As we dive into summer entertaining, the farmers’ markets are overflowing with fresh fruit and vegetables, and you may be looking for some wines to pair with these local treasures. Our next guest has you covered! Joining us today is Natalie MacLean who offers Canada’s largest wine review site at nataliemaclean.com.
Hi Natalie!
Great to be back with you, Crystal! We’re diving into a farm-to-glass adventure and focusing on Nova Scotia and Italian wines as both are known for their zesty, garden-friendly styles.
Sounds delicious and timely! Let’s start with your first wine.
Jost Blue Latitude Nova Scotia Cool White
Malagash, Nova Scotia
We’re starting with something crisp and coastal—Jost’s Blue Latitude from Nova Scotia. You have it with you there so feel free to give it a try. I have White Rock from their sister winery Gaspereau Vineyards. Blue Latitude is a white blend that’s breezy and bright, with notes of green apple, lime zest, and ocean-fresh minerality.
This wine is sensational with a farmers’ market sweet corn and cherry tomato salad tossed with fresh basil and goat cheese.
Fascinating fact: Jost Vineyards is the oldest winery in Nova Scotia, founded in 1983. Located along the Northumberland Strait, the constant coastal breezes help keep the grapes dry and healthy. That makes Jost one of the most sustainable vineyards in Canada—nature’s air conditioning at its finest. Just like shopping at farmers’ markets, it’s all about supporting sustainable, local producers who care about their craft and the environment.
And what about some bubbles to go with our market haul?
Folonari Prosecco
Veneto, Italy
Folonari Prosecco, a sparkling wine from Italy, is perfect for patio sipping and entertaining. It has aromas of white peach, citrus blossom, and fresh, fruity bubbles. Try it with fresh peach slices wrapped in prosciutto or a platter of sliced nectarines, cucumber ribbons, and burrata cheese.
Fascinating fact: The Folonari family has been making wine for over 200 years. Their vineyards are located in the rolling hills of Treviso, where the Glera grape thrives. This extra dry style so it’s also ideal for spicy snacks or salty cheeses.
What’s the next pairing for our farmers’ market feast?
1365 Church Street Winery Tidal Bay
Port Williams, Nova Scotia
Tidal Bay is Nova Scotia’s signature wine, and this one from 1365 Church Street Winery is a benchmark example. It’s vibrant and aromatic with notes of citrus peel, green herbs, and white flowers. Serve it with zucchini fritters, a cucumber-dill salad, or herbed chèvre on rye crackers.
Fascinating fact: 1365 Church Street Winery is one of Nova Scotia’s newest and most innovative producers. Their Tidal Bay uses 100% estate-grown grapes and is aged in stainless steel to retain their fruit purity and expression.
And if we’re leaning toward Mediterranean veggies?
Villa Sparina Gavi di Gavi
Piedmont, Italy
Next, we have this delightful Villa Sparina Gavi di Gavi made from Cortese grapes grown in the northern region of Piedmont so it’s clean and fresh. It has lovely notes of lime and lemon zest. This wine sings with a classic Caprese salad made with heirloom tomatoes, basil, and bocconcini.
Fascinating fact: The iconic shape of the bottle is inspired by an ancient vase found during a renovation of the winery.
What about red wine lovers at the farmers’ market?
Lamole di Lamole Maggiolo Blue Label Chianti Classico
Tuscany, Italy
The Lamole di Lamole Maggiolo Blue Label Chianti Classico is a bold and structured red with layers of ripe plum, black cherry, violet, and a whisper of Tuscan herbs. It’s gorgeous with grilled eggplant stacks layered with ricotta and roasted red peppers, or a rustic tomato galette.
Fascinating fact: Lamole di Lamole’s vineyards date back to the 1300s and sit at some of the highest elevations in Chianti. That altitude gives the grapes natural acidity and freshness. The estate uses organic farming and amphorae clay vessels for fermentation—a nod to ancient methods meeting modern finesse.
Natalie, thank you for showing us how to bottle the farmers’ market freshness this summer!
Where can we find you online?
On Instagram, you can find me posting wine reviews and tips at:
Online, my website is nataliemaclean.com.
Posted with permission of CTV News.
