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A L B E R TA / F O O D & D R I N K / R E C I P E S O C TO B E R 2 02 6

Hundreds of winning beverages from the 2026 Alberta Beverage Awards!

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Volume 14 / No. 5 / October 2026

departments 6

Chefs’ Table

It’s harvest time, and our stores and markets are full of ripe, local produce, so this issue we’re focusing on fruit, and chefs from around the province and beyond have given us their suggestions and recipes for making the best use of it while it’s here!

12 Pumpkin Patch

From Thanksgiving dinner to Hallowe’en, these root vegetables have a place in our homes, and we have recipes for sweet and savoury dishes - Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta, Turkey Chili with Pumpkin, and Spiced Pumpkin Scones with Maple Glaze. by Natalie Findlay

15 The Results of the 2026

Alberta Beverage Awards

ON THE COVER Our glass is more than half full as we celebrate once again all the wonderful and varied beverages from the 2026 Alberta Beverage Awards and share the results in this issue. Special thanks to Inkless Engraving for etching our ABA logo on the glass, and thanks to Katarzyna Kowalewska for superbly capturing it on this month’s cover!

The results of our 14th edition of the Alberta Beverage Awards are here! Months of effort! Hundreds of hours! Thousands of glass pours! Our judges blind tasted and evaluated hundreds and hundreds of different wines, beers, spirits (and many things in between) back in July, and all the winning beverages and their recommendations are here for you! by Tom Firth

Alberta Beverage Awards: Beer

Love a great pint on a hot day or even a cold day? Over a dozen different categories of beer are on these pages covering the gamut from sours to pilsners!

26 Alberta Beverage Awards: Wine

Looking for a new favourite wine? Or looking to rediscover a grape, region, or style? The “Best in Class” awards are the top scoring examples, with “Judges Selection” being very highly recommended in their group.

42 Alberta Beverage Awards: Spirits

From whiskies to gin, or vodka to amaro, this is the place to open your mind and eyes to possibilities for cocktails, or sipping neat too. If the cold weather has you thinking about a beach vacation, tequila might set the mood.

54 Alberta Beverage Awards: Everything Else!

Last – but certainly not least, here you’ll find all sorts of great, ready to drink beverages, ciders, meads, and even sake. Perfect for entertaining, or just chilling in the evenings with something fresh and exciting. October 2026 | Culinaire 3

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

They’re here!

t’s the results issue of the 14th edition of the Alberta Beverage Awards! It’s always the biggest issue of the year, and this year is no exception – 49 pages of winning drinks that we can recommend and stand behind, split over the 52 individual categories of beverages. It’s the A-Z (well, A-W as there aren’t any X, Y, or Z categories!) of everything liquid in bottles, cans, and growlers, available to purchase in Alberta, from Amber Ales to White Wines! The Beverage Awards are such a huge undertaking involving not only hundreds and hundreds of products but the manpower to actually make it happen in the smoothest and most professional way possible. That means around twenty judges, all from Alberta and all experts in their field, who know what’s good and what we like to drink

throughout the year. These are the people who choose which products to sell in their liquor stores and include on their drinks lists in their restaurants, as well as educators and specialist beverage writers who certainly know their stuff. A big thank you to them all. And that’s only front-of-house; behind the scenes in the back room (that’s a whole hotel ballroom filled with tables laden with all the bottles and cans, and some fridges for serving them to the judges at the right temperatures) are usually ten stewards (who are highly experienced,

and knowledgeable in their own right too!) who pour around 5,000 glasses in flights like-for-like, for the judges to taste blind. The judges only know that it’s a flight of rosé, vodkas, or wheat beer etc and nothing more, then they can assess the beverages objectively – is it a good example of its type? Would you be wellserved buying this product? A big thank you to our stewards! And then there’s our Tom: our Managing Editor Tom Firth is also the Competition Director for the Beverage Awards (as well as the new Alberta Whisky Awards this year!), and I don’t know how, but somehow he manages to pull all this together – so a huge thanks to him too! I hope you find your next favourite beverage on these pages,

Cheers Linda

More than a grocery store! EDMONTON

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Alberta / Food & Drink / Recipes Editor-in-Chief/Publisher Linda Garson linda@culinairemagazine.ca Managing Editor Tom Firth tom@culinairemagazine.ca Contributing Editor Quinn Curtis quinn@culinairemagazine.ca Multimedia Editor Keane Straub keane@culinairemagazine.ca Design Kendra Design Inc Contributors Jason Dziver Natalie Findlay Dong Kim Katarzyna Kowalewska Funded by the Government of Canada

Proudly printed in Alberta by Burke Group.

Contact us at: Culinaire Magazine #1203, 804–3rd Avenue SW Calgary, AB T2P 0G9 403.870.9802 info@culinairemagazine.ca @culinairemag @culinairemag @culinairemag facebook.com/CulinaireMagazine For subscriptions, competitions and to read Culinaire online: culinairemagazine.ca

Our contributors Jason Dziver

Jason Dziver has been photographing professionally for more than 30 years now and half of that covering annual wine competitions. Other subjects he loves taking pictures of are architecture and design, product, and one-on-one portraits (plus even more food and beverage). Away from the camera you can find him on the road cycling or paddling an idyllic mountain lake. To see his work, check out jasondziver.com

NO GRAPES, NO RULES.

Tom Firth

Tom has been travelling the world and pulling corks for over 30 years. He is the Managing Editor for Culinaire Magazine and Competition Director for the Alberta Beverage Awards. He has a weakness for old-school nachos and a love of modern wines made from cabernet franc. He has no qualms about tasting first thing in the morning, and his desk is constantly covered in paper and bottles - somewhere under all that, a corkscrew might be found.

Keane Straub

A stint tending bar was all it took for Keane to be forever linked to hospitality. When he’s not keeping the digital side of Culinaire in working order you can find him at SAIT’s School of Hospitality and Tourism collaborating with students and instructors to create digital content. If he doesn’t answer your text message, he’s likely out of range in Kananaskis or immersed in a really good book. Instagram @keane_larsen

Culinaire Magazine acknowledges that we live, work and play on the traditional territories of the Blackfoot Confederacy (Siksika, Kainai, Piikani), the Tsuut'ina, the Îyâxe Nakoda Nations, the Métis Nation (Region 3), and all people who make their home in the Treaty 7 region of Southern Alberta. We are committed to support Indigenous chefs and amplify their voices to bring awareness of the food and culture of the First Nations. All Trademarks presented in this magazine are owned by the registered owner. All advertisements appearing in this magazine are the sole responsibility of the person, business or corporation advertising their product or service. All content, photographs and articles appearing in this magazine are represented by the contributor as original content and the contributor will hold Culinaire Magazine harmless against any and all damages that may arise from their contribution. All public correspondence, which may include, but is not limited to letters, e-mail, images and contact information, received by Culinaire Magazine becomes the property of Culinaire Magazine and is subject to publication. Culinaire Magazine may not be held responsible for the safety or return of any unsolicited manuscripts, photographs and other materials. Reproduction of this publication in whole or in part without written consent from Culinaire Magazine is strictly prohibited.

Discover a different side of Alberta wine at Field Stone Fruit Wines, Alberta’s first estate fruit winery. Made with fruit grown right here on our farm, our wines showcase the bold flavours of Alberta-grown Saskatoon berries, raspberries, strawberries, cherries, and more. Come taste, explore the orchard and discover what happens when Alberta fruit becomes wine.

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C H E F ’ S TI P S & TR I C KS

The Savoury and the Sweet STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHS BY KEANE STRAUB

e put the call out for fruit this month and something interesting happened: peaches reigned supreme, with an honorable mention to fall’s favourite: the apple. Then, our chefs went one step further and came back with a one-two-three hit of savoury dishes, and one humble

Sunterra is known for creating food that is familiar, comforting, and full of flavour. And the best way to get those results is to source the best local ingredients and have a team that understands the importance of preparing every dish with care. In Edmonton, Sunterra Market Chef Mohit Varma combines these principals with his background where food is closely connected to flavour, hospitality, and bringing people together. His recipe for Brioche and Apple Stuffing is a perfect representation of these elements. It also shows that a good dish doesn’t need to be complicated. “With a few carefully selected ingredients, you can create something warm, satisfying, and perfect for sharing.” “Cook with the seasons whenever possible,” adds Chef Mohit. “Fruits can be used for much more than desserts. Try serving roasted apples with pork, adding berries to a vinaigrette, or preparing a rhubarb chutney.” Balance the fruit’s natural sweetness with fresh herbs, citrus, warm spices, cheese, or toasted nuts. This will also help create more depth of flavour. 6 Culinaire | October 2026

and sweet, making our chef ’s table an example of what you can do with simple, seasonal ingredients. These are dishes that were created to fill a need, to remember a place in time, to bring people together, and to savour the last sip of summer even as we head into cooler weather.

Brioche and Apple Stuffing Serves 4

This stuffing is a wonderful accompaniment to holiday roasts such as turkey, turducken, pheasant, and duck, or in a roulade where thin slices of meat (pictured) are rolled around the stuffing. 4 tsp butter ½ cup red onion, diced ½ tsp garlic, minced ¼ cup celery, diced 1 cup apple, diced 4 cups brioche bread or buns, diced (Sunterra make their own brioche and buns in the Market) 3 fresh sage leaves, thinly sliced ½ cup (125 mL) turkey stock (Sunterra make their own turkey stock in the Market)

To taste salt and freshly cracked black pepper 1 Tbs chopped fresh parsley 1. Melt the butter in a large frying pan over medium heat. 2. Add the onion, garlic, and celery. Sauté until the onion becomes soft and translucent. 3. Add the diced apple and continue cooking until it begins to caramelize. 4. Add the brioche and sage, then cook over low heat until the bread becomes lightly toasted and fragrant. 5. Gradually add enough turkey stock to moisten the stuffing without making it soggy. 6. Season to taste with salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Finish with chopped parsley and serve warm.

Chef Paul Stoffel cooks with a sense of adventure. “A lot of my influence comes from the fantastic cuisines around the world along with vastly different approaches to cooking.” Take for example the Bison Short Rib at Calgary’s Flores and Pine, where he’s the Executive Chef. “It’s flavourful, well balanced, and it checks all the boxes of a great dish. It uses very Canadian ingredients while drawing inspiration from Asian cuisine.” But you won’t get far without good ingredients. “Try to the find the best you can, treat them with respect, and good things can happen,” he explains. Being English, fruit cobbler was a staple when Chef Paul visited his grandmother in his youth. “It’s a humble dish that requires minimal effort with a big payoff for the final product.” He also notes that when it comes to stone fruits to consider the savoury side of things. “A personal favourite is roasted peaches with a caprese salad and prosciutto. Using high quality burrata and balsamic takes it to another level.”

Peach Cobbler Serves 4

Roasted Peaches

1.5 kg ripe peaches, peeled, halved and pitted 120 g brown sugar 2 Tbs + 2 tsp (40 mL) honey 35 g unsalted butter 1 vanilla bean, split 1 cinnamon stick 2 strips lemon zest ½ tsp kosher salt 1 Tbs + 2 tsp (25 mL) lemon juice Cut peaches into large wedges and toss with everything except lemon juice. Roast at 375º F for 12–18 minutes, just

until tender but still holding their shape. Remove peaches and reduce the roasting juices with the lemon juice until slightly syrupy. Toss peaches back through the syrup.

Brown Butter Cobbler Crumble 1 Tbs (15 mL) unsalted butter 150 g all-purpose flour 100 g almond flour 110 g brown sugar 50 g rolled oats ½ tsp baking powder ½ tsp kosher salt 1 vanilla bean ½ tsp cinnamon

In a pan over medium heat, brown the butter until deeply nutty. Cool slightly. Combine remaining ingredients, then mix in the brown butter to form a rough crumble. Spread onto a tray and bake at 325º F until deeply golden, approximately 18–22 minutes. Cool completely and break into irregular pieces.

Peach Caramel

1¼ cups (200 mL) peach purée 100 g sugar 2 Tbs (30 mL) glucose 30 g butter Pinch salt 2 tsp (10 mL) lemon juice 1. Heat peach purée and reduce by roughly half. 2. Separately caramelize sugar and glucose to a medium amber. Carefully whisk in the reduced peach purée, then add butter, salt, and lemon, and reduce until it coats a spoon. To Serve 1. Spoon a small pool of warm peach caramel onto the plate. 2. Arrange 3–4 pieces roasted peach over the caramel. 3. Scatter warmish brown butter cobbler crumble around the peaches. 4. Finish with either custard or vanilla ice cream. October 2026 | Culinaire 7

As the Executive Chef of Edmonton’s Boxer Kitchen & Bar, Matt Marple confesses his love for their pizzas, from the science of the dough to the artistry behind presenting the finished pie. The usual suspects are there: Pepperoni, Chef’s Garden, Sausage and Mushroom, and the Angry Godfather, complete with peach mostrada. Hailing from Vancouver, Chef Matt cherishes the endless summers spent in the Okanagan where apples and peaches are plentiful. In Edmonton, it’s not as easy to get his hands on BC fruit, but when life hands him peaches, his mind goes to several places: barbecue glazes,

the pizza, and salsa. “Peach salsa goes well with almost anything and wine,” he explains. “This was created on vacation one summer. We had chips but no salsa. But we had everything to make the salsa, and I went ahead and - to my mom’s surprise - added peaches.” They never did reveal the recipe to family and instead continued to make it every year until she passed away in 2022. “I haven’t made the recipe or shared it until now,” adds Chef Matt. “My mom influenced my cooking from an early age. She was always in the kitchen making family meals so my love for food, and

the fact that I got to spend time with her, kind of just stuck. Now I get my inspiration from my two little girls.”

Peach Salsa Serves 4-6

450 g tomatoes, diced 1 yellow bell pepper (110 g), seeded and finely diced 2 jalapenos, seeded and finely diced 1 medium onion, finely diced 675 g Okanagan peaches, diced ¼ bunch cilantro, chopped 1 Tbs (15 mL) lime juice ½ tsp salt or to taste ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper, or to taste Mix all the ingredients together in a large mixing bowl and chill for 4 hours.

8 Culinaire | October 2026

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Burrata and Peaches Serves 1-4

250 g burrata 1 large fresh peach, cut into eighths; lightly grill half of the pieces 1 bunch parsley 1 bunch basil 1 recipe lacto-fermented peach purée (recipe below) 1 focaccia 1 recipe Pistachio and Fennel Dukkah (recipe below) Olive oil of your choice, ideally good-quality olive oil with peppery notes 1 lemon, juiced Handful fresh parsley Handful fresh basil Sprinkle Maldon salt 10 Culinaire | October 2026

PHOTO BY NICK NAULT

Island Lake Lodge in Fernie, BC, is busy with active Albertans year round — hiking or biking in the summer, catskiing in the winter — so when you rely on local ingredients and seasons, creating menus can be quite the adventure. “First I think about what I would want to eat for those seasons,” explains executive chef Lara Korpan. “Creating dishes that are nutritious also plays a factor in what I put on the menu.” Surrounded by wilderness, Chef Lara incorporates foraging into her dishes, too. “On our summer menu we have a surf n’ turf dish with a spruce tip aioli, and the lamb loin comes with stinging nettle stracchino.” Apart from using fruit immediately, she suggests looking into ways to preserve items over the winter months. Make jams, freeze sliced fruits, or consider making lactofermented peaches, which she says you can then freeze or make into a hot sauce. You can also incorporate those fermented peaches into this recipe for Burrata and Peaches. “I love this recipe,” says Chef Lara. “It’s so simple, but has such an intense flavour once it’s all put together.”

