Best Coast Distillers has released a limited edition Wildfire Whisky featuring the iconic Martin Mars bomber — now available online and at the distillery. This special release celebrates one of British Columbia’s most legendary firefighting aircraft and supports the preservation of its legacy on Vancouver Island.
For over half a century, the massive red-and-white Mars aircraft fought wildfires across the province, dropping up to 27,000 litres of water in a single pass and earning a reputation as one of the most powerful firefighting tools in the world. Based for decades at Sproat Lake near Port Alberni, the Mars became a symbol of BC’s resilience — a familiar sight in smoky skies each summer.
Two Martin Mars bombers once called Vancouver Island home: the Hawaii Mars, now retired to the BC Aviation Museum in North Saanich, and its sister ship, the Philippine Mars, which now resides in Arizona. When the Hawaii Mars made its final landing in Pat Bay, crowds lined the shoreline to witness history, cheering as the legendary aircraft touched down one last time.
Now, just five minutes from Best Coast’s distillery, the Hawaii Mars Bomber sits proudly on display — a lasting testament to courage, craftsmanship, and community.
“WildFire Whisky was created to celebrate that same spirit — strength in the face of adversity, and the power of people coming together,” says Best Coast co-founder Corey Wood. “Honouring the Martin Mars Bomber feels like a natural fit. It’s a BC hero that deserves to be celebrated.”
A portion of the proceeds from this limited WildFire release will go directly toward supporting the restoration of the Martin Mars Bomber at the BC
Aviation Museum, helping preserve this piece of Canadian history for generations to come.
Community giving is at the heart of Best Coast’s mission. Other WildFire Whisky labels proudly support the Victoria Firefighters Charitable Foundation, helping fund initiatives that protect and strengthen communities across Vancouver Island.
With its smooth vanilla and a balanced cinnamon finish, WildFire Whisky captures the heat and heart of the West Coast. And this spring, the new Martin Mars Bomber label offers a rewarding option — a limited-edition bottle that not only tastes great but also supports two worthy causes close to home.
The Martin Mars Bomber Edition is now available in limited quantities through our online store and at the distillery.
online at bestcoastdistillers.com — but only while supplies last.
Plus early access to limited releases, small-batch drops, and distillery-only offers.
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