View Full Version : Quebec
I'm starting a new thread similar to our friends in BC to discuss Quebec local matters.
SAQ started selling a few weeks ago the Havana Club Cuban Barrel Proof, at 55$. The same rum could be bought at LCBO for a few months now. I tried it a few years ago, and it was good. SAQ was even selling the 15 years Gran Reserva for a while but they're out of stock.
The following rums have been out of stock as well :
Appleton Estate Master Blenders Legacy
Madras from Guadeloupe
Plantation Trinidad and Jamaique
Bacardi 151
and all Angostura's
A few novelties:
-SAQ is now selling Ron Abuelo Anejo from Panama, at a price of 25.55
-ED 5 years, at 25.65, and Santa Teresa 1796 are back in stock
Nice idea Ben for this thread. I hope other "Quebecers" will join this forum.
Good news for the ED5. I was just out of stock and about to get a bottle. I didn't know it was out of stock.
Dom
RonJames
12-09-2009, 04:58 PM
Not a quebec resident but a visiter. The MBL would be nice if they could restock it. Can't get it in the states.:mad:
Not a quebec resident but a visiter.
Everybody is welcome !
The MBL would be nice if they could restock it. Can't get it in the states.:mad:
It should be back. It's available in other provinces as well. Appleton is arguably the most popular rum in Canada.
RonJames
12-10-2009, 06:53 PM
Just out of curiosity what is the LCBO? Different than the SAQ?
Just out of curiosity what is the LCBO? Different than the SAQ?
Hi RonJames
In Canada, liquor distribution is controlled by the governement of each province, more precisely, by institutions which are linked to the government.
In Quebec we have the SAQ, or Sociйtй des Alcools du Quйbec, which would be translated to Liquor Society of Quebec. In Ontario the organism is called Liquor Control Board of Ontario, or LCBO (www.lcbo.com). It's basically the same pattern for each province. Alberta is a bit different, stores are privately owned but I think the distribution is still government-linked. Members from Alberta can confirm that.
Selection is a bit different from one province to another, and prices as well (they're usually always higher than the States though). Within one province, selection is basically the same from one store to another, so you are never surprised while going to a SAQ or LCBO :mad: There's no treasure hunting, so that's why we canadians love it so much going to states which are not government controlled, like Mass., New York, CA or AZ. Like a child going to Toys'R'us.
RonJames
12-10-2009, 08:34 PM
LOLOLOL, my wife and me even have a store we call toys r us!
My "Toy'R,us" when I go to the states is Total wine and spirits in FL. They have like 3x the selection we have in SAQ and the prices are 1/2 of what we pay in average.
I,m sure if I would travel to CA, Hi-Times would be my preffered store. Too bad they can't ship to Quebec :(
Patapouf
12-11-2009, 12:13 PM
My "Toy'R,us" when I go to the states is Total wine and spirits in FL. They have like 3x the selection we have in SAQ and the prices are 1/2 of what we pay in average.
I,m sure if I would travel to CA, Hi-Times would be my preffered store. Too bad they can't ship to Quebec :(
Lol! I had the same experience while driving through New Hampshire, stopping at one of the highway liquor stores. I was absolutely floored by the prices and selection. I almost cried since i couldn't bring anything back home (my stay was only one night)!!
What I like in Quйbec, because I go often, is your selection in rhum agricoles. We don't have any in NB.
Lol! I had the same experience while driving through New Hampshire, stopping at one of the highway liquor stores. I was absolutely floored by the prices and selection. I almost cried since i couldn't bring anything back home (my stay was only one night)!!
I've been there too. Couldn't believe that Pampero Aniversario was sold 19.99 and Barbancourt 5 stars 17.99, so I had to buy them just to make sure it was not a mistake:D
Strangely though Pyrat XO is sold 34.99, whereas you can find it at around 21-22 in NY.
By the way, Patapouf, you have to work on your poker face when you clear customs!;)
Patapouf
12-12-2009, 12:36 AM
By the way, Patapouf, you have to work on your poker face when you clear customs!;)
I'm too honest for that! ;)
Seriously though, what's the worst that could happen if they catch me lying at the border?
I'm too honest for that! ;)
Seriously though, what's the worst that could happen if they catch me lying at the border?
