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Canadian Mist

Canadian Mist is a blended Canadian whisky brand produced by the Sazerac Company and distilled in Collingwood, Ontario, using local grains including corn, malted barley, and rye, along with pristine water from Georgian Bay.^[1]^[2]^[3] Launched in 1967 by Brown-Forman Corporation, the brand gained prominence as one of the top-selling Canadian whiskies worldwide, eventually being acquired by Sazerac in 2020.^[4]^[5] The production process begins with high-quality Canadian grains distilled at the Collingwood facility, originally established in 1967, where the spirit is then mellowed in white oak barrels to develop its characteristic smoothness.^[6]^[1] Bottled at 40% alcohol by volume (80 proof), Canadian Mist offers a light, balanced profile with aromas and flavors of vanilla, caramel, and subtle fruit notes, making it versatile for sipping neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails.^[7]^[6] Its approachable nature and use of North America's freshest water sources have contributed to its enduring popularity since its introduction.^[3]

History

Founding and Early Development

The Canadian Mist distillery was established in 1967 in Collingwood, Ontario, by Barton Brands Inc., a Chicago-based company seeking to capitalize on the region's strategic location for whisky production.^[8] The site on MacDonald Road was selected after a decade-long search for an ideal facility, leveraging Collingwood's deep-water harbor on Georgian Bay and its established railway connections to facilitate efficient importation of grains and distribution of finished products.^[8]^[9] These transportation advantages were crucial for the distillery's operations, allowing for bulk grain shipments via vessel and rail, which supported the blending of Canadian whisky targeted primarily at the U.S. market.^[6]^[9] The brand, Canadian Mist, was launched in 1967 as a blended Canadian whisky, emphasizing smoothness achieved through the use of exceptionally pure water sourced from nearby Georgian Bay and grains harvested from Ontario's fertile regions.^[1] This approach positioned the product as an accessible entry into the whisky category, with initial production focused on creating a light, approachable spirit suitable for American consumers.^[10] Early operations under Barton Brands included constructing on-site facilities for grain storage and processing, drawing on Collingwood's historical role as a grain port to import raw materials in large quantities.^[8] During the late 1960s and into the 1970s, the distillery played a pivotal role in revitalizing Collingwood's industrial landscape, transforming the town into a notable whisky production center by utilizing its harbor for direct grain imports and railway for outbound shipments.^[8]^[6] This infrastructure integration helped establish efficient supply chains, contributing to the brand's rapid growth as one of the top-selling Canadian whiskies in the United States by the 1970s.^[6] In 1971, after four years of operation, Barton Brands sold the distillery and brand to Brown-Forman Corporation.^[8]

Ownership Transitions

Canadian Mist was originally founded in 1967 in Collingwood, Ontario, before undergoing significant ownership changes that shaped its development. In 1971, Brown-Forman Corporation acquired the brand and distillery, marking the company's first international production facility outside the United States.^[11] Under Brown-Forman's ownership, Canadian Mist expanded as part of their broader spirits portfolio, integrating alongside established brands like Early Times and contributing to the company's global diversification efforts.^[12] The brand continued operations under Brown-Forman for nearly five decades, benefiting from the corporation's resources and marketing strategies that positioned it as a key entry in the Canadian whisky category.^[11] This period saw Canadian Mist integrated into Brown-Forman's lineup of value-oriented whiskies, supporting steady production and distribution without major disruptions.^[13] In 2020, Brown-Forman sold Canadian Mist, along with the Early Times and Collingwood brands and the associated production assets, to Sazerac Company for an undisclosed amount as part of a strategic divestiture of non-core assets to focus on premium offerings.^[11] The transaction was announced on June 15, 2020, and completed on July 31, 2020.^[14] The sale to Sazerac carried implications for continuity and growth, with the buyer committing to ongoing production at the Collingwood facility and investing in the brand's expansion to increase sales in subsequent years.^[11] This transition aligned with Sazerac's portfolio strategy, emphasizing the maintenance of Canadian Mist's heritage while pursuing broader market opportunities.^[1]

