McManamy Distillery

McManamy - a bit of history

With its name, the distillery wants to pay tribute to Daniel McManamy, a progressive and influential politician who distinguished himself in Sherbrooke at the end of the 19th century.

Daniel McManamy was born in Ireland on December 29, 1839 and settled in Sherbrooke in 1868. After representing his fellow citizens on several occasions as a municipal councilor, he was elected mayor of the city in 1893. He contributed, among other things , the construction of stone sidewalks and the development of Victoria and Racine parks.

But he became known above all for his determination to obtain the municipalization of electricity production for the benefit of the common good. It is to him, in large part, that we owe the creation of Hydro-Sherbrooke. The distillery is now inspired by its great involvement with its fellow citizens and its community to contribute positively to the development of the community.

In addition to all this, let's highlight a decisive fact which makes McManamy a perfect name for a Sherbrooke distillery. Daniel McManamy traded wines and spirits in his retail store, D. McManamy & Co, located at the corner of King Street West and Rue des Grandes-Fourches. Note also that his company would be the last to have produced spirits in Sherbrooke since he would have bottled and sold whiskey there under his own trademark. His business was very recognized in Sherbrooke and the surrounding area. Finally, as part of his political commitment, Mr. McManamy also spoke out publicly against the prohibitionist policies which were gaining more and more ground at the time.

In memory of this great Sherbrooke resident, we raise our glass with the wish to also leave our mark on people here and elsewhere, with high-quality products, made with heart and commitment.

Today's McManamy Distillery is Sherbrooke's first modern distillery. It opened in eastern Sherbrooke in 2023, aiming to produce uniquely flavoured spirits, made with premium quality ingredients.

Its founder, Pierre-Luc Dusseault, is known for his long-standing involvement in the community. He therefore wants his company to also participate in collective development and echo the social actions of the businessman and politician, Daniel McManamy (1839-1919), whose name the distillery bears.