Canada Day is almost here, and if you’re looking for some delicious Canadian wines and spirits to celebrate, our next guest has you covered! Joining us is Natalie MacLean who offers Canada’s largest drinks review site at nataliemaclean.com.
Hi Natalie.
Great to be back with you, Nick! We’re going to dive into some delicious patriotism today!
Let’s start with your first wine.
Inasphere Estate Wines Pinot Grigio
Norfolk County, Ontario
We’re starting with a gorgeous white wine from Inasphere Estate in Norfolk County, Ontario. Their Pinot Grigio is crisp and dry, with mouth-watering notes of lime zest, green apple, and a hint of minerality.
Its racy acidity will cut through the melting cheese and fries in poutine faster than a lumberjack can holler timber! Or try it with the Canadian soft cheese. President’s Choice Double Cream Brie for a combo that’s creamy and zesty all at once. It’s like a sparkler on your palate—perfect for fireworks and fresh air.
You can get this cheese and all the rest mentioned below at any retailers selling President’s Choice brand, such as Loblaws, Real Canadian Superstore, and others.
This family-run farm turned vineyard takes full advantage of Norfolk’s breezy microclimate, and the tasting patio has a gorgeous panoramic view of the vineyard, farm, Lake Erie and the Inner Bay.
They’re a combination of a working farm and winery, not only offering wines, but also their fresh produce grown. Consider visiting them for a local farm to table experience.
What do you suggest for red wine lovers?
Hester Creek Character Red
South Okanagan, B.C.
The Character Red from Hester Creek in the South Okanagan is a rich blend that whispers cedar and blackberry, with a velvety finish that lingers like a good campfire story.
The estate was founded in 1968 by Italian pioneer Joe Busnardo who brought vine cuttings back from Italy in his suitcase. Today, they’re a full wine destination, with a villa hotel, restaurant, and cooking classes.
This red is divine with President’s Choice Label White Fox —smoky, savoury, and smooth. Think barbecue ribs or grilled veggie skewers by the lake while ignoring your inbox.
What if we’re looking for a cocktail?
Mastronardi White Sangria, Kingsville
Ontario
We have a ready-to-pour white sangria from Mastronardi in Kingsville, Ontario. It’s sunshine in a bottle with notes of lemon, lime, and a juicy kiss of sweetness.
No need for measuring or muddling. Just pour it over ice, toss in some sliced fruit if you’re feeling extra, and voilà and suddenly you’re the “fancy friend” without having to Google anything.
It’s so crushable I’d pair this with President’s Choice Black Label Red Fox for a sweet-heat moment. Simple, breezy, summer easy!
What’s your final recommendation to celebrate Canada Day?
Glen Breton Rare Canadian Single Malt Whisky
Cape Breton, N.S.
Let’s end on a high note, literally in the highlands of Cape Breton, Nova Scotia. Glen Breton is North America’s first single malt whisky.
Their copper stills, imported from Scotland in 1969, are still in use today. Glen Breton has travelled to the top of Everest and the South Pole and famously won the right to keep “Glen” in its name after an international battle with Scotland’s Whisky Association.
Pair it with President’s Choice Black Label 36 Month Parmigiano Reggiano. It brings out the toffee, spice, and subtle smoke in the whisky—the liquid form of Canadian rebellion: strong, smooth, and seductively charming.
Glen Breton is terrific in classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned or Whisky Sour, but is best savoured straight up, just like life.
You can find all these cheeses at any Loblaw grocery store, including No Frills and Real Canadian Superstore.
Natalie, thank you for sharing these amazing Canadian bottles and bites!
Where can we find you online?
On Instagram, you can find me posting wine reviews and tips at:
Online, my website is nataliemaclean.com.
Posted with the permission of CTV.
