Canadian cider is making waves with its crisp, refreshing character and deep roots in local orchards. From BC’s bold dry blends to Nova Scotia’s fruity infusions, Canadian cidermakers are crafting bottles that reflect our land and seasons. At My Wine Canada, we’re proud to feature these artisanal creations—complex, food-friendly, and anything but ordinary.
These aren’t your typical sweet ciders. Expect bright acidity, subtle tannins, and unexpected flavours like maple, wild blueberry, and heirloom apple. Whether you're hosting a holiday dinner or sipping by the lake, there’s a Canadian cider ready to elevate the moment. What will you discover in your next glass?
Canada's craft cider scene is thriving, offering a range of options that celebrate local orchards and bold innovation. From British Columbia to Nova Scotia, cidermakers are bottling the essence of their regions—crisp, refreshing, and full of personality. At My Wine Canada, we're proud to showcase small-batch ciders that honour tradition while pushing boundaries.
What sets Canadian cider apart from the rest?
Whether you like your cider dry, sweet, or somewhere in between, there's something for everyone in our collection. Traditional apple-forward ciders span from bone-dry heritage varieties to sweeter modern takes. Fruit-infused options showcase wild blueberries, peaches, cherries, and plums, while hopped ciders offer a beer-like edge. Barrel-aged ciders bring out vanilla, spice, and caramel notes. You'll also find wild-fermented and sparkling styles, each capturing a unique corner of Canada's cider landscape.
From Coast to Coast: Canada’s Cider Regions
Canada’s geography creates ideal growing conditions for apples, and its cider regions are just as diverse as its wines.
What makes BC's craft cider scene so exciting?
British Columbia leads with innovation. From Sea Cider’s bold "Kings & Spies" to Twin Island’s funky farmhouse styles, BC’s producers aren’t afraid to experiment. The Okanagan Valley and Vancouver Island are especially rich with cidermaking talent, crafting both traditional and fruit-forward expressions.
How do Ontario and Quebec stand out in cider innovation?
Ontario and Quebec stand out for their blend of heritage and creativity. Ontario’s Revel Cider leads with wild fermentation and experimental blends. Quebec draws on French tradition, producing distinctive ice ciders and farm-driven styles that reflect its deep agricultural roots.
Finding Your Perfect Cider Match
With so many options, finding the right cider can feel daunting—but it’s easier when you trust your taste preferences.
If you enjoy crisp, wine-like beverages, try a dry cider like Left Field’s “The Big Dry” or Twin Island’s heritage blends. Prefer something sweeter? Thornbury offers approachable fruit-forward ciders with a refreshing finish. For those who want balance, semi-dry options give you both natural apple character and a touch of sweetness. Don’t be afraid to explore—your new favourite might surprise you.
How to Enjoy and Pair Canadian Cider
Cider is as versatile as wine—sometimes more so.
Pair dry ciders with rich, savoury dishes like roasted pork, aged cheese, or charcuterie. Their acidity and tannins cut through fat beautifully. Sweet and semi-sweet ciders are excellent with spicy foods, such as Thai curry or Buffalo wings, as the natural sweetness balances heat. Fruited ciders pair wonderfully with dessert—try Sea Cider’s Kings & Spies alongside apple pie or Revel’s berry blends with dark chocolate.
For a uniquely Canadian experience, enjoy cider with:
Maple-glazed salmon
Quebec poutine
Grilled summer vegetables
Hearty fall stews
Aged Canadian cheeses
Why Canadian Cider Stands Out
What sets Canadian cider apart is its sense of place. Cold winters and moderate summers help develop complex flavours in the apples, especially heritage varieties with higher acidity and tannin. Many producers use farm-grown fruit and follow a hands-on, orchard-to-glass process.
This small-batch attention results in unique, expressive bottles—some sparkling and light, others robust and aged. You’ll find styles that reflect our wild landscapes and culinary creativity, often using wild fermentation, barrel aging, or ingredients like maple syrup and foraged berries.
Why Wine Lovers Are Turning to Cider
Canadian cider offers many of the qualities wine lovers value: complexity, balance, and terroir. With lower alcohol (usually 4–8%), cider offers lighter refreshment without sacrificing flavour. Many cidermakers also use traditional winemaking techniques—like barrel fermentation and bottle conditioning—to create layered, sophisticated bottles.
And for those who care about sustainability, cider is a great choice. By supporting local producers, you're contributing to small farms, family orchards, and low-impact agricultural practices.
From dry and elegant to juicy and fun, there's a Canadian cider for every palate and every occasion. So what are you pouring next?
What makes Canadian cider unique?
Canadian cider stands out for its distinctive flavors derived from locally grown apples. The country's ideal apple-growing conditions contribute to complex flavors in heritage varieties. Many cidermakers follow a farm-to-bottle approach, ensuring quality control while reflecting regional diversity. Small-batch production allows for experimentation with unique techniques and ingredients, resulting in ciders that range from traditional apple-forward styles to innovative fruit-infused creations.
How does Canadian cider compare to wine?
Canadian cider offers complexity and versatility similar to wine but with a lower alcohol content, making it a lighter alternative for extended gatherings. Many ciders feature nuanced flavor profiles that appeal to wine enthusiasts, with excellent food-pairing potential. Like wine, cider reflects its terroir and can range from dry to sweet, offering diverse options for different palates and occasions.
What are some notable Canadian cider brands?
Standout Canadian cider brands include Sea Cider and Twin Island from British Columbia, Left Field Cider, Revel Cider, Thornbury Craft Cider, and Dominion Cider. Each contributes to Canada's cider renaissance with unique approaches to cidermaking. My Wine Canada offers a curated collection showcasing these brands and others from coast to coast, featuring traditional apple-forward options, fruit-infused varieties, hopped ciders, and barrel-aged selections.
How do cider regions differ across Canada?
Canada's diverse geography and climate create distinct cider regions. British Columbia boasts innovative cidermakers experimenting with heritage varieties. Ontario's small-batch producers push boundaries with experimental blends, while Quebec is known for ice ciders reflecting French influence. Each region honors tradition while embracing creativity, with regional differences evident in the finished products that showcase local apple varieties and production methods.
How do I choose a Canadian cider based on my taste preferences?
If you prefer dry, wine-like beverages, try Left Field's "The Big Dry" or Twin Island's farmhouse styles. Those with a sweet tooth might enjoy Thornbury's offerings. Semi-sweet options balance natural apple sweetness with refreshing tartness. For adventurous palates, explore fruit-infused or barrel-aged varieties. The spectrum of Canadian ciders ensures there's something for everyone, from traditional apple-forward styles to innovative creations with unique flavor profiles.
What foods pair well with Canadian cider?
Dry ciders complement rich foods like cheese, charcuterie, and roasted meats by cutting through fat with their acidity. Sweet ciders balance spicy dishes and Asian cuisine. Fruit-infused ciders pair beautifully with desserts and chocolate. Semi-dry options work well with poultry and seafood. Canadian cider's refreshing effervescence cleanses the palate between bites, making it versatile for various dining experiences, from casual gatherings to sophisticated meals.
Why should I support Canadian cider producers?
Choosing Canadian cider supports local, sustainable products and helps sustain family orchards and agricultural traditions. Small-batch cidermakers often prioritize environmentally friendly practices and preserve heritage apple varieties that might otherwise disappear. Your purchase directly contributes to local economies and encourages the continued growth and innovation of Canada's craft cider scene, ensuring these traditions and skills continue for future generations.