Canada Dry: The Champagne of Ginger Ales

Canada Dry is THE reference ginger ale. Since 1904, its light, not-too-sweet recipe with a delicate ginger note has redefined what a sparkling drink could be. Where the ginger ales of the era were heavy and pungent, McLaughlin's was clear, elegant and refreshing — so much so that his wife coined the perfect tagline: "The Champagne of Ginger Ales." A classic cocktail mixer, a popular upset-stomach remedy or a straight-up refresher, Canada Dry is an American institution born in Canada, imported here for you direct from the States.

Where does Canada Dry come from?

The story starts in Toronto in 1904. John J. McLaughlin, a pharmacist and chemist, wanted to create a ginger ale lighter than the British-style versions of the era — typically fermented, heavy and quite spicy. He used pure filtered water, quality ginger extract and precise carbonation to create a clear, dry and fizzy soda — hence the word "dry" in the name, borrowed from wine terminology.

In 1905, the formula was patented as "Canada Dry Pale Ginger Ale." In 1907, it received an official appointment to the Viceregal Household of Canada's Governor General — which is where the crown on the logo comes from. Canada Dry exploded during American Prohibition: its bubbles and flavor effectively masked the taste of homemade liquor. Now produced by Keurig Dr Pepper, the ginger ale's character hasn't changed in over a century.

What does Canada Dry taste like?

Light, dry and refreshing, with a subtle but recognizable ginger note. It's the ginger ale that doesn't overpower — it accompanies without overwhelming, refreshes without weighing you down. It also happens to be a popular natural remedy for nausea and travel sickness — Americans have always kept a bottle on hand for unsettled stomachs.

The Canada Dry range to discover

Canada Dry Ginger Ale — the original recipe, light and fizzy.
Canada Dry Zero Sugar — all the ginger flavor, no sugar.
Canada Dry Cream Ginger Ale — the softer, creamier version for vanilla fans.
Canada Dry Club Soda — the pure cocktail base, no flavoring.

Frequently asked questions

Is Canada Dry really made with real ginger?

Yes, the formula uses ginger root extract — that's what gives it its characteristic aroma. The amount is calibrated to stay subtle and elegant, in keeping with McLaughlin's "dry" spirit.

Why "The Champagne of Ginger Ales"?

The slogan was coined by Maud McLaughlin, the founder's wife, to capture the lightness and elegance of their ginger ale compared to the heavy versions of the era. It stuck.