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Wine Picks April 12, 2018

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Note: This batch of wine reviews is not part of the bi-weekly Vintages Releases. Instead, it's a collection of wines outside the Vintages section in store (general list) or wines sent to me directly from wineries that may not yet be available in liquor stores. Click on the Winery or Wine Agency link to get more info.

Dessert Wine

Sue-Ann Staff Estate Winery Lavelle Vidal 2015, Niagara, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Such a lovely, lightly sweet Niagara wine made from the Vidal grape. Aromas of honeysuckle and peach. It's a late harvest rather than icewine so it'll pair beautifully with a fruit flan or cobbler. Also enjoy it on its own. Drink: 2018 - 2022 343046 12.5% MS 750 mL $16.95 Score: 91/100. April 2018. Top Rated Dessert Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Red Wine

Wyndham Estate Bin 555 Shiraz 2016, South Eastern Australia, Australia: A terrific, full-bodied Australian red wine made from the country's iconic grape Shiraz. Aromas of fleshy ripe black plums and blackberries with toasty oak. Supple, smooth texture. Pair with grilled meats. Shiraz food pairings: hamburgers, roast meats, pizza, cheddar cheese, hamburgers. Drink: 2018 - 2021 189415 14.4% D 750 mL $17.05 Score: 89/100. April 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Rosehall Run Single Vineyard Merlot Cabernet Franc 2015, Prince Edward County, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A supple, savoury, full-bodied Prince Edward County red wine blend of Merlot and Cabernet Franc grapes. Aromas of dark cherry and cigar box. Perfect for grilled meats. Merlot Cabernet Franc food pairings: barbeque pork and beef, grilled vegetables. Drink: 2017 - 2021 13% D 750 mL $24.95 Score: 89/100. April 2018. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Two Sisters Vineyards Cabernet Franc 2013, Niagara-On-The-Lake, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Juicy, rich, round and full-bodied cool-climate Cabernet France from Niagara. Lovely interpretation of a wine style Niagara is becoming known for. Fleshy ripe black plums and a savoury long finish. Pair with roast beef. Cabernet Franc food pairings: pappardelle with rabbit ragu and oyster mushrooms. Drink: 2015 - 2023 13.5% D 750 mL $55.00 Score: 92/100. April 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

McGuigan Wines Black Label Shiraz 2015, South Australia, Australia: A smoky, full-bodied Australian red wine made from the country's iconic grape Shiraz. Supple and smooth with tasty flavours of fleshy ripe black plums and toasty oak. Pair with grilled meats. Great value. Drink: 2017 - 2019 325787 13% D 750 mL $11.10 Score: 88/100. April 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Grange of Prince Edward Estate Winery Northfield Cabernet Franc 2013, Prince Edward County, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Cool climate Cabernet Franc from Prince Edward County showing some bell pepper and herbal notes on the nose and a firm tannic grip on the palate. Some dark berry and smoke. Full-bodied. Pair with rare meats. Decant 1-2 hours. Cabernet Franc food pairings: steak au poivre. Drink: 2015 - 2018 149245 14% D 750 mL $35.00 Score: 88/100. April 2018. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

The Grange Prince Edward County Almanac Red 2016, Prince Edward County, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A juicy, medium-bodied Prince Edward County red wine blend made from 100% estate grown fruit. Aromas of dark and sour red cherry. Pair with roast chicken. Drink: 2017 - 2020 516567 13% D 750 mL $19.20 Score: 88/100. April 2018. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Santa Rita Medalla Real Gran Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon 2013, Maipo Valley, Chile: Simply magnificent, especially for this price! Wow. Aromas of fleshy black plums, blackberries and smoke. Supple and generous. Pair with a rare steak. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: hamburgers, steak, hearty meat dishes, hard cheese. Drink: 2017 - 2022 460170 14% XD 750 mL $18.95 Score: 91/100. April 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Greenhough Pinot Noir 2016, Nelson, New Zealand: Juicy, cherry-berry aromas and flavours on his cool climate Pinot Noir from the Nelson region of New Zealand. Medium-bodied and supple. Pair with veal or roast chicken. Drink: 2018 - 2021 13676501 13.5% D 750 mL $28.65 Score: 89/100. April 2018. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Wagner Family of Wine Red Schooner Voyage 5 Malbec 2014, California, United States: Sweet chocolate and mocha on the nose and palate of this robust Californian red wine made from the Malbec grape. Supple and smooth and mouth-filling. Pair with Mexican mole. Drink: 2017 - 2020 15426 15.2% D 750 mL $69.95 Score: 90/100. April 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