It's not lying, it's just a matter of interpretation :D
Seriously I won't bring back any hard liquor if I only cross the border for a few hours. But if I stay there for at least one night, when I get back somehow I lose the count and I was gone for 48 hours. ;)
I don't cheat on quantities. I always declare what I got, even if I'm over. I got to realize that customs let you go even if you're a little over, but don't exaggerate. Usually if we're two people I bring back 5 bottles and declare them.gzzg
Arctic Wolf
12-12-2009, 01:52 AM
I'm really curious here.
Supposing I found a great deal on something I liked, and I wanted to bring back 6 one litre bottles. I'm only allowed one or two, but what if I declared all 6. Wouldn't I just have to fill out the paperwork and pay the Tax?
And wouldn't that still be a bargain?
Like I said, just curious how that works.
Patapouf
12-12-2009, 12:46 PM
Good point Ben. I'll have to play a little with those rules. :)
I'm really curious here.
Supposing I found a great deal on something I liked, and I wanted to bring back 6 one litre bottles. I'm only allowed one or two, but what if I declared all 6. Wouldn't I just have to fill out the paperwork and pay the Tax?
And wouldn't that still be a bargain?
Like I said, just curious how that works.
That's a good question too. It might not be worth it, Dom had brought back a bottle from the DR that cost him around $15. When declaring it, customs brought the price closer to $50. I could be mistaken though. Maybe Dom can clear it up.
Wouldn't I just have to fill out the paperwork and pay the Tax?
And wouldn't that still be a bargain?
It depends on a lot of factors, the country you get it from, the price you paid, the volume, the % of alcohol. You can expect to dish more than two times in tax the price you paid. I declared once 150$ worth of liquor and paid 375$ of tax. HMMR
Was at SAQ Centropolis today (that place was suggested by Dom, probably the best SAQ that I've seen) and I could not resist picking up the newest SAQ acquisition.
Pretty bland packaging. Looks like a mixer to me.
Anybody has tried this one ?
I was actually going there to pick up a Saint James Paille, it seems SAQ is stopping distribution, there's only a few bottles left. But even if the website was showing 3 bottles of left, I couldn't find any. Better to call before if you're going for something special.
Patapouf
12-13-2009, 03:00 PM
Was at SAQ Centropolis today (that place was suggested by Dom, probably the best SAQ that I've seen) and I could not resist picking up the newest SAQ acquisition.
Pretty bland packaging. Looks like a mixer to me.
Anybody has tried this one ?
I was actually going there to pick up a Saint James Paille, it seems SAQ is stopping distribution, there's only a few bottles left. But even if the website was showing 3 bottles of left, I couldn't find any. Better to call before if you're going for something special.
No, I've not tried the Ron Abuelo line up yet.
It almost breaks my heart to know I arrived at that 'one' store a couple of months ago and it was closed friday evening at 5pm!!
That's a good question too. It might not be worth it, Dom had brought back a bottle from the DR that cost him around $15. When declaring it, customs brought the price closer to $50. I could be mistaken though. Maybe Dom can clear it up.
Actually, it was from the US that I brought more bottles than I was allowed. Of course, I declared it because if you are caught lying, you will be filed and every time you cross the border, they will search you luggage systematicaly.
Like Ben said, the duty you have to pay depends on different factors (especialy the alcool %). If you bring more wine than you are allowed, the duties will be less than for liquor even if the cost of the bottles are the same.
That time, I brought back 4 bottles of liquor and 1 bottle of wine. I paid duties on the bottle of wine that represented the double of the value of the bottle (15$ wine, 30$ duties). The custom officer said that he he charged me duties on liquor, it would be like 3x the value of the cheapest bottles that exceed what you are allowed to bring back (don't forget that you always have the right to leave the bottle there once you know how much you have to pay)
RonJames
12-14-2009, 02:14 PM
I'm really curious here.
Supposing I found a great deal on something I liked, and I wanted to bring back 6 one litre bottles. I'm only allowed one or two, but what if I declared all 6. Wouldn't I just have to fill out the paperwork and pay the Tax?
And wouldn't that still be a bargain?
Like I said, just curious how that works.
For importing I say pay the tax, especially if its something rare you'll never be able to lay hands on again.
Patapouf
12-14-2009, 02:49 PM
Thanks for clearing that up Dom.
It almost breaks my heart to know I arrived at that 'one' store a couple of months ago and it was closed friday evening at 5pm!!
That surprises me because they are supposed to be open till 9pm. They close at 5pm on saturdays and sundays.
