J.P. Wiser’s Triumphs at Canadian Whisky Awards 2026

On January 15, 2026, the Canadian Whisky Awards took place at the Hotel Grand Pacific in Victoria, celebrating the finest distillers in the country’s whisky industry. This event is recognized as Canada’s largest celebration of whisky, a spirit that has played a significant role in the nation’s history since the 19th and early 20th centuries. The awards recognized various categories, showcasing the growing diversity and quality of Canadian-made whisky.

Davin de Kergommeaux, founder of the awards and a noted Canadian whisky expert, highlighted the evolution of the industry. “Canadian distilleries, large and small, are really doing things that were unheard of, even 15 years ago,” he stated, underscoring the innovation and craft evident in today’s offerings.

Understanding Canadian Whisky Standards

Canadian whisky is subject to stringent regulations that distinguish it from spirits produced in other countries. According to the federal Food and Drugs Act, whisky labeled as “Canadian whisky” must be mashed, distilled, and aged in Canada for a minimum of three years. Additionally, it must contain at least 40 percent alcohol by volume and exhibit the distinctive flavor profile associated with Canadian whisky. De Kergommeaux described this profile, noting a caramel taste at the beginning, pepper in the middle, and a complex finish that can include a myriad of flavors.

This year, the prestigious title of Canadian Whisky of the Year was awarded to J.P. Wiser’s 24 Year Old Canadian Whisky. This spirit is characterized by its slow maturation across multiple casks, resulting in elegant notes of cherry and vanilla. The award is a testament to the quality and craftsmanship behind J.P. Wiser’s offerings, reinforcing its place as a leader in the industry.

Highlighting the Winners

Among other notable winners, Macaloney’s Distillery from Saanich took home the award for Single Malt Whisky of the Year with its Peat Project: Harvest Coast. This recognition builds on the distillery’s success from the previous year, where it garnered four gold medals at the World Whiskies Awards and was named Canadian Whisky of the Year at the 2025 Canadian Whisky Awards.

Another fan-favorite was Wild Life Distillery’s WLD Cask King of the North. Distilled with Alberta Rye and aged for four years in a barrel previously used for peated single malt whisky and Canadian maple syrup, this whisky received praise for its unique integration of flavors. De Kergommeaux remarked at a preview tasting, “Sometimes you find a whisky that is so beautifully integrated that it doesn’t taste like anything more than itself. It’s just really the very best whisky.”

The Canadian Whisky Awards continues to shine a light on the exceptional craftsmanship and quality within the industry. As local distilleries push boundaries and innovate, the recognition of their hard work elevates the profile of Canadian whisky on the international stage.