business. When she was just 19, she founded Black Harbour Distillers. Now that she has completed her Commerce Degree at Dalhousie University, she can focus on running Black Harbour Distillers. Black Harbour imports the finest raw products from across Canada and the world, which they use to manufacture blended spirits and ready-to-drink beverages. Their process includes slow charcoal filtering, refining, and polishing before blending with Nova Scotian ingredients. We spoke with Landry to learn more.
What is your business called and what does it do?
Black Harbour Distillers is located in Hubbards, Nova Scotia. We create unique, premium spirits inspired by Atlantic Canada, including our Moon Mist Vodka, Lobster Vodka, 902 Rum, and handcrafted ready-to-drink options. Beyond making spirits, we’ve built a destination where people can gather for live music, bingo, cocktails, and community events.
What made you want to do this work?
I started Black Harbour Distillers when I was 19, inspired by my family; my grandfather made moonshine, and my great-grandfather was a rum runner. I wanted to create products that tell stories and give people something they’re proud to share, while creating a place that gives back to the community. A first-year DAL course pushed me to begin when we were asked to create a business plan; I chose to base mine on starting a distillery.
What problem did you want to solve with the business?
I felt the spirits industry lacked brands that truly celebrated Atlantic Canada’s culture and personality. I wanted to prove that a small Nova Scotia distillery could create world-class products with unforgettable branding and experiences while becoming a community hub, not just a place that makes alcohol. We needed fun flavours on the market!
Who are your clientele/demographics?
Our customers are primarily adults aged 25–55 who enjoy supporting local businesses, trying unique craft products, and discovering new experiences. We also welcome tourists visiting Nova Scotia and people looking for a fun destination to gather with friends and family.
How does your business make money? How does it work?
We sell our spirits directly from our distillery, through Nova Scotia and Newfoundland liquor stores, and to restaurants, bars, and other licensed establishments and shipping across Canada. We also generate revenue through our cocktail bar, special events, private bookings, merchandise, and seasonal experiences at the distillery.
Where in the city can we find your profession?
You can find us at Black Harbour Distillers in Hubbards, just 30 minutes from Halifax. Our products are also available in select NSLC stores across Nova Scotia and Newfoundland Liquor stores, as well as at Harvest, Westside and Rockhead.
What is the best question a prospective customer could ask a member of your profession when comparing services? Give the answer as well.
Every product we create starts with a story. We don’t chase trends—we create unique spirits inspired by Atlantic Canada using high-quality ingredients and multiple charcoal and copper filtration processes for exceptional smoothness. Every bottle is crafted to be memorable, whether it’s the flavour, the story, or the experience behind it.
What is the best part about what you do? What is the worst part?
The best part is seeing people connect over something we’ve created—whether it’s spotting one of our bottles on a store shelf, hearing customers share their favourite cocktail, or watching our distillery become a gathering place for the community. The hardest part is wearing so many hats as a small business owner. Every day brings new challenges, but that’s also what makes it rewarding.
What is your favourite joke about your own profession?
“People think owning a distillery means I spend all day drinking… the reality is I spend most of my day answering emails and moving boxes!” 🍸
Where can we follow you?
You can follow Black Harbour Distillers on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and our website. We’re always sharing new product launches, cocktail recipes, behind-the-scenes moments, and upcoming events.
PAY IT FORWARD: What is another local business that you love?
Cut Once Construction. This local carpentry team brought all our visions to life, creating both an amazing and welcoming gathering space and a warehouse we are beyond proud to make our products in. They transformed this local 100-year-old school building into the home of Black Harbour Distillers, something we are beyond honoured to have.
