Canadian Whisky
The Essential Portable Expert
Expanded, Updated & Revised Third Edition
Dive into Canada’s rich history of whisky making, legacy distilleries, and contemporary artisans with this fully updated and expanded guide—including over 100 new tasting notes for Canada’s top whiskies, from bestsellers to rare microdistillery and historic bottlings.
In this fully updated edition of Canadian Whisky, the nation’s authority himself, Davin de Kergommeaux celebrates the country’s often underplayed—yet integral—role in this storied spirit. A trusted independent whisky expert, de Kergommeaux has travelled the country in search of all things whisky to share the very latest findings, photographs, and tasting notes.
First, de Kergommeaux breaks down the basics of how whisky is made and what sets Canada’s whisky apart from others. From there, his meticulous research unearths riveting narratives that reach back to the country’s first whisky days and span from east to west. In this revised third edition of the award-winning original—perfect for your own library or as a gift for the whisky lover in your life—you’ll discover the most current research and recent interviews covering:
Whisky Producers across the Country, from Legacy Distilleries to New Microdistilleries: Enjoy a deep dive into Canada’s world of whisky, from long-lasting empires to innovative new players.
History and Process, as Told by Experts: Chief blenders and distilling family royalty share fascinating anecdotes and insights.
New Tasting Notes: Consider well over 100 unique tasting notes for whiskies from across the nation before trying them yourself.
Full-Colour Photography throughout: From legendary distilleries to historic portraits to rare photographs, these images paint the history of whisky.
Hardcover binding for this engaging and all-encompassing reference.
With a refreshed design and new maps of the country’s whisky distilleries to accompany its up-to-date information, this new edition of Canadian Whisky becomes the definitive source for Canada’s wonderful world of whisky. Buy it on Amazon, or visit Penguin Random House Canada to find local retailers.
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REVIEWS
“This book is a treasure trove of information and insight with zero pretentiousness, written by someone who is not only a fan and student of our national whisky, but also a champion. That’s a good thing, because we don’t tend to brag much in this country. After reading this book (and maybe having a short snort) we all might start tooting our horns a bit more.”—Brent Butt, comedian and writer
“In short, [de Kergommeaux’s} the go-to independent expert on all things Canadian whisky, and this book is the go-to book on the category.” —Camper English, cocktails and spirits writer and educator. Book review on Alcohol Professor.
“Reads like a sequel to a story – the third part of an iconic whisky trilogy – one that inspires and gives hope that the story continues, and that Canadian whisky will find its way into your glass, if it hasn’t already.” —Blair Phillips, contributing editor, Whisky Magazine. Book review in Relish & Whisky Magazine.
”Everything I ever wanted to know about Canadian whisky—and a good bit that I never thought I needed to—I learned from Davin de Kergommeaux. Since its first edition, Canadian Whisky has offered a wealth of insight and information, presented by a gifted writer and historian. This latest, updated edition illustrates the dynamism and excitement behind Canadian whisky. You could never ask for a better guide.”—Clay Risen, journalist and author of American Rye: A Guide to the Nation's Original Spirit
“Davin de Kergommeaux is Canadian whisky’s greatest advocate. Single-handedly, he has brought it to the world’s attention. In these pages, he charts the saga of the country’s own spirit in both senses—the drink and the people. From its earliest days to the hugely exciting contemporary advances, he celebrates Canadian whisky, exploding a few myths along the way, while offering sound advice as to its future. This is not just a story about whisky, it is a story about a country. It is a tale that needed to be told. This is an essential buy for all whisky lovers—and all Canadians.”—Dave Broom, author The World Atlas of Whisky
“It’s an exciting time for the Canadian whisky market. There is such a great tradition, as well as some amazing innovation surrounding Canadian whisky, and this book is the ideal companion.” —Wayne Gretzky
“This comprehensive guide tells the fascinating story of Canadian whisky, offers reliable reviews of dozens of bottles, and is an indispensable addition to any whisky lover’s library.” —Jason Horn, Playboy Magazine
“De Kergommeaux ably demonstrates [that] Canadian whisky is a far more interesting and well-crafted spirit than [it’s] given credit for being.” —Dave Wondrich, Esquire
“While much has been written about other world whiskies, Canada’s national spirit has always been left in the shadows—until now. De Kergommeaux has brilliantly captured Canada’s true spirit. He takes the reader on an engaging and informative journey of discovery, revealing the art, science, history, and passion of the whisky men behind Canada’s iconic elixir.” —John K. Hall, retired whisky maker, Forty Creek Whisky, Ontario
“This is the book Canadian whisky has long needed and richly deserves. Detailed, authoritative, and well-written, it debunks myths and sets records straight with grace and aplomb. There is no guessing, no speculation, and no producer hype, just facts, clearly and patiently explained. I’m delighted that we now have this tremendous resource.” —Charles K. Cowdery, author of Bourbon, Straight
“After reading this book, I now understand there’s a lot more of this spirit to explore, and de Kergommeaux has me excited to do so.” —Jason Wilson, spirits columnist, The Washington Post and author of Boozehound
“The Canadian whisky industry has done itself no favours in recent years, content to be perceived as capable of only making bland ryes. Davin de Kergommeaux’s book isn’t just important, it’s a game changer, bringing to life an extraordinary and evolving whisky industry. A proud, insightful beauty of a book.” —Dominic Roskrow, author of The World’s Best Whiskies and 1001 Whiskies to Try Before You Die
“De Kergommeaux’s excellent book opens the door to this magnificent land, its whiskies, and history. Superbly researched and written, it is a must have for the whisky lover. If you have not discovered Canadian whisky, yet, let Davin be your guide.” —Rob Allanson, past editor, Whisky Magazine
“I’ve been looking for a complete guidebook about Canadian whisky for ages and Davin de Kergommeaux’s new opus is far more than I’d hoped for. In truth, it’s a book that’s blessed with superpowers: it will make any Canadian, even the most well-known brands, taste (even) better once you have read it, or even just thumbed through it for the first time! Essential reading…” —Serge Valentin, Publisher of Whiskyfun.com and contributor, Whisky & Fine Spirits France
“Canadian Whisky is truly unique, and Davin de Kergommeaux has captured a story that truly reflects whisky’s place in Canadian history and culture. He’s scored the hat trick all authors should strive for: detailed, informative, and entertaining. Canadian whiskies will always have a place on my shelf, right next to this book.” —Mark Gillespie, Executive Producer/Host, WhiskyCast: Cask-Strength Conversation
“Davin de Kergommeaux establishes himself as the foremost writer on Canadian whisky… a book full of facts[, it] will open your mind to the possibilities of this long-underappreciated and slowly awakening branch of the whisky family. Well worth a read.” —Lew Bryson, former managing editor, Whisky Advocate Magazine
“Makes you want to run out and hunt down one of the bottles… leaping tall buildings in a single bound [and] putting Canadian whisky back on the map for good.” —Blair Phillips, contributing editor, Whisky Magazine
“This book is certain to become a staple in every whisky collector’s library.” —Christine Sismondo, author of America Walks into A Bar and Mondo Cocktail