The All - Canadian Sipper

You love your local craft brews; now it’s time to get familiar with the best of the Canadian spirit world—in particular, whisky. The drink is experiencing a renaissance north of the 49th parallel: “These are not the polite, smooth whiskies that were popular decades ago,” says Mark Bylok, author of the must-have manual The Whisky Cabinet. “Instead, they’re flavour-forward and telling of what the next generation of Canadian whisky is shaping up to be.” These are the three bottles he has his eye on:

Canadian Club Chairman’s Select 100% Rye ($27.45, at liquor stores) “Released in the fall of 2014, this is made from all rye and aged for several years. It is floral, deep in character and nicely balanced. The whisky is dark in colour and has elements of burnt sugar, a dry finish and rich rye spice throughout.”

Lot No. 40 ($39.95, at liquor stores) “Lot No. 40 is the heart of J.P. Wiser’s line. While J.P. Wiser’s Deluxe is made of ryeand corn-distilled whisky and blended for a mild drink, Lot No. 40 is made from 100-percent rye, which has more character. It has hints of dark fruits, a dusty grain, pepper, florals and a long spicy finish.”

Masterson’s 10-Year-Old Straight Rye Whiskey ($75.50, at liquor stores) “Masterson’s is distilled by Alberta Distillers and bottled in California. It starts smooth, with deep, rich, oaky notes, and follows through with a rye spiciness that’s beautifully complementary. This premium rye is a little harder to find but well worth the search.”