The spirit of knowing
Do you want to know more about the world of wine and spirits?
Discover the SAQ's The spirit of knowing blog to perfect your knowledge in the world of alcoholic beverages.
Learn more about
In the spotlight


Natural wine
Virtually unknown not so long ago, natural wines have found their way into Quebecers’ hearts. What’s behind the rising popularity of these wines without additives?


Varietals
You probably know Cabernet and Sauvignon, but what about Savagnin and Tannat? Dive into the wide world of grape varieties and expand your horizons.


Wine growing regions
Need a little escape? Explore the most beautiful wine regions and discover their climate, main grape varieties, typical dishes and more.
-
Born of an ancient medicinal tradition and regularly fetishized in 19th century Europe, absinthe was often demonized and outlawed. Nowadays, this spirit is experiencing an increasing popularity – accompanied by a renaissance in Quebec.
-
When you purchase Quebec wines, you’re supporting the local economy, all while choosing eco-friendly products. And also—they’re exceptional wines!
-
Pop the bubbly and discover the perfect pairings for each taste tag!
-
Its versatility has made it one of the most popular spirits in the world. Vodka lovers, learn more about its origins, traditions, and possible food and drink pairings.
-
All it took was one and a quarter miles of corn fields in every direction, boreal water sourced from almost 300 feet underground, and a splash of crazy, and Pierre Mantha had everything he needed to start a new career by launching an artisanal distillery—the first in Outaouais—built just a few steps from the Gatineau airport. The secret to his success? A range of top-shelf spirits made with the choicest of raw ingredients.
-
There are many types of Champagne, from a dry Brut Nature, to a complex vintage, to a festive demi-sec served over ice. We take a closer look at this luxury product for any occasion.
-
Bubbly’s rising popularity has resulted in a wide variety of bottles to choose from. Here’s a handy guide to finding the one that’s right for you!
-
Describing Aussie winemaking in just a few lines is tricky. The offer down under is more diverse than ever and behind us are the days of the monolithic full-bodied Australian wine. Recent years have ushered in new quality-focussed producers, and lately they’ve been taking a much more balanced approach to the craft.
-
White wine is popular in Quebec again, and how fortunate for Alsace — it’s their speciality. With an age-old winemaking tradition, the region proposes an exceptional offering of grapes that spring forth from a dizzying variety of terroirs.
-
Beyond syrup, maple-based liqueurs, wines, cream beverages and other spirits derived from the famous tree have become the delight of mixologists and adventurous amateurs alike.
-
Discover fine spirits thanks to our taste tags, small format bottles and SAQ par l’ITHQ workshops.
-
In a different era, it was an aperitif stalwart, but nowadays crème de menthe has fallen by the spirit wayside. Yet there is no better time than the present to reacquaint yourself with this unique spirit — especially now that there’s a made-in-Quebec brand to sample!