Th
e reputation of Canadian wine used to be less than stellar. However, times have definitely changed, and many Canadian wines now stack up against the best in the world. As someone who has pursued several certifications in wine and spirits over the past few years, I’ve probably been exposed to more wines than the average person. I must say I remain impressed with many wines coming out of Canada, and a large number of my wine purchases are now Canadian.
Canada has three main wine-producing regions: BC, Ontario, and Nova Scotia. Ontario leads the country with 62% of production, followed by BC with 33%.
BC has nine geographical indications (GIs): Fraser Valley, Gulf Islands, Kootenays, Lillooet, Okanagan Valley, Shuswap, Similkameen Valley, Thompson Valley, and Vancouver Island. Okanagan Valley (with 11) and Vancouver Island (with 1) have sub-geographical indications, which are specific geographic areas within a GI. BC grows 56% red grapes and 44% white grapes, with the top ten varieties being Merlot, Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Riesling, Gewurztraminer, Syrah, and Sauvignon Blanc.
Ontario has three official wine-growing regions or appellations: Niagara Peninsula, the north shore of Lake Erie, and Prince Edward County. Niagara Peninsula has two regional appellations: Niagara-on-the-Lake and Niagara Escarpment. Each of these regional appellations has sub-appellations. Niagara Lakeshore, Four Mile Creek, Niagara River, and St. David’s Bench are sub-appellations of Niagara-on-the-Lake. Short Hills Bench, Twenty Mile Bench, and Beamsville Bench are sub-appellations of Niagara Escarpment. Ontario grows 45% red grapes and 55% white grapes, with the top ten varieties being Chardonnay, Riesling, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Pinot Gris, Vidal Blanc, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Baco Noir.
Nova Scotia has seven wine-growing regions: Annapolis Valley, Gaspereau Valley, Bear River Valley, LaHave River Valley, Avon River Valley, Malagash Peninsula, and Marble Mountain. The primary grape grown is a white hybrid called L’Acadie Blanc, which accounts for one-third of production, plus some NY Muscat, Chardonnay, Riesling, and Vidal Blanc. Nova Scotia is becoming quite well known for its sparkling wines.
As I mentioned earlier, a large number of my wine purchases these days are Canadian wines. So, how do I know which one to buy considering there is quite a range of quality and price? One of my best sources is the National Wine Awards of Canada, run by WineAlign, where a panel of esteemed wine judges rate Canadian wines. Wines of distinction are awarded Platinum, Gold, Silver, and Bronze medals in various categories, with the results typically published in mid-July. One of my favorite things to do is check out the Platinum winners, visit the winning wineries’ websites, and order 6-12 bottles if they’re available. If all these judges think that a wine is a Platinum award winner, who am I to argue? I’m pretty much assured it’s going to be an outstanding wine. I’ve bought many award winners over the last few years and haven’t been disappointed yet. Also, living in Manitoba, we can order delivery directly from the winery for a charge of $25-$50. Not every province has the luxury of being able to order directly from the winery. Many of these wines are also available at the Manitoba Liquor Mart or a specialty wine store.
In my opinion, Canadian wine stands up to many of the best wines around the world. There are producers turning out award-winning wines year after year that I encourage you to try. If you’re unsure about the best ones to buy, check out the WineAlign National Wine Awards website at winealign.com/awards
By: Stu Charles
WSET Wines & Spirits Level 3, Spanish Wine Scholar, French Wine Scholar, WSET Sake Level 1, BC Wines of BC Ambassador Level 1, Certified Expert in California Wine Level 2.