1. Drain the burrata. Carefully place it on a plate and gently break it open. 2. Add approximately four decent-sized dollops of peach purée on and around the burrata. 3. Toss the peaches with olive oil and lemon juice. Arrange them on and around the burrata. Sprinkle 1–2 Tbs of the dukkah over the cheese. 4. Wash the parsley and basil and dry thoroughly. Toss them together and arrange over the peaches and burrata. Finish with a generous sprinkle of Maldon salt over the cheese and peaches. 5. Slice the focaccia to your desired thickness. Toast at 400° F for 4 minutes and serve warm alongside the burrata.

Lacto-Fermented Peach Purée

500 g peaches, roughly 2 large peaches 10 g salt Ensure the peaches are thoroughly washed before starting. You don’t want any unwanted bacteria interfering with the fermentation process. Cut the peaches into cubes and toss thoroughly with the salt. Place the peaches in a Ziploc bag and leave on the counter for one week. This will allow time for the beneficial bacteria to develop, creating a beautiful umami flavour in the peaches.

After one week, taste the peaches. They shouldn’t taste overly salty, and should have a slight “pickle” taste. Using a blender, blend the fermented peaches until smooth to create a purée.

Pistachio and Fennel Dukkah

This recipe will provide more dukkah than you need for the burrata. 2 Tbs coriander seeds 2 Tbs cumin seeds 2 Tbs fennel seeds ½ cup hazelnuts, roasted ½ cup pistachios, roasted ¼ cup sesame seeds ½ tsp salt ¼ tsp ground black pepper Toast the seeds until fragrant. Allow them to cool. Add the seeds to a mortar and pestle and grind until most of the seeds are broken up. Once the nuts are roasted and cooled, place them in a Ziploc bag and gently crush them with a rolling pin. You want to retain some larger, whole pieces. Mix the seeds and nuts together. Add salt and ground black pepper.

Keane Straub has travelled from Tofino to Charlottetown, sampling the different flavours Canada offers. The passion people have for their craft and culture inspires Keane to tell their stories.

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Pumpkin Patch STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHS BY NATALIE FINDLAY

THE COOL, CRISP AIR OF OCTOBER brings all the pumpkins to the yard. From Thanksgiving dinner to Hallowe’en, these root vegetables have a place in our homes. Did you know that every pumpkin is a squash but not every squash is a pumpkin? Pumpkins fall under winter squash versus the broad category of squashes that cover summer and winter. Pumpkins are delicious - creamy, and exude the magic of fall. Cuddle up in your favourite sweater and enjoy these pumpkin recipes.

Spiced Pumpkin Scones with Maple Glaze Makes 12

3 cups all-purpose flour 1/3 cup sugar 2½ tsp baking powder ½ tsp baking soda ¾ tsp salt 1 tsp ground cinnamon ¼ tsp freshly grated nutmeg ½ tsp ground ginger 1/8 tsp ground cloves

170 g unsalted butter, cold, cut into small cubes ½ cup (125 mL) canned pumpkin purée, chilled ½ cup (125 mL) buttermilk 1 egg Half and half cream, for brushing tops

1. Preheat oven to 425º F. 2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves until well blended. 3. Add the cold butter and work them into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles course cornmeal. 4. In another medium bowl, whisk together chilled pumpkin purée, buttermilk, and egg. 5. Pour mixture into the flour mixture. Stir mixture with a fork until all the ingredients are just moistened. 6. Gather the dough into a ball and turn it out onto a lightly floured work surface. Knead briefly (only 10 - 12 turns are enough to bring the dough together without over-kneading). 7. Cut the dough into 2 halves. Gently roll out 1 half at a time into a 2½ cm thick circle about 20 cm in diameter. Cut into 6 triangles. Repeat with the other half of dough. 8. Transfer triangles to a parchment paper lined baking sheet. Brush tops with half and half cream. Bake for 12 - 15 minutes until both tops and bottoms are golden brown. 9. Transfer to a wire rack and cool the scones 10 minutes before spreading with glaze. Best served day prepared. 12 Culinaire | July/August 2026

Maple Glaze for scones Makes ½ cup (125 mL)

4 Tbs (55 g) butter, melted ½ cup powdered sugar, sifted if clumpy 3 Tbs (45 mL) maple syrup Big pinch salt if using unsalted butter In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, melted butter, and maple syrup until the mixture is smooth. Let cool until mixture slightly thickens, about 10 minutes.

Note: You can also use a small spatula or back of a spoon if the glaze thickens too much to pour.

Turkey Chili with Pumpkin Serves 4

1 Tbs (15 mL) olive oil 1 onion, finely chopped 2 stalks celery, finely chopped ½ red pepper, small dice 1 carrot, peeled, small dice 1 tsp salt 1 Tbs dried thyme 1 Tbs dried sage 1 Tbs smoked paprika 1 Tbs ground cumin 1 tsp black pepper ½ Tbs chili powder 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped 500 g ground turkey 2 cups (500 mL) chicken broth 1 can (400 g) crushed or puréed tomatoes 350 g pumpkin, peeled, seeded

2 cans (390 g) white beans, drained ½ cup corn kernels Toppings: Greek yogurt, cheddar cheese, cilantro, avocado or scallions

1. Heat a large heavy bottomed pot over medium heat. Heat oil then add onion, celery, red pepper, and carrot. Cook for 5 minutes. Cut pumpkins into cubes. 2. Stir in salt, thyme, sage, paprika, cumin, pepper, chili powder, and garlic and cook 2 minutes. 3. Add ground turkey, break up into pieces and cook 3 minutes. Pour in chicken broth, add tomatoes and pumpkin cubes. Give it a good stir and bring to a boil. Cover, reduce heat and simmer for 20 - 30 minutes. 4. Add the beans and corn and continue simmering until liquid has reduced, pumpkin is cooked and flavours have melded. Adjust seasoning to taste. 5. Serve hot with a side salad, crusty bread and your favourite toppings.

Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta Serves 4

½ small butternut squash, halved vertically and seeded 2 Tbs (30 mL) extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for drizzling To taste sea salt and freshly ground black pepper 3 cloves garlic, unpeeled 2 sausages (if desired) ½ cup leeks, finely sliced ½ tsp ground sage ½ tsp ground thyme ¾ cup from the pasta or chicken stock 1 tsp lemon juice, or apple cider vinegar 224 g pasta of choice ¼ cup parmesan cheese, grated + more for garnish

1. Preheat the oven to 400º F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. 2. Drizzle the squash with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and place cut side down on the baking sheet. Wrap the garlic cloves in foil with a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt and place on the baking sheet. Add the sausages to the baking sheet (if using). Roast for 30 - 40 minutes, or until the squash is soft and sausages are cooked. 3. Slightly undercook the pasta when referring to the package directions (it will cook again when added to the sauce). Reserve ¾ cup (180 mL) of the hot pasta water. Drain the pasta and reserve. 4. In the pasta pot, add ½ Tbs (8 mL) olive oil and then the leeks. Cook 3 minutes. 5. In a blender add the garlic (peeled),

2 cups of flesh from the cooked squash, sage, thyme, salt, pepper, the pasta water or chicken stock, and the lemon juice or apple cider vinegar. Blend 30 - 45 seconds until smooth and thick. Add more liquid if needed. 6. Add the mixture back to pasta pot with the sliced sausage and pasta. Stir to combine. 7. Season to taste. Top with parmesan cheese and serve.

Note: You can leave the sausage out or substitute with chicken, tofu or other protein of choice.

Natalie is a freelance writer, photographer, and pastry chef. A graduate of Cordon Bleu’s pastry program, she manages her own business too to create custom-made cakes. October 2026 | Culinaire 13

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14 Culinaire | October 2026

14TH ANNUAL 2026 ALBERTA BEVERAGE AWARDS

BY TOM FIRTH, COMPETITION DIRECTOR, ALBERTA BEVERAGE AWARDS

espite what some of my friends or family might hear (perhaps when I’m in the weeds), The Alberta Beverage Awards are a lot of fun. Seriously. The quote, “Maybe the real treasure was the friends we made along the way…” came to mind this year as we were working intently on the competition. It’s incredibly rewarding to see firsthand what the beverage industry is doing year after year – in real time. We “know” when producers and importers are taking the no and low alcohol category seriously; we see right away if a country is passé or if consumers are moving away from a certain region or something becomes “old news”; and conversely, if a place, grape, or drink style is looking like the “next big thing”; and this is all pretty damn cool. All in all, we were just under 700 entries across a broad variety of countries, styles, and a great range of products, new and old. When compiling the results in their entirety year after year, it’s always interesting to reflect on what makes the cut again and again, the products that stand out. Though I am asked occasionally why a score might change over the years or a product go from a Best in Class to a Judges Selection and vice versa. Simply put, tastes change and evolve and that includes the tastes of our judges. During blind tastings like this, every product is assessed on its

own, but also compared to other, similar products. Super sweet white zinfandels (still awesome in their own way!) give way to crisper, more “balanced” rosés in time, but the field of roses is less full of sugary examples as tastes evolve. Talking about changes, we see some changes year over year with our judges. Sometimes people aren’t available, and occasionally we ask them to skip a year or two to change things up (we did that for lucky 13 last year). This year, we had a few changes in the back room. Some of our regular stewards weren’t available, and – I will die on this hill – our stewards really make this all possible – but we always welcome people who bring the fun, the fastidiousness, and the focus, to an operation like ours. We also welcomed Jenny Book, a longtime beverage educator, sommelier, and judge, and her assistance with the administrative process and number crunching was a big boon for all of us. Thanks to our diligent and hardworking stewards and the rest of the team - Len Steinberg, Mairi, Paul, Grant, Alita, Colleen, Taylor, Kerry, Sierra, and Dana. Our stewards really make this happen. We want to thank our sponsors: Medium Rare Chef Apparel, The Import Vintners & Spirits Association, The Alberta Liquor Store Association, North Water, and Spirit Wares, as well as our venue, Calgary’s Carriage House Hotel & Conference Centre. Their excellent

facilities and wonderful staff make our jobs easier. Special thanks to our photographer Jason Dziver, and to our valued judges who are featured later in these pages. We laugh, stress, and smile most days during this undertaking, and it’s a pleasure to chat with so many importers and producers bringing their samples by in the weeks leading up to the judging. It’s the connections we’ve made during this competition that makes it worthwhile. A treasure - really.

Finding your Favourites! As every Alberta liquor store is different, in many cases we’ve included a rough range for the retail price – but also go right to the source and check producers’ websites. Each product also has a “CSPC” number, which can be used to help you find it at your local retailer or at liquorconnect.com. Some products also have a symbol to identify products that not only did well this year, but also in previous years, so you know that it is consistently good. We love seeing these consistent award winners gracing these pages.

2024

2019

October 2026 | Culinaire 15

BEST IN CLASS

Amber and Brown ales are generally malt forward, meaning the aromas are more derived from the grains than the hop profile. Colour shades - amber to brown, vary by adding specialty malts to the grain mix, such as caramel and dark roasted malts which give the brew a toasted nut and toasted bread aroma. North American examples generally show a bit more hop flavour (citrus, stone fruit, and pine). Andrew Paulsen

Cold Garden Vanilla Cappuccino Porter Alberta, Canada $18-20 (4-pack cans) CSPC 121808

Polyrhythm Beatbox Brown Alberta, Canada $18-20 (4-pack cans) CSPC 114012

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$18-20 (6-pack cans) CSPC 124873

16 Culinaire | October 2026

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Spectrum Ale Works Whiskey Jack Scottish Ale Alberta, Canada $18-20 (4-pack cans) CSPC 123531

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Iron Hat Ecliptic Brown Ale Alberta, Canada $17-19 (4-pack cans) CSPC 142310

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Big Rock Traditional Ale Alberta, Canada $17-19 (4-pack cans) CSPC 840151

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Bow River Brewing High Country Amber Alberta, Canada $18-20 (4-pack cans) CSPC 878218 2025 2024

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ANNEX LOREM IPSUM AMBER ALE

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High River English Bitter Alberta, Canada $18-20 (4-pack cans) CSPC 115740

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BOW RIVER BREWING PRAIRIE NIGHT SMOKY PORTER Alberta, Canada

$19-20 (4-pack cans) CSPC 878228

PALE ALES

2026

Judges

There is a wide latitude as to what defines a pale ale. Its colour can range from yellow/ gold to dark amber, and its bitterness and alcohol content are parked somewhere between blonde ales and IPAs. Throw in the new hazy/juicy styles and you have quite a selection. We had a variety in our flights, but the favourite proved to be Bitter Sisters Dank Frank, a nice juicy NEPA with tropical fruit overtones. David Nuttall

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JUDGES SELECTION

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Alberta, Canada

$20-22 (4-pack cans) CSPC 868831

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BITTER SISTERS DANK FRANK NEW ENGLAND PALE ALE

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2025

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Big Rock Unwinder Hazy Pale Ale Alberta, Canada $18-20 (4-pack cans) CSPC 104672

The Establishment Brewing Company Afternoon Delight Alberta, Canada $18-20 (4-pack cans) CSPC 818134

2024

Erika Tocco – Andryka

Erika’s love of wine came from spending almost a decade in the Okanagan Valley. After completing the WSET exams, she worked in various positions within the winery industry, including the illustrious title of cellar rat. Her Italian heritage makes her a fanatic about food and all things related to coffee and wine. Her career has included the positions of Wine Director, Wine Educator, and Corporate Buyer.

2019

2022

2025 2024 2023

Spectrum Ale Works Krush Pale Ale Alberta, Canada $18-21 (4-pack cans) CSPC 143017

88 POINTS

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Annex Forward Progress Pale Ale Alberta, Canada $18-20 (6-pack cans) CSPC 124878

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2025

POINTS

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Tool Shed Golden Hour Hazy Pale Alberta, Canada $19-21 (4-pack cans) CSPC 106597

Beverage A ta

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POINTS

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Colin Schulenborg

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Cold Lake Brewing Curb Jumper Alberta, Canada $16-18 (4-pack cans) CSPC 144086

Colin co-owns and operates Silver Springs Liquor Store, a 33-year-old NW Calgary boutique with a dedication to locality, craft production and sustainability across all facets of the liquor industry. You can often find Colin hosting agave, wine, beer, and cocktail events in-store, and like any true nerd, he’ll fascinate with tales of fermentation, unique culinary pairings, permaculture, and the olfactory.

