Our Story

Drawing inspiration from our colorful heritage.

Our name, ‘Wooden Walls' pays homage to the sturdy oak-hulled steamers of the 1800s, vital for Newfoundland's seal hunt in the North Atlantic, embodying tales of resilience and heritage.

Centred around the town and its history

Our logo embraces the beauty of the St. John’s harbour, featuring the silhouette of the South Side hills, as well as a bottle doubling as the hull of the ship, encasing the sails of the steamers in-between

Capturing the essence of “Wooden Walls".

Sailors, sealers, and islanders hailed the oak-hulled steamers as 'Wooden Walls', transporting them to 'The Front' during Newfoundland's seal hunt. Our name pays tribute to these storied vessels, crafted from greenheart oak trees in Scotland. Commissioned in the 1800s to brave the North Atlantic's harshest conditions, these ships from the world's prime whisky-producing region have a unique place in our history. As steel hulls emerged, 'Wooden Walls' endured as legends, intertwining tales spun over our finest libations.

Immerse in History at Templeton’s Building

Our home, nestled in the historic Templeton's Building, resonates with heritage as a former merchant's store and pier. Here, you'll embark on a grain-to-glass journey, immersing yourself in the art of craft distilling, deeply rooted in Newfoundland's captivating storytelling culture.

Join us on the waterfront in historic St. John’s.

Embrace the legacy of our island through our craft spirits, as we raise a glass to our city's heritage and future. Explore Wooden Walls Distilling at 140 Harbour Drive—a testament to quality ingredients, small-batch excellence, and the craftsmanship that defines Newfoundland.

Four bottles of Wooden Walls Distilling liquor on a wooden ledge on the edge of the St. John’s harbour front, with a scenic background of houses and cliffs across the water.
A bartender making a cocktail at a bar; pouring a light yellow liquid from a bottle into a metallic jigger, with a citrus fruit and a bottle in the background.
Sign reading 'Wooden Walls Distilling' with tags 'Distillery', 'Shop', 'Cocktails', leaning against brown wall in hallway.