Canada has long been known for its icewine production and varietals like Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Riesling. But from British Columbia to Nova Scotia, more and more wineries have been adding a delightful surprise to their repertoires: world-class bubbly. In fact, of the 600-plus cool-climate wineries dotted across the country, about 200 are now producing sparkling wine—and they’re making a mark. In a class with top producers from across the globe, Canadian makers earned 31 medals at this year’s prestigious Decanter World Wine Awards in London, England.

It’s clear, then, that there has never been a better time to stock up on local bubbles. Besides our short growing season, which is a must for preserving that all-important natural acidity, the eclectic microclimates and shape-shifting soils across the country are what make each terroir-driven expression unique. Whether for Christmas parties, family movie nights, impromptu gatherings or major celebrations, these Canadian sparklers have you covered.

 

Tawse, a four-time winner of the WineAlign National Wine Awards’ Canadian Winery of the Year category, clearly knows a thing or two about crafting delicious Rieslings, and this fun traditional-method offering is no exception. From its complex nose, which keeps luring you back to the glass, to its crisp Spartan-apple flavours, lush mousse (froth lining the rim of the glass) and off-dry finish, everything sparks conversation. It oozes cool—and not just for wine nerds.

A deep respect for its coastal terroir has helped shape Benjamin Bridge into one of the country’s premier sparkling houses. Presenting with an amber hue in the glass, this 2019 Pinot Meunier, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir rosé has zippy East Coast-apple aromas and red-berry undertones. Hints of orange blossom, strawberry and white flowers on the palate lead to a lingering saline finish.

Growing classic vinifera varieties suited to a cool coastal climate is what Lightfoot & Wolfville is all about. A 70-30 blend of Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier, this pink bubbly was aged for 11 months on lees for added texture and complexity. Delicate red-berry notes follow through to a ripe and tart fruit palate with wild strawberry and cranberry flavours. It’s dry and balanced with a racy acidity, a creamy mousse and a long finish.

Crafted using the Charmat method (in which the second fermentation takes place in a tank instead of the bottle), Averill Creek’s charming young blend of Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris and Chardonnay is wild-fermented (made without the addition of enzymes, nutrients or sulphites). Lively and fresh with notes of green apple, stone fruit and lemon on the palate, it’s an easygoing bub for any occasion.

It’s no wonder Henry of Pelham’s stunning Blanc de Blancs received 93 points (out of a possible 100) at the 2023 Decanter World Wine Awards. First, a dedicated block of only the best of the best estate-grown Chardonnay is hand-picked, and then it’s partially barrel-aged for 54 months on lees. Think of Carte Blanche as Zendaya on a red carpet—brimming with easy elegance. With lemon, apple and mineral aromas and classic brioche notes on the palate, it shines bright next to the world’s best, champagne included.

HANGOVER-FREE CHEER

Here are three ready-to-pour zero-proof options with light sparkle but none of the buzz.

Piquette Zero is an easygoing grape-skin infusion with aromatic yuzu and zesty lemon- pith flavours. While Citra hops add texture and complexity, a gentle lick of terroir from Bay of Fundy sea salt lifts the palate. Unlike many de-alcoholized wine options on the market, this no-added- sugar wine-style sparkler from Benjamin Bridge is full of personality and is seriously crushable.

Ontario’s Heartwood Farm crafts small-batch ciders that capture the nature of its 42-acre regenerative farm and surrounding community. A mix of organic apples, including McIntosh, Honeycrisp and Northern Spy, are expertly blended to highlight the naturally sweet and deliciously tart characteristics of the fruit in an off-dry cider that is made without sweeteners or preservatives.

Since bursting onto the scene in January 2022, Nonny has changed perceptions about what an all-natural non- alcoholic craft beer can be. Tropical pineapple aromas lead to a crisp, citrusy finish. With all the hoppy characteristics you’d expect from a pale ale, this is nicely carbonated and has zero grams of sugar.

Read more:
12 High-Flavour, Zero-Proof Drinks to Get You Through the Holidays
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6 Canadian Bakers to Follow Ahead of the Holidays