You may have heard that next weekend in Niagara, Ontario there’s an event called the i4C coming to town (July 18 – 20, 2014).

It’s an International celebration of Chardonnay that brings Chardonnay producers together with Chardonnay-lovers; and that can only mean one thing: there’s gonna be a whole lotta Chardonnay-things going on.

Since Niagara is hosting, it seems only fair we look at some of the great cool climate Chardonnays from the region … next week we’ll highlight Chardonnay from the rest of the world.

Hidden Bench 2012 Estate Chardonnay ($28.75)

Aromas heavily influenced by the barrel: butter, vanilla, caramel but then along comes grilled peach. Palate has butter and vanilla on the main stage then peach and pear skin wrap themselves around the tongue with a nice spicy finish; good acidity and great length.

Southbrook 2012 Triomphe Chardonnay ($22.95)

Aromas and flavours that include grilled pear and peach with a vanilla seam running right down the middle, there’s a nice balancing act of fruit and barrel elements without one overpowering the other.

Tawse 2011 Robyn’s Block Chardonnay ($45.95)

Indulgent aromas of vanilla, crème caramel and apple; good acidic backbone on the palate in the form of lemon and green apple. Complex flavours include spice, citrus pith, lime cordial, green apple puree and butterscotch – it’s the depth of flavours that make this wine so appealing.

Mike Weir 2012 Limited Edition Barrel Fermented Chardonnay ($24.95)

Finesse and freshness all in one bottle: coconut, vanilla, tropical fruit, pear and apple with creamy notes, and great acidity for balance on the long pretty finish. The oak does not overwhelm the fruit; a real possibility in the hot 2012 vintage.

For more wine suggestions, see our other #WineWednesday posts.