Top 5 Spirits at Le Grand Apéro SAQ
Le Grand Apéro SAQ took over the Grand Quai du Port de Montréal on August 30–31, and what an unforgettable experience it was! From endless tastings to live music, stunning views, and creative cocktails, the event delivered the ultimate summer vibe.
I only attended one day, but after seeing just how much there was to explore, I highly recommend splitting your visit over two days: one for spirits and one for wine and bubbles. There’s so much to taste and discover that trying to fit it all into a single day can be overwhelming… and pacing yourself also helps you avoid a next-day hangover.
Here’s my top 5 spirit discoveries & review:
1. Distillerie 1769 – Madison Park London Dry Gin
LaSalle, QuebecDon’t let the English name fool you, this gin is made in Quebec. I had the chance to meet the founder’s son and learned that it’s very much a family-driven business, right down to his mom managing their social media. That passion really shines through in the products. I tried their London Dry Gin, available in two formats, boxed or bottled. You might be thinking, boxed gin? Yes! It’s innovative and practical, a clever solution for events and travel when you don’t want to lug around clinking glass bottles. A unique concept paired with a smooth, flavourful gin that really impressed me.
2. Distillerie Marina – Violette Gin
Trois-Rivières, QuebecI had a great chat with the Distillerie Mariana team, who shared how much this gin means to them, and after tasting it, I understood why. The Violette Gin is completely different from the rest on the market; elegant, bold, and truly unique. It has a sophisticated flavour profile that transport you to a secret garden. It’s distinctive, refined, and absolutely a must-try.
3. Distillerie des Appalaches – RetroFit
Lévis, QuebecRetroFit brings an instant sense of nostalgia, the kind of liqueur that might remind you of your first SAQ purchase or a classic college party drink. But tasting it was a surprise: it’s far more sophisticated and refined than expected. It’s not overly sweet or artificially flavoured. Plus, the team behind Distillerie des Appalaches was energetic and fun, and that vibe carries through beautifully in both their branding and their products.
4. Alpha Tango – Moonlight Spiced Rum
Val-d’Or, QuebecMoonlight Spiced Rum delivers a beautiful balance of warm spices and smooth sweetness, making it incredibly versatile and perfect for cocktails. It really stood out for how effortlessly it elevates a drink without overpowering it. On top of that, the Alpha Tango team made the experience even more memorable, they were fun, welcoming, and full of passion for what they do, which truly reflects in their product.
5. Good Day – Melon Soju
Korea
I’d tried Good Day Melon Soju before, but tasting it again at the event highlighted just how versatile it really is. At home, I paired it with food and loved it, but in a lively, festival setting, I realized it works in so many ways, as a ready-to-drink option or in cocktails. Whether you’re at a backyard barbecue, on a date night, enjoying dinner with friends, or at a big summer festival, this soju fits right in. Now, I just have to taste all their flavours!
Final Thoughts
Le Grand Apéro SAQ was such an incredible experience, not just for the variety of drinks, but for the passion and creativity behind each product. These five discoveries were my personal highlights, and I can’t wait to revisit them again. Take a sneak peek at the event in the TikTok I made covering the event.
If you’re a fan of trying new spirits, wines, and unique creations, I highly recommend attending the next edition of the event. Click here to stay updated on upcoming SAQ events here. Trust me, it’s an experience you won’t want to miss!
Want more tasty drinks? Check out my recipes for endless delicious drinks.