Canada's Top 5 Selling Wines

Ignatieff Merlot

A new variety of a traditional Canadian favourite.  The grapes are grown in Canada’s Ontario heartland and can be found in most regions, although not so popular in the west.  This appeals to diverse tastes with hints of blueberry, blackberry, redberry and a sniff of cinnamon.  This Merlot is influenced by European and US wine makers which many find enlightening, yet some mistrust.  It goes well with most meats, poultry and dairy.

Tory Harper’s Pinot Noir

A solid and traditional wine from the Fraser Valley.  With its earthy tones and robust flavours it finds a home on many local tables.  A suggestion of cherries and plums with a peppery aftertaste, this wine has experienced growing popularity in Western Canada, rural Canada and pockets of Eastern Canada.  It seems to be a wine you either love or hate.  It goes best with a large Alberta steak and a side of French fries.  Unfortunately, this variety is only available in a ‘majority pack’ which is 7 or more bottles.

Jack’s Chardonnay

While this Chardonnay has been around for many years, it is only now becoming popular nationwide.  Made in Nova Scotia, its light citrus and melon undertones make it very drinkable.  It has great appeal to young drinkers.  This label has seen massive growth in some regions of Quebec, but finds it hard to break into traditional markets that are dominated by the Tory Harper and Ignatieff Merlot.  Critics state that while the wine has a good bouquet and fruity flavour, it may not be so good the morning after.  Best served in social settings as a house white accompanied by Lays Traditional or Cheetos.  

Gilles’ Vignoble du Marathonien

Only available in Quebec, this ice wine is a long standing favourite of Les Quebecois.  If anything says “Je suis un Quebecois” it is the veritable Vignoble du Marathonien.  Sweet to the palate, this is best accompanied by fromage, jambon et poutine.  Critics ask why this brand is advertised nationally, yet only available in Quebec.

Green Party Cabinet Sauvignon

A relatively new wine produced in Vancouver Island.  It appeals to a broad cross-section of the population.  Strong earthy flavour strengthened by a smattering of wildberries, wild oats and oak flavours.  For many drinkers it is their preferred choice, although sales generally disappoint as consumers select more established brands – just to be safe.  This drink goes well with Portobello mushrooms, flax bread and granola.