Patapouf
12-14-2009, 04:20 PM
That surprises me because they are supposed to be open till 9pm. They close at 5pm on saturdays and sundays.
Oh, I may stand corrected. I must have gone a Saturday. Even still, you must agree that saturday at 5pm is a bit early! ;)
Even still, you must agree that saturday at 5pm is a bit early! ;)
I totally agree with you on that.
Some SAQ are open till 10pm but they have very limited selection. They are called SAQ Express.
RonJames
12-16-2009, 11:53 AM
Crazy thought occured to me, if Im a yank and traveling up there am I allow to bring alcohol in...if so I don't mind being a mule for someone as long as I get the money back when I exchange the rum. I know that Im not heading to quebec really soon, but it never hurts to look into the future.:)
Crazy thought occured to me, if Im a yank and traveling up there am I allow to bring alcohol in...if so I don't mind being a mule for someone as long as I get the money back when I exchange the rum. I know that Im not heading to quebec really soon, but it never hurts to look into the future.:)
I'm sure you can bring back rum to USA if you stay here for a couple of days. Remember that we have the Havana club line, but maybe this one you will have to hide when you return :cool:
RonJames
12-16-2009, 12:36 PM
Ya I was actually talking about the reverse. Say if you guys wanted Mt. Gay XO and I was traveling up there. Could I bring it into Canada and then say exchange it with one of you gentlemen?
Patapouf
12-16-2009, 01:33 PM
Ya I was actually talking about the reverse. Say if you guys wanted Mt. Gay XO and I was traveling up there. Could I bring it into Canada and then say exchange it with one of you gentlemen?
I'm pretty sure you could do that no problem. You probably need to stay in Canada for a day or two though... I'm not sure of the exact laws.
In any rate, that's a great act of kindness in your part.you rock.gif
If ever you're coming up North let us know. I'm sure a few of us would gladly take you up on your generous offer.
cheers.gif
RonJames
12-16-2009, 04:10 PM
You bet. Its the least I could do for the great time I've had up there so far, english and french areas. Im pretty sure that I'll be up there sometime within the next year so when I know dates we'll get together.cheers.gif
krustykrab
12-16-2009, 05:01 PM
I'm just back from Quebec and found a great deal on Appleton Reserve at the boarder duty free - $19CND! Stocked up on a couple as it is not widely available here in MA! They had the V/X also for same price...? but nothing else of note - lots of Bacardi and Capt. Stopped at a SAQ near my destination and selection was pretty good there -had other Appletons (No MBL though) St James, La Favorite agricoles, Havana Club, along with the usual suspects. Everything made it back fine wrapped in the laundry!Btmup.gif
Patapouf
12-16-2009, 07:17 PM
I'm just back from Quebec and found a great deal on Appleton Reserve at the boarder duty free - $19CND! Stocked up on a couple as it is not widely available here in MA! They had the V/X also for same price...? but nothing else of note - lots of Bacardi and Capt. Stopped at a SAQ near my destination and selection was pretty good there -had other Appletons (No MBL though) St James, La Favorite agricoles, Havana Club, along with the usual suspects. Everything made it back fine wrapped in the laundry!Btmup.gif
Next time you're looking for Appleton MBL, visit us in the maritime provinces. We have tons, literally!
Edward Hamilton
12-16-2009, 10:37 PM
Appleton like a lot of other rums are blended with a small amount of rum distilled in Canada to reduce the taxes.
As for carrying alcohol into Canada, I believe the limit is one liter. If you're interested.
Jason
12-17-2009, 02:16 AM
As for carrying alcohol into Canada, I believe the limit is one liter. If you're interested.
True, but sometimes you get a good customs officer. I brought 3x750mL bottles back from Seattle over the summer (Zacapa XO, Pamperro Aniversario and Cruzan Blackstrap) which I declared. Dude just waved me through!
Sometimes being honest pays ;)
Patapouf
12-17-2009, 12:07 PM
Appleton like a lot of other rums are blended with a small amount of rum distilled in Canada to reduce the taxes.
With your honest opinon, do you think the taste is altered much when blended with canadian distilled rum? I have a bottle of VX from Jamaica and one bought locally. It would be interesting to do a comparison...
Im pretty sure that I'll be up there sometime within the next year so when I know dates we'll get together.cheers.gif
I'm sure somebody here will be happy to oblige! Just post a message here and you'll have a quick response. We can offer the same service the other way. I was in Boston a couple of weeks away, don't know how far it is from your place in CT.
