Quebec cooler products to discover this summer

Being a big fan of the summer outdoors, I consume coolers cocktails on many occasions, whether paddle-boarding, picnicking with friends or, even more often, camping. As much as I love concocting my own cocktails, I also like to let the companies do it for me, so I can enjoy the moment 100% without the headache.

Cherry River

The new Cherry River Collection Mixologie case really deserves a category of its own. I had the help of several friends to experiment with the 2023 coolers and I can tell you that this new range was unanimously acclaimed. In the case, there are two Margaritas tequila, two Cosmos vodka and two Mojitos rum. Each blend really tastes like the spirit inside, and is based on a traditional recipe. To further emphasize the mixology collection, the recipe for each cocktail is written on the can, so you can reproduce them at home.

Seltzers

By definition, a seltzer is an alcoholic sparkling water. In Quebec, you’ll find several in grocery stores, convenience stores and the SAQ. The idea is to drink something light (generally around 4% alc./vol.) and low in calories. American brands have carved out a place for themselves in the iceboxes of many Quebecers, while Quebec brands still have some way to go, in my opinion. There aren’t many companies producing them, and the choices are rather limited.

My favorite seltzer is the Shape seltzer with mango and tea. Although I haven’t tried their other flavors, I know that Shape also offers other versions: Berry and Hibiscus, Raspberry and Mint, and Lemon and Lime. They contain no sugar and range from 80 to 100 calories. Personally, it’s my number-one choice when I’m out paddle-boarding. It’s much better than its American competitor, the Mango White Claw 😉

My favorites and my favorite

Being a big foodie by nature, I like to have a drink with a good meal. However, many people think that ready-to-drink beverages are too sweet to drink with food, and I disagree. Here are three of my favorite combo suggestions:

• Bravo Caesar & spicy chicken wings (caution: you must like chipotle)
• Domaine Lafrance BIO Cidre pétillant & butter chicken (or other spicy Indian dish)
• Comont Paloma & tofu tacos

My summer favorites also include the Mate Libre Original Vodka which I highly recommend if you like Maté infusion and cocktails that are a little less sweet. I also loved the Rosemont Montréal Mule which has a spicy taste, but that was a foregone conclusion, as I’m in love with all products from the Montréal distillery.

My favorite of them all has just hit the SAQ: 1642 & Km12 Gin Tonic. First of all, I applaud 1642 and La distillerie du Fjord, two companies that have collaborated to bring us a 100% Quebec product. It’s no secret that times are tough for Quebec companies, and it’s increasingly difficult to stand out from the crowd. However, they’ve managed to impress us with a product that’s so simple, yet so authentic. You won’t be disappointed, the taste is practically identical to what you’d get from a homemade gin and tonic made with tonic 1642 and Km12 gin, I’ve done the test. I’ll be buying some for my next summer adventures, and can’t wait to share it with friends and family.

Finally, since I’m a big fan of statistics, here’s the list of coolers beverages that were part of my summer 2023 experience. You’ll find the link to buy them, their price, alcohol content and sugar content. Cheers !!!