Production

Distillery Location and Facilities

The Canadian Mist distillery is located in Collingwood, Ontario, on the shores of Georgian Bay, a site selected for its access to exceptionally pure freshwater and established transportation infrastructure including a harbor and railway connections.^[1]^[9] The facility was constructed in 1967.^[1] During the 1970s and 1980s, the distillery utilized Collingwood's harbor to import large shipments of grain, which were stored in on-site silos to support production.^[8] The plant handles all aspects of whisky production in-house, from grain processing and fermentation to distillation—including a triple distillation process—and maturation in on-site warehouses.^[6] In 2020, the distillery and associated brands were acquired by the Sazerac Company from Brown-Forman Corporation, with operations continuing under Sazerac's ownership focused on steady, continuous output.^[15]^[13] The facility relies on water sourced directly from Georgian Bay, renowned for its glacial filtration through granite that yields one of North America's cleanest and freshest water supplies.^[1]^[16]^[9]^[6]

Ingredients and Distillation Process

Canadian Mist whisky is produced using a mash bill composed of locally sourced Canadian grains, primarily corn, rye, and malted barley.^[6]^[9] The corn is tested for quality upon arrival, ground, and cooked before being cooled and mixed with the malted barley to convert starches into fermentable sugars.^[9] Pristine water drawn from Georgian Bay, a large freshwater reservoir near the distillery in Collingwood, Ontario, is used throughout the process to ensure purity.^[1]^[6] Following mashing, the mixture undergoes fermentation with specially formulated dry yeast, taking 68 to 110 hours to produce a wash containing alcohol and flavorful compounds.^[9] The wash is then triple-distilled in continuous column stills constructed with stainless steel exteriors and copper interiors, which help refine the spirit, remove impurities, and develop desirable aromas for a smooth profile.^[6]^[9] The resulting new make spirit is aged for a minimum of three years in charred 50-gallon white oak barrels, which are manufactured on-site and reused up to three times to impart color, flavor, and mellowness.^[6]^[9]^[1] These barrels are stored in nine warehouses where controlled temperature cycles accelerate maturation.^[6]^[9] After aging, the whisky is blended to achieve consistency, potentially including caramel coloring as permitted under Canadian regulations, before being bottled at 40% ABV.[](https://www.wh whisky.com/whisky-database/distilleries/details/canadian-mist.html)^[9] This final marriage allows the flavors to integrate, resulting in the brand's signature light and balanced character.^[6]

Product Details

Flavor Profile and Characteristics

Canadian Mist whisky exhibits a medium amber color, derived from its aging in charred white oak barrels.^[17]^[16] The aroma presents prominent notes of vanilla and caramel, accompanied by subtle grain influences and a mild fruit medley, including hints of citrus and dried fruit.^[3]^[18] Some tasters also detect underlying nutty undertones, such as cashew, along with occasional resiny or industrial accents that add complexity to the profile.^[19]^[4] On the palate, Canadian Mist delivers a smooth, light-bodied experience characterized by flavors of vanilla, caramel transitioning to chocolate-like fudge notes, integrated oak, and mild rye spice.^[20]^[17] The mouthfeel is relatively thin yet clean, leading to a short, dry finish that emphasizes its approachable nature. This triple distillation process contributes to the whisky's overall smoothness.^[18]^[1] Bottled at 40% ABV (80 proof), Canadian Mist aligns with the broader Canadian whisky style by prioritizing lightness, blendability, and ease of drinking over the more robust rye character found in some other expressions.^[6]^[21] Its profile makes it particularly suitable for mixing in cocktails while remaining enjoyable neat or on the rocks.^[9]

Variants and Packaging

Canadian Mist is primarily offered as a blended Canadian whisky at 40% ABV (80 proof), available in several standard bottle sizes including 200 ml, 375 ml, 750 ml, 1 L, and 1.75 L, positioning it as an affordable option typically priced between $10 and $20 USD for the 750 ml bottle.^[22]^[23] Larger formats like the 1.75 L are often packaged in durable plastic bottles for practicality and cost efficiency.^[24] The brand has featured limited flavored variants, such as Peach Mist, Cinnamon Mist, and Maple Mist, introduced in 2013 by blending the base whisky with proprietary flavored liqueurs; however, these were not established as core lines and remain available in select markets as of November 2025.^[25]^[26]^[27] A premium unflavored variant, Canadian Mist Black Diamond, was launched in 2010 at 43% ABV (86 proof) with a three-year aging minimum, offering a richer profile and upscale packaging featuring gold-etched elements, though it remains a niche offering rather than a mainstay.^[28]^[29] Special editions are rare and not part of an ongoing series, with historical examples limited to promotional decanters from the brand's early years, such as a 1969 limited edition, but no recent market-tied releases have been documented. The packaging maintains a classic, straightforward bottle design originating from the 1967 launch, emphasizing simplicity and recognizability, with glass predominant for smaller sizes and occasional plastic for bulk formats to support its budget-friendly appeal.^[1]

