Over the holidays I drank quite a bit, but I seem to drink wine differently than the rest of my family, and this year was much the same … with a twist.

In past years I would have pen and paper handy and write point form notes about each wine I tasted, it wasn’t always about drinking a full glass, instead it was about how many wines could be tasted … let those around me drink their faces off.

I still have the same philosophy, but these days I have a smartphone and use Google Keep to make my notes, much to the chagrin of my wife; she thinks that I think I am so important I can’t  keep my paws off my phone, when in fact I’m just keeping track of each wine I tried.

To that end here are three “new” (to me) Ontario wines I tried over the holidays …

Tawse 2012 Spark Riesling, Limestone Ridge Vineyard ($19.95)

Riesling done in the traditional method:  8 months on lees and that short time keeps the Riesling aromas of apple, pear, lime while adding touches of yeasty-goodness.  The palate is nothing short of spectacular, especially if you’re a fan of acidity: big citrus, green apple, tart lemon.  This bubbly raises the bar on sparkling Riesling.

Nyarai Cellars 2012 Viognier ($21.95)

One of this virtual winery’s best Viognier to date; nose has sweet tropical fruit like mango and papaya backed by citrus and peach; palate adds pineapple to the mango and finishes with lime pith for balance.

Keint-he Winery 2009 Chardonnay ($20.00)

A Chardonnay blended with 10% oaked Pinot Meunier.  The Meunier adds some tartness while the unoaked Chardonnay is fresh and fruity with apple, pear and melon ending with a lovely delicate vanilla note and pleasant acidity.

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