Back there in my family's region (the Gaspe Bay) I organized a rum flight with a couple of friends and family.
We started with Pampero Aniversario. We thought it was a bit rough neat but went down well as a mixer with natural ginger ale and a little fresh lime juice.
We went on with a side-by-side comparison of Brugal Extra Viejo and Barcelo Imperial. Similar rums, but the Imperial was the favorite, being a bit more complex.
Another side-by-side of ED 12 and 15. We found them quite different for only a difference of 3 years. We really liked the 15.
We finished with the Zacapa 23 and Dos Maderas PX. We liked the Zacapa, very sweet, maybe even too sweet for some taste buds. The PX was the favorite of the night. It definitely has a distinctive personality.
Personally, the Zacapa 23 was the only new rum for me. I found it very good, but I would not rate it over the ED 15, a favorite of mine. Barcelo Imperial is something to taste as well if one likes Dominican rum.
My brother got a bottle of Santa Teresa from Santa Claus, and we had to open it. Not my first time, but always appreciated. For my own I got La Favorite Rhum Vieux, never tasted it.
Edward Hamilton
12-29-2009, 12:11 AM
With your honest opinon, do you think the taste is altered much when blended with canadian distilled rum? I have a bottle of VX from Jamaica and one bought locally. It would be interesting to do a comparison...
I don't think you will find a big difference with the Appleton but I have noticed a difference in some other rums that were blended in Canada. It should be noted that NOT ALL rums sold in Canada are blended with Canadian stock to reduce the taxes.
I don't think you will find a big difference with the Appleton but I have noticed a difference in some other rums that were blended in Canada. It should be noted that NOT ALL rums sold in Canada are blended with Canadian stock to reduce the taxes.
I checked the two Appletons I got for Xmas, the VX and the Reserve. Though the Reserve shows distilled, blended and bottled in Kingston, Jamaica, the VX shows distilled and blended in Kingston, but bottled for Wray & Nephew Canada, London, Ontario. I would be curious to taste an original VX, since I've never been a big fan of the one we have in Canada.
I checked other bottles such as Bacardi 8 or El Dorado, even the Original Dark, which is sold under 20$, and could not find such a notice (bottled in Canada).
Are you aware Mr. Hamilton of other rums than the VX that would operate like that? Would we necessarily see the mention bottled in Canada?
Edward Hamilton
12-29-2009, 01:12 PM
From a production point of view, it would be easier for Appleton to bottle their rum in Jamaica for the Canadian market where they could control the quality of the rum under which they put their label.
The last time I was in Montreal, I noticed only the biggest rum brands being bottled under a Canadian name.
El Dorado definitely doesn't bottle rum in Canada at this time. I don't know about Cruzan as there has been a change of ownership of that brand in the last year.
RonJames
12-29-2009, 02:10 PM
Ben sounds like my kind of tasting! A lot of rums across the board. As for when you come down if Im in Boston (wife has friends there) we could meet up, but if it doesn't happen no worries. It isn't meant to sound snobbish but just the way things are that in the US we do get a little more variety than our Canadian brothers. We pay for it however in the lack of HC. Glad you guys like the imperial, and I share your thoughts with the ED15.gzzg
ED 21 is available again at SAQ after a long time being out of stock. It is selling at 95.00, which is 15$ cheaper than the LCBO.
Elements Eight has disappeared from the inventory, not a great loss if you ask me.
As Patapouf noted in another thread, NB Liquor is now selling ED 8 (did not even know it existed) at 29.99.
A lot of other novelties as well:
FDC 18 at 59.99 (was selling for 79.30 at LCBO)
Pyrat XO at 47.29
Plantation Grenade at 47.99 (53.00 at SAQ)
Plantation Jamaique at 38.29 (40.00 at SAQ when available)
Plantation Nicaragua at 47.99
Redrum Tropical Flavored at 29.99
Voodoo spiced rum at 29.99
and finally Lamb's Black Sheep at 24.99 (23.95 at LCBO)
New Brunswick with 1/10 of the population of Quebec and 1/15 of Ontario has a wider rum selection than these provinces.
Way to go neighbors.
Patapouf
01-05-2010, 03:49 PM
ED 21 is available again at SAQ after a long time being out of stock. It is selling at 95.00, which is 15$ cheaper than the LCBO.