Reception

Awards and Recognition

Canadian Mist has received several accolades in international spirits competitions, particularly recognizing its blending quality and approachability as a blended Canadian whisky. In 2009, it earned a double gold medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, an honor denoting excellence in both flavor and overall quality among global entries.^[30]^[31] Subsequent years saw consistent recognition in major competitions, often highlighting its smoothness and value in the blended category. At the 2021 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, Canadian Mist received a silver medal for its balanced profile.^[32] The same year, it was awarded a silver medal at the International Spirits Challenge, a prestigious global event judged by industry experts.^[33] Additionally, in 2021, it secured a silver medal at the North American Bourbon & Whiskey Competition and a bronze medal at the Canadian Whisky Awards, affirming its standing among domestic peers.^[34]^[35] More recently, Canadian Mist continued to garner silver medals, including at the 2023 San Francisco World Spirits Competition^[36] and the 2023 World Whiskies Awards,^[37] where it was noted for its light, versatile character suitable for mixing. These honors frequently emphasize the whisky's exceptional value, positioning it as a standout in budget-friendly categories within whisky guides and reviews.^[38] No major awards beyond silver level have been documented for Canadian Mist after 2020 in top-tier events. As of 2025, no major new awards have been reported.

Market Position and Consumer Feedback

Canadian Mist holds a strong position as a budget-friendly Canadian whisky, particularly renowned for its role in mixed cocktails like the whisky sour, where its smooth profile shines without overpowering other ingredients. The brand rapidly gained traction after its 1967 launch, becoming one of the top-selling Canadian whiskies in America and maintaining approximately 6% share of the U.S. Canadian whisky category as of 2024.^[4]^[39]^[6]^[40] The whisky enjoys wide availability across North America through major retailers such as Total Wine & More and ABC Fine Wine & Spirits, supporting consistent sales in the value segment. Acquired by the Sazerac Company in 2020 as part of a portfolio expansion that included production assets, Canadian Mist has benefited from integration into Sazerac's broader network, which emphasizes growth in key markets like Canada and potential international outreach.^[41]^[42]^[14]^[43] Consumer feedback highlights Canadian Mist's affordability and versatility, with many appreciating its easy-drinking nature for everyday use and rating it around 3 to 4 out of 5 on platforms like Drinkhacker and retailer sites for its strong value proposition. While praised for reliable performance in highballs and punches, it often draws criticism for insufficient complexity compared to higher-end whiskies, positioning it firmly as an accessible entry point rather than a sipping premium.^[38]^[41]^[42]^[16] Culturally, Canadian Mist is embraced as an "everyday" whisky, ideal for casual social settings and promoted in simple recipes that emphasize its mixability, reinforcing its status as a staple for budget-conscious enthusiasts seeking approachable Canadian whisky experiences.^[44]^[21]

