From The Cellar: Welcome to summer and an epic Canadian road trip of wine regions coast to coast

By DORIS MICULAN BRADLEY

Summer is here, and I’m setting my sights on an epic road trip across Canada’s wine region from coast to coast.

Picture this: Me behind the wheel of a Canadian built, 1967 Beaumont SD-396, the one with the canary yellow with a black racing stripe, RUSH’s 1974 hit, In the Mood, blasting as the soundtrack for a true Canadiana adventure. The tone is set.

Now, let’s explore some of Canada’s finest pours, starting in the East Coast.

Blue Lobster Vodka Soda Blueberry Lemon, Nova Scotia
6% Alc/Vol | $3.45 | LCBO# 36626

Before we dive into the wines, let’s begin with a refreshing local aperitif. From the heart of Stellarton, Pictou County where the Ship Hector first landed immigrants in 1774 and where Sobeys was born. 

The Nova Scotia Spirit Co. is the talk of the county and embodies a proud tradition of innovation. Their Blue Lobster Vodka Soda blends natural blueberry juice with a lively lemon hit. Slightly sweet with just four grams of natural sugar per can, it’s crisp, clean, and ultra-refreshing. Enjoy it chilled with the local Foxhill Smoked Gouda and a side of blueberry crisps for a true taste of the Maritimes.

Next stop is Quebec. I promise, we’ll get to the wine. I want to share a stellar liqueur I recently tasted and instantly gravitated to pouring an ounce over sparkling wine. So long Bellinis. Hello Becinis.

Sortilege Apple, Quebec

23% Alc/Vol | $35.50| LCBO#:38768

Sortilège Apple is a perfect example of Canadian terroir at its finest. This rich and flavourful liqueur is made from Canadian whisky and maple syrup with the addition of crunchy red apple flavours.

This iconic blend is perfect neat, on the rocks or in cocktails. The ideal treat with apple pie and vanilla ice cream.

Vieni Estates, VQA

10% Alc/Vol|  $19.95 | Ships direct from Vieni Estates

Perched on the rolling, sun-kissed hills of Lincoln, Ontario, right in the heart of prestigious UNESCO World Heritage lands, you’ll discover one of the most breathtaking vineyards in the appellation, where every view feels like a postcard.

Here, Rosso steals the show: a bold, bubbly red crafted from Canada’s regal Cabernet Franc and the lively, spirited Chambourcin grape. Pop the cork, and your taste buds will be greeted by an explosion of juicy berries that feels like flavour fireworks. It’s time to break free from the ordinary. Raise your glass, and give this red sparkler the full Canadian salute it deserves!

The Juice Wine Co. 2024 Gamay Noir, VQA

13% Alc/Vol|  $37.00|  Ships direct from The Juice Wine Company

TJWC is a fresh-faced, family-run company fueled by true Canadian spirit and entrepreneurial flair. This isn’t your average wine business.  It’s a vibrant collective where passionate, independent wineries craft an exciting lineup of top-notch wines from Niagara’s most outstanding vineyards.

Say hello to TJWC’s, Gamay Noir, affectionately nicknamed the “relaxed overachiever.” It’s dry, juicy, and bursting with freshness, with just the right touch of dusty tannins to keep things interesting. Pop it in the fridge for a slight chill, fire up the BBQ, and let this easygoing star steal the show at your next backyard feast.

Dirty Laundry Winery 2024 Pinot Gris

12.7% Alc/Vol|  $20.99 | Ships direct from Dirty Laundry Winery

Dirty Laundry Winery sits in the heart of British Columbia’s stunning Okanagan Valley, where dramatic vineyard views meet a rich, colorful past. Back in the late 1800s, Summerland thrived with the buzz of the Canadian Pacific Railway construction, and tucked amid this boom was a hardworking New Canadian laundry rumored to run a secret “business on the side” that added a little intrigue to the town’s history. A true story of Canadian grit and spirit!

Sip the 2024 Pinot Gris and discover a beautiful balance of crisp apple, juicy pear, zesty grapefruit pith, and a delicate drizzle of honey on the finish. The catch? You’ll have to visit the winery to get your hands on a bottle.

— Doris Miculan Bradley is a professor, International Master Sommelier, chef and East Toronto resident.