Pondview’s first Pinot Noir succeeds in capturing plum, sweet cherry, earth, vanilla and cocoa aromas and flavours. With a natural alcohol of 14.5%, there is very good length, lifted acid and supple tannins. Accessible right now. Pair with mushroom risotto topped with duck breast.
Fresh cracked pepper, smoke, cocoa, raspberry, blackcurrant, thyme, earth and leather are supported by acid, supple tannins and a lengthy aftertaste. All in all, a textbook example of Ontario Syrah, which should be served with braised meats.
A bargain at the price. Deep ruby colour with a savoury, red-berry, herbal nose; medium-bodied, dry, herby, raspberry flavour. A touch of sweetness in mid-palate but nicely balanced.
According to Summerhill, a Canadian first, produced in very limited quantities from 100% organic Cabernet Franc. It has a gorgeous, unique nose of raspberries, cranberries, herbs and rosemary that’s lively and fresh. It’s quite delicious on the palate with a melange of savoury, earthy red fruits and herbs with good length through a vibrant and lively finish.
An impressive Cab Sauv from a cool vintage. An enormous nose of After Eight chocolate, smoke, violets, graphite, cassis, dark cherry, beef bouillon, smoke and spice. Medium-plus body with great length. Drink over the next 5 to 6 years.
Deep ruby-purple colour with a cedary, tobacco and blueberry bouquet; medium-bodied, dry and savoury with a fine spine of acidity. Should cellar well for 4 to 5 years.
HOP’s 2013 Reserve Baco continues to be the benchmark by which all other Bacos are judged. Full- bodied; there is an explosive bouquet of dark and red fruit, coffee, chocolate, smoke and spice. Vivid hybrid acidity leads the palate before some residual sugar kicks in to act as a counterpoint. Drink or hold. Pair with some Memphis-style dry-rubbed ribs.