References

[1]
Canadian Mist - Sazerac Company
Canadian Whisky. In 1967, Canadian Mist was born on the shores of Georgian Bay, Ontario, home to some of the freshest water in North America.
[2]
Canadian Mist Blended Canadian Whisky - Spec's
In stock 3-day deliveryCanadian Mist is a blended Canadian whisky from Canada, aged in white oak, with a smooth vanilla flavor, made with corn, malted barley and rye. It costs $6.83 ...
[3]
Product Detail | Canadian Mist - NHLC Liquor & Wine Outlets
Using top-quality grain, mellowed white oak barrels, and that pristine water, we created an easygoing classic whisky to be enjoyed by all.
[4]
Whisky Review: Canadian Mist Blended Canadian Whisky
Rating 0.0 · Review by Nick LeghornNov 28, 2023 · Canadian Mist was a brand of whiskey introduced to the United States by the Brown-Forman Company in 1967. It used sourced whiskey from a ...
[5]
Brown-Forman sells Early Times and Canadian Mist to Sazerac
Jun 15, 2020 · Canadian Mist, the third biggest-selling Canadian whisky brand in the world, joined Brown-Forman's portfolio in 1971. The Canadian Mist ...
[6]
Canadian Mist Distillery - Whisky.com
Canadian Mist is a blended Whisky and contains corn, rye and malt to make up a light, aromatic and very balanced Whisky. It's bottled with 40% ABV (80 proof) ...
[7]
https://www.purdyswine.com/product/canadian-mist-blended-whisky-80-proof/
[8]
A look inside one of Collingwood’s best-kept secrets
### Summary of Canadian Mist Distillery Founding and Early Development (Before 1971)
[9]
Canadian Mist - Prestige Malts
The history of Whisky production in Ontario dates back to the middle of the 19th century when settlers brought their knowledge of distilling to the region.
[10]
Barton's 1967 Canadian Mist - Whisky Auctioneer
It was opened in 1967 by Barton Brands subsidiary, Canadian Mist Distillers Ltd. The distillery and its eponymous brand were then sold to Brown-Foreman in 1971, ...Missing: launch market
[11]
Brown-Forman to Sell Early Times, Canadian Mist, Collingwood
Jun 15, 2020 · It has reached an agreement to sell the Early Times, Canadian Mist, and Collingwood brands, and the Canadian Mist production assets, to Sazerac Company.
[12]
Discover Our Roots - Brown-Forman Corporation
1971 ... New frontiers. Brown‑Forman buys the Canadian Mist Distillery and brand, establishing its first major operation outside the U.S. (Sold in 2020). 1983.
[13]
Brown–Forman to Sell Early Times, Canadian Mist, Collingwood
Jun 15, 2020 · Canadian Mist joined its portfolio in 1971 and was the company's first production operations outside of the United States.Missing: founding | Show results with:founding
[14]
Brown-Forman Completes Sale of Early Times and Canadian Mist to ...
Aug 3, 2020 · Brown-Forman Corporation (NYSE: BFA) (NYSE: BFB) announced today that it completed the sale of the Early Times, Canadian Mist, and Collingwood brands.
[15]
Canadian Mist Whisky - Virginia ABC
Canadian Mist is a true blended whisky. Made at Canada's oldest continuously owned and operated distillery in Collingwood, Ontario.
[16]
Canadian Mist Blended Canadian Whisky - Lunds & Byerlys
3-day returnsCanadian Mists's distillery is Canada's oldest continuously owned and operated distillery. Barley malt, rye, and corn are all sourced locally in Canada. 80 ...
[17]
Collingwood's Canadian Mist distillery has new owner - Simcoe.com
Jun 15, 2020 · On June 15, Brown-Forman Corporation announced it had reached an agreement with Sazerac Company to sell the Canadian Mist production assets ...
[18]
Canadian Mist - The Rum Howler Blog
Canadian Mist has been on the landscape of Canadian Whisky since the 1960's when Barton Brands, Inc. of Chicago, contracted with a Quebec distillery, (Melcher's) ...Missing: founded | Show results with:founded
[19]
https://www.gentlemenranters.com/canadian-mist-vs-crown-royal/
[20]
https://shopwinedirect.com/canadian-mist-blended-canadian-whisky-750ml.html
[21]
Canadian Mist vs Crown Royal - Gentlemen Ranters
Sep 2, 2021 · Palate: Soft and mellow, with a hint of banana and a nutty cashew character. Finish: A touch of smoke, with notes of white vanilla, baking ...
[22]
https://www.abcliquorwineandbeer.com/b/spirits/canadian-mist/847
