When it comes to beer, Canada has a lot to offer. From traditional lagers to unique craft brews, there is something for every beer lover in the Great White North. But with so many options, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best beer in Canada, so you can sip your way through the top brews the country has to offer.
The Best Beer in Canada: A Regional Guide
West Coast Wonders
British Columbia is known for its stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures, but it’s also home to some of the best beer in Canada. In Vancouver, you’ll find a thriving craft beer scene with breweries like Parallel 49, Brassneck, and 33 Acres serving up unique and delicious brews.
Further north in Squamish, Howe Sound Brewing offers a variety of award-winning beers, including their popular Rail Ale Nut Brown and Super Jupiter Grapefruit ISA. And on Vancouver Island, Phillips Brewing & Malting Co. in Victoria is a must-visit for their creative and tasty beers, like the Blue Buck Ale and Electric Unicorn White IPA.
Prairies Perfection
The prairie provinces of Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba may not be the first places that come to mind when you think of beer, but they have some hidden gems that are worth trying. In Calgary, Wild Rose Brewery is a local favorite, known for their delicious Velvet Fog Wheat Ale and Wraspberry Ale.
In Saskatchewan, Rebellion Brewing in Regina is a must-visit for their unique and flavorful brews, like the Lentil Cream Ale and the Lentil Cream Ale with Coffee. And in Manitoba, Half Pints Brewing Co. in Winnipeg offers a variety of tasty beers, including the St. James Pale Ale and the Little Scrapper IPA.
Ontario’s Finest
Ontario is home to the most breweries in Canada, making it a beer lover’s paradise. In Toronto, you’ll find a wide range of breweries, from the popular Steam Whistle Brewing to the smaller and more experimental Bellwoods Brewery.
In Ottawa, Beyond the Pale Brewing Company is a must-visit for their unique and flavorful beers, like the Pink Fuzz Grapefruit Wheat and the Aromatherapy IPA. And in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Oast House Brewers offers a variety of tasty brews, including the Barn Raiser Country Ale and the Saison.
Quebec’s Quirky Brews
Quebec is known for its rich history and vibrant culture, and its beer scene is no exception. In Montreal, Dieu du Ciel! is a popular spot for their creative and delicious beers, like the Péché Mortel Imperial Stout and the Rosée d’Hibiscus Wheat Beer.
Further east in Quebec City, La Barberie is a must-visit for their unique and flavorful brews, like the La Buteuse Brassin Spécial Belgian Strong Ale and the La Buteuse Brassin Spécial Belgian Strong Ale with Maple Syrup. And in the Eastern Townships, Brasserie Dunham offers a variety of tasty beers, including the Saison du Pinacle and the Berliner Weisse.
East Coast Excellence
The East Coast of Canada is known for its stunning scenery and friendly locals, but it’s also home to some of the best beer in the country. In Halifax, Propeller Brewing Co. is a local favorite, known for their delicious and unique brews, like the IPA and the Pilsner.
In New Brunswick, Picaroons Traditional Ales in Fredericton offers a variety of tasty beers, including the Yippee IPA and the Winter Warmer. And in Newfoundland, Quidi Vidi Brewing Co. in St. John’s is a must-visit for their creative and flavorful beers, like the Iceberg Beer and the 1892 Traditional Ale.
Where to Find the Best Beer in Canada
Now that you know where to find the best beer in Canada, you may be wondering where to buy it. The good news is that most provinces have a government-run liquor store, often called “The Beer Store” or “The Liquor Store”, where you can find a wide selection of beers from across the country.
If you’re looking for a specific brewery or beer, you can also visit the brewery’s website to see if they have a list of retailers that carry their products. And if you’re lucky enough to live near one of the breweries mentioned in this article, you can always visit their taproom or retail store to purchase their beer directly.
The Future of Beer in Canada
The beer scene in Canada is constantly evolving, with new breweries popping up and established breweries experimenting with new flavors and styles. And with the rise of craft beer and microbreweries, there are more options than ever before for beer lovers to explore.
So whether you’re a fan of traditional lagers or enjoy trying new and unique brews, there’s no shortage of options when it comes to the best beer in Canada. So grab a cold one and cheers to the future of beer in the Great White North!