2020

October 2026 | Culinaire 17

BEER

2026

SOURS AND SPONTANEOUS FERMENT

While the sour category may not be everyone’s cup of... beer, many are shocked at what happens when a large dollop of fruit is added. The result is usually more tart and flavourful than standard fruit beers, often with a lower alcohol content, making them popular on the patio. This year, a three way tie exhibits the remarkable range of the category. David Nuttall

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2024

2025

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BEST IN CLASS

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2023

MARDA LOOP MOUNTAIN BERRY SOUR

THE ESTABLISHMENT BREWING COMPANY CHAISE LONGUE

BLIND ENTHUSIASM NIK’S BLEND

$18-20 (4-pack cans) CSPC 885557

$17-20 (4-pack cans) CSPC 889705

$22 (750 mL) CSPC 143329

Alberta, Canada

Hard Knox Blind Blind Puckerpunch Enthusiasm Enthusiasm Fruitful Pursuits: Kettle Sour Un Petit Peu: Alberta, Canada Apple Spontaneous $17-20 Alberta, Canada Alberta, Canada $22 (750 mL) $30 (750 mL) (4-pack cans) CSPC 151974 CSPC 140110 CSPC 116927

2025

The Establishment Brewing Company Jam Rock Alberta, Canada $20-22 (4-pack cans) CSPC 827036

88 POINTS

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18 Culinaire | October 2026

POINTS

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Beverage A ta

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Buffalo 9 Jingle Truck Sour Alberta, Canada $18-20 (4-pack cans) CSPC 149967

Beverage A ta

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Blind Enthusiasm Grand Manifesto Alberta, Canada $22 (750 mL) CSPC 140107

Beverage A ta

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POINTS

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Beverage A ta

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Beverage A ta

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JUDGES SELECTION

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New Level Pinball Wizard Alberta, Canada $18-20 (4-pack cans) CSPC 831059

2026

Judges

FRUIT BEERS

Fruit beers are among the most approachable and inventive styles, offering brewers endless creative freedom and variety. For judges, that creativity makes fruit beer one of the most vibrant and engaging categories on the table. The result is a category that continues to evolve, offering something for curious newcomers and seasoned beer enthusiasts alike. Natasha Peiskar

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2025

With more than a decade of leadership in Calgary’s wine industry, Erin’s experience spans hospitality, repping, retail, events, digital strategy, and the secondary market. Her path includes leading roles with Top Drop Canada and Bricks Wine Company, wine competition judging, and formative experiences with Iron Gate Auctions, Vine Styles, The Wine Syndicate, and Vintage Group.

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Erin Loader

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2025

POLYRHYTHM MATINEE LEMON TEA TART ALE

PUMP HOUSE CRAFTY RADLER GRAPEFRUIT TANGERINE

$21-23 (4-pack cans) CSPC 127422

$4 (473 mL) CSPC 789175

Alberta, Canada

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Hard Knox Raspberry & Rhubarb Ale Alberta, Canada $17-20 (4-pack cans) CSPC 832261

88 POINTS

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POINTS

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Big Rock Fuzzy Cowboy Peach Ale Alberta, Canada $17-18 (4-pack cans) CSPC 125660

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Bitter Sisters Resting Peach Face Blonde Alberta, Canada $20-22 (4-pack cans) CSPC 134085

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Annex Grapefruit Radler Alberta, Canada $18-20 (4-pack cans) CSPC 124399

2023

Beverage A ta

2024

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POINTS

Marda Loop Jenkins Grapefruit Ale Alberta, Canada $18-20 (4-pack cans) CSPC 828266

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2025

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Bitter Sisters Blueberry Bombshell Alberta, Canada $20-21 (4-pack cans)

Beverage A ta

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POINTS

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Beverage A ta

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JUDGES SELECTION

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Pump House Raspberry Ale Alberta, Canada $4 (473 mL) CSPC 140732

October 2026 | Culinaire 19

2026

Forget any preconceptions about IPAs, it all comes down to beers driven by flavours derived from hops. New England IPAs are hazy, fruity and juicy, with low bitterness and fruity grapefruit, peach, coconut and passion fruit flavours, all pulled from different hops. Classic IPAs or west coast styles are floral and piney, and have the bitterness you’d expect with body and sweetness to balance it! Bill Bonar

JUDGES SELECTION

POINTS

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Iron Hat New Level Double Supercharged Detonation Reaper Double IPA Alberta, Canada Alberta, Canada $5 (473 mL) $17 CSPC 142316 (4-pack cans) CSPC 128993

88 POINTS

POINTS

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2023

2024

POINTS

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2024

The Establishment Brewing Company Sky Rocket Alberta, Canada $20-21 (4-pack cans) CSPC 881726

Wild Winds Wind Warning NEIPA Alberta, Canada $21-22 (4-pack cans) CSPC 885211 2025

20 Culinaire | October 2026

POINTS

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Cold Lake Polyrhythm Brewing French Mixtape Bay IPA Hazy IPA Alberta, Canada Alberta, Canada $16-18 $19-21 (4-pack cans) (4-pack cans) CSPC 144087 CSPC 888596

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2022 2019 2017

POINTS

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2024

Iron Hat Sunwheat White IPA Alberta, Canada $17-19 (4-pack cans) CSPC 128990

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POINTS

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Banded Peak Brewing Southern Aspect Alberta, Canada $19-21 (4-pack cans) CSPC 842026 2025

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POINTS

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Beverage A ta

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Beverage A ta

$18-20 (4-pack cans) CSPC 883955

Beverage A ta

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Alberta, Canada

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NEW LEVEL ELECTRIC REAPER

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BEST IN CLASS

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BEER

INDIA PALE ALES AND NEW ENGLAND INDIA PALE ALES

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Hard Knox Wildlands Session NEIPA Alberta, Canada $17-20 (4-pack cans) CSPC 877574

2026

RED ALES

It used to be difficult to find a red ale in this province. However, as brewers expand their repertoire with more styles, this beer has developed a niche. With a mixture of malts and sometimes an extra helping of hops, it falls in the mid-range between light and dark beers. Clifford the Big Red Ale from Bitter Sisters proved a winner with its good balance and slightly dark caramel flavour. David Nuttall

POINTS

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BITTER SISTERS CLIFFORD THE BIG RED ALE Alberta, Canada

$20-22 (4-pack cans) CSPC 149396

Portugal Intense notes of ripe peaches and melons.

Cecchi Chianti 2023

Fiol Prosecco Veneto, Italy Crisp apple, pear, bright bubbles.

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Barolo DOCG, Italy Rich cherry, roses, firm tannins.

Chianti DOCG, Italy Juicy cherry, balanced, refreshing finish.

JUDGES SELECTION e

POINTS

Batasiolo Barolo 2020 92 Points

Silk and Spice White Blend 2024 90 Points

Beverage A ta

This year’s winners:

ALBERTA BEVERAGE AWARDS

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BEST IN CLASS

2026

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2023

2022

Brewsters Hammerhead Red Ale Alberta, Canada $18-21 (6-pack cans) CSPC 829565

Sweet Sippin’ Maple Whisky Cream Liqueur 91 Points Alberta, Canada Smooth, sweet, rich maple indulgence.

Magnum Cream Liquer 91 Points Edinburgh, Scotland Smooth, creamy, caramel notes.

Luxardo Del Santo 90 Points

BSB Brewing Red Alberta, Canada $17-20 (6-pack cans) CSPC 146538

89 POINTS

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Iron Hat Copper Crown Red Ale Alberta, Canada $17-20 (4-pack cans) CSPC 147509

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Beverage A ta

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Veneto, Italy Bittersweet alpine herbs, honeyed citrus, and warming spice.

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Low Places Tuck N’ Roll Red Ale Alberta, Canada $20-22 (4-pack cans) CSPC 109270

Centennial 10 Year Old Canadian Whisky Alberta, Canada Rich aroma of sweet maple, toasted oak, and subtle vanilla.

Please enjoy responsibly.

BEER

2026

BLONDE ALES

BEST IN CLASS

Blonde ales are an easy drinking beer style that are straw to gold in colour and brewed with base malts from barley and varying percentages of wheat. They are sometimes labelled as ‘golden ales’. In the glass, aromas and flavours of light bread crumb from the malt along with light fruity flavours of citrus and apple from hop additions, produce a well-balanced, “I’ll have another one” brew. Andrew Paulsen

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Tool Shed People Skills Alberta, Canada $18-20 (4-pack cans) CSPC 826499

XhAle See Ya Next Tuesday Aussie Style C-olsch Alberta, Canada $18-20 (4-pack cans) CSPC 116256

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Low Places Son of a Bee Honey Blonde Ale Alberta, Canada $20-22 (4-pack cans) CSPC 109271

Alberta, Canada

$18-20 (4-pack cans) CSPC 818449

POINTS

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POINTS

Albe r

22 Culinaire | October 2026

One for the Road Stone Sofa Kolsch Alberta, Canada $14-15 (4-pack cans) CSPC 901469

rds wa

2024

2025

POINTS

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One for the Road Espresso Stout Alberta, Canada $14-15 (4-pack cans) CSPC 901468

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2020 2019

BEST IN CLASS

The non-alcoholic category has certainly grown tremendously since 2024. Beer has stood out for the quality of products and the quantity of styles to choose from. From small batch brewers to the big, more mainstream brewing houses, there is something certainly for every taste preference. If this is your first time trying non-alcoholic beer, these examples would be worth exploring. Erika Tocco-Andryka

THE ESTABLISHMENT BREWING COMPANY MY BEST FRIEND’S GIRL

2024

2022

NON-ALCOHOLIC BEER

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2023

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2026

2024

POINTS

2025 2025

New Level Berserker Blonde Ale Alberta, Canada $14-16 (4-pack cans) CSPC 808739

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POINTS

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Beverage A ta

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POINTS

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Beverage A ta

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Beverage A ta

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JUDGES SELECTION

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Templ Non-Alcoholic Golden Lager Alberta, Canada $11-14 TOOL SHED ZERO (4-pack cans) GOLDEN HOUR CSPC 901464

Alberta, Canada

$17-19 (4-pack cans) CSPC 135902

PILSNER

2026

Judges

All pilsners are lagers, but not all lagers are pilsners. Originally from the town of Pilsen in the Czech Republic, these beauties are slightly malty, bready, and sweet, showcasing soft water and earthy, herbal Saaz hops. At their best, their easy-going drinkability belies surprising complexity. The only negative aspect of a well-made pilsner is how quickly it disappears. Bill Bonar

BEST IN CLASS

THE ESTABLISHMENT BREWING COMPANY PILSGNAR

HARD KNOX TRAILHEAD PILSNER

$18-20 (4-pack cans) CSPC 819846

$18-20 (4-pack cans) CSPC 122516

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Alberta, Canada

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2024

88 POINTS

POINTS

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Brewsters Czech Pilsner Alberta, Canada $18-20 (6-pack cans) CSPC 105042

POINTS

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2024

2025

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POINTS

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JUDGES SELECTION

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Annex Idle Hands Italian Pilsner Alberta, Canada $17-19 (6-pack cans) CSPC 124877 2024

2022

Nathalie Gosselin

A graduate of UQAM, Nathalie moved west in 2004 and embarked on a 10-year adventure as Conference Services Manager at the Banff Centre. Following her passion for wine and people, she opened Vine Styles in 2014. Nathalie has judged the ABA for over twelve years, served on the Alberta chapter of the Canadian Association of Professional Sommeliers, and serves on the Kensington Business Improvement Area board.

2022

e z

The Establishment Brewing Company Ocean View Pilsner Alberta, Canada $18-20 (4-pack cans) CSPC 143254

88 POINTS

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POINTS

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Polyrhythm Stereo Pils Alberta, Canada $17-19 (4-pack cans) CSPC 124283

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POINTS

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Shelley Boettcher

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BSB Brewing Italian Pilsner Alberta, Canada $17-19 (6-pack cans) CSPC 111080

Banded Peak Brewing Mount Crushmore Pilsner Alberta, Canada $18-20 (4-pack cans) CSPC 841947

2025

2023 2022

Shelley Boettcher is an awardwinning writer and editor whose work has appeared in newspapers and magazines around the world, including The New York Times and The Guardian. The author of the best-selling books, Uncorked: The Definitive Guide to Alberta’s Best Wines $25 and Under, she holds WSET level 3 and International Sommelier Guild level 2 certification. She splits her time between Calgary and Italy, @shelleyboettcher

2024 2022 2020 2018

October 2026 | Culinaire 23

LAGERS

Few beers are as refreshing or technically demanding as a well-made lager. While the style may seem straightforward, there’s little room for error. From a carefully constructed malt bill and thoughtfully chosen hops to attentive yeast management and a tailored water profile, every element matters. Canadian brewers have embraced the challenge, producing lagers ranging from classic to contemporary. Natasha Peiskar

BEST IN CLASS

24 Culinaire | October 2026

Cold Lake Brewing Lakehouse Lager Alberta, Canada $14 (6-pack cans) CSPC 872709

in z

2025

Beverage A ta

POINTS

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Banded Peak Brewing Gran Norte Mexican Style Lager Alberta, Canada $19-21 (4-pack cans) CSPC 123095

POINTS

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Albe r

POINTS

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Albe r

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New Level Hellion Lager Alberta, Canada $18-20 (4-pack cans) CSPC 831056

Beverage A ta

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Tool Shed Local Legend Low-Alcohol Craft Lager Alberta, Canada $17-19 (4-pack cans) CSPC 143513

POINTS

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POINTS

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Red Hart “Hart of the Cantina” Mexican Lager Alberta, Canada $17-19 (4-pack cans) CSPC 142073

Beverage A ta

2024

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POINTS

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Big Rock Bright Side Lager Alberta, Canada $16-18 (4-pack cans) CSPC 128147

rds wa

Beverage A ta

POINTS

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Beverage A ta

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Cold Garden Premium Lager Alberta, Canada $18-20 (4-pack cans) CSPC 132692

Beverage A ta

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POINTS

Beverage A

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Beverage A

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2024

Brewsters Mexcellent Light Alberta, Canada $18-20 (6-pack cans) CSPC 144713

POINTS

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JUDGES SELECTION

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BEER

2026

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2025

BUFFALO 9 BROODING SOLDIER DARK LAGER Alberta, Canada

$18-21 (4-pack cans) CSPC 150853

Wheat creates a uniquely complex brew, complete with a creamy head and refreshing brightness. Wheat beer is rich with character, especially Belgian Witbiers — “white beers”. People have spent years appreciating the nuances of these traditional brews, from their pillowy textures to the classic whispers of coriander and orange peel. It’s where agricultural patience meets technical brewing artistry. Clark Adams

Lasting character, 110 years in the making.

