From some of the oldest vinifera plantings in the valley, this blend of Merlot (37%), Cabernet Sauvignon (34%) and Cabernet Franc (26%) with a splash of Malbec and Petit Verdot spends two years in mainly French oak. Lifted notes of black and red berries with vanilla precede a plush palate of mulberry, black cherry and anise with approachable tannins through a liquorice-toned close.
Full ruby, purple rim. Only slightly oaked, the red and black berry notes fill the glass. Full-bodied but very supple; the core is firm and tight. The tannic structure is more apparent in the slightly rough finish.
Light ruby-red. Earthy nose with spices, red berries (raspberry) and fruit stones. Spicy taste, medium-bodied with a dense fruity core and somewhat dry tannins in the clean finish. Drink within 2 years on red meat casserole or stew.
Though Schlangengraben means “snakepit” in German, there are no snakes around this vineyard, though there are lots of little lizards that love the hot, red-slate soils. Also loving the slate soils here: Riesling vines, up to 110 years old (Alte Reben means old vines). Concentration with restraint, with ample stone, light honeysuckle, herbed Bosc pear and fragrant Mediterranean lemon filling the honed frame. The slippery palate pulses with a precision that is highly alluring — fortunate because with only 10.5% alcohol, this smashable Riesling goes quickly. Wild ferment, a subtle, herbal minerality draws throughout this quietly confident wine.
Deep purple in colour. Cedary, lightly floral, spicy nose of plum. Medium bodied, dry, slightly sweet and jammy with plum and blackberry flavours.
This is the first sparkling wine from Ontario that comes packaged in a radically cool single-serve can. It’s made with 100% Vidal with a shot of Vidal Icewine and produced using the Charmat method for bubbles. The nose shows lemon, apple, biscuit, toast and fresh tropical fruit notes. It has a gentle bubble in the glass and on the palate, with a fruity, slightly sweet taste, but nicely balanced out by freshening acidity.
This organic blend of Marsanne, Roussanne and Grenache Blanc is from one of the largest privately-owned wineries in Corbières, covering 130 ha. Ollieux Romanis has belonged to the same family since 1860. This is full-bodied and round, slicked with the heady ripeness of the region and grapes, with honeysuckle, green fig, dried sage and rosemary. The palate is deep and spiced, lined with lees and honey, finishing with an alluring spicy finish and a flush of warmth. A few years in bottle is this wine's friend. Partner with roasted winter squash or braised chicken thighs.