Today marks Malbec World Day - how to celebrate you ask. . .

Shall we start the day with a glass or Malbec with a bowl of breakfast cereal or a hearty plate of eggs & bacon?  And another glass (or maybe upgrade to a bottle) served with lunch, then finish off by uncorking a bottle of Malbec to accompany a BBQ steak dinner?  This idea of around the clock Malbec drinking, made many giggle & come up with wild & crazy ideas to celebrate.  To kick the festivities off & to learn first hand more about Malbec in Argentine, I attended in a tutored tasting last week with Ottawa Citizen’s wine writer& author Rod Phillips.

My place setting awaited 18 glasses of various wines from Argentina – Torrontes & Chardonnay (white wines) along with 5 Malbecs with prices ranging from $12 to $27 a bottle.  Then we had a taste of Shiraz/Syrah, Bonarda, Pinot Noir & red wine blends to give the tasting a POW at the end.  The 2 hours flew by & my mind was buzzing with Malbec facts that I looked forward to share.

For the past two years, Malbec World Day has marked the calendars on April 17th.  To celebrate in Argentine style, there are festivities all around the world hosted by Wines of Argentina.

I know no other grape that has a dedicated day that shines the spotlight on it.  Malbec  began its history as a grape variety grown in Cahors, France, then was uprooted because of the phloxerra insect that decimated many vineyards in Europe in the late 1800s.  Luckily, the Malbec  rootstock that the European immigrants brought with them on their journey to Argentina, were not infected by the bug that attacked the roots of grape vines.

Today, Malbec is Argentina’s iconic grape variety, although, it is now grown in many vineyards throughout the world – even as close to home as Niagara-on-the-Lake!  There are over 564, 000 acres of vineyards dedicated to Malbec stretching along the Andes Mountain Range from 22 to 42 degrees latitude. This region has great ripening conditions with its continuous stream of sunshine during the day (ideal for ripening) , then cooler nights (perfect to produce acidity in the grape clusters).  This combination of ripe red & black fruit in the aromas & taste coupled with soft tannins with underlying acidity, makes for a crowd pleasing wine.

The wines we sampled during this tutored tasting certainly pleased me!  Here are my tasting notes about the various Malbec we discovered:

Manos Negras Malbec 2008, $14.95
(LCBO part number #271295)
A basic Malbec with juicy aromas on the nose (cherry, raspberry jam). There is good structure in this Malbec with a taste of cinnamon hearts candy.

Catena Malbec 2009, $19.95
(LCBO part number 478727)
Big juicy with loads of aromas of damsom plum boysenberry + pomegranate that continue into the taste.

Dominio del Plata Ben Marco Malbec 2009
(only available on request from winery representative, $27.00)
My hands down favorite.  A BIG wine.  Dry with loads of tannins, aromas that remind me of a big bouquet of red roses.  Layered onto the wine is licorice + plums that continue into their taste.  Too bad this wine is not readily available at the LCBO.

Zuccardi Q Malbec 2009
(LCBO part number #723478, $19.95)
From the infamous Fuzion fame, Zuccardi family has made a slightly lighter styled Malbec  compared to the others I savoured. On your first sip, there is evidence that the wine has light tannins, black pepper aromas with a refreshing acidity that ends with black pepper finish.

Rutini Malbec 2009
See for yourself if you like this style of Malbec wines. Lighter again in weight compared to the other Malbecs that we sampled in this tasting.  The glass wafts of cherry & red berry aromas with light tannins & shorter finish.

After all of these Malbec wines, plus the other wines that were included in the 18 wines we sampled, no doubt our lips & teeth were ‘naturally coloured’ a shade of deep purple.  Want more info Malbec tips?  Contact me + I will offer you more Argentine recommendations from this delicious wine tasting.

However you celebrate it, Happy Malbec World Day.

Salud! – Debbie

An Ottawa First … A Taste & Buy event featuring Prince Edward County wineries.  We invite you to join us.