POINTS

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2024

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2021 2020

2022

BOW RIVER BREWING CHERRY RAZ WIT BELGIAN FRUIT BEER

Alberta, Canada

Beverage A ta

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Beverage A ta

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BEST IN CLASS

POINTS

2026

HEFEWEIZENS, WITS AND WHEAT BEERS

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$19-21 (4-pack cans) CSPC 828266

POINTS

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2023

Albe r

Brewsters Farmer’s Tan Belgian White Alberta, Canada $18-20 (6-pack cans) CSPC 804341

POINTS

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Cold Lake Brewing Raspberry Wheat Alberta Canada (Brewery Only)

2022

Beverage A ta

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2024

POINTS

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Beverage A ta

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Albe r

Marda Loop Banded Peak Brewing Vallée Raspberry SoCal Wheat Ale Blanche Alberta, Canada Alberta, Canada $18-20 $19-21 (4-pack cans) (4-pack cans) CSPC 861132 CSPC 142707

2024

POINTS

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Beverage A ta

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POINTS

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Beverage A ta

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Beverage A ta

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BEST BUY WINEENTHUSIAST

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The Establishment Brewing Company Walking on Sunshine Alberta, Canada $18-20 (4-pack cans) CSPC 146238

RED BLENDS

No two vintages are exactly alike, making blending one of a winemaker’s greatest tools. By bringing together different grape varieties, winemakers can create balance, complexity and consistency while making the most of each vintage’s fruit. This year’s Red Blends flights showcased that creativity, with entries from wine regions around the world, each reflecting its own unique style. Laurie MacKay

Lujan de Cuyo, Argentina $25-28 CSPC 109167

Beverage A ta

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26 Culinaire | October 2026

aire M a g a

Beverage A ta

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Albe r

POINTS

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Ego Bodegas 2019 Pirapu Jumilla, Spain $24-27 CSPC 114810

Beverage A ta

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Beverage A ta

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Angove 2024 1886 SMG South Australia $18-21 CSPC 127992

POINTS

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Gate 22 Winery 2020 The Manifest Napa Valley / Canada $33-36 CSPC 682243

POINTS

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Gate 22 Winery 2020 Ton of Brix Napa Valley / Canada $30-33 CSPC 403546

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Gil Family Estates 2024 LAYA Almansa, Spain $21-24 CSPC 189902

POINTS

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POINTS

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Beverage A ta

2025

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Beverage A ta

POINTS

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POINTS

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2024

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Beverage A ta

Spier 2021 Creative Block 3 Western Cape, South Africa $34-38 CSPC 752023

Les Vins Bonhomme 2023 El Petit Bonhomme Jumilla, Spain $20-22 CSPC 169383

aire M a g a

Albe r

POINTS

Volcanic Hills Estate Winery 2022 Magma Red Okanagan Valley, British Columbia $25-28 CSPC 38414

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Moraine 2024 GSM Okanagan Valley, British Columbia $32-35 CSPC 149692

POINTS

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LLAMA 2024 OLD VINE BLEND MALBEC/CABERNET FRANC

JUDGES SELECTION

Beverage A ta

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BEST IN CLASS in

WINE

2026

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2024

2021

ITALIAN RED SINGLE VARIETALS BEST IN CLASS Beverage A ta

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POINTS

Italy’s red single varietals offer an incredible journey through the country’s regions. From the elegance of nebbiolo and the bright acidity of barbera to the rich character of primitivo and nero d’Avola, these wines showcase the remarkable diversity of Italian winemaking. Montepulciano brings generous fruit, while the floral, aromatic lacrima is a captivating discovery if you’re looking for something different! Nathalie Gosselin

Judges

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2026

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Andrew Paulsen 2025

2024

2023

Originally from Australia, Andrew studied wine from a marketing perspective, and over the last 30 years in Canada, he has been in food and beverage at restaurant and retail levels. A certified ISG sommelier and level 3 WSET, Andrew currently instructs WSET courses, and is also a Certified Cicerone – a beer sommelier. Andrew is now in his fourteenth year as a sommelier with Co-op Wine Spirits Beer in Calgary.

2022

BATASIOLO 2020 BAROLO Piedmont, Italy $38-44 CSPC 178541

JUDGES SELECTION

POINTS

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POINTS

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Fantini Riporta 2024 Montepulciano d’Abruzzo Abruzzo, Italy $22-26 CSPC 133834

POINTS

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POINTS

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Beverage A ta

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POINTS

Beverage A ta

POINTS

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Albe r

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Beverage A ta

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Beverage A ta

Corte di Passo 2024 Nero d’Avola Appasimento Sicily, Italy $27-30 CSPC 876684 Albe r

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Albe r

Torre Zambra 2021 Villamagna Abruzzo, Italy $45-49 CSPC 824812

POINTS

Baglio Oro 2022 Sciule Frappato Sicily, Italy $27-29 CSPC 873643

Beverage A ta

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Lacrima 2022 Di Morro d’Alba Superiore Ascoli Piceno, Italy $42-46 CSPC 879126

Beverage A ta

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Albe r

Vinicolla 2019 Arno Lorella Nizza Piedmont, Italy $35-40 CSPC 107074

aire M a g a

Beverage A ta

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Monchiero Carbone 2022 Barolo Piedmont, Italy $50-55 CSPC 144946

aire M a g a

October 2026 | Culinaire 27

BORDEAUX BLENDS

Bordeaux blends typically combine cabernet sauvignon and merlot into iconic, structured wines. While France defines the earthy classic style, modern interpretations prioritize bold, fruit-forward profiles. Canada and South Africa (SA) hold their ground; Okanagan Valley offers intense, bright-fruited elegance, while SA’s Paarl region produces deep, muscular blends with gravelly minerality that rival Europe’s finest. Patrick Hill

JUDGES SELECTION

Okanagan Valley British Columbia $33-38 CSPC 807678

2020

Beverage A ta

POINTS

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MORAINE 2022 MERITAGE

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Albe r

Glen Carlou 2023 Grand Classique Coastal Region, South Africa $27-32 CSPC 153882

Beverage A ta

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Albe r

BEST IN CLASS in

WINE

2026

aire M a g a

POINTS

Albe r

POINTS

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28 Culinaire | October 2026

Sandhill 2022 Cabernet Merlot Okanagan Valley, British Columbia $27-30 CSPC 541144

2023

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Beverage A ta

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2024

Beverage A ta

2025

POINTS

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Hillside Winery 2019 Mosaic Naramata Bench, British Columbia $70-75 CSPC 80036

Beverage A ta

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Le Repaire 2023 Bordeaux Rouge Lussac-Saint Emilion, France $35-39 CSPC 130624

Beverage A ta

POINTS

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Volcanic Hills Estate Winery 2022 Eruption Okanagan Valley, British Columbia $55-60 CSPC 126737

POINTS

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Volcanic Hills Estate Winery 2022 Granite Red Okanagan Valley, British Columbia $32-36 CSPC 124584

2023

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Clos du Soleil 2022 Celestiale Similkameen Valley, British Columbia $30-35 CSPC 21249

POINTS

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Osoyoos Larose 2020 Le Grand Vin Okanagan Valley, British Columbia $68-75 CSPC 989194

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Judges

CABERNET SAUVIGNON BEST IN CLASS Beverage A ta

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POINTS

The “king of red grapes”, cabernet sauvignon, was born from a natural crossing of cabernet franc and sauvignon blanc in 17th-century France. With naturally high tannins and aromas ranging from cocoa to cassis, cabernet sauvignon rose to dominance and is now the world’s most widely planted grape. Its resilient vines produce intense, age-worthy wines that resonate with wine lovers. Colin Schulenborg

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Jenny Book

GATE 22 WINERY 2020 CABERNET SAUVIGNON

Wine educator, contract speaker, freelance writer, and wine judge, with over 20 years of experience in the industry, Jenny is now focused on education, sharing her passion and expertise with both Canadian and international students through in-person classes and online instruction. Her mission is to inspire confidence and curiosity, making the world of wine approachable, inclusive, and exciting.

Napa Valley / Canada $45-50 CSPC 704463

POINTS

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2020

Justin 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon Paso Robles, California $41-47 CSPC 456285

Beverage A ta

2021

Beverage A ta

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Emiliana 2023 Mr Wildman Cabernet Sauvignon Chile $15-18 CSPC 124095

2024

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Angus The Bull 2025 Cabernet Sauvignon Central Victoria, Australia $25-28 CSPC 713074

Beverage A ta

POINTS

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Austin NV Paso Robles Cabernet Sauvignon Paso Robles, California $32-36 CSPC 897307

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Beverage A ta

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Wente Family Vineyards 2022 Southern Hills Cabernet Sauvignon Central Coast, California 2024 2022 2021 2020 2016 2014 $23-28 CSPC 301507

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Piattelli 2024 Reserve Cafayate Cabernet Sauvignon Cafayate, Argentina $22-25 CSPC 877560

POINTS

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Hugh Hamilton 2022 Black Sheep Cabernet McLaren Vale, Australia $26-30 CSPC 131725

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October 2026 | Culinaire 29

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BEST IN CLASS

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89 POINTS

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30 Culinaire | October 2026

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Hester Creek Estate Winery 2022 Old Vine Cabernet Franc Golden Mile Bench, British Columbia $39-43 CSPC 467332

89 POINTS

POINTS

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2024

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Radio Boka 2024 Tempranillo Castilla-La Mancha, Spain $17-20 CSPC 752758

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Beverage A ta

POINTS

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2025

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2025

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The Grape Grinder 2024 Pinotage Swartzland, South Africa $18-21 CSPC 747257

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2020

POINTS

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Hillside Winery 2021 Gjoa’s Vineyard Merlot Naramata Bench, British Columbia $50-55 CSPC 166173

Beverage A ta

2017

Black Chook 2022 Shiraz Viognier McLaren Vale, Australia $20-23 CSPC 171991

2023

Spier 2024 Signature Pinotage Western Cape, South Africa $18-21 CSPC 451658

2024

POINTS

Poplar Grove 2020 Merlot Okanagan Valley, British Columbia $33-36 CSPC 449416

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La Salargue 2023 Bordeaux Rouge Lussac Saint Emilion, France $30-34 CSPC 109464

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Weinviertel, Austria $31-35 CSPC 785339

Beverage A ta

GRUBER RÖSCHITZ 2024 “LAUSCHEN” ZWEIGELT 2024

POINTS

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Seghesio 2023 Sonoma Zinfandel Sonoma, California $30-34 CSPC 710681

Beverage A ta

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Beverage A ta

2023

Stellenbosch, South Africa $45-50 CSPC 764174

Volcanic Hills Estate Winery 2025 Gamay Noir Okanagan Valley, British Columbia $23-26 CSPC 39768

2025

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SPIER 2020 21 GABLES PINOTAGE

JUDGES SELECTION

There’s something special about a wine that lets a single grape do all the talking. While blends bring their own magic to the table, highlighting a single grape variety offers a chance to showcase exactly what one grape can do, all on its own. This year’s category was a particularly strong one, with our judges in agreement across the board on just how bright these grapes could shine. Erin Loader

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WINE

2026

RED SINGLE VARIETIES

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PINOT NOIR

2026

Taste Quality Taste Quality at at

RIG HAND DISTILLERY

Rig Hand is in the unique position of being the first craft distillery in the greater Edmonton area. Our family based business makes exceptional handcrafted liquor that is locally sourced, produced, and distributed. Our products are packaged in a distinctive trademarked bottle that is a replica of the Leduc #1 drilling rig, paying tribute to our rich history of both agriculture and resource development in Alberta.

#38 Maple Rye Whisky

Batch #38 Maple Rye is a smooth, un-aged rye spirit subtly flavoured with maple syrup from my home province of Quebec. It is representative of the many transplanted Easterners, like myself, that now call Alberta their home. This premium liquor truly shows what results when you combine the best of what Canada offers from coast to coast. I am proud to partner with Rig Hand Distillery to share a taste of home, old and new, with you. Cheers, Jeff Drouin-Deslauriers #38

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Taste excellence in our spirits and Cherry Whisky our cuisine through a flavourful We naturally infuse a 3 year aged Canadian whisky infusion of #38 Maple Rye Whisky, with natural cherry juice to create this refreshing Cherry Whisky bacon, maple syrup, spirit. Enjoy it on the rocks or or your favourite cola. Cheers! parmesan cheese and lemon vest zest on our pan fried brussel sprouts.

BEST IN CLASS

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Pinot noir is called the heartbreak grape as it’s so difficult to grow. There were few heartbreaks for us judging this category, however. The category featured many strong entries and many of these were Canadian. If you’ve ever tasted Canadian pinot noir, you know our wineries are making excellent examples, from Prince Edward County and Niagara in Ontario to British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley. Shelley Boettcher

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GRAY MONK 2024 LIMITED EDITION PINOT NOIR

780-612-1554

A L B E R TA / F O O D & D R I N K / R E C I P E S S E P T E M B E R 2 02 6

A L B E R TA / F O O D & D R I N K / R E C I P E S O C TO B E R 2 02 6

Hundreds of winning beverages from the 2026 Alberta Beverage Awards!

A L B E R TA / F O O D & D R I N K / R E C I P E S J U N E 2 02 6

A L B E R TA / F O O D & D R I N K / R E C I P E S J U LY/AU G U S T 2 02 6

A L B E R TA / F O O D & D R I N K / R E C I P E S A P R I L 2 02 6

Picnic Planning | Father’s Day BBQ | Wines for Summer | From the Ranch

World Cup of Beer | Road Tripping | Spritz | Live Fire Cooking | The Best Birria

Beverage A ta

POINTS

Delicious Events | Fruit Trees | Brewpub Cuisine | Breakfast for Mom

Knowing Your Pumpkins | The Results of The Alberta Whisky Awards | Bison

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A L B E R TA / F O O D & D R I N K / R E C I P E S M AY 2 02 6

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POINTS

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Lightning Rock Winery 2023 Elysia Pinot Noir Summerland Bench, British Columbia $38-44 CSPC 185143

on many levels!

POINTS

Rosehall Run 2022 JCR Pinot Noir Prince Edward County, Ontario $52-55 CSPC 326504

We deliver

Beverage A ta

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Lightning Rock Winery 2023 Canyonview Pinot Noir Summerland Bench, British Columbia $38-44 CSPC 154917

righanddistillery.com

50158 RR 244A Leduc County, AB

righanddistillery.com

Niagara Region, Ontario $29-33 CSPC 135062

50158 RR 244A Leduc County, AB

780-612-1554

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2024 BC Wine Touring | Spring Fresh | Alberta Ale Trails | Origins of Poke

If you don’t get to pick up every copy of Culinaire, as we know they go fast, visit culinairemagazine.ca to have each issue delivered to your door!

2024

SANGIOVESE AND ITS BLENDS

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Tuscany, Italy

$37-42 CSPC 820082

Forzza 2022 Chianti Fiasco Tuscany, Italy $25-28 CSPC 150655

Beverage A ta

88 POINTS

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MAZZEI 2022 SER LAPO CHIANTI CLASSICO RISERVA

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2022

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32 Culinaire | October 2026

Fantini 2024 Riporta Sangiovese Puglia, Italy $22-25 CSPC 133832

Beverage A ta

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2021

2024

2022

Beverage A ta

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2024

2025

Rocca delle Macìe 2022 Chianti Classico Riserva Tuscany, Italy $31-35 CSPC 296129

2025

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Cecchi 2023 Chianti Tuscany, Italy $20-24 CSPC 231712

POINTS

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BEST IN CLASS

While this beloved Italian variety is grown throughout the country, it is in the rolling hills of Tuscany where it truly shines. Known for its bright acidity, savoury character, and love of food, sangiovese is the foundation of iconic wines including Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, and many Super Tuscans. This year’s flight showcased the diversity of this celebrated Italian classic. Laurie MacKay

JUDGES SELECTION

2026

2023

Beverage A ta

POINTS

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Ninfa 2022 Marche Rosso Piceno, Italy $45-50 CSPC 868839

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$58-63 CSPC 317057

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2025

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Veneto, Italy

Beverage A ta

MASI 2020 COSTASERA AMARONE

POINTS

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Zeni 1870 2023 Ripasso Superiore Veneto, Italy $32-34 CSPC 844858

Beverage A ta

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Montezovo 2022 Ripasso Superiore Valpolicella Veneto, Italy $26-30 CSPC 823162

JUDGES SELECTION

Beverage A ta

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Castello di Radda 2023 Granbruno Tuscany, Italy $30-34 CSPC 789538

Italy boasts it has some of the world’s oldest and most diverse wine traditions, some that date back thousands of years. The last century saw successful experimentation with blending both indigenous and international grapes, creating new and exciting wines for the international stage. Below are great examples of both classic Italian blends and modern versions that still show regional identity. Erika Tocco-Andryka

BEST IN CLASS rds wa

WINE

ITALIAN RED BLENDS

2026

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POINTS

Beverage A ta

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1884 Escorihuela 2022 Ltd Production Malbec Lujan De Cuyo, Argentina $38-41 CSPC 138453

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2025 2024 2023 2022 20202017

Beverage A ta

POINTS

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Beverage A ta

POINTS

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Beverage A ta

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$28-34 CSPC 275520

UKO 2022 Select Malbec Mendoza, Argentina $28-31 CSPC 811330

Horse Heaven Hills Washington

LIGHTNING ROCK WINERY 2024 EAGLE AND PLOW VINEYARD MALBEC

Mendel 2020 Malbec Mendoza, Argentina $45-49 CSPC 869834

Bill is a seasoned veteran of the restaurant industry, a Certified Cicerone, and the owner operator of Rain Dog Bar in Inglewood. His 25-plus year career, has been almost entirely inspired by the possibilities in pairing food and beverage. He opened Rain Dog Bar not only to show the possibilities pairing craft beer and food, but with the goal of bringing the same respect to beer as you see with wine.

