Summer in Canada is like no other, because honestly, our summers are short. After the last frost (usually around Victoria Day) has passed, look around and you will find everyone outside making up for the months of vitamin D deficiency.
To make the most out of this short window of sun, we're pairing the season with a bottle (or two) of Canadian wine.
Here are 10 things to do this summer with wine that’ll turn your next backyard hangout or cottage getaway into your next best memories.
1. Lakeside Rosé & Floaty Day
There’s something about a chilled glass of rosé on a hot dock day that just makes sense. You can be in the Great Lakes, the Okanagan, or even your neighbour’s pool – when you’re floating with a glass of crisp rosé in hand, we know it’ll be a great time. Try a Cabernet Franc rosé from Niagara for an off-dry yet fruit-forward option.
2. DIY Wine Tasting
Who needs a flight to France when you can explore the terroir of Canada in your own backyard? Grab a bundle of wine, print out some tasting cards, and turn your next BBQ or get together into a guided tour of the best Canadian wines.
Bonus: Brush up on common wine terms before hosting, or make a fun educational game with Wine Club’s Beginner Glossary.
3. Al Fresco (Backyard) Movie Night + Chardonnay
String up some lights, toss out the blankets, and cue up your favourite summer flick. A buttery Canadian Chardonnay pairs beautifully with popcorn, coziness, and a great story.
4. Camping Beach Day + Canned Canadian Wine
Yes, canned wine is real! It’s lightweight and easy to chill, which makes it perfect for that campsite close to the beach. Look for producers like Cornerstone or London House. You’ll thank us when it comes time to lug that cooler around.
5. Patio Potluck with a Local Red
Swap the store-bought sangria for a bold BC Syrah or Niagara Gamay. Host a potluck where everyone brings a dish *and* a bottle from their favourite Canadian winery. It’s a great icebreaker, and you’ll walk away with new go-to favourites.
6. Farmers’ Market Picnic + Sparkling Wine
Hit up a market for cheese, local honey, fresh bread, strawberries, and smoked salmon, then enjoy with a blanket and a bottle of Canadian sparkling wine. Plus, choose a “Pet Nat” style bottle to really match the vibe of a farmers market trip!
7. Winery Road Trip
From the Naramata Bench to Prince Edward County, visiting Canada’s wine regions allows you to explore the best of Canadian wine. Map out a weekend getaway for memorable summer moments, outdoor tastings, wood-fired pizza, and vineyards with breathtaking views.
8. S’mores & Icewine Around the Firepit
The rich, intense sweetness of Icewine balances charred marshmallow and bitter dark chocolate. We recommend a Niagara Riesling Icewine to elevate your s’more experience.
9. Sunset Paddle & Wine at Shore
Listen – we’re not suggesting sipping on the SUP board (safety first). But after? Enjoying a chilled, refreshing Gewürztraminer or Pinot Gris after a paddle? That’s how you close a session.
10. Book Club on the Rooftops
Trade your living room circle for a sun-drenched roof-top patio and pour a glass of something unexpected, like a Canadian Orange Wine. Orange wines go through contact with grape skins during fermentation, similar to red wine, but only for a short time, leaving a distinctive orange hue. These wines are complex, food-friendly, and completely conversation-worthy.
The right moment is memorable when paired with good company and great Canadian wine. This summer in Canada, let’s raise a toast to the vineyards in our own backyard.