Elements Eight has disappeared from the inventory, not a great loss if you ask me.
As Patapouf noted in another thread, NB Liquor is now selling ED 8 (did not even know it existed) at 29.99.
A lot of other novelties as well:
FDC 18 at 59.99 (was selling for 79.30 at LCBO)
Pyrat XO at 47.29
Plantation Grenade at 47.99 (53.00 at SAQ)
Plantation Jamaique at 38.29 (40.00 at SAQ when available)
Plantation Nicaragua at 47.99
Redrum Tropical Flavored at 29.99
Voodoo spiced rum at 29.99
and finally Lamb's Black Sheep at 24.99 (23.95 at LCBO)
New Brunswick with 1/10 of the population of Quebec and 1/15 of Ontario has a wider rum selection than these provinces.
Way to go neighbors.
Woohoo! laughing.gif
A good reason why our selection just expanded is because of the spirits festival. Any leftovers are distributed to the major outlets and new rums are being introduced based on their popularity at the event. What's really neat is the fact that many cognac and scoth purists were able to taste rum next to their usual stuff. I wasn't there, but from what I hear, many were impressed with the rum selection.
Patapouf
01-05-2010, 03:52 PM
I don't think you will find a big difference with the Appleton but I have noticed a difference in some other rums that were blended in Canada. It should be noted that NOT ALL rums sold in Canada are blended with Canadian stock to reduce the taxes.
I received a bottle of Jamaican VX from a friend last year and a canadian blended bottle for christmas along with a couple of nice Appleton engraved tumblers.
I shall do a tasting comparison soon and I'll let you guys know.
cheers.gif
Woohoo! laughing.gif
A good reason why our selection just expanded is because of the spirits festival.
Spirits festival ? Patapouf, you have to warn us in advance if you want to increase tourism in NB ! : )
Patapouf
01-06-2010, 12:24 AM
Spirits festival ? Patapouf, you have to warn us in advance if you want to increase tourism in NB ! : )
http://www.ministryofrum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=3256
;)
Oh sorry Patapouf I didn't see that one. I would have considered going. Keep us informed on upcoming events.
LCBO just started selling the Abuelo Anejo. It was available in SAQ for a little while.
English Harbour 5 years is back on the shelves in Ontario, a very good rum for its age.
The Angostura 5 years is also back in LCBO. All Angostura are still MIA in Quebec. Somebody in the distribution center is sound asleep.
Doorly's XO is now out of stock in LCBO.
In SAQ, after the Master Blender, the Appleton 21 is now out of stock as well. Gone too is the Santa Teresa orange rum liqueur. A new addition is the Bacardi Black and the Bacardi 1873 is back on the shelves. Not a good trade.
Nothing new in NB exception made of the Plantation Nicaragua which is out of stock.
All Angostura are still MIA in Quebec.
Sorry about that one. I played a part in the demise(I don't know if it's the right word) of the 5yo. My girlfriend loves that one, so when I heard it was going MIA, I bought all the remaining bottles.
A new addition is the Bacardi Black and the Bacardi 1873 is back on the shelves. Not a good trade.
The Bacardi Black (equivalent to the Bacardi Select in US) IMO is one of the worst rum I have ever tasted. On the other hand, I think the 1873 (equivalent to the Solera in the US I think) is one of the good Bacardi product with the 8. I'm happy that this one is back. Not happy about the Appleton though, but at 90$ and 150$ you don't buy those everyday.
Dom
Not happy about the Appleton though, but at 90$ and 150$ you don't buy those everyday.
Dom
I still haven't bought them actually :D
I remember receiving Appleton 21 as a gift like 10 years ago. I will buy the Blender's eventually, I tasted it at LCBO Summerhill (there's a wonderful tasting bar there) and it's worthy.
Patapouf
01-22-2010, 03:32 PM
I still haven't bought them actually :D
I remember receiving Appleton 21 as a gift like 10 years ago. I will buy the Blender's eventually, I tasted it at LCBO Summerhill (there's a wonderful tasting bar there) and it's worthy.
We have loads of Blender's over here. Also, I believe I bought the last Plantation Nicaragua and also picked up the Plantation Trinidad.
This rum if now out of stock.
SAQ.com is showing one bottle available on St-Laurent in Montreal, but I just called 'cause I wanted to pick it up and I was told that it's an inventory error.
So don't bother making the trip there. It's a remainder to always call in advance because SAQ.com is quite often wrong with its inventory.