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POINTS

Judges

POINTS

Bill Bonar

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Beverage A ta

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2024

BEST IN CLASS

Finca Decero 2022 Malbec Mendoza, Argentina $27-30 CSPC 119586

The most successful malbecs this year showed restraint. Rather than relying on sheer power, oak, or alcohol, they brought dark fruit, savoury notes, and tannins that gave shape without getting heavy. We were very happy with the quality across this category, but a few really stood out. They delivered everything wine lovers look for in malbec – a fine texture, bold flavours, and a memorable finish. Matt Stortz

Dona Paula 2024 Estate Malbec Gualtallary, Argentina $22-25 CSPC 631291

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2026

JUDGES SELECTION

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MALBEC

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Ironically, easy to find.

WHITE SINGLE VARIETIES

This year we tasted viognier, moscato, gewürztraminer, Italian vermentino and arneis (also fiano, but from Australia), Argentinian torrontes, and a delight from Ukraine, the sukholymanske (a cross of chardonnay and plavai) a first-time experience for most of the judges. How do you compare all these different wines? We look for balance, typicity and overall deliciousness, and judge accordingly. Mary Bailley

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Pindarie 2025 Small Block Fiano Barossa Valley, Australia $25-30 CSPC 108283

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34 Culinaire | October 2026

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Monchiero Carbone 2025 Recit Roero Arneis, Italy $32-36 CSPC 144944

89 POINTS

POINTS

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Beverage A ta

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Beverage A ta

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Beverage A ta

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Kolonist 2024 Sukholymansk Danube Bessarabia, Ukraine $25-28 CSPC 820024

POINTS

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POINTS

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Piattelli 2025 Reserve Cafayate Torrontes Cafayate, Argentina $21-25 CSPC 881464

2021 2017

Santadi 2025 “Villa Solias” Vermentino di Sardegna Sardinia, Italy $22-26 CSPC 751035

POINTS

2023

POINTS

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2025

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Beverage A ta

POINTS

Beverage A ta

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Beverage A ta

Hillside 2025 Gewürztraminer Naramata Bench, British Columba $24-27

Volcanic Hills Estate Winery 2025 Gewürztraminer Okanagan Valley, Canada $23-26 CSPC 789677

POINTS

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POINTS

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Brown Brothers 2025 Moscato Victoria, Australia $18-20 CSPC 143103

Vinho Verde, Portugal $21-24 CSPC 129597

Emiliana 2025 Mr Wildman Viognier Central Valley, Chile $15-18 CSPC 124096

POINTS

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POÇAS 2024 TONGUE TWISTER

JUDGES SELECTION

Beverage A ta

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BEST IN CLASS in

WINE

2026

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Judges

CHARDONNAY

2026

Chardonnay is one of the most popular white wines and is produced throughout the world. From crisp and refreshing, cool climate Chablis and Champagne, to creamy, tropical styles from warmer climates such as California, this varietal has a style to suit everyone’s taste. Excellent with food or delicious on its own, this is a wine that is hard not to love. Bruce Soley Tara Smith

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92 POINTS

2023

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POINTS

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WENTE FAMILY VINEYARDS 2024 MORNING FOG CHARDONNAY

ROSEHALL RUN 2022 JCR CHARDONNAY

$22-25 CSPC 175430

$42-45 CSPC 45625

Central Coast, California

Tara believes every bottle holds a story that’s waiting to be uncorked. With taste buds that have explored every corner of the culinary, hospitality, and retail world, she has seen and experienced many changes to the industry and met many amazing people over the past 25+ years. She strives to make good wine and spirits accessible, providing an honest and educational experience by weaving it all together.

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Beverage A ta

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BEST IN CLASS

Prince Edward County, Ontario

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POINTS

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Beverage A ta

POINTS

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Beverage A ta

88 POINTS

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Poplar Grove 2024 Cascadia Chardonnay Washington State / Canada $30-34 CSPC 365469

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POINTS

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2023

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Gray Monk 2025 Unwooded Chardonnay Okanagan Valley, British Columbia $26-30 SPC 501114

Beverage A ta

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POINTS

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Cold Garden 2023 Laughing Loon Chardonnay Niagara Peninsula, Ontario $28-32 CSPC 144050

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Seven Terraces 2024 Oaked Chardonnay Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand $20-24 CSPC 136255

Upper Bench Estate Winery 2023 Chardonnay Naramata Bench, British Columbia $35-37 CSPC 858597

Laroche 2024 Chardonnay Pays d’Oc, France $21-25 CSPC 135724

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JUDGES SELECTION

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David Nuttall

David Nuttall has worked in liquor since the late 1980s. He got his Beer Judge Certification in 2012 and was head judge for Calgary International Beerfest as well as judging the Alberta Beverage Awards and Alberta Beer Awards. He has appeared on radio, television, and the movie Aleberta: Our Beer History. He is a freelance writer in print and online, beer judge, speaker, and beer educator. @abfbrewed. October 2026 | Culinaire 35

WHITE BLENDS

White blends invite curiosity, combining different grape varieties to create wines with unique expressions of flavour, texture and personality. This year’s flight featured entries from several countries, showcasing the incredible diversity of this category. Laurie MacKay

Beverage A ta

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BEST IN CLASS e

POINTS

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CLOS DU SOLEIL 2025 FUME BLANC British Columbia $27-30 CSPC 636936

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Beverage A ta

2024

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POINTS

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2024 2023 2021 2020 z

Beverage A ta

89 POINTS

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Beverage A ta

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Monte Antico 2024 Bianco Tuscany, Italy $20-24 CSPC 145676

POINTS

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POINTS

Hillside Winery 2025 Chef’s Whites Naramata Bench, British Columbia $35 CSPC 368947

POINTS

2023

Beverage A ta

2024

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2025

Beverage A ta

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POINTS

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Pine Ridge 2024 Chenin Blanc + Viognier California $25-27 CSPC 746997

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36 Culinaire | October 2026

POINTS

JoieFarm Winery 2025 A Noble Blend Okanagan Valley, British Columbia $35-38 CSPC 138263

Zsirai 2022 Unmarked Dry White Tokaj, Hungary $30-34 CSPC 870914

Beverage A ta

Silk and Spice 2024 White Blend Portugal $16-19CSPC 888843

Ravasqueira 2024 “Encantado” White Alentejo, Portugal $18-21 CSPC 136076

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JUDGES SELECTION

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WINE

2026

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2026

Judges

PINOT GRIS/GRIGIO

The best-known examples of this grape are from Northern Italy and Alsace. Styles range from light, crisp wines meant for aperitivo to full bodied, ageable wines which can be enjoyed in many situations. This year, there were several delicious Italian bottlings from Abruzzo and Pavia, and several from the Okanagan Valley, which has made a specialty of this versatile grape. Mary Bailey

Natasha Peiskar

A passion for beer led Natasha to become a beer judge, allowing her to explore the vast world of beer while discerning the very best examples. With more than a decade of industry experience, she has judged the Great American Beer Festival, World Beer Cup, Alberta Beer Awards, and more. As one of only fifteen Advanced Cicerones in Canada, Natasha is delighted to contribute to this year’s Alberta Beverage Awards.

POINTS

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Beverage A ta

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POINTS

Fantini Riporta 2025 Pinot Grigio Abruzzo, Italy $21-25 CSPC 133828

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Beverage A ta

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BEST IN CLASS POINTS

Beverage A ta

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Hillside Winery 2025 Unoaked Pinot Gris Naramata Bench, British Columbia $35-40 CSPC 65672

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JUDGES SELECTION

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VOLCANIC HILLS ESTATE WINERY 2025 PINOT GRIS Okanagan Valley British Columbia

Beverage A ta

POINTS

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Poplar Grove 2025 Pinot Gris Okanagan Valley, British Columbia $22-26 CSPC 196264

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$25-29 CSPC 857684

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POINTS

z 2023

POINTS

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Lightning Rock Winery 2025 Prochnau Vineyard Pinot Gris Summerland Bench, British Columbia $25-28 CSPC 275514

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Moraine 2025 Pinot Gris Okanagan Valley, British Columbia $25-29 CSPC 285455

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Patrick Hill

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Patrick is a Calgaryborn entrepreneur and hospitality veteran, owning and operating The Living Room Restaurant for the past two decades. Drawing on a background in hotel operations, he has developed multiple successful local concepts, including Añejo YYC and Blanco Cantina — as a founding partner shaping the city’s culinary landscape.

October 2026 | Culinaire 37

SPARKLING WINE

Bubbles for breakfast, bubbles on a Tuesday, bubbles for absolutely no reason at all, there’s really never a bad time to pop a cork! Alberta drinkers are spoiled for choice, whether you’re after an affordable cava or prosecco, a fizzy lambrusco, or a vintage grower Champagne. This category continues to prove that sparkling wine isn’t reserved for celebrations. Erin Loader

POINTS

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POINTS

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Fiol NV Prosecco Brut Veneto, Italy $20-23 CSPC 812819

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88 POINTS

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Beverage A ta

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Zaccagnini NV Blanc de Blancs Abruzzo, Italy $26-30 CSPC 129142

POINTS

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POINTS

Beverage A ta

2025

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POINTS

Volcanic Hills Estate Winery 2025 Bubbly Gewürztraminer Okanagan Valley, British Columbia $28-30 CSPC 817879

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2024

POINTS

Beverage A ta

2025

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Villa Teresa NV Organic Rose Frizzante Veneto, Italy $20-23 CSPC 826875

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POINTS

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POINTS

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Champagne, France $97-105 CSPC 894529

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38 Culinaire | October 2026

Le Manzane NV Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore Brut Veneto, Italy $32-35 CSPC 805432

Chartron & Trebuchet 2023 Cremant du Bourgogne Burgundy, France $27-30 CSPC 804981

Ceci NV Lambrusco Rosato Amabile Bolle Emilia-Romagna, Italy $21-23 CSPC 112055

Lightning Rock Winery 2022 Elysia Vineyard Blanc de Noirs Summerland Bench, British Columbia $38-42 CSPC 69232

Albe r

JUDGES SELECTION LINI 910 Lambrusco Rosso Emilia-Romagna, Italy $23-25 CSPC 754780

Beverage A ta

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Albe r

BEST IN CLASS

TELMONT NV BRUT CHAMPAGNE

Albe r

WINE

2026

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2025

2024

2023

SAUVIGNON BLANC

Sauvignon blanc’s vibrant freshness, lively acidity, and unmistakable aromatic character make it one of the world’s most crowd-pleasing wines. It’s equally at home on the patio as it is paired with goat cheese salads or notoriously tricky vegetables like asparagus. New Zealand dominated this category, but excellent Canadian and South African entries added plenty of diversity and kept things interesting. Nathalie Gosselin

Albe r

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POINTS

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Beverage A ta

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92 POINTS

Seven Terraces 2025 Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough, New Zealand $20-24 CSPC 717467

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2025

Babich Classic 2025 Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough, New Zealand $25-28 CSPC 560144

Albe r

JUDGES SELECTION

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Albe r

BEST IN CLASS in

2026

aire M a g a

ARNISTON BAY 2025 SAUVIGNON BLANC Coastal Region South Africa $20-24 CSPC 137704

88 POINTS

2025

in z

Albe r

POINTS

aire M a g a

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Nautilus Estate 2025 Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough, New Zealand $27-31 CSPC 19586

aire M a g a

RIESLING

Albe r

88 POINTS

Albe r

2023 2022 2021 2020

Beverage A ta

Albe r

POINTS

aire M a g a

rds wa

Beverage A ta

POINTS

aire M a g a

Moraine 2025 Riesling BC VQA Okanagan Valley, British Columbia $25-29 SPC 782571

rds wa

aire M a g a

90 POINTS

rds wa

Sumo Cat 2023 Riesling Rheingau, Germany $17-19 CSPC 112416 Robert Weil 2025 “Skyblue” Trocken Riesling Rheingau, Germany $27-30 CSPC 828408

Beverage A ta

JUDGES SELECTION

BEST IN CLASS rds wa

It was a classic Canada (great to see a Niagara wine in the mix as well) vs Germany showdown this year as we all opened the judging using riesling to calibrate our palates. Within our panels, Canada came out on top with both dry and off-dry examples, with Germany being very well represented too. Tara Smith

Albe r

2026

Beverage A ta

rds wa

The Ned 2024 Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough, New Zealand $18-23 CSPC 742653

aire M a g a

UPPER BENCH ESTATE WINERY 2025 RIESLING Naramata Bench British Columbia $32-34 CSPC 598805

October 2026 | Culinaire 39

ROSÉ

Rosé should be easy to enjoy, but that doesn’t mean it has to be simple. Our top-scoring wines shared a similar thread: fresh fruit, lively acidity, some texture, and a finish that made us want another sip. Bottles that were unbalanced or had a short finish didn’t make the cut. Our favourites were refreshing without being polarizing - exactly the kind of wine that disappears faster than planned! Matt Stortz

Albe r

in z

Albe r

e e

88 POINTS

Albe r

Beverage A ta

rds wa

aire M a g a

Moraine 2025 Pink Mountain Rosé Okanagan Valley, British Columbia $27-30 CSPC 286102

40 Culinaire | October 2026

88 POINTS

rds wa

Beverage A ta

POINTS

aire M a g a

rds wa

Beverage A ta

POINTS

aire M a g a

Clos du Soleil 2025 Rosé Similkameen Valley, British Columbia $26-29 CSPC 46755

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Albe r

Beverage A ta

rds wa

aire M a g a

Volcanic Hills Estate Winery 2025 Rosé Okanagan Valley, British Columbia $25-30 CSPC 794219

POINTS

rds wa

aire M a g a

Beverage A ta

POINTS

Albe r

2023

rds wa

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Albe r

2024

Marius Peyol 2025 Provence Rosé Coteaux d’Aix-en-Provence, France $20-24 CSPC 143399

Albe r

POINTS

aire M a g a

Hester Creek Estate Winery 2025 Cabernet Franc Rosé Okanagan Valley, British Columbia $29-33 CSPC 776500

rds wa

Estoublon 2025 Roseblood Rosé Coteaux Varois en Provence, France $31-35 CSPC 125181

Naramata Bench British Columbia $35-40 CSPC 375967

2023

Tinhorn Creek 2024 Reserve Rosé Washington State / Canada $23-26 CSPC 129909

Beverage A ta

JoieFarm Winery 2025 Rosé Okanagan Valley, British Columbia $35-40 CSPC 731772

POINTS

aire M a g a

HILLSIDE WINERY 2025 BELOW THE ROAD ROSÉ

Zenato 2024 Rosé San Benedetto Veneto, Italy $23-26 CSPC 885233

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Albe r

BEST IN CLASS

JUDGES SELECTION

Albe r

WINE

2026

aire M a g a

90 POINTS

2025

Beverage A ta

e in z

Albe r

POINTS

aire M a g a

Codorniu Zero Brut Rosé Peñedes, Spain $18-20 CSPC 891949

rds wa

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Brilla 0.0% Veneto, Italy $22-25 CSPC 146302

aire M a g a

Beverage A ta

rds wa

JUDGES SELECTION

POINTS

The evolution of alcohol-free wines over the last five years or so are miles away from the juice you used to see on the bottom shelf at the grocery store. Many examples today have exceptional balance considering that they are missing 8-15 percent alcohol. Any of the wines on this page are worth trying, though in perhaps an emerging trend, the sparkling wines seem to be getting most of the attention. Tom Firth

