Top Canada Day Drinks to Celebrate With

Canada Day is the perfect time to gather with friends and family, fire up the grill, and enjoy some of the best beverages our nation has to offer. Whether you're toasting with a classic Canadian whisky or sipping on a refreshing craft beer, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Here are some top Canadian drinks to help you celebrate this Canada Day in true Canadian style.

1. Canadian Whisky

No Canada Day celebration is complete without a taste of authentic Canadian whisky. Known for its smooth and often slightly sweet flavor, Canadian whisky is a versatile choice. Popular brands include Crown Royal, Canadian Club, and Forty Creek. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or mixed into a classic cocktail like a whisky sour or an old-fashioned, Canadian whisky is a staple for any patriotic celebration.

2. Craft Beer

Canada boasts a vibrant craft beer scene, with breweries across the country producing unique and flavorful beers. From IPAs to stouts, there’s a craft beer for every palate. Look for local favorites from breweries such as Steam Whistle, Moosehead, and Granville Island Brewing. Craft beer is perfect for a laid-back Canada Day barbecue or picnic.

3. Ice Wine

Ice wine is a true Canadian specialty, renowned for its sweet, rich flavor. Made from grapes that have naturally frozen on the vine, this dessert wine is a luxurious treat. Ontario’s Niagara region is famous for its ice wines, with Inniskillin and Peller Estates being top producers. Serve ice wine chilled, either on its own or paired with a dessert like cheesecake or fruit tart.

4. Caesar

The Caesar is a classic Canadian cocktail, often compared to the Bloody Mary but with a distinctive twist. Made with vodka, Clamato juice, hot sauce, and Worcestershire sauce, it’s typically garnished with celery and a lime wedge. For an extra Canadian touch, rim the glass with celery salt. The Caesar is a great choice for brunch or as a refreshing drink during your Canada Day festivities.

5. Maple Liqueur

Maple syrup isn’t just for pancakes. Maple liqueur combines the rich, sweet flavor of maple syrup with the warmth of alcohol, making for a delicious and unique drink. Enjoy it on its own, over ice, or as a sweet addition to cocktails. Sortilège and Cabot Trail are popular brands to look out for.

6. Sparkling Wine

Toast to Canada with a glass of sparkling wine from one of the country’s excellent wineries. Canada’s cool climate produces some high-quality sparkling wines, particularly in regions like British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley and Ontario’s Prince Edward County. These wines are perfect for adding a touch of elegance to your celebration.

Perfect Pairings for Your Canada Day Celebrations

Pairing these drinks with delicious foods will elevate your Canada Day celebrations. Here are some classic pairings:

• Canadian Whisky: Pair with grilled steaks or BBQ ribs for a robust and hearty meal.
• Craft Beer: Perfect with burgers, hot dogs, or a variety of grilled sausages. Add some poutine on the side for a truly Canadian feast.
• Ice Wine: Enjoy with a cheese platter or sweet treats like butter tarts and Nanaimo bars.
• Caesar: Ideal for a brunch spread with eggs, bacon, and pancakes. Also, a great starter for a BBQ party.
• Maple Liqueur: Sip alongside a dessert course featuring maple-flavored desserts, such as maple cream pie or maple cookies.
• Sparkling Wine: Serve with light appetizers like shrimp cocktails, smoked salmon, or a fresh fruit salad.

Conclusion

Canada Day is a time to celebrate our great nation and what better way to do so than with some of our finest drinks. From the robust flavors of Canadian whisky to the refreshing taste of craft beer, there’s something to suit every taste. So, gather your loved ones, raise a glass, and toast to Canada. Cheers!