And from out of province…

Dillon’s Small Batch Vodka, Ontario

It may seem odd to use rye – known for its flavour – in a spirit often prized for its neutrality, but this is a match destined to be together. Made with 100 percent rye grains, the nose is light and slightly mineral, with only a little heat and pepper. Smooth and neutral – in the right way, with excellent mouthfeel and a graceful finish. Easy to enjoy neat, chilled if desired, but makes an excellent vodka mule too. A fine base for mixed drinks in the summer months.

CSPC 873928 $34-37

Old Hunter’s Selection 7 Year Old Rye Whisky, Czech Republic

Coming from the Green Tree Distillery (obviously, it’s different in the Czech language) with over 500 years of operation, you’d be correct in thinking they’ve figured a few things out in that time frame. A little bit of vigorous swirling, and leather and toffee aromas emerge with all those wonderful rye notes and bready bits too. Extremely well balanced, but with prominent – very prominent, spicy rye characters, this is an excellent sipper that your palate won’t tire of. Beautiful!

CSPC 893970 $42-48

Canadian Club 100% Rye, Ontario

The team at Canadian Club has been making rye whisky for a very long time, so while their 100 percent rye was a new addition eleven years ago, it’s no surprise that like their other Canadian Club whiskies, it follows suit with the signature smoothness, along with a little vanilla and baking spices, and just a hint of creamy, caramelized oak. Gently toasty and very much toned-down rye spice, so no need for dilution here or to hide it in a cocktail!

CSPC 767076 $29-32

Sortilege Canadian Rye Whisky Maple Wood, Quebec

This is the sort of whisky where you wouldn’t mind if it snowed again so you can sit by the fire and look out of your window, and be so happy that you’re inside, sipping this sweet, smooth, and heart-warming drink. Sortilege Rye Whisky is made from corn, rye, and barley, and then after barrel aging for three years, it's macerated with toasted maplewood staves before bottling. And it makes all the difference; think about caramel, burnt brown sugar, a little smoke, a little spice... and all things nice.

CSPC 102308 $32-36