The Top Canadian Beer Brands You Should Try
The history of Canadian beers dates back to the day the settlers landed on the shores. So, you can’t mention the country’s culture without mentioning the different Canadian beers. And their history has played a role in the ever-increasing number of brewers in the country.
Currently, it’s the most popular alcoholic beverage in the country. Sure, you can find both international and top Canadian brands in the market, but the microbrewers are also giving them a run for their money.
They have launched several local brews found in local bars and liquor stores. So here are some of the top beer brands in the market that you should try.
Labatt 50
As one of the oldest brewers in the country, Labatt manufactures some of the best brands in the market. One of their oldest and most successful Canadian brands that the locals still love is Labatt 50.
The Labatt 50 is a unique commemoration of the 50 years of partnership between the owner’s grandchildren. Labatt 50 was the best-selling beer in Canada until 1979 and the first light-tasting Canadian ale.
Even though it’s not as popular as Labatt Blue, you can still find it in stores. You can find old boys across the country, from Quebec to Ontario, enjoying their Labatt 50.
Molson Dry
During the early 1990s, the dry brewing process was quite popular, especially among top Japanese brewers. And to keep up with competitors, Labatt and Molson decided to produce a beer using this process.
The outcome of the new process was Molson Dry, one of the smooth and clean beers in Canada with no aftertaste.
Labatt produced an Extra Dry beer that faded away with time, leaving Molson Dry. And up to date, it’s still one of their strongest brands in Canada.
Kokanee
Another top brand that has dominated the Canadian market is Kokanee. Kokanee is one of their best lagers and is still affordable and loved in British Columbia.
It is a unique pilsner-style lager with 5% alcohol. This brand ages naturally, creating a relatively mild-tasting beer. Originally, Columbia Brewery could only sell this brew in British Columbia because of the liquor laws of 1960. But after the law changed, they started advertising it using the slogan Brewed right in the Kootenays.
Being a top brand, Labatt partnered with an advertising agency that helped popularize the brand in the entire country. Labatt bought Columbia Brewery in 1974.
La Fin du Monde
Over the years, Quebec has produced some of the world’s top poutine and maple syrup. You may dismiss its potential to manufacture beer because of its focus on other products. But everything changes when you taste La Fin du Monde, one of the top brews in this province.
La Fin du Monde is a popular ale boasting 9% alcohol volume. It’s a strong brew containing yeast sediments that allow the beer to continue fermenting even after leaving the breweries.
According to Beer experts, this is one of the few beers you can serve with fine cheese and gourmet dishes. It might be something to add to your collection for those home dinners with family and friends.
Sleeman’s Honey Brown Lager
Named after a popular figure in the brewing industry, Sleeman’s Honey Brown Lager boosts a rich copper with off-white, creamy foam. Sleeman was a top figure who started Silver Creek Brewery in the late 1800s. And by 1890, it had 15 retail stores.
They still brew it in some traditional cottages, which many people underestimate, but wait until you taste the Sleeman’s Honey Brown Lager. It has a distinct honey taste, making it unique among other affordable brown ales.