The best wineries in Quebec
Quebec seems like a whole other world. Language poses a barrier for many, along with extreme government measures rooted in retribution and protectionism restricting Canadians access to wines produced in the province. Ultimately, one must visit the source to get a real idea of what’s going on.
The Quebecois embody a strong sense of identity, meaning the bulk of what’s produced is consumed locally. Good luck finding wine that hasn’t been sold out for months, or convincing wineries to ship outside the province.
Yet, despite these challenges, the curiosity for these wines continues to explode - kind of like the thirst for that fuck boy who plays hard to get. The more games he plays, the more dopamine hits you crave. Snag a bottle of something obscure and esoteric from Quebec (no judgment as to how) and you’ll garner some serious cred.
Jon Cercone, sommelier and partner at Taverne Sur le Square, provided the following list, showing what’s possible from what was formerly deemed an impossible locale to produce wine.
Domaine du Nival
Credit: Domaine du Nival
Low intervention, ambient yeast, old oak
Styles to try: Sparkling Vidal, Gamaret, Pinot Noir
Domaine l'Espiègle
Credit: Domaine l'Espiègle
Credit: Les Pervenches
Spontaneous fermentation, no fining/filtration, no S02
Styles to try: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir
Maison Agricole Joyhill
Credit: Joy Hill
Credit: Camy
Old oak, vitis vinfera only, uncertified organic agticulture
Styles to try: Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir
If you’d like access to wines like this, and from all over Canada, join the Crushable list.
