While you’re trying the famous food in Québec, don’t miss out on all the best drinks! Quebec is famous for ice wine, ice cider, Caribou, and more. Here are a few you’ll want to try when you visit the most European City in the North America!

Disclosure: Québec City Tourism Office sponsored my recent visit, but all opinions and recommendations come from my personal experience tasting these drinks across visits to Quebec in multiple seasons.

As someone who has explored culinary traditions worldwide since first moving to Germany at age six, I’m thrilled to share my insider’s guide to Québec’s remarkable food scene. After two memorable visits and countless meals in this charming Canadian province, I can confidently guide you through the best foods and drinks to try during Winter Carnaval.

Understanding Québec’s Winter Drink Culture

Quebec’s winter drinks reflect both necessity and celebration. Not only are they tasty, but they’re practical too. Check out a few interesting tidbits about Québec’s popular take on their version of Canadian drinks.

• Warming beverages for cold weather
• Local ingredients like maple and ice wine
• French-Canadian traditions
• Modern craft brewing influences

Caribou

Caribou is the signature drink of the Québec Winter Carnaval, a warm and invigorating drink made to chase away the winter chill.

The Official Carnaval Drink

• Base: Red wine
• Added spirits: Whiskey or brandy
• Spices: Cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg
• Served: Warm (traditional) or cold

Where to Find It:

• Most restaurants throughout Québec
• Traditional bars in Old Québec
• Winter pop-up bars

Personal Tip: Try it both ways – warm hits differently than cold, and locals have strong opinions about which is better!

Ice Wine (Vin de Glace)

Québec is famous for ice wine which local wineries from nearby île d’Orléans make using grapes that have frozen on the vine. During Carnaval you’ll have the opportunity to try ice wine so make sure you do!

Québec’s Premium Winter Wine

• Made from: Frozen grapes
• Taste: Sweet, concentrated
• Alcohol content: 10-12%

Best Places:

• île d’Orléans wineries
• Upscale restaurants
• Carnival tasting events

Insider Tip: Book a tasting tour at an île d’Orléans winery for the full experience.

Carnaval Hot Toddy (Ponce du Carnaval)

The Carnaval Hot Toddy, or “Ponce du Carnaval,” is served in an official souvenir mug, at an Ice Bar (Bar du Glace) during Carnaval. The official Hot Toddy is made with Bonhomme’s syrup, Chic Choc Spiced Rum, Ungava Gin, and hot water.

Where to Try It:

• Ice Bar (Bar du Glace)

Pro Tip: Keep your souvenir mug for discounted refills throughout Carnival.

This was not my favorite drink, but when at Carnaval – make sure to try something! You can order one of several drinks in the official souvenir mug, including delicious and non-alcoholic hot chocolate!

Hot Shot Shooter 

Available at La Buche as a liquid dessert, this shooter is as delicious as it is beautiful. It’s a layered shot featuring

• Ingredients: Galliano, espresso, whipped cream
• Presentation: Layered shot
• Location: Exclusively at La Buche

Expert Tip: Order this after dinner – Locals claim it’s both dessert and digestif in one.

Curious about Galliano? I was too so I looked it up. Galliano is an Italian liquor that tastes like vanilla and anise. It’s bright yellow in color and makes the shooter almost too pretty to drink. 

Signature Champagne Cocktail at Hôtel de Glace

I highly recommend visiting the Hôtel de Glace, Quebec’s stunning ice hotel when you’re in Quebec. If you go, make sure to try the signature champagne cocktail served in an ice glass.

Iconic Ice Hotel Experience

• Components: Champagne, limoncello, gin
• Served in: Ice glass
• Location: Hotel de Glace bar

Personal Experience: Worth the splurge – drinking from an ice glass in an ice hotel is unforgettable.

Ice Cider (Cidre de Glace)

Quebec Winter Specialty

• Made from: Frozen apples
• Taste: Sweet, concentrated apple

Where to Find It:

• Local cideries
• Fine dining restaurants
• Specialty wine shops

Maple Beer

You’ll find lots of varieties of maple beer in Cananda. Some are available all year and others are only available during the winter during the maple tapping process.

One famous type is Suzanne Marceau from Microbrasserie de l’Île d’Orléans. Brewed all year at the area also famous for ice wine and ice cider, Suzanne Marceau is a local favorite.

Local Craft Innovation

• Style: Various (ales, stouts)
• Feature: Local maple syrup
• Price: $8-12 CAD
• Available: Local brewpubs

Quebec Hot Chocolate

Available in the same mug as the Hot Toddy, Quebec hot chocolate is a non-alcoholic drink option your kids will love!

Non-Alcoholic Option

• Made with: Local chocolate
• Add-ins: Maple, whipped cream
• Perfect for: Families, non-drinkers

Money-Saving Tips

1. Buy the Carnival mug for discounts
2. Look for happy hour specials
3. Join guided tasting tours
4. Check hotel packages with drink credits

FAQs about Drinking in Québec City

What’s the drinking age in Québec and do they strictly enforce it?

The legal drinking age in Québec is 18, lower than other Canadian provinces (which is typically 19). Yes, it’s strictly enforced – you must carry valid photo ID, and establishments regularly check. International visitors should carry passports or official government ID.

Do I need to speak French to order drinks in Québec?

No, you don’t need to speak French to order drinks. While French is Québec‘s primary language, most bartenders and servers in tourist areas speak English. However, learning basic French phrases like “santé” (cheers) and “s’il vous plaît” (please) is appreciated.

What are the typical prices for drinks in Québec?

Drink prices vary by location and type, but here are some typical prices you can expect:

• Beer: $7-10 CAD
• Wine (glass): $8-14 CAD
• Cocktails: $12-18 CAD
• Specialty drinks (Ice Wine, Caribou): $10-15 CAD
• Non-alcoholic beverages: $4-8 CAD Expect higher prices in tourist areas and during Winter Carnival.

What’s the tipping etiquette for drinks in Québec?

Standard tipping for drinks is 15-20% of the pre-tax amount. At bars, $1-2 CAD per drink is common.

Are there any unique drinking customs I should know about in Québec?

Yes, several:

• Always make eye contact during “santé” (cheers)
• Wait for everyone to be served before drinking
• Drinking with food is common – many bars serve food
• It’s customary to buy rounds in groups
• During Carnival, drinking Caribou at least once is considered a tradition

Once again, maybe thanks to Québec City Tourism Office for sponsoring my trip. Head to their website for the most update travel information.

If You Liked this Post on Famous Food in Québec City, Read These Too

Why a Winter Visit to Québec City Needs to be on Your Travel Bucket List

5 Famous HotWhere Can You Sleep in a Castle, Ice Hotel & Monastery (5 Famous Hotels in Québec City)

12 of the Most Famous Foods in Québec to try at Winter Carnaval

8 Notable Québec City Restaurants: Historic, Modern & Indigenous Cuisine