BEST IN CLASS in

ALCOHOL-FREE WINE

Albe r

2026

aire M a g a

HUBER “LAYLA” NONALCOHOLIC SPARKLING WINE Austria

89 POINTS

Beverage A ta

POINTS

aire M a g a

Albe r

2025

ONES 2025 Cabernet Merlot Okanagan Valley, British Columbia $30-33

POINTS

aire M a g a

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Codorniu Zero Brut Peñedes, Spain $18-20 CSPC 891301

rds wa

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Drink Glimmer 2023 De-Alcoholized Sparkling Blanc de Blancs British Columbia, Canada $28-30

Albe r

$27-29 CSPC 121794

aire M a g a

TEQUILA AND AGAVE SPIRITS

BEST IN CLASS

The term additive-free has defined how we think of this spirit. Fermentation takes place in wood, concrete, or steel tanks, then a double distillation yields an approximately 55% spirit that is essentially Blanco. Reposado and Añejo mature in oak barrels to add complexity for a brief period, and the result is a pure agave and terroir experience. Colin Schulenborg

Dulce Vida Blanco Tequila Mexico $55-60 CSPC 895200

Beverage A ta

aire M a g a

Chismé Blanco Tequila Mexico $40-45 CSPC 143270

Milagro Reposado Tequila Mexico $45-50 CSPC 149788 2025 2024

89 POINTS

in z

Albe r

42 Culinaire | October 2026

POINTS

aire M a g a

Cimarron Blanco Tequila Mexico $48-52 CSPC 885952

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Siempre Reposado Tequila Mexico $75-80 CSPC 840204 2023 2021

Beverage A ta

rds wa

aire M a g a

POINTS

rds wa

Beverage A ta

$120-130 CSPC 878952

Beverage A ta

Mexico

POINTS

SIEMPRE SUPREMO TAHONA TEQUILA

aire M a g a

Albe r

POINTS

Albe r

Don Mateo Mezcal Cupreata Mexico $65-70 CSPC 824567

Albe r

e in z

rds wa

aire M a g a

POINTS

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Albe r

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Albe r

JUDGES SELECTION

Albe r

SPIRITS

2026

aire M a g a

CASCAHUIN REPOSADO TEQUILA Mexico

$73-78 CSPC 843706

2026

BLENDED WHISKIES DOMESTIC AND INTERNATIONAL

BEST IN CLASS

Combine two or more malts and/or grain whiskies and you’ve got a blended whisky, whereas single malt is made from 100% malted barley from one distillery. We love the approachability of many of the blended whiskies, so this was a fun one for me – especially noting that an Alberta-distilled selection was our top choice, just edging out Scotland! Tanis Palmer

Albe r

Beverage A ta

aire M a g a

e z

aire M a g a

Eau Claire Rupert’s Exceptional Canadian Whisky Alberta, Canada $40-45 2025 2024 2021 CSPC 126420

Albe r

POINTS

Albe r

Hinomaru Whisky Signature 1823 Japan $108-115 CSPC 141909

aire M a g a

Bridgeland Distillery Single Blend Alberta, Canada $68-75 CSPC 893609 2025 2024 2023

e in

93 POINTS

POINTS

aire M a g a

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Albe r

2025

rds wa

POINTS

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Beverage A ta

2024

$66-70 CSPC 103104

Bridgeland Distillery Taber Corn Whisky 101 Alberta, Canada $71-75 CSPC 888632

Burwood The Bee Whisperer Alberta, Canada $72-75 CSPC 2025 859619

Alberta, Canada

POINTS

aire M a g a

POINTS

For Peat’s Sake Blended Scotch Whisky Scotland $40-45 CSPC 226542

Albe r

e in

BRIDGELAND DISTILLERY INNISFAIL WHISKY

rds wa

POINTS

aire M a g a

Burwood Smooth Talker Bur-Bon Style Whisky Alberta, Canada $45-50 2025 CSPC 109075

Beverage A ta

rds wa

POINTS

aire M a g a

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Albe r

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Albe r

JUDGES SELECTION

aire M a g a

BEAVER’S DRAM WHEAT WHISKY Ontario, Canada $75-80 CSPC 148287

October 2026 | Culinaire 43

BEST IN CLASS

I’ve realized that my own enjoyment of vodka is at a bit of a crossroads. At times I very much enjoy the neutrality the spirit is known for in certain mixed drinks, but at the same time, I still want to enjoy vodka with more than subtlety on the nose and palate. No matter what, good vodka should never be bland or forgettable, and I think our judges found some excellent examples to share from a challenging category. Tom Firth

Albe r

POINTS

Beverage A ta

POINTS

aire M a g a

Wild Life Vodka Alberta Canada $52-57 CSPC 787593

Buckle Vodka Alberta Canada $26-30 CSPC 101787

SIPP Vodka Canada $50-53 CSPC 146224

rds wa

aire M a g a

Albe r

POINTS

Albe r

Beverage A ta

rds wa

POINTS

aire M a g a

Mighty Moose Canadian Vodka Canada $36-40 CSPC 849507

Beverage A ta

rds wa

POINTS

aire M a g a

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Albe r

JUDGES SELECTION

aire M a g a

BRIDGELAND DISTILLERY BADABING MOSCATO GRAPE PREMIUM VODKA Alberta, Canada

2025

2024

2023

2022

2025

2023

2020

2022

2018

$52-55 CSPC 836441

BRANDY

2026

in z

PERE MAGLOIRE CALVADOS VSOP France

$50-55 CSPC 834601

44 Culinaire | October 2026

Albe r

in z

Bridgeland Distillery Moscato Brandy XS Alberta, Canada $95-100 CSPC 146018

2025

2023

POINTS

Albe r

POINTS

aire M a g a

Beverage A ta

rds wa

aire M a g a

POINTS

rds wa

Beverage A ta

rds wa

BEST IN CLASS

JUDGES SELECTION

Proof that grapes have more range than you’d think! While Cognac and Armagnac tend to steal the spotlight (rightfully so), “brandy” is really just a blanket term for any spirit distilled from fermented fruit, grapes being most common, though apple, pear, and cherry are also commonly used, with examples found around the world. Erin Loader

Albe r

SPIRITS

VODKA

2026

aire M a g a

Boulard Calvados Pays D’Auge Grand Solage France $35-40 CSPC 714773

2026

RUM

Judges

Rum is an amazingly versatile spirit produced in many different styles around the world. From light and fresh, to spicy, rich and complex, rum can rival some of the world’s best spirits. On its own as a sipper, or as the main event in mixed cocktails, rum always brings a lot to the party. Bruce Soley

JUDGES SELECTION

BEST IN CLASS

POINTS

Albe r

$75 CSPC 138091

POINTS

aire M a g a

El Dorado 12 Year Rum Guyana $40-44 CSPC 912402

El Dorado 8 Year Rum Guyana $28-34 CSPC 767659

Alberta, Canada

aire M a g a

Beverage A ta

rds wa

POINTS

DIONY PRAIRIE SPICED DARK RUM

rds wa

Beverage A ta

aire M a g a

Albe r

rds wa

Albe r

Tom Firth Beverage A ta

2025

Tom knows a thing or two about drinks competitions. With nearly 50 competitions under his belt as a judge at competitions across Canada and around the world (plus more than a few cocktail competitions) and roles in managing, running, and consulting on 30 competitions and counting. It could be said that he’s made a bit of a career of it. Putting on a well-run show with results to proudly stand beside is a pretty awesome accomplishment.

2025 2023 2022 2021 2020 2019 2018

2025

Romero Bourbon Barrel Aged Spiced Rum Alberta, Canada $50-55 CSPC 149074

88 POINTS

POINTS

aire M a g a

Albe r

Burwood Honey Spiced Rhum Alberta, Canada $43-47 CSPC 899211

Beverage A ta

rds wa

POINTS

aire M a g a

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Albe r

Tanis Palmer

aire M a g a

Romero Sherry Cask Finish Cask Strength Rum Batch 005 Alberta, Canada $100-110 CSPC 894444 2025 2024 2023

A relative newcomer to the wine industry, Tanis has spent the last 10 years learning everything she could from colleagues and agents while working at Keg n Cork Liquor Co. As often as she can, she travels to wine countries to eat and drink her way through the world of wine, beer, and spirits, and loves when people come back to say they’ve enjoyed a selection!

October 2026 | Culinaire 45

BEST IN CLASS

These lineups are always one of the more difficult flights for many reasons, and this year all the judges were treated to a plethora of Scottish options, several from Alberta, even a producer from Switzerland (what a great surprise!). What a treat this line up was to work through; discussions were lively around each one. Tara Smith

Albe r

e in

Albe r

e in

2025

Albe r

Bridgeland Distillery Glenbow Single Malt Whisky Alberta Canada $73-78 CSPC 873908

Beverage A ta

95 POINTS

POINTS

aire M a g a

Albe r

e in

Albe r

Seven Seals Sherry Cask Finish Single Malt Whisky Switzerland $95-110 CSPC 148473

$1075-1200 CSPC 114912

Beverage A ta

Albe r

e in

Albe r

e in in

rds wa

46 Culinaire | October 2026

aire M a g a

Scotland

POINTS

aire M a g a

SMWS 29.292 “PEAT IN PARTS PER THOUSAND” (LAPHROAIG DISTILLERY)

Lochlea Dark Briar Single Estate Scotland $87-94 CSPC 136356

rds wa

Beverage A ta

Burwood Distillery “The G.O.A.T.” 2 Single Malt Whisky Alberta Canada $130-145 CSPC 138661

aire M a g a

Eau Claire Tawny Port Cask Single Malt Whisky Alberta Canada $130-145 CSPC 149002

POINTS

Beverage A ta

rds wa

POINTS

aire M a g a

rds wa

Beverage A ta

1770 Peated Single Malt Scotch Whisky Scotland $95-105 CSPC 132085

rds wa

Glenfiddich 15-Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky Scotland $88-95 CSPC 728132

POINTS

aire M a g a

Beverage A ta

rds wa

POINTS

rds wa

POINTS

aire M a g a

Anohka 003 Progress Report Single Malt Whisky Alberta Canada $40 (250 mL Distillery)

SMWS 21.29 “Lazy Hazy Summer” (Glenglassaugh Distillery) Scotland $165-180 CSPC 145429

Beverage A ta

rds wa

POINTS

aire M a g a

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Albe r

JUDGES SELECTION

Albe r

SPIRITS

SINGLE MALT WHISKIES

2026

aire M a g a

SEVEN SEALS SINGLE MALT WHISKY PORT FINISH Switzerland

$110-125 CSPC 148472

POINTS

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Albe r

JUDGES SELECTION CONTINUED

aire M a g a

POINTS

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Albe r

Glencadam Reserva PX Single Malt Scotch Scotland $88-95 CSPC 112534

DRINK IN THE VIEWS DINE ON THE HEIGHTS

aire M a g a

Wild Life Bourbon Cask Single Malt Whisky Alberta Canada $93-98 CSPC 118438

POINTS

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Albe r

2025 2024

aire M a g a

Kilchoman Machir Bay Scotch Scotland $88-93 CSPC 749725

October 2026 | Culinaire 47

CLASSIC GINS

BEST IN CLASS

Classic gin styles showcase the spirit’s versatility, each defined by a unique balance of botanicals. From the juniper-forward character of London Dry to the softer, citrusdriven profiles of contemporary styles and the rich complexity of aged expressions, gin offers something for every palate. We tasted many Canadian gins and a few from Scotland, providing a variety of styles and botanicals. Nathalie Gosselin

Valley of Mother of God Canadian Wild Juniper Gin Ontario, Canada $55-60 CSPC 888767

Ampersand Distilling Co. Gin British Columbia Canada 2025 $55-60

Beverage A ta

88 POINTS

POINTS

aire M a g a

$53-55 CSPC 113861

Albe r

Alberta, Canada

Albe r

in z

Albe r

aire M a g a

Beverage A ta

aire M a g a

rds wa

POINTS

48 Culinaire | October 2026

POINTS

aire M a g a

rds wa

Hendrick’s Original Gin Scotland $55-60 CPSC 2025 2024 710631

Beverage A ta

POINTS

Sheringham Seaside Gin British Columbia, Canada $53-56 CSPC 793629 2025 2024 2023

aire M a g a

Breaker Box Dry Gin Alberta, Canada $45 CSPC 148026

POINTS

aire M a g a

rds wa

POINTS

rds wa

Beverage A ta

Albe r

e in

Arbikie Nadar Gin Scotland $63-66 CSPC 122533

LOST THINGS DISTILLERY WILD FORAGED GIN

Beverage A ta

rds wa

POINTS

aire M a g a

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Albe r

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Albe r

JUDGES SELECTION

Albe r

SPIRITS

2026

aire M a g a

Cold Lake Gin Six Alberta, Canada $38-40

BARREL AGED, FLAVOURED, AND CONTEMPORARY GINS

2026

BEST IN CLASS

A truly great gin is smooth and aromatic, with excellent potential for making a fine, flavourful cocktail. Similar to previous years, many of the flavoured and barrel-aged gin entries hail from Alberta this year, proving that this category is still a favourite amongst our provincial distillers. The varieties are interesting and I made notes to search out several in stores later. Shelley Boettcher

Valley of Mother of God Maplewood Smoked Juniper Gin Ontario, Canada $60-65 CSPC 888766

James Gin London Drizzle United Kingdom $54-58 CSPC 106132

Lost Things Distillery Barrel Aged Gin Alberta, Canada $38-40 CSPC 132374

Beverage A ta

93 POINTS

POINTS

aire M a g a

Albe r

aire M a g a

Albe r

POINTS

Albe r

e in

rds wa

POINTS

aire M a g a

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Beverage A ta

rds wa

POINTS

aire M a g a

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Albe r

JUDGES SELECTION

aire M a g a

BURWOOD LOUGHEED HOUSE CONSERVATION SOCIETY BEAULIEU BOTANICALS GIN

Lost Things Distillery Rustic Rhubarb Gin Alberta, Canada $38-40 CSPC 113919

Alberta, Canada

$50-55 CSPC 148854

CREAM LIQUEURS

2026

Are you really camping if you haven’t packed a cream liqueur for your coffee? Since Albertans make the most of our short-ish summers by camping as much as we can, it only makes sense that many Alberta distillers produce a cream liqueur (with many variations!). Maple and whisky are still the dominant flavours, consistent in quality, but Rig Hand’s Chocolate Chip Cookie Cream was a clear standout. Tara Smith

Albe r

e in

Alberta, Canada

$37-41 CSPC 135720

2025

2024

Magnum Cream Liqueur Scotland $40-44 CSPC 858583

2025

2023

89 POINTS

aire M a g a

Albe r

POINTS

Albe r

Sweet Sippin Maple Whisky Cream Liqueur Alberta, Canada $33-36 CPSC 818620

Beverage A ta

rds wa

RIG HAND CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIE CREAM LIQUEUR

POINTS

aire M a g a

Beverage A ta

rds wa

aire M a g a

POINTS

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Beverage A

BEST IN CLASS

JUDGES SELECTION aire M a g a

El Dorado 5 Year Old Rum Cream Liqueur Guyana $25-29 CSPC 734375

2025

2022

October 2026 | Culinaire 49

Albe r

Bridgeland Distillery Spolumbo’s Amaro Alberta Canada $52-55 CSPC 828642

One-Off Premium Winemaker Dinner at The District Lounge, October 13 Chef is opening just for us, and creating a one-off, special menu for this sixcourse dinner, each course carefully paired to complement Vina Cobos’ premium range. Vine & Dine at La Brezza October 14, 22, and 28 We’re back with a brand new menu for three Vine & Dine evenings this month at La Brezza Ristorante, one of Calgary’s longtime favourite Italian restaurants. Vine & Dine at L’Olivo November 3 and 17 We’re thrilled to be coming back to L’Olivo for two Vine & Dine evenings in November. Everyone loved our evenings here last year, and we’re excited for the new menu!

aire M a g a

NOA Italian Apertif (Nonalcoholic) Canada $33-35 CSPC 110368

88 POINTS

POINTS

Albe r

in z

Albe r

POINTS

aire M a g a

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Vine & Dine at Bar Chouette October 8 and 29 One of the world’s Top 100 Winemakers, Chile’s iconic winemaker Matías Ríos from Cono Sur, is here with us on October 8, and we’re enjoying the same menu and pairings on October 29!

