Welcome back, everyone! Today, we’re mixing two of life’s great love stories; dating and wine. Because both are all about finding the right match. What makes your best friend swoon might not appeal to you and that’s not a flaw in the person or the bottle, it’s chemistry!
So, who better to help us find our perfect pairing than the editor of Canada’s largest wine review website, Natalie MacLean! Welcome back to the show!
You’ve created dating profiles for five fabulous wines. We’ll get to know them, take a sip, and decide if it’s a match for us or someone else. First in the lineup is a Canadian Riesling.
Game Changer Riesling
Ontario V.Q. A., Canada
This truly is a Game Changer Riesling from Vineland Estates winery. Born and raised in Niagara (local, Canadian roots, very proud). It’s bright, zesty, and here to change everything you thought you knew about Riesling. This isn’t that overly sweet ex who ghosted you years ago. It’s medium-dry with a racy acidity and just a hint of sweetness to keep things lively. Think lemon-lime zest and harvest peach. Definitely not into oak.
It’s light on its feet at 9% alcohol so it won’t knock you out on a Tuesday, but it’ll absolutely keep the conversation going. It’ll age beautifully until 2040+, so it’s got long-term relationship potential. In wine years, that’s basically your beloved immortal. Its love language is cheese—literally all of it. Brie? Yes. Aged cheddar? Absolutely. It’s available not just from the winery, but also Costco and Rabba Fine Foods.
Perfect match for someone who loves energy, balance, and a wine that proves light on their feet doesn’t mean lightweight. I know I’d swipe right on this one!
What do you ladies think?
People are quick to swipe left on both dating profiles and wines based on preconceived notions. So why should someone who doesn’t typically like Riesling give this one a chance?
This would definitely convert those who think they don’t like Riesling because they’re all sweet. It’s fresh, it’s zippy, it’s nothing like what they’re expecting.
Next up we have a French Rosé. First tell us about the style of wine.
Rosé is a style that’s had quite the glow-up over the past two decades. It went from being dismissed as “wine for people who don’t know what they want” to becoming the fastest-growing wine category globally, but it’s not just a trend – it’s a movement that started in Provence with our next wine.
The region’s Mediterranean climate, with warm days and cool nights, creates rosés with that signature pale salmon-pink hue and refreshing character.
I’m curious to hear about this beautiful bottle’s dating profile.
Caves d’Esclans Whispering Angel Rosé
France
The name Whispering Angel comes from the cherub carvings in the chapel at Chateau d’Esclans where it’s made. Pretty in pink, Provencal, and yes, you’ve seen it on Instagram. But here’s the thing: it’s not just another pretty label. It’s a seriously great benchmark wine, like your photogenic friend who also happens to have a PhD.
It opens with delicate red berries and citrus, concentrated and confident. Its medium body is sculpted by brisk acidity, and the texture? Silky, seductive. The finish? Lingering with just a touch of spice.
It pairs with everything from oysters to charcuterie to that pizza you’re ordering because you don’t feel like cooking. It’s ready to enjoy straight away, no games, no waiting. Go beyond brunch and patios with this wine that tastes like effortless sophistication. I’d swipe right at least 12 times on this one to get a case of it!
Why would you suggest people who don’t typically like rosé swipe right on this one?
Skeptics often think rosé is just “summer water” without substance, but this is a serious wine. The brisk acidity gives it real structure. It pairs beautifully with savoury dishes. This world-class wine celebrating its 20th vintage has converted more rosé skeptics than any other I know.
Our next candidate is another Canadian. Tell us about why this pinot noir has a specific tie to Valentine’s Day.
Adamo Red Head Pinot Noir
Mono, Ontario
This particular Pinot comes from Adamo Estate in Mono, Ontario, nestled in the Hockley Valley. Winemakers call it “the heartbreak grape” because it’s so hard to get right, but when you find a good one, the romance is real.
Ok I want to hear what’s in this Canadian heartthrob’s profile!
This one is the local heartthrob with an Old-World soul. Elegant, silky, and yes, the red wine for people who don’t usually like red wine. It hears that all the time and it’s not offended; it’s flattered.
It offers everything you love about Burgundy from France, that velvety, silky texture, but with richer notes of fresh cherries and berries because it’s more giving that way. It’s 100% estate-grown and sustainably farmed.
This wine can give you a lifestyle you’ll love. It’s home at Adamo Estate is one of Ontario’s prettiest wineries, set beside the Hockley Valley Spa Resort. It has better weekend plans than I do. We’re talking massages, beekeeping classes, yoga, movies in the vineyard, culinary feasts. It’s not just a wine; It’s an experience, baby. Best suited for those who want a medium-bodied wine with depth and sophistication that’ll make you feel like you’re on a permanent spa vacation.
Is this your Valentine — or someone else’s perfect match? Sign me up!
You say this one is for people who don’t usually drink red wine. Why is that?
Pinot Noir is the gateway red for a reason. It doesn’t have those big, grippy tannins that make some people feel like they’re chewing on a tea bag. It’s silky smooth and incredibly food-friendly. If you’ve been wounded by a big, aggressive red before, this one will be gentle with your heart.
Next up we have a Spanish wine. How is this one marketing itself?
Antano is the definition of a Great Catch. It’s got the pedigree, coming from Spain’s largest wine family. It’s high quality but low maintenance on your wallet. It’s actually been named the best value in Rioja Crianza in the liquor store. Not bragging, just facts.
Antaño Crianza Rioja Doc
Rioja D.O.C., Spain
It opens with inviting aromas of ripe cherry and berry fruit, followed by gentle hints of vanilla and warm spice from oak aging. On the palate, it’s juicy with red and dark fruit layered with subtle earthy notes and a whisper of smoke.
The texture is velvety and inviting, without feeling heavy. It finishes clean, lingering, with a pleasant touch of oak. Looking for someone who appreciates a classic without the pretense. Perfect for someone who wants a classic red that’s easy to enjoy and great with food. That’s me!
This is a medium to medium-full-bodied red. What are the green flags that could convert the skeptics?
The green flag here is versatility. Sometimes reds are too heavy or too light. This is the Goldilocks zone. Plus, if you think you need to spend a fortune to get quality, this is the perfect introduction. It overdelivers at its price point.
We’ve come to our final wine. First tell us a bit about the winery.
Two Sisters Vineyards Eleventh Post
Niagara
Two Sisters Vineyards from Niagara was founded by sisters Angela and Melissa Fata Marotta, and the Eleventh Post refers to the fence post on their property that marks the spot where they decided to build their dream winery. They also just opened a second Niagara winery, Stone Eagle Winery.
What bottle have you brought to close out our dating game?
This is a Bordeaux-style blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc. Yes, it’s complex; It contains multitudes. The Merlot brings plush, approachable fruit. The Cabernet Sauvignon adds structure, backbone, and serious commitment potential. The Cabernet Franc? That’s the playful, earthy side, the layers you’ll keep discovering.
It’s also a Gold Medal winner at the National Wine Awards of Canada, but it’s not here to intimidate; it’s here to whisk you off your feet. It likes romantic dinners, deep conversations, and those who appreciate craftsmanship.
It’s full-bodied, structured, and built for the long haul. Ideal for those who love classic red blends and Ontario wines that compete with the best in the world. Yes please, right all the way!
What are the green flags here for the blended wine skeptics?
Some people think blends are less pure than single-varietal wines, but that’s like saying a symphony is less musical than a solo. The blend here creates complexity and balance. It’s proof that teamwork makes the dream work.
Posted with permission of The Social. Please drink responsibly.
