Canada has a long and proud history of brewing, and its beer culture is deeply rooted in tradition. If you’re a beer lover, here are 5 classic Canadian beers that you absolutely must try:
1. Molson Canadian
- Type: Lager
- Brewery: Molson Coors Beverage Company
- Why Try It?: Molson Canadian is a quintessential Canadian beer, brewed since 1959. It’s a crisp, clean, and refreshing lager that embodies the spirit of Canada. Perfect for enjoying during a hockey game or a summer barbecue.
- Fun Fact: Molson is one of the oldest breweries in North America, founded in 1786.
2. Labatt Blue
- Type: Lager
- Brewery: Labatt Brewing Company
- Why Try It?: Labatt Blue is a smooth, easy-drinking lager that has been a Canadian favorite since 1951. It’s known for its balanced flavor and is often enjoyed at social gatherings and sporting events.
- Fun Fact: Labatt Blue was originally brewed to celebrate the company’s 100th anniversary.
3. Alexander Keith’s India Pale Ale (IPA)
- Type: India Pale Ale
- Brewery: Alexander Keith’s Brewery (owned by Labatt)
- Why Try It?: This historic beer, first brewed in 1820 in Halifax, Nova Scotia, is one of Canada’s oldest and most beloved brews. It’s a well-balanced IPA with a slightly hoppy and malty flavor.
- Fun Fact: Alexander Keith’s is named after the brewery’s founder, who was also the mayor of Halifax.
4. Moosehead Lager
- Type: Lager
- Brewery: Moosehead Breweries
- Why Try It?: Moosehead is Canada’s oldest independent brewery, founded in 1867. Their flagship lager is a crisp, refreshing beer with a mild hop bitterness and a clean finish.
- Fun Fact: Moosehead has remained family-owned for over 150 years, making it a true Canadian legacy.
5. Kokanee
- Type: Lager
- Brewery: Kokanee Brewery (owned by Labatt)
- Why Try It?: Brewed in the Rocky Mountains of British Columbia, Kokanee is a smooth, easy-drinking lager with a slightly sweet finish. It’s named after the Kokanee salmon, which is native to the region.
- Fun Fact: Kokanee is often referred to as “The Beer from the Glacier” due to its mountain-inspired branding.
Bonus: Steam Whistle Pilsner
- Type: Pilsner
- Brewery: Steam Whistle Brewing
- Why Try It?: While not as old as the others, Steam Whistle has become a modern classic. Brewed in Toronto, this pilsner is known for its clean, crisp taste and commitment to using only four natural ingredients.
- Fun Fact: Steam Whistle is brewed in the historic John Street Roundhouse, a former Canadian Pacific Railway building.
These classic Canadian beers represent the heart and soul of Canada’s brewing heritage. Whether you’re a fan of lagers, IPAs, or pilsners, these beers offer a taste of Canada’s rich beer culture. Cheers!
