Red Wine

What Makes Canadian Red Wine Unique?

Canadian red wine has emerged as a hidden gem in the global wine scene with distinctive characteristics that set it apart. Canadian winemakers are crafting reds that challenge old-world assumptions about what great wine can be. 

The Flavours of Canadian Reds

The colour of a red wine is dependent on the grape skin it is produced from, which can range from a soft, light red to a deep, robust violet or maroon. Red wines can range from light to full-bodied and can produce an array of flavours. Lighter style reds, such as Gamay, have fruity raspberry and cherry tart flavours with a fresh pepper nose. Whereas a full-bodied red, such as Merlot, has structured tannins with more earthy flavours. Other flavours you can expect to find in red wines are: cherry, plum, strawberry, blackberry, raspberry, pepper, tobacco, leather, licorice, smoke and fig.

Our northern climate is secretly Canadian red wine's superpower. The cooler growing seasons create reds with bright acidity and pronounced fruit flavors you just can't find in hotter countries. The temperature shifts between day and night, sometimes 20 degrees or more, help develop complex flavors while maintaining that signature Canadian freshness. And don't forget our winters! They stress the vines just enough to force deeper root systems, pulling mineral notes from our diverse Canadian terroir.

Exploring Canadian Wine Regions Through Red 

Canada has emerged as a thrilling place for red wine. The Okanagan Valley in British Columbia takes the crown for producing Canada's most robust reds. This sun-drenched region boasts hot summer days and cool nights that work magic for ripening Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Syrah grapes. The resulting wines deliver impressive depth and structure with distinctive black cherry, blueberry, and plum notes.

In Ontario, Niagara Peninsula's elevated vineyards create ideal conditions for crafting structured Cabernet Franc and Merlot. Further east, Prince Edward County's limestone-rich soils might surprise you with concentrated Pinot Noirs. 

How to Choose the Right Red Wine for Any Occasion

Selecting the perfect red wine doesn't have to feel overwhelming. Don't overthink it – the general rule is: match the wine's weight with your food's intensity. Light, fruity reds work with lighter dishes, while bolder, tannic bottles stand up to richer, fattier foods.

For everyday meals, Gamay from the Niagara Peninsula or BC's Okanagan Valley offers versatility with everything from roast chicken to salmon. For steak, reach for something with structure and grip. For example, Cabernet or Syrah varieties, pair well to a well-marbled ribeye. 

When the snow piles up outside, you need a red wine bottle that brings warmth from within. Grab an Ontario Baco Noir with its comforting smoky, blackberry jam character – it's like wrapping yourself in a flannel blanket. For fireplace sipping or winter movie nights, a red blend offers surprising complexity and rustic charm. 

Buy Red Wine Online in Canada

We are very proud of the diverse selection of red wine in Canada, which is why we have a massive catalogue of red wines for sale online. These are some of the finest selections of red wine in Canada and we have them conveniently available at your fingertips. Order red wine in Canada online today.