Developed nose reveals elegant notes of blackcurrant, plum, clove, cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg. Similarly developed on the palate, with harmoniously integrated fruit, layers of spice, firm but supple tannins and deftly crafted oak. Drinking well but will develop further.
From the grandfather of Canadian Meritage, this blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon with Merlot (35%) and Cab Franc (15%) was aged in French oak for 15 months. Vibrant aromas of red and black berries with spice notes, followed by a luscious, mouth-filling entry of plush damson, vanilla, blackberry and cassis flavours with firm tannins and excellent structure, plus some herb and spice notes through a solid close. Excellent value.
This Rio de Janerio brewery hopped to Canada, landing in Toronto before moving to their permanent home in Montreal. Helmed by talented brewer, Patricia Rios, their Hazy drinks like a glorious tropical fruit bomb. Peaches and fresh mango mark the nose, cotton candy washes over the palate, drying out in the finish. Try this full, creamy New England style IPA with Mexican, Thai or a fresh bowl loaded with fresh herbs and all the veggies.
If you like sparkling wine in Champagne style, then don’t miss this terrific bubbly from South Africa at a bargain price. Golden straw in colour, it offers a toasty, smoky nose of brioche and honey; it’s dry, medium-bodied but rich and full on the palate with a toasty, nutty, apple and honey flavour with fresh lemony acidity.
Fermented in oak for 18 months, this one shows enticingly aromatic blackcurrant and elegant sweet rich fruit in the mouth, with gently sweet marmalade character and a long, complex finish.
Lovely, elegant and layered with pure blackberry, black cherry and black and red currants, balanced and fresh with firm, plush well-integrated tannins and a long finish with bright acidity. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc. Delivers well above its price point.
Clear, medium-deep plum-red. Faint nose, herbal and spicy from oak aging. Medium-bodied with fresh acidity over cherry fruit. Will improve with another year or two.