Canada’s cocktail culture is a vibrant mix of tradition, innovation, and locally sourced ingredients. Whether you are a fan of gin’s botanical complexity, vodka’s smooth versatility, or bourbon’s rich warmth, these three distinctly Canadian cocktails are sure to elevate your next gathering. Inspired by the flavours of the Great White North, each recipe showcases the best of what Canada has to offer in the world of mixology.
1. The Maple Gin Fizz
Gin lovers will appreciate this light yet flavourful take on a classic fizz, elevated with Canada’s signature ingredient—maple syrup. This cocktail is a perfect balance of bright citrus, effervescent texture, and warming maple notes, making it ideal for any season.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Okanagan Spirits Gin
- 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 oz pure maple syrup
- Aquafaba
- Club soda
- Ice
Method:
- Add gin, lemon juice, maple syrup, and Aquagaba to a shaker.
- Dry shake (without ice) for about 15 seconds to create a silky foam.
- Add ice and shake again until well chilled.
- Strain into a chilled glass and top with club soda.
- Garnish with a lemon twist or a drizzle of maple syrup.
2. The Northern Lights Martini
This vodka-based cocktail pays tribute to Canada’s breathtaking night skies. The combination of blueberry and rosemary creates a refreshing yet sophisticated martini that captures the essence of the country’s wild landscapes.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Essentials BC Vodka
- 1/2 oz Esquimalt Vermouth
- 1/2 oz blueberry syrup (made with fresh blueberries and maple syrup)
- 2 dashes orange bitters
- Ice
- Fresh rosemary sprig for garnish
Method:
- In a shaker filled with ice, combine vodka, vermouth, blueberry syrup, and orange bitters.
- Stir well until chilled.
- Strain into a chilled martini glass.
- Garnish with a fresh rosemary sprig and a few floating blueberries.
3. The Lumberjack Old Fashioned
For those who appreciate the depth of bourbon, this Old Fashioned variation brings a uniquely Canadian twist with smoked cedar and warm spice notes. The use of spiced maple syrup ties everything together for a bold, unforgettable sip.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Windsor Canadian Whisky
- 1/2 oz spiced maple syrup (maple syrup infused with cinnamon and clove)
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- Ice
- Orange peel
- Smoked cedar wood (optional for garnish)
Method:
- In a mixing glass, combine bourbon, spiced maple syrup, and bitters.
- Add ice and stir until well chilled.
- Strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube.
- Express the oils from an orange peel over the drink and drop it in.
- If desired, briefly flame a cedar wood chip and capture the smoke under the glass for an extra layer of aroma.
These cocktails embody Canada’s rich landscapes and seasonal influences, offering something for every palate. Whether you prefer the refreshing fizz of gin, the elegant smoothness of vodka, or the robust character of bourbon, these recipes ensure that your next toast is a distinctly Canadian one.
To truly embrace the spirit of Canadian mixology, consider using premium local spirits available at BCLC retailers. British Columbia offers a fantastic selection, including Victoria Distillers’ Empress 1908 Gin, Sheringham Distillery’s Seaside Gin, and Windsor Canadian Whisky. For vodka enthusiasts, try Shelter Point Distillery’s handcrafted vodka or Heritage Acres Distillery locally sourced offering. Supporting Canadian distillers not only enhances the flavour of your cocktails but also contributes to the country’s thriving craft spirits industry. Cheers!
Author Profile
- Vlad Xanthopoulos is the Vices Ambassador at Folio.YVR, host of Cocktails & Cigars, and contributor. A connoisseur of fine cigars and craft cocktails, Vlad explores the art, culture, and stories behind these indulgences. His passion for tradition and refined living elevate Vancouver Vices for Folio.YVR Luxury Lifestyle Magazine.
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