Prince Edward County is Canada’s fastest growing wine region. Known as ‘The County’, it’s a only a three hour drive from Ottawa making it an ideal day trip or a weekend getaway. There are always new wineries opening their doors each summer.

The County is coming to the City!

No need to wait for the summer to discover The County . . . The County is coming to Ottawa. Join us on Wednesday May 9^th for a fun Taste & Buy event where you can sip & sample outstanding wines from over 15 wineries.

This is a great opportunity to meet the people who make the wines, to learn more about their winery, their vineyards … and, of course, sample their best wines.

At this Taste & Buy event, you can order any combination of your favourite wines directly from the winemakers to be delivered straight to your home or office.

This event will sell out quickly. Buy your tickets now!

Featured Prince Edward County wineries include:
Casa-Dea Estates Winery
Closson Chase Winery
Karlo Estates
Keint-he Winery & Vineyards
Huff Estates Winery
Lighthall Vineyards
Rosehall Run Vineyards
Sandbanks Winery
… and more wineries will be announced!

Wine Spectator Magazine dubbed The County as
“the world’s least-known great wine zone”.

EVENT DETAILS
DATE: Wednesday May 9, 2012
EVENT BEGINS: 7pm
EVENT ENDS: 9 pm
LOCATION: Panorama Room, 
National Arts Centre, 53 Elgin Street, Ottawa

ADVANCE TICKETS ONLY:  
Savvy Special price: $50 per person before April 30th (Regular $55)
Bring a group of 4 friends: $180 total (save $10 each)
Ticket prices include all wine samples, assorted cheeses & HST.

You won’t find these wines at the LCBO
Many of The County wineries do not have their wines available at the LCBO. Our Savvy Sommeliers will be on hand to offer wine tips & help you discover new Prince Edward County wines. At this Taste & Buy event, you can order all of your favourites to be delivered straight to your home or office. It is that easy to discover The County!

The #1 reason to go to The County – Terroir Wine Festival

Join Savvy Company & many other wine enthusiasts on Saturday May 26^th to celebrate the wines of Prince Edward County at the annual Terroir Wine Festival. Sip, savour & graze around the historic Crystal Palace from 12pm – 8pm meeting winemakers & taking in seminars hosted by Savvy Company, winemakers & other wine personalities showcasing wines, cheeses & food in The County. Tickets $35 in advance ($40 at the door). We look forward to seeing you there!

Hop on the bus!
We are working on a roundtrip bus package from Ottawa. Interested? Email us to receive info as soon as it is ready.

Contact Savvy Company for more information about other Savvy Events

www.savvycompany.ca
613.SAVVYCO (613.728.8926)
Cheers!

 
UPDATE: This job posting is now filled as of April 1, 2012
Thank you for your interest!

Ever wondered how to get involved in the wine world?  Here is a great job opportunity for not only 1 person…but 2 people! A well-established wine & spirits agency is looking for two sales representatives for the Toronto and Ottawa markets. This agency, based in Toronto has operated for over 20 years representing a diverse portfolio of wines and premium spirits through all LCBO channels – General List, Vintages, Consignment and Private Stock.
 
This full-time position as a agency representative is focused on licensees (restaurants, hotels, clubs etc.) sales in their respective territory.

The wine sales agent position includes:

• Compensation of a monthly base salary (current going rate/standard)
• Commission for consignment sales
• Bonus for back bar listings, well brand’s and house wine (by the glass) listing’s.
• Generous sampling allowance
• Expenses
• Gas allowance

Ideally, the candidate would have 1 year or more experience selling to licensees;  however, a wine knowledgeabe sales
oriented beginner may be considered.
 
While the client would ideally like to hire a full-time representative, an experienced sales representative who is available
on a part-time basis (minimum 3 days per week) may also be considered.
 
If you are interested in one of these positions, contact Steven Trenholme directly (tell him you saw this posting on Savvy Company’s site!)

All Canadian Wine Championships Winners 2011

All of us at Savvy Company are thrilled that many of the wineries & their wines we have featured in our Savvy Selections wine of the month club have received impressive awards in this year’s All Canadian Wine Championships. Kudos & Congrats!