The SAQ have now a bottle of (drum roll...) Havana Club Maximo. I wonder how long this one will stay in stock. For 2,004$, I have to say a long long time. HMMR
I just realized that on top of it the Maximo is only a half-liter bottle...so it brings the cost to 115$ an once...HMMR
I will take a look at it, the store is two minutes from my work.
Well I checked the inventory again and the bottle was already gone. Maybe it was another mistake by SAQ.com. Or a rich fellow in Montreal is reading this thread !
Patapouf
02-03-2010, 12:58 PM
Surprising to have found such a bottle here in Canada. The only other time I was that impressed was when a store in Moncton had four bottles of El Dorado 25.
What you don't say Patapouf is that it was sold at $475 !
HC Maximo was available a couple years ago in LCBO's. They ordered a dozen of bottles but I did not hear about it since yesterday.
Patapouf
02-03-2010, 03:27 PM
What you don't say Patapouf is that it was sold at $475 !
HC Maximo was available a couple years ago in LCBO's. They ordered a dozen of bottles but I did not hear about it since yesterday.
Although I also gasped when I saw the price I thought it was a pretty average retail (although on the higher end), but I've been wrong before.
There's a bottle of HC Maximo now in stock in SAQ Signature in Quebec City on sale for 1998.50$. Wonder how long this one is going to last.
The SAQ have now a bottle of (drum roll...) Havana Club Maximo. I wonder how long this one will stay in stock. For 2,004$, I have to say a long long time. HMMR
I had a chat with the clerk at SAQ Signature in Montreal and she told me that they only had the Maximo for a few days. The bottle was bought by a restaurant owner. So actually it is possible that right now in Montreal you can go in a restaurant and purchase the HC Maximo by the glass. I would estimate the cost of such glass around 250$.
In SAQ, after the Master Blender, the Appleton 21 is now out of stock as well.
A few bottles of Appleton 21 are now available in Longueuil, but it could be an inventory mistake as well. SAQ has by the way increased pricing on most of their offerings. Monopoly lives strong.
A few changes at LCBO: I realized that English Harbour 5 years, though listed, has no inventory in stores , and that the Angostura 5 years inventory is actually limited to one bottle, maybe a mistake. I'll make sure to check when in TO next month.
Stroh 54 and Rum Viejo by Industria Licorera de Caldas are not available anymore, and El Dorado 21 has been discontinued, though availability across Ontario is wide. Elements Eights is back in stock though.
LCBO was offering selections from Bristol Classing Rum, a Versailles Still Old Demerara 1985 at 249$ and a Port Morant Demerara 1990 at 195$. Both prices have been decreased respectively to 199.95 and 149.95. Still expensive stuff, would be curious to try it.
Patapouf
03-09-2010, 11:56 AM
Nothing new in NB, except dwindling numbers in the Plantation lineup and we're also running out of HC Barrel Proof.
In NS it's woth mentionning that Bacardi 1873 is on sale, they also have Cabana Boy Pineapple Coconut Rum which I've never heard of, Captain Morgan Deluxe, ED21, Gosling's Family Reserve and Governor General (never heard of).
Speaking of Nova Scotia, I have to mention that you have to try the Dos Maderas 5 + 3 or its little brother, the Malabar, if it's not already done. The 5+3 PX, which should not be a lot different than the regular 5+3, is a favorite in all rum flights I've organized.
NB and NS have better selection and pricing than Quebec and Ontario, go figure.
Edward Hamilton
03-09-2010, 02:28 PM
NB and NS have better selection and pricing than Quebec and Ontario, go figure.
The management in NS made a commitment to have the best rum selection years ago. I believe this is due in part to the recognition of the part rum has played in the history and culture of the maritime provinces.
Patapouf
03-10-2010, 03:02 PM
The management in NS made a commitment to have the best rum selection years ago. I believe this is due in part to the recognition of the part rum has played in the history and culture of the maritime provinces.
I'm glad to hear that Ed.
Looking over the offerings in PEI I was suprised to see they had the Matusalem Gran Reserva and Classico for sale. These are not widely available up here. They also had Cruzan Single Barrel, which NB liquor used to carry, but I've not seen in some time.
According to SAQ.com, there are two bottles of Appleton 30 in Westmount. It is named Appleton 250th on the site and is selling for 395$. That is a bit expensive for my wallet, but I'm sure it won't last long on the shelves.