Olave Blanco Vermouth Spain $26-28 CSPC 11494

Two nights at IBU Restaurant October 7 and 20 Our special one-off evening at IBU in October sold out so quickly that father and son, Chefs Jeff and Joel Matthews, have let us have another night just for Vine & Dine!

50 Culinaire | October 2026

POINTS

aire M a g a

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Beverage A ta

Giacondo Cabaret Coffee Amaro Italy $79 CSPC 104264

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Italy

aire M a g a

POINTS

$62-65 CSPC 809839

rds wa

POINTS

aire M a g a

ISCHIA SAPORI RUCOLINO AMARO

JUDGES SELECTION

Beverage A ta

rds wa

This is an exciting category because you never quite know what you’ll get. A bittersweet red classic from Italy? A complex clear gem from Spain? Something exciting from Alberta? Typically wine-based, amaro, aperitivi, and vermouth are infused with a range of botanicals, including spices, herbs, even coffee and, as the name aperitivo suggests, they are traditionally served before dinner. Shelley Boettcher

BEST IN CLASS

2026

SPIRITS

AMARO, APERITIVOS, AND VERMOUTH

aire M a g a

NOA Sicilian Amaro (Nonalcoholic) Canada $33-35 CSPC 110367

Vine & Dine at Petalo, November 12 Our first Vine & Dine at Petalo, one of Calgary’s newest restaurants, last month was fabulous! We can’t wait for our second evening here of Italian and Mediterraneaninspired refined dishes and perfect pairings. One Night Only - Vine & Dine at Sweatered Hen, November 14 Chef Andrea Harling is opening just for us for one night only of six pairing courses, each made in-house with care from quality local ingredients. These evenings can – and do - sell out quickly and new events are added regularly, so check vineanddine.ca for details and menus, and email linda@vineanddine.ca to reserve your places, and to be included in our bi-monthly updates. We try to cater for all allergies.

LIQUEURS BEST IN CLASS Beverage A ta

rds wa e

POINTS

I loved judging the liqueurs flight for the range of flavours in this category. This year’s lineup featured everything from delicate roses to zesty lemons, highlighting just how diverse liqueurs can be. Enjoy them neat, over ice, with soda for a refreshing spritz or in cocktails. I even discovered a new favourite, the category winning Pama Pomegranate Liqueur. It’s a category well worth exploring! Laurie MacKay

Albe r

2026

aire M a g a

PAMA POMEGRANATE LIQUEUR United States $37-39 CSPC 721365

2025

Albe r

e in z

Lost Things Distillery Huckleberry Tea Liqueur Alberta Canada $38-41 CSPC 113920

Albe r

POINTS

aire M a g a

Beverage A ta

89 POINTS

Albe r

Grey Owl Krupnikas Alberta Canada $32-35 CSPC 892391

Albe r

e in

Sheringham Fresh Lemon Liqueur British Columbia Canada $43-46 CSPC 876052

rds wa

POINTS

aire M a g a

POINTS

aire M a g a

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Luxardo Del Santo Italy $27-30 CSPC 134431

Beverage A ta

POINTS

aire M a g a

rds wa

Albe r

Nocino di Modena Italy $34-38 CSPC 829197

Beverage A ta

rds wa

POINTS

aire M a g a

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Albe r

JUDGES SELECTION

aire M a g a

VonRosen Essence of Rose Alberta Canada $48-52 CSPC 122385

2024

October 2026 | Culinaire 51

BEST IN CLASS Albe r

94 POINTS

Beverage A ta

One of the first whiskies that many of us Canadians try is Rye Whisky, simply because it’s been one of Canada’s main spirits for generations, long before Confederation. The variety in the category, however, is incredible: some have big, bold cinnamon-heart candy spice flavours, others are smoother and sweeter. Still others have notes of dried fruit or even peat. Shelley Boettcher

rds wa

SPIRITS

RYE DOMINANT WHISKIES

2026

aire M a g a

ANOHKA MOOSE HUNTER LIGHTLY PEATED RYE WHISKY Alberta, Canada

Wild Life Rye Whisky Alberta, Canada $79-85 CSPC 886180

Hansen Northern Eyes 5-Year Old Whisky Alberta, Canada $50-60 CSPC 585420

POINTS

aire M a g a

Beaver’s Dram Rye Whisky Ontario, Canada $85-90 CSPC 148286

Beverage A ta

89 POINTS

aire M a g a

Albe r

POINTS

Beverage A ta

e in

Albe r

e in

Albe r

Diony Northern Overproof Blend Canadian Whisky Alberta, Canada $125-135 CSPC 140861

rds wa

POINTS

aire M a g a

2025 2024 2023 2021

52 Culinaire | October 2026

POINTS

aire M a g a

Hansen Northern Eyes 7-Year Old Sherry Cask Finish Whisky Alberta, Canada $100-110 CSPC 585475

aire M a g a

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Albe r

Anohka Moose Hunter Rye Whisky Alberta, Canada $62 (Distillery)

POINTS

e in

Beverage A ta

rds wa

POINTS

aire M a g a

rds wa

Beverage A ta

Park Banff Whisky Alberta, Canada $60-70 CSPC 134795

Beverage A ta

rds wa

POINTS

aire M a g a

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Albe r

JUDGES SELECTION

Albe r

$62 (Distillery)

aire M a g a

Alberta Distillers Alberta Premium 9-Year Old Golden Rye Whisky Alberta, Canada $37-44 CSPC 128997

2025

Albe r

in z

Roper’s Hold 8-Year Old Straight Rye Whisky Alberta Canada $110-120 CSPC 148027

Bruce Soley

Beverage A ta

88 POINTS

POINTS

aire M a g a

Albe r

Hansen Northern Eyes 7-Year Old Rye Whisky Alberta Canada $79-90 CSPC 139284

Albe r

Alberta Distillers Rare Batch Issue No. 2 Alberta Canada $150-160 CSPC 135267

rds wa

POINTS

aire M a g a

POINTS

aire M a g a

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Albe r

aire M a g a

rds wa

Beverage A ta

POINTS

Roper’s Hold 20-Year Old Aged Canadian Rye Whisky Alberta Canada $160-175 CSPC 148028

Centennial 10-Year Old Premium Canadian Rye Whisky Alberta Canada $30-35 CSPC 387209

Albe r

2024

Beverage A ta

rds wa

POINTS

aire M a g a

Beverage A ta

Judges

rds wa

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Albe r

JUDGES SELECTION CONTINUED

aire M a g a

Rig Hand Rooke’s Rye Whisky Alberta Canada $79-85 CSPC 816679

Bruce has been with River Cafe since the beginning of the millennium, first as a bartender/supervisor, and now a certified Sommelier circa 2007, and Wine Director since 2011. He has spent 30 years in hospitality, learning the trade and trends in kitchens, bars, cellars, and dining rooms. When not working, he can be found hiking, cooking, travelling, exploring wine regions, or on a golf course…

WE HAVE GLASSWARE - RESTAURANT GRADE -

CAM DOBRANSKI cam@spiritwares.com 403-680-4854

SPIRITWARES.COM HOSPITALITY INSPIRED

LOUIS CLEMENT louis@spiritwares.com 403-819-1342

2026

In Canada, fruit wines have been produced since the 1800s, however commercial fruit wine wasn’t properly established until the 20th Century. A niche segment in the wine industry, fruit wine varies from dry to off-dry. New this year, we have some fruit-infused wines, mixing grape-based wines with some added fruit “punch”, offering a flavourful alternative to the more traditional grape varieties. Erika Tocco-Andryka

JUDGES SELECTION

Brown Brothers 2025 Moscato Mango Swirl Victoria, Australia $18-20 CSPC 142849

Albe r

POINTS

Maan Farms Estate Winery Strawberry Rhubarb Table Wine British Columbia Canada $17-20 CSPC 652313

Albe r

aire M a g a

Field Stone Fruit Wines Wild Black Cherry Dessert Wine Alberta, Canada $27-28 CSPC 750753

e z

Beverage A ta

rds wa

54 Culinaire | October 2026

POINTS

aire M a g a

Brown Brothers 2025 Moscato Strawberries & Cream Victoria, Australia $18-20 CSPC 142848

POINTS

aire M a g a

Maan Farms Estate Winery Blackberry Table Wine British Columbia Canada $20-22 CSPC 884524

rds wa

aire M a g a

Beverage A ta

POINTS

aire M a g a

Beverage A ta

POINTS

rds wa

POINTS

rds wa

Beverage A ta

Albe r Albe r

Albe r

Beverage A ta

2025

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Field Stone Fruit Wines Cherry Fruit Wine Alberta, Canada $27-28 CSPC 750748

POINTS

aire M a g a

Broken Tine Has a Pear Alberta, Canada $28-30

2018 2017 2016 2015

2019

POINTS

aire M a g a

rds wa

2020

rds wa

Albe r

2023

Spain

$17-19 CSPC 721835

Beverage A ta

Albe r

AROMAS DE TURIS SANGRIA

POINTS

aire M a g a

Field Stone Fruit Wines Black Currant Fruit Wine Alberta, Canada $27-28 CSPC 750747

Herres Romeo Peach Bellini Italy $19-21 CSPC 140992

Beverage A ta

rds wa

aire M a g a

POINTS

aire M a g a

Beverage A ta

rds wa

POINTS

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Beverage A ta

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Albe r

BEST IN CLASS C

& EVERYTHING ELSE

FRUIT AND FRUIT-INFUSED WINES

aire M a g a

Field Stone Fruit Wines Bumbleberry Blush Fruit Wine Alberta, Canada $27-28 CSPC 750749 2025

Judges

BEST IN CLASS

89 POINTS

Albe r C

Beverage A ta

rds wa

As a rule of thumb, the quality of the ingredients defines the quality of the finished drink, and with the mighty margarita, as simple as citrus and agave, there isn’t much else to hide behind. The Ready-to-Drink category is experiencing incredible growth, and some of the most elegant, delicious drinks begin with the agave plant. Colin Schulenborg

2026

TEQUILA BASED RTDS

aire M a g a

FIESTA MARGARITA PEACH 7%

Clark Adams

Canada

$16-19 (4-pack cans) CSPC 135476

Albe r

aire M a g a

TQLA VIDA Spicy Mangorita Alberta, Canada $18-19 (4-pack cans) CSPC 142969

Albe r

aire M a g a

Dejado Reposado Tequila Soda Canada $4-5 (473 mL can) CSPC 134851

Suntail Soleada Tropical Mango Margarita British Columbia Canada $15-17 (4-pack cans) CSPC 151857

87 POINTS

POINTS

Beverage A ta

Albe r

in z

Beverage A ta

rds wa

aire M a g a

by Hendo EL Cocktails Margarita Alberta, Canada $15-18 (4-pack cans) CSPC 880905

Albe r

in z

Fiesta Margarita Original 7% BullDog Canada $16-19 (4-pack cans) CSPC 118717

87 POINTS

POINTS

aire M a g a

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Albe r

2025 2024 2023

POINTS

aire M a g a

POINTS

rds wa

Beverage A ta

2025 2024

POINTS

aire M a g a

Fiesta Margarita Original 7% Alberta, Canada $16-19 (4-pack cans) CSPC 896759

rds wa

Albe r

Suntail Sandia Lemon Watermelon Tequila Cocktail British Columbia Canada $15-17 (4-pack cans) CSPC 151856

Beverage A ta

rds wa

POINTS

aire M a g a

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Albe r

JUDGES SELECTION

Clark is a dedicated cider specialist and the creator of @ScrumpyCanadian, an Instagram platform providing expert reviews and industry commentary. A graduate of the Olds College Cider Appreciation Micro-Credential program, they blend technical knowledge with a passion for sensory evaluation. Currently awaiting their BJCP ranking, Clark is committed to upholding excellence in judging and promoting the craft beverage community.

aire M a g a

Fiesta Margarita Paloma 7% Canada $16-19 (4-pack cans) CSPC 135477

Laurie MacKay

Laurie MacKay is the Drinks Columnist on CBC Radio in Calgary, a certified sommelier, Rioja educator, wine consultant and founder of Soulvines. Born and raised in Alberta, she brings more than 20 years of industry experience and has curated and hosted a wine and beer focused tour with Expedia Cruises. Laurie is proud to return as a judge for the Alberta Beverage Awards. Find her at soulvines.com and @Soulvines.

2025 2024

October 2026 | Culinaire 55

POINTS

Beverage A ta

rds wa

This is one of the most exciting categories to watch. While the judges are going through their paces diligently assessing each and every one, in the back room we are trying them all and applying the sort of test that most people would treat them with – was this good, tasty or weird? Perhaps all three? And most importantly, would I buy this? Have to say, I am pretty happy with this list from the judges. Tom Firth

Albe r

BEST IN CLASS C

aire M a g a

ANNEX HARD SASKATOON BERRY LEMONADE Alberta, Canada

$14-16 (4-pack cans) CSPC 151213

Albe r

aire M a g a

POINTS

aire M a g a

Sunday Session Half & Half Lemonade and Iced Tea Alberta, Canada $14-17 (4-pack cans) CSPC 104272

Skunkworks Distillery Orange Moon Alberta, Canada $18-19 (4-pack cans) CSPC 132560

Annex Hard Ginger Beer Alberta, Canada $14-16 (4-pack cans) CSPC 151207

POINTS

Albe r

e in z

aire M a g a

Beverage A ta

rds wa

POINTS

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Albe r

JUDGES SELECTION

Albe r

Gradient Inversion Nitro Elderflower Gin Sour Alberta, Canada $20-22 (4-pack cans) CSPC 116168

in z

2023

Beverage A ta

POINTS

aire M a g a

Albe r

2024

POINTS

Albe r

POINTS

aire M a g a

rds wa

2024 2023

Beverage A ta

by Hendo Highlight Passion Fruit Alberta, Canada $15-17 (4-pack cans) CSPC 880045

Coco Rum Spritz Canada $16-18 (4-pack cans) CSPC 638393

2020

56 Culinaire | October 2026

POINTS

aire M a g a

rds wa

Cold Garden French 75 Sparkling Wine Cocktail Alberta, Canada $18-19 (4-pack cans) CSPC 141060

rds wa

POINTS

aire M a g a

Beverage A ta

POINTS

aire M a g a

2025

by Hendo Highlight Pineapple Alberta, Canada $15-17 (4-pack cans) CSPC 880220

2021

Beverage A ta

LSDC Pink Gin Fizz Canada $16-18 (4-pack cans) CPSC 127830

rds wa

Beverage A ta

rds wa

2025

POINTS

aire M a g a

Skunkworks Distillery Moonshine Mule Alberta, Canada $18-19 (4-pack cans) CSPC 875498

Beverage A ta

rds wa

POINTS

aire M a g a

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Albe r

2025

Albe r

& EVERYTHING ELSE

2026

READY TO DRINK BEVERAGES (RTDS)

aire M a g a

Cold Garden Garden Spritz Sparkling Wine Cocktail Alberta, Canada $18-19 (4-pack cans) CSPC 143492

2026

CIDER

EST. 1883

Southern French Style, Prairies Soul

THE FARM CHAPTER BEGINS Introducing

Beverage A ta

POINTS

NORTH FOLK SOCIAL & CIDERY TALL PAUL’S HERITAGE GROVE

FALL/WINTER EDITION

rds wa

BEST IN CLASS

Albe r

The humble apple possesses a rare alchemy, producing subtle flavours and depths of character few fruits can match. Far from simple, cider is a formidable, complex drink. Having grown up enjoying cider crafted directly from our family farm’s orchard, it holds a deeply personal meaning. Through varietal selection, fermentation, and aging, the ordinary apple is transformed into something truly special. Clark Adams

VOL. XV

aire M a g a

Alberta, Canada

$23 (4-pack cans) CSPC 144704

BRAMBLE JUST PEACHY

FinePrint Farms is underway: eight acres of Foothills soil just south of Okotoks, secured exclusively to provide FinePrint with the freshest ingredients. This fall, for the first time, a Calgary kitchen can tell you exactly where dinner grew, same day, farm to table, in recipes built by our chefs around what's ready that morning. Look for the FinePrint Farms symbol

Alberta, Canada

on our menu,

indicating key ingredients were sourced directly from our farm.

$16-18 (6-pack cans) CSPC 109709

The

✿ symbol designates an adjacent or local area farm.

Bramble Bramble On (Triple Berry) Alberta, Canada $16-18 (6-Pack cans) CSPC 877153

2024

2023

Noble Premium Bison Tartare ✿ Bison isn't a novelty here, it's a return to what this land was built to raise. Noble Premium Bison is ranch-raised on Canadian grassland without added hormones or antibiotics, part of a Calgary company running restorative ranching practices to improve soil health and conserve biodiversity.

Beverage A ta

88 POINTS

aire M a g a

Chef John Beddoes caramelizes onions low and slow until they give up their sugar, then builds them into a brandydeepened broth. Finished the only way that matters: bubbling under a torched cap of Gruyère, served with a crisp French croquette.

Albe r

in z

CURRENT FEATURES

1883 French Onion Soup✿

POINTS

aire M a g a

aire M a g

rds wa

Follow our farm building journey on Instagram for the latest in plantings, harvests, recipes and farm animal stories.

SunnyCider Saskatoon Alberta, Canada $20-22 (4-pack cans) CSPC 871651

Beverage A ta

POINTS

rds wa

Albe r

North Folk Social & Cidery La Chasse Galerie BlackBerry Alberta, Canada $23 (4-pack cans) CSPC 144707

aire M a g

Albe r

POINTS

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Albe r

JUDGES SELECTION

SunnyCider Sour Cherry Alberta, Canada $20-22 (4-pack cans) CSPC 871649

Alberta Prime Striploin✿ Twenty minutes down the same highway as our farm, cattle graze the Foothills the way they have for a hundred and fifty years. We don’t grow the beef, we just live in its backyard, and our Josper oven does the rest.

Executive Chef: John Beddoes

•

Farm Director: Sabine Lines

•

General Manager, Logan Cox

113 - 8 AVENUE S W | CALGARY, ALBERTA FINEPRINTYYC.COM | 403 475 5655 th

JUDGES SELECTION Albe r

Albe r

POINTS

aire M a g a

Sunday Session Water Hazard Canada $14-16 (4-pack cans) CSPC 134956

Tide Cocktail Co. Vodka Orange Canada $13-16 (4-pack cans) CSPC 124576

88 POINTS

in z

Beverage A ta

Albe r

aire M a g a

POINTS

aire M a g a

SIPP n Soda Orange Canada $34-36 (12-pack mixed cans) CSPC 148760

Tide Cocktail Co. Vodka Pineapple Canada $13-16 (4-pack cans) CSPC 124579

POINTS

e in

2025

$13-16 (4-pack cans) CSPC 125665

Alberta, Canada

Beverage A ta

rds wa

SLAMABLES PINK DRINK

Beverage A ta

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NON-ALCOHOLIC RTDS

Bevada Beverages Pink Greyhound Canada $4-5

POINTS

aire M a g a

Beverage A ta

rds wa

58 Culinaire | October 2026

POINTS

$4-5

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Canada

BEVADA BEVERAGES APPLETINI

Beverage A ta

Albe r

POINTS

aire M a g a

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Albe r

BEST IN CLASS

These require a delicate touch to balance, while still giving the drinker something intriguing. Typically made with a juice and sugar source with a carbonated backbone to lift the beverage, these drinks can be served as is or can work as mixers for those looking for atypical cocktail components. Try one of these options next time you want a drink and a clear head at the same time! Colin Schulenborg

Albe r

2026

JUDGES SELECTION

POINTS

aire M a g a

Albe r

rds wa

Beverage A ta

2024

Beverage A ta

POINTS

aire M a g a

Burwood Raspberry Mojito Alberta, Canada $15-17 (4-pack cans) CSPC 894658

BEST IN CLASS ul

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Always a popular category, it’s interesting to see the range of ready to drink options, especially with customers seeking such a vast array. Judging, we kept the mindset of sipping a cooler lake-side (or pool side) with natural flavouring front of mind, regardless of whether it was sweet or dry. Even if it’s your pup’s pool in the back yard, snag one of these selections and enjoy! Tanis Palmer

rds wa

& EVERYTHING ELSE

VODKA BASED RTDS

2026

aire M a g a

2025

Inversion Nitro Non-alc Elderflower Gin Sour Alberta, Canada $15-16 (4-pack cans) CSP 140023

NON-ALCOHOLIC SODAS AND MIXERS

2026

There’s a lot more happening in this category than there used to be. We looked for fresh, recognizable flavours, good acidity, and sweetness that didn’t take over. Some were clearly built for cocktails, while others were so tasty we’d drink them straight. The best entries felt properly thought out - clean, refreshing, and interesting, without needing a shot of gin or vodka to elevate them. Matt Stortz

Beverage A ta

aire M a g a

REAL MONEY

Alberta, Canada $3-4 (Singles)

POINTS

FUNDRAISE

XHALE LEMON LIME BITTERS ELEVATED SODA

rds wa

Albe r

BEST IN CLASS z

CALGARY’S ORIGINAL

JUDGES SELECTION

Albe r

2022 2021

Beverage A ta

aire M a g a

2024

Annex Craft Cola Alberta, Canada $12-14 (4-pack cans) CSPC 129428

POINTS

e in

FOR OVER 3 DECADES LEARN HOW

spolumbos.com

POINTS

aire M a g a

Albe r

POINTS

aire M a g a

Annex Saskatoon Berry Lemonade Alberta, Canada $12-14 (4- pack cans) CSPC 129426

Albe r

rds wa

Albe r

2025

Beverage A ta

2024

SunnySoda Cherry Alberta, Canada $13-14 (4-pack cans) CSPC 139563

POINTS

aire M a g a

POINTS

aire M a g a

rds wa

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Fever-Tree Premium Ginger Ale United Kingdom $9-10 (4-pack bottles)

POINTS

aire M a g a

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Beverage A ta

Fever-Tree Classic Caesar Mix United Kingdom $9-10 (750 mL)

rds wa

Albe r

Fever-Tree Blood Orange Ginger Beer United Kingdom $9-10 (4-pack bottles)

TEAM PARTNER

MEAD

BEST IN CLASS Albe r

e in

aire M a g

POINTS

Albe r

POINTS

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Mead is a wonderful beverage. I’ve judged mead at a number of competitions over the years and I am always blown away by the range of styles, sweetness, and quality available. Many, if not most examples are on the drier side these days, and terroir junkies may be pleased to note that the flowers those busy bees are working on can radically change the finished product. Tom Firth

aire M a g a

Spirit Hills Pi Reserve Alberta, Canada $54-59 CSPC 9125874

SPIRIT HILLS YEEHAA ! Alberta, Canada $29-32 CSPC 785223

2025

2025 2024

Albe r

2025

2020 2017

89 POINTS

in z

Albe r

POINTS

aire M a g a

Broken Tine Haskap Melomel Alberta, Canada $28-30

2020 2019 2017 2016

Albe r

e in

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Beverage A ta

Spirit Hills Dande Alberta, Canada $29-32 CSPC 790917

2024 2023 2022

Grey Owl Bochet Vanilla Alberta, Canada $26-29 CSPC 137942

aire M a g a

2020

Spirit Hills Wild Rosy Alberta, Canada $29-32 CSPC 790915

60 Culinaire | October 2026

POINTS

2022

POINTS

aire M a g a

rds wa

Spirit Hills Bonfire Alberta, Canada $29-32 CSPC 786517

Beverage A ta

aire M a g a

Beverage A ta

rds wa

POINTS

aire M a g a

POINTS

2024

rds wa

Spirit Hills Whitetail Alberta, Canada $29-32 CSPC 894110

2025

Beverage A ta

POINTS

aire M a g a

Grey Owl Raspberry Alberta, Canada $26-29 CSPC 136750

Beverage A ta

rds wa

POINTS

aire M a g a

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Albe r

JUDGES SELECTION

Albe r

& EVERYTHING ELSE

2026

aire M a g a

Grey Owl Pinot Alberta, Canada $26-28 CSPC 146577

2026

Judges

RTDS HARD TEAS

Everyone seems to be making a hard tea these days, and there’s always something for every palate. We have many customers seeking less carbonated teas and with less sweetness, and on the other side of that, there’s always someone looking for a fruity, slightly sweeter tea. Good news! We’ve got you covered on all fronts. Be sure to ask your local shop which ones fit the bill for you. Tanis Palmer

Mary Bailey

Beverage A ta

$4 (473 mL) CSPC 143211

aire M

POINTS

The editor of Edmonton’s The Tomato food & drink, Mary holds the WSET Diploma, is an ISG-certified sommelier and Canadian Culinary Competition judge. She loves judging at the Alberta Beverage Awards as the products are top-notch, the competition stiff, and the judging lively. Tasting wines, spirits, and related products blind is the true, unbiased measure of a palate for Mary, as is judging with fellow professionals.

Alberta, Canada

WHITE PEAKS PINK LEMONADE HARD TEA

rds wa

Albe r

BEST IN CLASS z aga

Albe r

You Bet! Smooth Peach Iced Tea Alberta, Canada $17-19 (6-pack cans) CSPC 141449

87 POINTS

aire M a g a

Crackems by Friday Night Club The Longest Iced Tea Alberta, Canada $5 (355 mL) CSPC 140383

POINTS

aire M a g a

Albe r

Tea-Quila Hard Iced Tea – Original Canada $5 (473 mL) CSPC 121951

Beverage A ta

rds wa

POINTS

aire M a g a

Matt Stortz

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Beverage A ta

rds wa

POINTS

aire M a g a

Tea-Quila Hard Iced Tea Mango Chili Canada $5 (473 mL) CSPC 121952

White Peaks Original Hard Tea Alberta, Canada $4 (473 mL) CSPC 881431

Banded Peak Brewing Tea Bar Alberta, Canada $18-20 (6-pack cans) CSPC 128735

rds wa

Beverage A ta

POINTS

aire M a g a

2024 2023 2022

2025

Sunday Session Hard Iced Tea Alberta, Canada $14-16 (4-pack cans) CSPC 104270

POINTS

aire M a g a

Albe r

Beverage A ta

rds wa

POINTS

aire M a g a

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Albe r

JUDGES SELECTION

Cork’s General Manager, Matt Stortz, began his wine journey over 20 years ago. His diverse experiences as a restaurant manager, wine importer, and wine director, have given him a broad range of knowledge, and he takes pleasure in demystifying wine and cultivating enjoyment for wine enthusiasts of all levels. His philosophy is simple: “There is never the best wine; there is the right wine for today.”

October 2026 | Culinaire 61

Albe r

POINTS

aire M a g a

Pusser’s Painkiller Premium Cocktail 12% United States $6-7 CSPC 888001

Albe r

Wayne Gretzky Wild Blackberry Mule Canada $34-37 CSPC 141221

POINTS

in z

aire M a g a

Wayne Gretzky Apple Spiced Old Fashioned Canada $34-37 CSPC 141219

Sake is one of the world’s oldest and most fascinating fermented beverages. Its styles range from light, crisp, and delicate, to rich, savoury, and complex, making it incredibly versatile at the table. While often associated with Japanese cuisine, sake pairs beautifully with a wide variety of dishes. Here is hoping we see more of it in the future! Nathalie Gosselin

JUDGES SELECTION

rds wa

Beverage A ta

e in

BEST IN CLASS

POINTS

aire M a g a

Beverage A ta

rds wa

SAKE

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Albe r

Albe r C

POINTS

aire M a g a

United Kingdom

Albe r

rds wa

$8-9 (100 mL can) CSPC 139943

POINTS

Homare Aladdin Yuzu Junmai Sake Japan $21-24 CSPC 134184

88 POINTS

Albe r

aire M a g a

Beverage A ta

rds wa

62 Culinaire | October 2026

POINTS

$43-45 CSPC 107758

rds wa

Japan

GAKKI MASAMUNE AIYAMA

Beverage A ta

aire M a g a

Albe r

Beverage A ta

WHITE BOX COLLINA & CO. ESPRESSO MARTINI

2026

POINTS

aire M a g a

Bridgeland Distillery Old Fashioned Cocktail Alberta, Canada $45-48 CSPC 147218

BEST IN CLASS ul

Beverage A ta

rds wa

Albe r

JUDGES SELECTION C

These are the ready to enjoy, premade cocktails, that you’d likely want a glass, perhaps some ice, and ideally a garnish of some sort to enjoy. They are typically well above the sort of “refreshing” level of alcohol you might find in a cooler or RTD, but still for the cocktail enthusiast, there is no denying the convenience and flavours of cocktails with no stirring or shaking. Tom Firth

rds wa

& EVERYTHING ELSE

PREMADE COCKTAILS (OVER 12%)

2026

aire M a g a

Raifuku Ultra Dry +18 Junmai Ginjo Japan $35-40 CSPC 141907

DRINK MILAGRO RESPONSIBLY.

And rai s ed. And raised.

Naramata grown. Naramata Naramata grown. grown.

HAND-CRAFTED WINE MADE EXCLUSIVELY HAND-CRAFTED MADE EXCLUSIVELY HAND-CRAFTED WINE MADE EXCLUSIVELY FROM NARAMATAWINE BENCH GROWN GRAPES. FROM NARAMATA BENCH GROWN FROM NARAMATA BENCH GROWN GRAPES. GRAPES.

At Hillside, our focus is to showcase the unique and compelling At focus andBench. compelling AtHillside, Hillside,our ourinherent focus is is to to showcase characteristics inshowcase the terroirthe of unique Naramata characteristics inherent in terroir Bench. region. characteristics inherentand in the the terroir of Naramata Join us in the discovery development of this enchanting Join Joinus usin inthe thediscovery discovery and and development development of this enchanting region. hillsidewinery.ca hillsidewinery.ca