[23]
Canadian Mist (40% alc./vol. (80 proof)) — Canadian Whisky
Nov 8, 2017 · About 15 years ago a well-meaning whisky writer stuck his head into the hot and tiny still house at the Canadian Mist distillery, saw 6 shiny, ...
[24]
Buy Canadian Mist Spirits Online - ABC Liquor Wine and Beer
30-day returnsWhiskey (5). Type. Canadian Whiskey (5). Sub Type. Blended Whiskey (5). Size. 750ml Bottle (2); 1.75L Bottle (1); 200ml Bottle (1); 375ml Bottle (1). Origin ...Missing: whisky variants packaging
[25]
https://www.bevindustry.com/articles/86534-mist-flavors
[26]
Canadian Mist Blended Canadian Whisky 1.75L – 80 Proof (ABV 40%)
In stock Rating 3.7 113 Get Canadian Mist Blended Canadian Whisky 1.75L – 80 Proof (ABV 40%) delivered to you in as fast as 1 hour with Binny's Beverage Depot same-day delivery.
[27]
Mist Flavors | 2013-07-16 - Beverage Industry
Jul 16, 2013 · Available in Peach Mist, Cinnamon Mist and Maple Mist varieties, the spirits are crafted by blending Canadian Mist whisky with proprietary flavored liqueurs.Missing: variants | Show results with:variants
[28]
Fighting The Canadian Whisky Downdraft – - Market Watch
Nov 15, 2014 · Sazerac hasn't provided much marketing support for its raft of value brands, including Rich & Rare, Canadian Hunter and James Fox (all around $9 ...
[29]
Beverage packaging: Canadian Mist launches premium brand with ...
Distilled in Collingwood, Ontario, Canadian Mist Black Diamond is crafted using select grains and crisp, clear water from the pristine Georgian Bay, North ...Missing: history evolution
[30]
Canadian Mist Black Diamond Whisky | Beverage Industry
Aug 16, 2010 · Canadian Mist Black Diamond has a suggested retail price of $14.99 for a 750-ml. bottle. Brown-Forman Beverages, Louisville, Ky. ... For more new ...
[31]
Canadian Mist (Whisky) - NeuFutur Magazine
May 20, 2009 · If you do not believe this review, just check out the San Francisco World Spirits Competition â€“ it won a Double Gold medal. Rating: 8.2/10.
[32]
https://www.sazerac.com/our-company/news-and-media/six-whiskies-from-sazerac-company-recognized-at-2021-san-francisco-world-spirits-competition.html
[33]
Six Whiskies From Sazerac Company Recognized At 2021 San ...
Jun 8, 2021 · Silver Medals. · Canadian Mist Blended Canadian Whisky. · Royal Canadian Small Batch Blended Whisky. Bronze Medals. · Caribou Crossing Single ...
[34]
Five Sazerac Canadian Whiskies Earn Medals At 2021 International ...
Sep 2, 2021 · ... Canadian Mist Blended Canadian Whisky all received Silver medals at the 2021 ISC. This is the 26th year for the ISC, a global competition ...
[35]
Three Sazerac Canadian Whiskies Awarded Medals At 2021 North ...
Sep 22, 2021 · Two other Sazerac Canadian whiskies were also awarded Silver medals following this year's double-blind tasting: Canadian Mist Blended Canadian ...
[36]
2021 Canadian Whisky Awards Results
Bronze Medals · 1. ALBERTA PREMIUM RYE · 2. CANADIAN CLUB 1858 · 3. CANADIAN MIST · 4. CAN'T CALL IT B**RBON · 5. CAPITAINE SAINT SIMON – Fils du Roy · 6. COLLINGWOOD.
[37]
SFWSC 2023 Results - The Tasting Alliance
Canadian Mist, Canadian Whisky, Canada, S. CANDELAZO, BOLIVAR, Colombia, S. Canerock, Jamaican Spiced Rum, Jamaica, B. Canmore, 12 Year Old Single Malt Scotch ...
[38]
https://www.drinkhacker.com/2009/04/11/review-canadian-mist-whisky/
[39]
https://applejack.com/Canadian-Mist-750-ml
[40]
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[41]
Canadian Mist Blended Canadian Whisky | Total Wine & More
I have to give Canadian Mist 5 stars for great flavor and great value !! Yes, I recommend this product. My size shot of Canadian Mist. ... Helpful? ... 5 out of 5 ...
[42]
https://abcfws.com/canadian-mist-whisky/219902
[43]
Sazerac acquisitions top June M&A activity | New Orleans ...
Jul 11, 2020 · The purchase will expand Sazerac's existing presence in Canada, building upon its 2018 acquisition of four Seagram whisky brands as part of a 19 ...<|control11|><|separator|>
[44]
11 Reasons Why You Should Drink Canadian Mist - Thrillist
Nov 13, 2015 · Why? Because its aging process allows it to be crafted into a smooth and mature flavor that is perfect for mixing with something else. That ...