O'Leary Wines Vineland Estates Cabernet Merlot 2016, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A balanced, full-bodied, supple Niagara red wine blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot grapes. Terrific price for this quality. This wine is owned by Shark Tank/Dragon's Den Kevin O'Leary and made by the respected Vineland Estates Winery. Aromas of dark fruit and toasty oak. Pair with hearty meat dishes and your next pitch to the dragons (or sharks). Drink: 2018 - 2021 307744 12.5% D 750 mL $14.95 Score: 88/100. April 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Kunde Family Winery Cabernet Sauvignon 2014, Sonoma Valley, California, United States: An attractive Californian red wine made from the classic Cabernet Sauvignon grape. Full-bodied with aromas of black fruit and toasty oak. Decant 1-2 hours. Pair with a rare steak. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: lamb Bolognese, grilled New York striploin with chimichurri sauce, barbecued ribs in sauce, hamburger, hard cheese. Drink: 2018 - 2022 226977 14.5% XD 750 mL $26.95 Score: 89/100. April 2018. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Kunde Family Winery Merlot 2014, Sonoma Valley, California, United States: A savoury, delicious, sumptuous Californian Merlot from a respected family winery in the cool climate Sonoma Valley. Aromas of fleshy ripe dark plums and smoke. Pair with grilled pork chops or lamb. Drink: 2018 - 2023 704932 14.2% XD 750 mL $28.00 Score: 90/100. April 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Kunde Family Winery Zinfandel 2015, Sonoma Valley, California, United States: A full-bodied, smoky Californian Zinfandel with aromas of black fruit and dark spice and mocha. Pair with barbecued ribs. Zinfandel food pairings: grilled lamb loin with Zinfandel sage morel sauce. Drink: 2018 - 2021 965921 14.7% D 750 mL $33.05 Score: 88/100. April 2018. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Conundrum Red 2015, California, United States: A robust, luscious Californian red wine from the Wagner Family. Aromas of fleshy ripe blackberries, mocha, dark chocolate and spice. This is a blend of Petite Sirah, Zinfandel and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes. Pair with a rare steak. Red food pairings: chicken mole, rib steak, dark chocolate. Drink: 2018 - 2021 294298 15.1% MD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 90/100. April 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Hester Creek Estate Winery Terra Unica Old Vines Merlot 2015, Oliver, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: A robust BC Merlot made from fruit grown on old vines planted in 1968. Aromas of black fruit and toasty oak. Decant 1-2 hours and pair with a rare steak. Drink: 2018 - 2020 13.5% XD 750 mL $28.00 Score: 88/100. April 2018. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Blue Mountain Gamay Noir 2016, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: A luscious and supple BC red wine made from the Gamay Noir grape, which has greater depth than Gamay alone. This wine is fermented in stainless steel tanks then aged for 10 months in four-year-old French oak barrels. Aromas of fleshy ripe blackberries and plums. Pair with grilled lamb. Drink: 2018 - 2021 389882 13.5% XD 750 mL $399.85 Score: 90/100. April 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Grange of Prince Edward Estate Winery Estate Pinot Noir 2015, Prince Edward County, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A juicy, mouth-watering PEC Pinot Noir with aromas of sour cherry and cranberry. Medium-bodied and supple. Pair with roast chicken. Pinot Noir food pairings: roast turkey with cranberry sauce or rosemary rack of lamb. Drink: 2017 - 2020 230227 13% D 750 mL $29.95 Score: 88/100. April 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Masseria Barone Melodia Puglia, Italy Primitivo Syrah 2016, Puglia Igt, Italy: A smoky, full-bodied southern Italian red wine blend of primitivo (aka zinfandel) and syrah. Layers of ripe fleshy black plums and blackberries. Smooth and supple. Pair with grilled meats. Primitivo Syrah food pairings: roasted red meat, game, well-aged cheeses. Drink: 2018 - 2022 315142 13.5% D 750 mL $14.95 Score: 89/100. April 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Westcott Vineyards Estate Pinot Noir 2015, Vinemount Ridge, Niagara Escarpment, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A lovely Niagara Pinot Noir with spicy berry notes. The wine underwent a 30% wild ferment yeast with whole cluster grapes then malolactic fermentation in French oak barrels. Pair with veal. Pinot Noir food pairings: roast leg of lamb, sautéed pork chops with wild mushrooms, butternut squash and onion risotto. Drink: 2017 - 2021 427500 12.9% XD 750 mL $31.95 Score: 91/100. April 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Porcupine Ridge Syrah 2017, Swartland, South Africa: A full-bodied, attractive South African red wine made from the Syrah grape. More French than Australian in style with a smoky character and black fruit. Toasty oak on the nose of this well-priced wine. Tasty and robust. Pair with grilled meats, but please, not