 

Trophy Winners

Best Red Wine of the Year

Blasted Church Vineyards, BC 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot $25.99

 

Best White Wine of the Year

Mike Weir Wine, ON 2008 Riesling $14.95

 

Best Sparkling Wine of the Year

Flat Rock Cellars, ON 2007 Riddled $29.95

 

Larry Paterson Trophy, Best Dessert Wine of the Year

(Sponsored by Ontario Viniculture Association)
Vignoble du Marathonien, QC 2009 Vidal Late Harvest $28.00

 

Best Fruit Wine of the Year

(Sponsored by Ontario Viniculture Association)
Applewood Farm Winery, ON 2008 Iced Cider $19.95

 

Best Value Wine of the Year

Sonoran Estate Winery, BC 2007 Cabernet/Merlot $22.90

 

Best of Category Medals / Double Gold

 

Chardonnay, Unoaked

Blasted Church Vineyards, BC 2010 Chardonnay Musque $17.99

 

Chardonnay Under $20

Strewn, ON 2009 Chardonnay Barrel Aged $12.75 winery featured in Savvy Selections

 

Chardonnay Over $20

Quails’ Gate Winery, BC 2008 Stewart Family Reserve Chardonnay $29.99

 

Riesling Dry

Thirty Bench Wine Makers, ON 2010 Small Lot Riesling Triangle Vineyard $30.00

 

Riesling Off Dry

Mike Weir Wine, ON 2008 Riesling $14.95

**Trophy, Best White Wine

 

Sauvignon Blanc

Sandhill Wines, BC 2010 Sauvignon Blanc $18.99

 

Gewurztraminer

Thornhaven Estates Winery, BC 2009 Gewürztraminer $17.90

 

Pinot Gris/Grigio

Gehringer Brothers Estate Winery, BC 2010 Private Reserve Pinot Gris $14.99

 

Pinot Blanc

Lake Breeze Vineyards, BC 2010 Pinot Blanc $17.00

 

Vidal

Aleksander Estate Winery, ON 2010 Vidal $10.95

 

Other Single White Hybrid

Jost Vineyards Ltd., NS 2010 Appellation L’Acadie $18.00

 

White Hybrid Blends

Jost Vineyards Ltd., NS 2010 Valley Roads L’Acadie Frontenac $9.99

 

Viognier

Pentage Wines 2009 Viognier $19.40

 

Other Single V.V. Whites

LA FRENZ, BC 2010 Semillon $19.90

 

White V.V. Blends

Hester Creek Estate Winery, BC 2010 Character White $19.99

 

Rose

Featherstone Winery, ON 2010 Rosé $14.95 winery featured in Savvy Selections

 

Cabernet Sauvignon Under $25

Peller Estates Winery Okanagan, BC

2008 Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon $19.99

 

Cabernet Sauvignon Over $25

Dan Akroyd Wines, ON 2007 Signature Cabernet Sauvignon $34.95

 

Merlot Under $25

Nk’Mip Cellars, BC 2008 Merlot $19.99

 

Merlot Over $25

Ridgepoint Wines, ON 2007 Merlot $35.00

 

Pinot Noir Under $25

Stoney Ridge, ON 2009 Excellence Pinot Noir $25.00

 

Pinot Noir Over $25

Starling Lane Vancouver Island 2009 Pinot Noir $27.00

 

Cabernet Franc Under $25

Kacaba Vineyards, ON 2008 Cabernet Franc $18.95

 

Cabernet Franc Over $25

Pondview Estate Winery, ON 2009 Bella Terra Cabernet Franc $28.00

 

Bordeaux Blends Under $25

Sonoran Estate Winery, BC 2007 Cabernet Merlot $22.90

**Trophy, Best Value Wine of the Year

 

Bordeaux Blends Over $25

Blasted Church Vineyards 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot $25.99

** Trophy, Best Red Wine

 

Syrah / