Stony's Sector Spotlight: Truewood Timber & Furniture

Differentiation and Innovation

“Our mission is to enhance mixology and showcase the versatility of bitters beyond the bar,” explains Michelle. In her spare time, she experiments with her bitters in food and mocktails, constantly exploring unique flavour pairings to create tastes she could not find in existing mixology products within the market.

As a 100% female-owned business, Michelle brings a distinctive perspective, strong leadership, and fresh innovation to the industry. Michelle takes extraordinary pride in being an exception, something that aligns with her lengthy background in the construction industry.

Today, she offers ten distinct flavours of bitters. Standouts include Root Beer, Grapefruit & Lavender, and Bacon & Spice, alongside more traditional varieties. Her product line also features infused syrups and cocktail garnish “pinwheels” designed to elevate any drink presentation.

With a noticeable shift toward mindful drinking and the rise of the sober-curious movement, there’s a growing demand for flavourful, low alcohol alternatives. Michelle recognized this emerging market and responded by creating educational content and hands-on workshops that showcase the versatility of bitters beyond the bar. From mocktails to morning coffee, imagine a dash of chocolate bitters enhancing your daily brew, there’s untapped potential in everyday uses. Michelle is seizing this opportunity to redefine how bitters are used, helping consumers see them as essential ingredients for both cocktails and creative, spirit-free experiences.

Middleton’s many Milestones

In 2024, Middleton’s was recognized as one of Canada’s top bitters producers, earning accolades at the Canadian Artisanal Distillery Association Awards. Her bitters took home three honors: two silver medals for Cherry & Vanilla and Mint & Blueberry in the Fruity category, and a bronze for Bacon & Spice in the Earthy/Smoky category. This recognition is a significant achievement, especially for a newcomer in a market filled with well -established competitors.

Middleton’s products have a strong presence across Alberta, having appeared at major events such as Winefest, the Alberta Spirits and Cocktail Festival, and the Rocky Mountain Food and Wine Festival. They have also built a loyal following through appearances at farmers markets and local vendor events, including Midsummer Thursdays.

Beyond Alberta, Middleton’s has expanded its reach nationwide. Their award-winning products are now available in most Canadian provinces, from Northern British Columbia to the shores of Nova Scotia, cementing their growing influence in the craft cocktail space.

Ethical and Community Oriented

Middleton’s takes pride in being deeply rooted in the community. The business operates with a deliberate effort to not only source ingredients from local producers but also to partner with local service providers who help support and grow the business. Locally sourced ingredients such as, rhubarb, apples, and bacon are featured prominently in her products. Behind the scenes, Michelle collaborates with local accountants, graphic designers, and printers, making Middleton’s a truly locally inspired brand.

Michelle shared her reasoning behind these decisions “By working with local farmers, growers, and producers, we help strengthen the regional economy. These collaborations not only help us maintain a strong, efficient operation but also contribute to the success of other local entrepreneurs and service providers.”

Sustainability is also a key part of Middleton’s ethos. The company works with producers who use sustainable farming practices to help reduce the environmental impact of its ingredients. From raw materials sourcing to its eco-friendly product packaging, Middleton’s aims to minimize its carbon footprint every step of the way.

Michelle prides herself on the ethics of her business “Middleton’s Bitters not only strives to create a high-quality product but also ensures that we operate responsibly, with respect for both the environment and the communities we serve.”

Middleton’s Moves for the Future

Looking ahead, there are plans to introduce new bitters flavours, syrups, and dehydrated garnishes, broadening the current lineup. Recognizing the growing interest in wellness, Middleton’s is exploring plans to launch a low-calorie, non-alcoholic ready to serve beverage. New bitters may include lines with functional ingredients, such as those that support liver health, to align with modern wellness trends.

Middleton’s also aims to further expand its reach both across Canada and internationally. A core focus is on increasing restaurant partnerships and becoming the go-to bitters brand for consumers and bartenders alike. Currently, Middleton’s products are available in sixty retail locations nationwide and are featured in fifteen restaurants, including KC’s in Stony Plain, where they’re used in the house Old Fashioned. Other regional establishments like Barbaretta, Barbacoa, and Anohka also showcase Middleton’s in their signature cocktails.

From locally focused ingredient sourcing to the mindful selection of packaging materials, Middleton’s Bitters & Bar Supplies continually reviews its processes to uphold environmental responsibility. Looking ahead, the company is taking deliberate steps to further reduce its environmental impact and set new standards for ethical and sustainable practices within the cocktail industry, cementing its role as a forward-thinking leader in the field.