porcupine. Drink: 2018 - 2021 595280 14.6% XD 750 mL $14.95 Score: 89/100. April 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Wakefield Wines Promised Land Shiraz 2016, South Australia, Australia: A solid, full-bodied Australian Shiraz with aromas of fleshy black plum and blackberries wrapped in toasty oak. Smooth texture. Great price. Pair with a rare steak. Drink: 2018 - 2021 441543 13.5% D 750 mL $14.95 Score: 89/100. April 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Cedar Creek Estate Winery Syrah 2015, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia V.Q.A., Canada: A full-bodied, elegant BC Syrah with great finesse, yet the depth of flavour and concentration of character. Smooth, supple velvet texture on the palate. Aromas of wild cassis and blackcurrant with pepper. Pair with grilled lamb. Drink: 2018 - 2022 14.5% XD 750 mL $24.90 Score: 91/100. April 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Rosehall Run Defiant Pinot Noir 2017, Prince Edward County, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A terrific Pinot Noir from Prince Edward County that seems to get better every year! Aromas of cranberry, tart cherries and spice. Medium-bodied and smooth. Pair with roast chicken or turkey. Drink: 2018 - 2022 307769 12.3% D 750 mL $18.95 Score: 90/100. April 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Two Sisters Vineyards Senza Cabernet Sauvignon 2016, Niagara, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Senza means "without" as this wine was bottled and made without sulfur added and was not filtered or fined. I tasted a barrel sample (March 2018) and it was very young ... lots of great ripe dark fruit up front, but it needs cellar time to come together on the palate and finish. I look forward to tasting it again in a year or two. Drink: 2020 - 2026 13.5% D 750 mL $45.00 Score: 90/100. April 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Leaning Post Gamay 2016, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Full-bodied, rich, juicy and funky Niagara Gamay done with a wild ferment yeast. Pair with grilled pork chops. Gamay food pairings: savoury steaks and roast beef, slow cooked beef or pork, wild game with rich berry sauces. Drink: 2018 - 2021 12.5% XD 750 mL $25.00 Score: 91/100. April 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Stratus Red 2014, Niagara-On-The-Lake, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: This robust Niagara red wine is a blend of 52% Cabernet Franc, 32% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Merlot and 2% Syrah grapes. Excellent balance and length on the finish. This wine could age further with grace. Pair with a rare steak and decant 1-2 hours. Food pairings: rare roast beef, lamburgers, beef Bourguignon. Drink: 2017 - 2022 131037 13.5% D 750 mL $47.95 Score: 90/100. April 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Megalomaniac Frank Cabernet Franc 2015, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: This terrific Niagara red wine is a blend of cabernet sauvignon and cabernet franc blend with a splash of merlot. Cabernet franc (just call me Frank) adds wonderful black pepper notes. This wine is savoury with dried herb notes and fleshy ripe black plums. Perfect for grilled meats. Drink: 2018 - 2022 205021 12.9% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 91/100. April 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Megalomaniac Wines Avant Garde Gamay 2016, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: The fruit for this robust Niagara red wine is coursed from 30-year-old vines planted on St David's Bench. Aromas of black cherry and fleshy berries. Supple and smooth. Pair with grilled lamb. Drink: 2018 - 2022 12.9% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 88/100. April 2018. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Stratus Merlot 2013, Niagara Lakeshore, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Plush, full-bodied and balanced Niagara Merlot with aromas of fleshy ripe black plum and dark berries with a whisper of toasty oak. Perfect for grilled lamb or pork. Drink: 2017 - 2022 359745 14.5% XD 750 mL $38.20 Score: 91/100. April 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Huff Estates Winery Merlot 2017, Prince Edward County, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A robust, savoury Ontario Merlot with no oak aging: stainless steel only. The grapes are 80% from Niagara and 20% Prince Edward County. Aromas of violets, smoke, earth and dark berries. Pair with grilled lamb. Drink: 2018 - 2022 134239 12.8% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. April 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Keint-He Winery & Vineyards Voyageur Pinot Noir 2015, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A medium-bodied, silky Ontario Pinot made in Prince Edward County with fruit from Niagara. Aromas of plush ripe berries. Juicy acidity for veal or roast chicken. Pinot Noir food pairings: roast turkey, veal stew, pork tenderloin, mushroom and truffle dishes. Drink: 2018 - 2022 373407 12.8% XD 750 mL $19.00 Score: 90/100. April 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

13Th Street Whitty Vineyard Gamay 2016, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Medium-bodied Niagara Gamay with attractive berry aromas and a good grip on the palate. Pair with veal. This wine is available from the winery directly only. It's a single vineyard from the Creek Shores sub-appellation. Gamay food pairings: grilled salmon, antipasto plate, meaty tomato based pasta, roasted turkey. Drink: 2018 - 2021 13.5% XD 750 mL $23.95 Score: 88/100. April 2018. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Grange of Prince Edward Estate Winery Select Cabernet Franc 2014, Prince Edward County, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A juicy, full-bodied, cool climate Cabernet Franc from Prince Edward County. Aromas of black cherry and smoke. Pair with grilled meats. Drink: 2018 - 2020 498063 13.5% D 750 mL $24.95 Score: 88/100. April 2018. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Grange of Prince Edward Estate Winery Estate Gamay 2016, Prince Edward County, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A light-bodied PEC red wine with aromas and flavours of cherry-berry and cranberry. Lots of acidity on the palate demands food like roast chicken. Finishes with a lick of spice. Gamay food pairings: charcuterie plates, seared duck breast with cherries, roast turkey (hot or cold). Drink: 2018 - 2020 615062 12.5% D 750 mL $14.95 Score: 86/100. April 2018. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Grange of Prince Edward Estate Winery Select Gamay Noir 2015, Prince Edward County, Hillier, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: This Prince Edward County Gamay is aged n seasoned barrels for 18 months. Lots of sour cherry, cranberry and smoke. Lots of juicy acidity. Pair with roast chicken. Drink: 2018 - 2020 13% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 87/100. April 2018. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Santa Rita 120 Reserva Especial Merlot 2016, Central Valley, Chile: A value-priced Chilean Merlot with aromas of black plum and toasty oak. Full-bodied. Pair with grilled pork chops. Drink: 2018 - 2020 507483 14% D 750 mL $12.00 Score: 87/100. April 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Two Oceans Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot 2017, Western Cape, South Africa: A full-boded, smooth South African red wine blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot grapes. This is the magnum size format equal to two regular 750 ml bottles. Good for parties. Pair with meat dishes. Drink: 2018 - 2020 413062 13.5% D 1500 mL $18.95 Score: 86/100. April 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Santa Rita Medalla Real Carmenere 2014, Colchagua Valley, Chile: Carmenere traveled to Chile from France before the grape was devastated there by phylloxera. Chile's desert and mountains prevented the root louse from getting to Chile. Sweet juicy fleshy ripe purple and black plums and blueberry jam on the nose and palate. Full-bodied and velvet smooth. Luscious layers and lots of concentrated fruit flavours. Pair with grilled pork chops or lamb. Drink: 2016 - 2020 392720 14% D 750 mL $19.95 Score: 90/100. April 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Fleur Du Cap Cabernet Sauvignon 2016, Coastal Region, South Africa: A firm grip on the palate with this full-bodied South African red wine so decant 1-2 hours. This wine is made from the classic grape Cabernet Sauvignon. Balanced, bold, with lots of black fruit flavour. Pair with a rare, juicy steak. Drink: 2018 - 2020 457101 14% D 750 mL $12.95 Score: 87/100. April 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

EUGENIO COLLAVINI VITICULTORI Merlot 2016, Friuli, Italy: A robust, rustic, straight-forward Italian red wine made from Merlot grapes in the northern region of Friuli. Aromas of black fruit and smoke. Pair with mat lovers' pizza. Drink: 2018 - 2020 539445 12.5% D 750 mL $11.95 Score: 85/100. April 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Santa Rita Reserva Carmenere 2016, Maipo Valley, Chile: Some attractive herbal notes on the nose of this plush, smooth, supple Chilean Carmenere at a great price. Medium- to full-bodied with aromas and flavours of fleshy ripe black plum, blackberry and blueberry. Pair with grilled pork chops or lamb. Carmenere food pairings: red meats, casseroles or soft cheeses. Drink: 2018 - 2020 177774 13.5% D 750 mL $14.95 Score: 88/100. April 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Santa Rita 120 Reserva Especial Cabernet Sauvignon 2016, Maipo Valley, Chile: Here's a terrific party wine that won't break your budget. Dark and brooding with black fruit, smoke and a pleasantly bitter and refreshing finish. Cries out for hearty meat dishes, especially barbecue. Stunningly great price for this quality. Cabernet Sauvignon food pairings: red meat, pork, spicy sauces, sausages. Drink: 2018 - 2021 218644 13.5% D 750 mL $11.00 Score: 89/100. April 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Vineland Estates Winery Game Changer Red 2016, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A full-bodied, solid Niagara red wine blend of Cabernet and Merlot grapes. Aromas of black currant and blackberry and smoke. Pair with watching two closely matched hockey teams play off or barbecued meats. Drink: 2018 - 2020 457523 12.5% D 750 mL $14.95 Score: 87/100. April 2018. Best Value Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Redstone Winery Cabernet Merlot 2013, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Savoury, juicy, rich, full-bodied Niagara red wine blend of Cabernet and Merlot grapes. Aromas of dark berries and toasty oak. Pair with grilled meats. Cabernet Merlot food pairings: roast leg of lamb, grilled New York strip loin, braised pork shanks, grilled burgers, hard cheese. Drink: 2016 - 2021 13.5% XD 750 mL $20.15 Score: 90/100. April 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Redstone Winery Estate Syrah 2013, Lincoln Lakeshore, Niagara, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A smooth, supple, full-bodied Niagara red wine made from Syrah grapes. Velvet texture on the palate. Aromas of fleshy ripe black plum and smoke. Pair with grilled lamb. Drink: 2018 - 2022 437376 13.5% XD 750 mL $40.15 Score: 91/100. April 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Quails' Gate Stewart Family Reserve Pinot Noir 2016, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia V.Q.A., Canada: A robust, luxurious BC Pinot Noir. It needs some cellar time to come together, but when it does: watch out! Luscious layers of black cherry and spice. Great mouth-watering acidity for seared tuna, roast chicken and planked salmon. Pinot Noir food pairings: duck confit, coq au vin, beef bourguignon. Drink: 2018 - 2023 639658 14% XD 750 mL $40.00 Score: 92/100. April 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Quails' Gate Estate Winery Pinot Noir 2016, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia V.Q.A., Canada: Terrific layers of flavour in this iconic BC Pinot Noir, yet it's not heavy at all. Aromas of fleshy ripe black cherries, violets and some dark spice on the nose follow through on the palate. Lots of juicy, mouth-watering acidity for roast turkey or chicken. Pinot Noir food pairings: herb crusted chicken, roasted lamb, savoury slow cooked game. Drink: 2018 - 2023 585760 13.5% XD 750 mL $25.00 Score: 90/100. April 2018. Top Rated Red Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Rosés