In Quebec, Appleton 21 is again out of stock. As well, the two bottles of Appleton 30 only lasted a couple of days on the shelves.
At LCBO, Matusalem is now showing on the website but no bottles made it to the stores. Price is 39.95. Doorly's XO is in that situation as well.
It looks like Angostura is on its way back to Canada 'cause LCBO received a large shipment of Royal Oak. 1919 is listed as well but no bottles in stores as of now.
Finally, LCBO decreased pricing on MGXO from 39.95 to 34.95, very good price.
In New Brunswick, FdC 18 and Plantation Grenada are gone from the shelves. A question to Patapouf : did I dream about that or NBL was selling ED21?
I was just passing by SAQ Signature and doing my usual tour, when I noticed this new rum! SAQ only ordered 25 bottles, there are 16 in Montreal and 9 in Signature Quebec.
The price is a bit high, 69.50$, but this rum is fantastic. Do not hesitate to grab a bottle.
Edward Hamilton
04-13-2010, 11:11 PM
Seems the monopoly boards controlling the rum stash might want to buy a bit more and make satisfy a few more customers.
Here in Quebec it's all about wine. There is a "what's new" page on the website and they don't seem to care enough to at least put the new rums on it.
That's another problem with monopoly. They don't have to make any effort at trying to sell their products, they're the only ones selling it anyway, so they know we'll buy.
Patapouf
04-21-2010, 01:22 PM
In New Brunswick, FdC 18 and Plantation Grenada are gone from the shelves. A question to Patapouf : did I dream about that or NBL was selling ED21?
Sorry about the late reply... :)
I actually don't ever remember seing the ED21 on our shelves, but I do remember one store having ED25. How I wish I could justify spending that much to my wife! Hahahaha!
The trick is to allow the same amount every month on rum. That's what I do and my wife has no problem with it. The problem is if you want to buy ED25 you probably have to save for a few months before buying it.
Patapouf
04-21-2010, 05:07 PM
The trick is to allow the same amount every month on rum. That's what I do and my wife has no problem with it. The problem is if you want to buy ED25 you probably have to save for a few months before buying it.
If I recall at 450$, that would amount to MANY months! :) But I do agree with your method. There's nothing like delaying your gratification.
Patapouf
04-21-2010, 05:09 PM
The trick is to allow the same amount every month on rum. That's what I do and my wife has no problem with it. The problem is if you want to buy ED25 you probably have to save for a few months before buying it.
If I recall, it was priced at 450$. That's a whole lot of months! But I do agree with your method. There's nothing like delayed gratification.
I was in Toronto last weekend and I had the opportunity to taste a few rums at the Queen's Quay location. Very nice store by the way, very good selection equal to Summerhill.
I tried the ED 6 yr silver deluxe and was quite impressed by the taste of this white rum. Definitely a hold. My only reserve is the price, 34.75 is still expensive for a white rum. I tried as well the Lamb's Black Sheep out of curiosity (and a lack of choices at the sampling bar). It's a spiced rum with overwhelming cinnamon and vanilla flavors. Too much in fact because there is no rum taste left. More of a cinnamon and vanilla liqueur to me.
I was able to take a look at the Appleton 30, but at 499.95, decided to pass. Appleton 21 was there as well, ED 21, and the Pusser's Nelson's Blood Yachting Decanter at 139.95. Very interesting choices but expensive as well.
I was very surprised to see the Plantation Barbados 20th Anniversary, at 89.95. Surprised because it is not listed on the web site, and to the fact that LCBO does not carry the regular Plantation line as SAQ does. It's a very nice bottle. The infamous Sea Wynde was available as well, at 49.95. To think that for 10$ more you can get ED15 is mind-boggling. After checking the web site, I discovered that these two bottles are there but not listed under the rum section. Strange.
These last two rums are available for tasting at the Summerhill location. I missed the tasting because I was too early, but I encourage everyone to give the 20th a try while you can. The HC Single Barrel is also available for tasting at Summerhill. The bureaucrats at SAQ would not think of a good idea like a rum sampling bar; too much to ask.
Since my rum budget was already limited this month, I finally picked up ED rum cream and the Angostura Royal Oak. First time I saw that one, and since Angostura products are hard to find these days, I did not hesitate.
PopolZ
05-11-2010, 04:25 PM
The SAQ signature received 16 bottles of Appleton Estate 21years old (well 15left) :D
They also received some Master Blender's Legacy.
