Canada, known for its diverse and multicultural population, has a thriving wine culture that reflects the tastes and preferences of its citizens. When it comes to dinner, Canadians have developed a penchant for a wide range of wines that complement their diverse culinary traditions. In this article, we’ll explore some of the top wines that Canadians love most over dinner and the delicious dishes they pair them with.
White Wines Canadians Love to Sip on
The Niagara region is known for its Canadian white wines. A visit to the wineries in Niagara on the Lake and other wineries in the area is a must for Canadian wine lovers.
Chardonnay
Chardonnay is a versatile choice for Canadian dinner tables. Its crisp acidity and buttery notes complement a variety of dishes. Canadians often enjoy Chardonnay with seafood, particularly buttery lobster or creamy shrimp scampi. It also pairs beautifully with roast chicken or a classic Caesar salad.
Gewürztraminer
This aromatic white wine, with its exotic spices and floral notes, pairs wonderfully with Canadian dishes influenced by international flavours. Canadians often enjoy Gewürztraminer with Asian cuisine, such as Thai curry or Chinese dumplings. It’s also a lovely match for spicy Mexican dishes like tacos or enchiladas.
Riesling
Riesling’s vibrant acidity and fruity character make it a popular choice for many Canadians. It’s an excellent match for spicy foods, such as Thai or Indian cuisine, as the sweetness of the wine balances the heat of the dishes. A glass of Riesling is also a refreshing choice for pairing with sushi or a zesty citrus salad.
Sauvignon Blanc
Sauvignon Blanc’s crispness and herbal undertones make it an excellent choice for Canadian dinner tables. It’s a natural fit for seafood dishes, such as grilled prawns or oysters. Its zesty nature also complements fresh salads with vinaigrette dressings.
Top Red Wines Canadians Love
If you love red wine and want to try something Canadian, the Okanagan Valley is the place to visit. Check out the Okanagan Wine Festival.
Pinot Noir
The light and elegant Pinot Noir is a versatile red wine that pairs well with various dishes. Many Canadians enjoy it with salmon, pork tenderloin, or roasted duck. Its subtle earthy and berry notes make it an excellent companion for both white and red meat dishes.
Cabernet Sauvignon
A robust and full-bodied wine like Cabernet Sauvignon is cherished by Canadians for hearty, meaty dinners. It’s the perfect accompaniment to a juicy steak, a rich beef stew, or even a gourmet burger. The wine’s dark fruit and tannins match the intensity of these dishes.
Merlot
Merlot, with its soft tannins and plum-like flavours, is another red wine favoured by Canadians. It pairs wonderfully with dishes like roasted lamb, pasta with a tomato-based sauce, or even a classic Margherita pizza. Its approachable character makes it a crowd-pleaser.
Other Wines Canadians Enjoy
Icewine
Canada is renowned for its world-class Icewine, and it’s no surprise that it’s a favourite for special occasions and fine dining. With its luscious sweetness and intense flavours, Icewine pairs perfectly with desserts, cheese plates, or as a standalone treat. While it’s often enjoyed on its own, many Canadians also appreciate it alongside apple pie or creamy blue cheese.
Love ice wine? Check out the Niagara Icewine Festival
Sparkling Wine
Sparkling wines, such as Champagne, Prosecco, or Canadian sparkling varieties, are popular for celebrating special occasions and adding a touch of elegance to dinner. Canadians often enjoy sparkling wine as an aperitif, and it pairs well with appetizers like oysters, bruschetta, or light canapés.
Rose
Rosé wine’s refreshing and fruity character is perfect for outdoor dining and summer meals. It’s a great match for grilled chicken, salmon burgers, or a Mediterranean mezze platter. The pink wine’s versatility and pleasant flavours make it a favourite choice for many Canadians.
The diverse wine preferences of Canadians reflect their rich culinary traditions and multicultural influences. Whether enjoying a special occasion or a casual dinner, Canadians have a wine for every dish. These top wines are not just beverages but an integral part of the Canadian dining experience, enhancing the flavours and enjoyment of meals with friends and family.
