10 Canadian Vodka Brands To Add to Your Collection
There’s nothing quite like the cool, refreshing taste of high-quality vodka after a long day of work. Whether you prefer yours in a cocktail, neat, on the rocks, or in shot form (hey, we’re not here to judge), there’s no denying that the quality of this alcoholic spirit makes all the difference. So the next time you’re feeling adventurous enough to stray from Grey Goose and try something new, why not channel your inner Canuck and opt for a Canadian-made version? Canada is home to a number of distillers that make high-quality vodka, providing you with plenty of options to choose from when you’re looking for a little pick-me-up.
Georgian Bay
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Georgian Bay’s vodka is made using a unique blend of two-row malted barley vodka and corn-based vodka, creating notes of cereal, spice, and vanilla. This Ontario-based distiller’s vodka has been named one of the world’s best by Forbes and the International Wine and Spirits Competition, meaning you likely won’t be disappointed if you opt for this pick. Georgian Bay set out to create a vodka that is just as good in a mixed cocktail as it is neat or on ice, and it’s safe to say that goal was accomplished. ($35)
Spirit of York
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To create its premium vodka, Spirit of York starts with 100 per cent Ontario-grown Rye, a specially sourced strain of distiller’s yeast, and crystal-clear water from the township of Springwater, Ontario. This water is considered to be the purest in the province, and coupled with the grain-to-glass, small batch, single distillation process, it’s no wonder this vodka is top notch. With subtle nuttiness and hints of spice and butter, this pure vodka is as flavourful and aromatic as they come. ($40)
Dillon’s
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There are five different types of small-batch vodkas to choose from when it comes to Dillon’s. For the purists there’s Rye or Method 95, the latter of which is distilled in the classic method from local Niagara wine grapes. Those looking for something a little more avant-garde can meanwhile choose from Maison Selby Niagara, which is made from a base of 100 per cent Niagara grapes, Maison Selby Strawberry Rhubarb, or, for the extra adventurous, Canoe Dill Pickle. ($35)
Beattie’s
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Beattie’s Distillers makes potato-based vodka, creating a smooth spirit that is naturally gluten-free. This “farm-to-bottle” premium vodka features buttery notes and hints of white pepper, almond, and caramel. And if you’re looking to step outside your comfort zone, opt for Beattie’s sweet potato, strawberry or blueberry lemongrass vodkas. ($38)
Top Shelf
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Top Shelf Canadian Vodka is made in Perth, Ontario and distilled from a locally-sourced corn base, making it taste smooth and light with a touch of sweetness. Like Alberta Pure, Top Shelf was awarded the prestigious “double gold” award at the San Fransisco World Spirits Competition in 2018, proving just how popular it is with consumers here and abroad. ($32)
Banu Vodka
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If your friends are vodka snobs and you want to bring out something they’ve likely never had before, try Banu Vodka. This vodka is made at a small-batch distillery in Concord, Ontario with only 400 bottles produced each year. It can only be purchased at Banu restaurant and market in Toronto. ($64)
High Stick Vodka
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High Stick Vodka is about as Canadian as it gets, and that’s because you can buy it in a bottle that is literally shaped like a hockey stick. But don’t be fooled by the kitschy packaging — High Stick has won multiple international awards for both its quality and taste. If the packaging is not your thing, you can also opt for their standard 750ml bottle ($35). Regardless of your selection, this vodka is a hit — four-times-distilled and corn-based, remarkably pure, and unbelievably smooth, eh. ($98)
Iceberg Vodka
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Iceberg Vodka is quite literally made from 20,000-year-old icebergs off the coast of Newfoundland, which contain some of the purest water on earth. Once the ice is harvested, it’s then melted down to water and blended with a triple-distilled neutral spirit and charcoal-filtered, creating a gluten-free vodka that’s extra smooth and features aromas of citrus. ($30)
Pur Vodka
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Pur Vodka is the world’s most awarded Canadian vodka, with 83 medals under its belt since its launch in 2009. CEO Nick Duvernois developed the recipe while he was a janitor at a Montreal hospital, making the high quality of the spirit all the more impressive. Pur Vodka is made with a balanced mix of corn and all-natural spring water that’s procured from a pristine glacial source in northern Quebec. ($45)
Alberta Pure Vodka
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This classic vodka, produced in Calgary, recently took home the coveted “double gold” award at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition. It has a smooth, subtle flavour with bread-like notes, and it tastes great straight or mixed into your favourite cocktail. Say aaaahh. ($29)
