Meet Clifford Bell, the CEO behind Milwest Distillery & Spiritis. Pick up some of Milwest’s carefully crafted bottles during the Downtown Farmers’ Market.
How would you describe your business?
“Milwest Distillery & Spirits is a proudly Alberta-made, farm-to-glass distillery rooted in the Westlock agricultural community. As part of the Westlock Terminals New Generation Co-op, we use locally grown grain from our farming community to create premium spirits that celebrate Alberta agriculture and the people behind it.
“Our lineup includes Silo Vodka, distilled 21 times for an exceptionally smooth finish; Sentinel Gin, crafted with 12 carefully selected botanicals; Liquor-ish, our signature anise-flavoured liqueur; and our newest release, Barn Burner, a spiced liqueur. We are also excited about our whisky currently in development, which will be released when it has reached the quality and character we are striving for.”
What makes your business stand out?
“Our story begins with the farmer. Every bottle starts with grain grown by local producers in our community. What makes us unique is that we are not just creating spirits—we are creating a connection between Alberta agriculture, rural communities, and the people who enjoy our products. Every bottle represents the hard work, pride, and dedication of the people behind it.
“I was raised in the Westlock area, where agriculture and community have always been at the heart of who I am. Building Milwest Distillery & Spirits has allowed me to bring those values together by supporting local farmers, showcasing Alberta-grown grain, and creating a product that celebrates the community we are proud to call home.”
Out of all your products, which is your favourite?
“I don’t personally drink alcohol, but I have a tremendous appreciation for the craftsmanship, dedication, and teamwork that goes into creating every bottle of Milwest.
“If you asked my wife, Lori, she would say Silo Vodka is her favourite. Distilled 21 times, it has an exceptionally smooth finish and is a great example of how quality Alberta grain can be transformed into a premium spirit.
“I am also very excited about our upcoming whisky. Creating it has been a journey that requires patience and dedication, and we look forward to sharing it with our customers when the time is right.”
What does it mean to you to be a part of the Downtown Farmers’ Market?
“Being part of the Edmonton Downtown Farmers’ Market is especially meaningful to me because Edmonton is not only a community we serve—it is also a community I am proud to be part of. Living downtown has allowed me to experience firsthand the energy, diversity, and passion people have for supporting local businesses, local producers, and Alberta-made products.
“The market creates a unique connection between the people who grow, create, and share Alberta products and the people who enjoy them. It gives us the opportunity to bring the story of our Westlock farming community to Edmonton—to share the dedication of our local farmers, the journey of Alberta-grown grain, and the craftsmanship behind every bottle.
“From our hometown to your glass, thank you for supporting Alberta agriculture and the people who make it possible.”
See what else Milwest Distillery & Spirits has to offer on their website, and follow them on Instagram here.