Leaning Post Rosé 2017, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A lively Niagara rosé that's a blend of 60% Gamay, 13% Syrah and other grapes. Aromas of black cherry. Pair with veal. Drink: 2018 - 2020 12.5% XD 750 mL $20.00 Score: 87/100. April 2018. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Huff Estates Winery Rose 2017, Prince Edward County, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A lovely bright pink hue in the glass for this Prince Edward County rosé. Aromas of strawberry and red currant. Racy acidity bolts for seafood and shellfish. This wine is a blend of Cabernet Franc (60%), Cabernet Sauvignon (30%) and Merlot (10%). Intensely perfumed and bone-dry. Lovely notes of ripe strawberries and raspberries. Terrific aperitif. Food pairings: pate, salads, cold chiken, leafy spring salad, tomatoes, and salmon. Drink: 2018 - 2020 63982 13% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 90/100. April 2018. Best Value Rosé Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Two Sisters Vineyards Rose 2017, Niagara, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A gorgeous medium-bodied Niagara rose that's a blend of 50% Merlot, 25% Cabernet Franc and 25% Cabernet Sauvignon grapes. Lovely aromas of field berries and juicy acidity for fresh spring produce, seafood and shellfish. Drink: 2018 - 2020 13.5% D 750 mL $34.00 Score: 91/100. April 2018. Top Rated Rosé Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Rosehall Run Just One Rose 2016, Prince Edward County, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A tart, juicy, mouth-watering Prince Edward County Rose with aromas of sour dark cherry and cranberry. This is made mostly from Gamay grapes with 5% Pinot Noir. Medium-bodied. Pair with planked salmon. Food pairings: raw and lightly cooked seafood, like raw seared tuna and also try it with goats’ cheeses.. Drink: 2017 - 2019 12.5% D 750 mL $17.95 Score: 88/100. April 2018. Best Value Rosé Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