As mentioned by Popolz, SAQ received Appleton 21 and the Master's Blender. They got some ED 21 back as well. These products go on and out of stock randomly it seems.
A new addition is Sailor Jerry's. I never tried it but members around here seem to like it.
A few rums have disappeared from the shelves: Plantation Grenade and Plantation Barbade, which means there's no Plantation remaining in Quebec. The El Dorado Single barrel is gone, as well as the Havana Club Single Barrel. La Favorite Coeur d'Ambre : gone too. These offerings were usually available at Signature locations, which means they could be back in stock at some point if they can get their heads out of their asses.
Bacardi 1873 is gone as well. SAQ's selection has never been that poor.
In the meantime, LCBO has added quite a few products. The Chairman's Reserve from St.Lucia has been introduced at 34.95, Barcelo Anejo at 22.95, Gosling's Gold at 27.95 and Captain Morgan Private Stock at 34.95.
A few rums are back on the shelves as well: Doorly's, Stroh 54, and Angostura 1919 (this one was gone for awhile).
In New Brunswick, the Pyrat XO is gone from the shelves, and the Plantation Jamaique as well.
Patapouf
07-19-2010, 12:24 PM
Yes, the Plantation lineup is getting very thin here. Like you mentionned, we ran out of Jamaica and we're also out of Nicaragua. I bought one of the last few bottles of HC Barrel Proof in my area, but there are still okay numbers in other areas of the province. No more Pyrat XO, nor Voodoo. I would recommend a very good white rum: 'Newfoundlanders Rum'. Stocks are very low and I believe only a certain amount was made.
On the flipside, Flor de Cana still seems well stocked, for a non traditional rum for the area and we have Trader Vic Gold for $19.99 at the discount store in Salisbury (cheapest rum in NB). Bought a bottle and made some very tasty mojitos!
I'm happy to be only 30minutes from Nova Scotia where they have great finds. Cruzan Estate Barrel, Dos Maderos 5+3, ED21, Gosling's Family Reserve, MGXO, Pusser's Blue, etc. I checked and they too only have 2 bottles of Bacardi 1873 left! I guess they're phasing out that product.
Patapouf
07-27-2010, 01:08 PM
We now have the whole Trader Vic lineup! Woohoo! ;)
In all fairness, I did have a satisfying mojito with the gold version last week.
Barcelo Gran Anejo is now available in Quebec at 25.45, slightly more expensive than in Ontario where it was introduced last month I believe. I never tried this rum, but knows the Barcelo Imperial pretty well and find it a notch better than Brugal Extra Viejo, so maybe the Gran Anejo compares well to the Brugal Anejo.
I think it is actually the first Dominican rum sold in Quebec. We can hope that Brugal is on its way.
The Nicaragua version of the Plantation line is now available at SAQ, but only the Signature store in Quebec City.
It is good to know that Signature stores deliver completely free anywhere in Quebec, as long as you're picking Signature exclusivities.
To my knowledge it is the first time this one is available in Quebec.
The rum is now available in SAQ Signature in Montreal as well.
Dos Maderas 5 + 5 PX has disappeared from the shelves :confused::mad:
Hope we won't have to wait too long to get some more...
Patapouf
08-30-2010, 10:00 PM
Dos Maderas 5 + 5 PX has disappeared from the shelves :confused::mad:
Hope we won't have to wait too long to get some more...
:( I noticed that the other day. I was planning on possibly picking one up in Gatineau this weekend... Oh well!
:( I noticed that the other day. I was planning on possibly picking one up in Gatineau this weekend... Oh well!
You wouldn't have find it there, it's only available at Signature locations (one in Montreal and the other in Quebec City).
Patapouf
08-31-2010, 12:04 PM
I see... I never noticed you had 'signature' stores. I mixed them up with the 'sélection' stores.
Anyways, I'll be in Ottawa this weekend so I'm sure I'll find something worthwhile at the Rideau LCBO.
Signature stores are interesting in the fact they have exclusivities. Currently they are Appleton Master Blenders', Bristol Classic Rum, ED 21, L'Arbre du Voyageur, Plantation Nicaragua and HC Maximo (2,004$ anyone?).
These rums are not available elsewhere than Signature stores.
On SAQ.com, on top of selecting rum in Category, choose SAQ Signature exclusives instead of all products. That's the way you single them out.
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