Cheers to Canadian Beers: The Best Brews from Coast to Coast đșđ
Letâs raise a frosty pint to something Canadians do exceptionally well: beer! From our stunning coastlines to our prairie heartlands, Canadaâs brewing scene is as diverse and dynamic as the country itself. Whether youâre into hoppy IPAs, smooth stouts, or crisp lagers, Canadian breweries are crafting beers that win international awards and hearts alike.
Not only do these brews taste amazing, but they also pair perfectly with Canadian eats and inspire delicious beer-infused recipes. Letâs dive into some of the best beers our nation has to offer and celebrate the brewers putting Canada on the beer map.
1. Steam Whistle Brewing â Toronto, Ontario
Known For: Premium Pilsner
Why Itâs a Canadian Classic: Steam Whistleâs green bottle and iconic âDo One Thing Really, Really Wellâ motto have become synonymous with top-notch beer. Their Pilsner, brewed with only four ingredients, is a clean, crisp lager thatâs won multiple Canadian Brewing Awards.
Pairing Recommendation: Enjoy Steam Whistle Pilsner with classic fish and chips or a buttery lobster roll. Its light and refreshing finish complements seafood beautifully.
Beer Recipe: Pilsner-Braised Bratwurst
Simmer bratwurst in Steam Whistle Pilsner with onions and garlic until tender, then grill to perfection. Serve with grainy mustard and soft pretzel buns.
2. Big Rock Brewery â Calgary, Alberta
Known For: Grasshopper Wheat Ale
Why Itâs a Prairie Darling: Big Rock has been a staple in Canadaâs craft beer scene since 1985. Their Grasshopper Wheat Ale, with its subtle citrus and honey notes, has won numerous awards, including Gold at the Canadian Brewing Awards.
Pairing Recommendation: Pair Grasshopper Wheat Ale with a summer salad topped with grilled chicken or a slice of tangy lemon meringue pie.
Beer Recipe: Beer-Infused Pancakes
Add 1/2 cup of Grasshopper Wheat Ale to your pancake batter for an extra fluffy, subtly sweet stack. Serve with maple syrup (obviously).
3. Moosehead Breweries â Saint John, New Brunswick
Known For: Moosehead Lager
Why Itâs a Canadian Legend: Canadaâs oldest independent brewery, Moosehead has been crafting beer since 1867. Moosehead Lager, their flagship brew, is a smooth, golden beer with a slightly bitter finish thatâs stood the test of time.
Pairing Recommendation: This lager pairs wonderfully with a plate of East Coast mussels steamed in garlic and herbs.
Beer Recipe:Beer-Battered Fish Tacos
Use Moosehead Lager to make a light, crispy batter for cod or haddock. Wrap the fried fish in warm tortillas with shredded cabbage, spicy mayo, and a squeeze of lime.
4. Flying Monkeys Craft Brewery â Barrie, Ontario
Known For: Sparkle Puff Triple IPA
Why Itâs Out of This World: Flying Monkeys is all about bold flavours and colourful branding, and Sparkle Puff Triple IPA is their showstopper. With its notes of peach, mango, and a touch of marshmallow sweetness, itâs no wonder itâs racked up awards like Best Strong Beer at the Ontario Brewing Awards.
Pairing Recommendation: Balance the boldness of Sparkle Puff with a spicy butter chicken or a creamy blue cheese burger.
Beer Recipe: IPA-Glazed Chicken Wings
Make a glaze with Sparkle Puff IPA, honey, soy sauce, and chilli flakes. Toss wings in the glaze and bake until caramelized. Perfect for game day!
5. Unibroue â Chambly, Quebec
Known For: La Fin du Monde
Why Itâs a Quebecois Star: La Fin du Monde is a Belgian-style tripel with fruity, spicy aromas and a velvety finish. This iconic brew has won more awards than you can count, including multiple Golds at the World Beer Awards.
Pairing Recommendation: This beer pairs like a dream with creamy cheeses, charcuterie, or a plate of poutine.
Beer Recipe: Beer-Infused Fondue
Melt GruyĂšre and Emmental cheese with La Fin du Monde, garlic, and a splash of lemon juice. Dip chunks of baguette, apple slices, or roasted potatoes for a decadent treat.
6. Tofino Brewing Company â Tofino, British Columbia
Known For: Tuff Session Ale
Why Itâs a West Coast Gem: Tofino Brewingâs Tuff Session Ale is the perfect beer for a laid-back West Coast vibe. This easy-drinking ale has a malt-forward profile with a touch of hop bitterness, earning accolades for its balanced and refreshing flavour.
Pairing Recommendation: Enjoy Tuff Session Ale with a cedar-planked salmon or fresh fish tacos on a beachside picnic.
Beer Recipe: West Coast Beer Bread
Combine Tuff Session Ale with flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Add herbs or cheese for extra flavour. Bake until golden and enjoy with a hearty stew.
7. Quidi Vidi Brewery â St. Johnâs, Newfoundland
Known For: Iceberg Beer
Why Itâs Pure Perfection: Brewed using 25,000-year-old iceberg water, this lager is as crisp and clean as Newfoundlandâs rugged coastline. Iceberg Beer has earned a reputation for its unique purity and refreshing taste.
Pairing Recommendation: Pair Iceberg Beer with Newfoundlandâs famous cod au gratin or a plate of freshly fried cod tongues.
Beer Recipe: Iceberg Beer-Battered Onion Rings
Add Iceberg Beer to your batter mix to make light, crisp onion rings. Fry until golden and serve with a tangy dipping sauce.
Why Canadian Beer Deserves the Spotlight đș
Canadian brewers are crafting more than just drinks; theyâre creating art in a pint glass. With diverse flavors, innovative recipes, and a commitment to quality, our beers are gaining global recognitionâand rightly so!
So, the next time youâre cracking open a cold one, skip the imports and reach for a Canadian brew. Whether youâre at a backyard barbecue, a cozy pub, or on the couch watching the hockey game, thereâs a beer for every occasion.
Whatâs your favourite Canadian beer? Let us know in the comments, and letâs keep raising a glass to the incredible brews that make our country proud! đ Cheers!