White Wine

Creekside Estate Winery Marianne Hill Riesling 2015, Beamsville Bench, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A lovely, floral, aromatic, refreshing Niagara white wine made from the classic Riesling grape. Aromas of white peach and apricot. Love the low alcohol here. Pair with fresh seafood. Riesling food pairings: planked salmon, feta cheese, Thai seafood noodle salad, turkey breast. Drink: 2015 - 2020 443572 10.5% XD 750 mL $20.90 Score: 91/100. April 2018. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Charles Baker B-Side Riesling 2016, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A lovely Niagara Riesling with notes of ripe peach and pear. Good balancing acidity. Mostly found in restaurants rather than liquor stores due to limited production. Pair with seafood dishes. Riesling food pairings: mild curries, red lentil stew, pork schnitzel. Drink: 2017 - 2022 523845 11.2% D 750 mL $21.95 Score: 90/100. April 2018. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Weingut R&A Pfaffl Austrian Banana Chardonnay 2017, Niederosterreich, Austria: A fresh, crisp, lively Austrian white wine made from the classic grape Chardonnay. Aromas of peach, and yes, a hint of banana, but not in a sweet sense - more tropical intrigue. Barely noticeable oak. Pair with fresh seafood, shellfish and chicken. Chardonnay food pairings: fish, poultry, veal. Drink: 2018 - 2022 248459 13.5% D 750 mL $16.95 Score: 89/100. April 2018. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Bachelder Saunders Vineyard Chardonnay 2012, Beamsville Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Toasted almond on the nose and palate of this medium-bodied Niagara Chardonnay. The oak regime is evident here from start to finish. White apricot and chalky dry finish. Pair with chicken in a cream sauce. Chardonnay food pairings: seared scallop, grilled seafood, roasted stuffed chicken, beef bourguignon.. Drink: 2014 - 2020 324103 12.5% D 750 mL $44.95 Score: 90/100. April 2018. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Stratus White 2014, Niagara-On-The-Lake, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A full-bodied, luscious Niagara white wine blend of 54% Chardonnay, 35% Sauvignon Blanc, 5% Semillon, 5% Viognier and 1% Gewurztraminer grapes. Aromas of toasted almond and golden apple. Pair with roast chicken. Drink: 2017 - 2021 660704 13.5% XD 750 mL $38.00 Score: 91/100. April 2018. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Two Sisters Vineyards Riesling 2016, Niagara-On-The-Lake, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: This lovely Niagara Riesling sources fruit from the Wismer Vineyard (90%) and Lenko Vineyard (10%). Juicy, savoury with terrific minerality and mouth-watering acidity that's perfect for seafood and shellfish. There's 18 grams of residual sugar, but you'd never know it given the lovely balancing acidity. Drink: 2017 - 2022 20413 10.8% D 750 mL $35.00 Score: 91/100. April 2018. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Domaine Queylus Tradition Chardonnay 2015, Niagara, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: The grapes for this wine are farmed organically though the winery is not yet certified organic. Lovely lusciousness on the palate. It's aged for 18 months in French oak barrels, 10% of which is new. Lots of stone fruit on the finish. A rich, full-bodied Niagara Chardonnay with great balance and freshness. Pair with roasted chicken. Drink: 2017 - 2022 417774 13% XD 750 mL $24.95 Score: 90/100. April 2018. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Bachelder Mineralité Chardonnay 2016, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Bright, zesty, rich Niagara Chardonnay with a core of minerality. Aromas of toasted hazelnut and almond blossom. Pair with seafood and shellfish. Chardonnay food pairings: tuna steaks, swordfish, turkey dinner, beef, chicken breast. Drink: 2018 - 2023 13% XD 750 mL $25.00 Score: 91/100. April 2018. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Westcott Vineyards Chardonnay 2016, Vinemount Ridge, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Terrific balance in this lovely, full-bodied Chardonnay that offers seductive aromas of toasted bread, green apple and smoke. Very Burgundian in its balance and elegance. This wine was aged in French oak barrels for 11 months, of which one-third was new. Pair with roasted chicken. Chardonnay food pairings: Asian dishes with black bean, steamed mahi mahi, pasta with tomato sauce, pork tenderloin. Drink: 2018 - 2022 427484 12.6% XD 750 mL $25.95 Score: 91/100. April 2018. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Tollgate Chardonnay 2016, Niagara, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Stratus second label Tollgate offers a tasty, robust Chardonnay with aromas of golden apple and pear. Match with roast chicken. Drink: 2018 - 2021 13% D 750 mL $22.00 Score: 88/100. April 2018. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Leaning Post The Fifty Chardonnay 2016, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Crisp, clean unoaked Niagara Chardonnay that shows its nervy cool climate roots. Aromas of green apple. Lots of juicy acidity. Pair with roast turkey or chicken. Chardonnay food pairings: savoury steaks and roast beef, slow cooked beef or pork, wild game with rich berry sauces. Drink: 2018 - 2021 12.5% XD 750 mL $22.00 Score: 89/100. April 2018. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Keint-he Winery and Vineyards Voyageur Chardonnay 2014, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A full-bodied, balanced Ontario Chardonnay made in Prince Edward County with fruit from Niagara. This wine underwent 100% malolactic fermentation to add richness and creamy texture. It was aged in 80% second use oak barrels. Pair with roast chicken. Drink: 2017 - 2020 389544 13% XD 750 mL $16.00 Score: 89/100. April 2018. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Keint-he Winery and Vineyards Voyageur Riesling 2016, Vinemount Ridge, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: A medium-bodied, zesty Ontario Riesling made in Prince Edward County with fruit from Niagara. Racy acidity balances the medium sweetness on the palate. Lovely lime notes and freshness. Pair with seafood. Riesling food pairings: roast chicken, spicy pasta dishes, shrimp tempura, grilled salmon with lemon sauce, duck liver pate. Drink: 2018 - 2023 426825 11% MD 750 mL $25.00 Score: 90/100. April 2018. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Rosehall Run Solid Ground Riesling 2017, Prince Edward County, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Juicy with racy acidity for seafood. This Prince Edward County Riesling has lovely aromas of lime zest and peach. Medium-bodied. Perfect for Asian dishes. Riesling food pairings: lightly spiced Asian cuisine, gracefully complementing its spiciness and sweetness. Drink: 2018 - 2023 9.2% MD 750 mL $17.90 Score: 90/100. April 2018. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Creekside Sauvignon Blanc 2017, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Crisp, clean and refreshing Niagara Sauvignon Blanc that leans more to the lime-citrus style than grassy-herbal. Mouth-watering and fresh. Perfect for seafood or shellfish. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: cedar plank grilled salmon, goat cheese and beet salad, mussels steamed in white wine sauce. Drink: 2018 - 2021 620724 12.7% XD 750 mL $15.95 Score: 89/100. April 2018. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Meldville Sauvignon Blanc 2016, Lincoln Lakeshore, Niagara, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Winemaker Derek Barnett, formerly of Lailey Vineyards, has launched his own virtual winery called Meldville (virtual because he doesn't own the winery facilities where he makes the wine though it's from grapes with growers he's known for years). This 2016 Sauvignon Blanc is the second vintage of this lovely wine that has aromas of melon. It's medium-bodied without harsh acidity but not wimpy either. Some tropical notes on the finish. Pair with seafood. Drink: 2017 - 2019 13% D 750 mL $20.20 Score: 90/100. April 2018. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Meldville Chardonnay 2016, Lincoln Lakeshore, Niagara, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Winemaker Derek Barnett, formerly of Lailey Vineyards, has launched his own virtual winery called Meldville (virtual because he doesn't own the winery facilities where he makes the wine though it's from grapes with growers he's known for years). This is a rich, creamy, full-bodied Niagara Chardonnay that was barrel fermented and aged in French oak then aged 10 months on its lees. Aromas of golden apple and toasty oak. Pair with roast chicken. Drink: 2018 - 2022 13.5% D 750 mL $20.00 Score: 90/100. April 2018. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Redstone Winery Limestone Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc 2016, Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: Fresh melon notes on the nose of this lovely Niagara white wine made from Sauvignon Blanc grapes. Soft, juicy acidity for seafood. Medium-bodied. Sauvignon Blanc food pairings: spring peas and goat cheese salad, melon and prosciutto, halibut tacos, grilled spot prawns. Drink: 2017 - 2019 424648 12.5% XD 750 mL $23.15 Score: 90/100. April 2018. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Kunde Family Winery Chardonnay 2015, Sonoma Valley, California, United States: A rich, full-bodied, viscous, mouth-coating Californian Chardonnay from the cool climate of Sonoma Valley. Aromas of toasted almond, golden apple and Asian pear. Match with roast chicken. Drink: 2018 - 2021 745406 13.8% XD 750 mL $21.95 Score: 90/100. April 2018. Top Rated White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

Hester Creek Estate Winery Terra Unica Riesling 2016, Golden Mile Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia BC V.Q.A., Canada: A lovely, floral, light-bodied BC white wine made from the classic grape Riesling. Slightly sweet with aromas of peach blossom and pear. Match with fresh seafood. Drink: 2018 - 2021 11.5% MD 750 mL $28.50 Score: 89/100. April 2018. Full Review Add to Shopping Cart

13Th Street Chardonnay 2016, Creek Shores, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada: The Chardonnay grapes for this wine come from two vineyards, the second one has no oak and the first one, the wine was aged in 100% French oak barrels. A blend of Viscek vineyard (88%) and Junes Vineyard (12%) grapes form the Creek Shores sub-appellation. Aromas of toasted almond. Rich and balanced. Pair with roast chicken. Tasted at Taste Ontario March 2018. Licensee only (restaurants) not liquor stores. Chardonnay food pairings: roast chicken, veal chops in white wine sauce, fish tacos. Drink: 2018 - 2021 13% XD 750 mL $19.95 Score: 88/100. April 2018. Best Value White Wine Full Review Add to Shopping Cart


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