In response to ongoing trade tensions — primarily from Trump’s recent trade tariffs imposed on Canadian goods — many Canadians are choosing to buy Canadian. For local distillers, this is a chance to convince Canadians what the rest of the world may already know: We make great spirits.
In fact, supporting homegrown distilleries has become a point of pride, with consumers opting for high-quality Canadian whisky, vodka and gin instead of US-made alternatives. Brands such as Alberta Premium, Forty Creek and Crystal Head Vodka are gaining even more traction as shoppers prioritize domestic products. With an abundance of award-winning options, Canadians are proving that their spirits industry is stronger than ever.
Made in Canada: Canadian-made liquors to buy
Canada offers a diverse selection of high-quality spirits across various categories, all produced domestically. Here are some notable Canadian-made liquors:
Whisky:
- Alberta Premium: Produced by Alberta Distillers Ltd. in Calgary, Alberta, Alberta Premium is one of the few remaining 100% rye grain whiskies in North America. It has been recognized as "Canadian Whisky of the Year" multiple times.
- Lot No. 40: Crafted by Corby Spirit and Wine in Ontario, this 100% rye whisky is celebrated for its rich, spicy character and has garnered numerous awards.
- Forty Creek: Located in Grimsby, Ontario, Forty Creek produces a range of whiskies known for their smoothness and complexity, often incorporating unique barrel-aging techniques.
Vodka:
- Crystal Head vodka: Founded by actor Dan Aykroyd and artist John Alexander, this additive-free vodka is quadruple-distilled and filtered seven times. It’s renowned for its purity and distinctive skull-shaped bottle.
- Polar Ice: Produced by Corby Distilleries in Ontario, Polar Ice is a quadruple-distilled vodka made from Canadian corn, offering a smooth and clean taste.
Gin:
- Long Table Distillery: Cased in Vancouver, British Columbia, Long Table produces a variety of spirits, including their London Dry Gin, crafted from 100% Canadian grain-based spirits.
- Monashee Spirits: Located in Revelstoke, British Columbia, Monashee Spirits’ Ethos Gin was awarded Best in Class at the Canadian Artisan Spirit Competition in 2019.
Unique Canadian spirits:
- Acerum: A distinctive spirit from Quebec, Acerum is an eau-de-vie made by fermenting and distilling maple syrup, offering a unique taste reflective of Canada’s maple heritage.
- Schramm Organic potato vodka: Produced by Pemberton Distillery in British Columbia, this vodka is made from locally sourced organic potatoes, providing a rich and creamy profile.
These selections highlight the quality and diversity of Canadian spirits, providing excellent options for those seeking domestically produced liquors. Availability may vary by region and retailer; it’s advisable to consult local liquor stores or provincial liquor boards for specific offerings.
This article Canadians ditch US spirits: The shift toward local liquor highlights Canada’s exceptional distilleries
This article provides information only and should not be construed as advice. It is provided without warranty of any kind.
