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.
-
Nowadays, we expect wine to be perfectly smooth and crystal clear. As a result, some may be surprised to find gritty, powdery or crystalline deposits when pouring that last delicious glass, or when peering into the bottle itself. Is sediment bad? The gritty truth is: No.
-
The table is set, the glasses shined and all that’s left to do is to open the wine to go with the roast beef that’s been filling your house with mouth-watering aromas all day. You pop the cork and a strange smell wafts out of the bottle. And you know it’s strange because this is a wine you know by heart—one of your very favourites. Your wine is probably corked. But how does this even happen?
-
Several factors can affect how we perceive a wine's flavour. Three experts tested the effect of different glasses on taste.
-
Wine can indeed contain animal products—even if it’s only made of fermented grapes. Read on to learn how to tell if your wine reflects your dietary predilections.
-
What is the effect of wood on wine? Should it be noticeable or understated? Here is a bit of background on maturing wine in oak.
-
Do you know what to look for in a white wine? We’re here to help make things a little clearer.
-
Essayer de nouveaux cépages, c’est sortir de sa zone de confort – et découvrir des saveurs nouvelles et excitantes. Le teroldego, par exemple…
-
-
Thanks to distinctive grape varieties and straightforward winemaking techniques, Vinho Verde makes for wines that are light and likeable, and which are particularly delightful to drink when the weather is hot!
-
Crowned Best Sommelier in Canada last September, Toqué!’s sommelier now aims to conquer the Americas during a competition that will take place in Montreal. Here’s a closer look at the cheerful competitor.
-
Tasting a wine is about more than just putting the glass to your mouth. You have to use both your mind and your senses, along with a meditative thoughtfulness.
-
Jura is place unto itself. An oddball of French wine regions. There’s plenty of Chardonnay and Pinot for those looking something more familiar, but above all, it’s the realm of Poulsard, Trousseau and, especially, Savagnin.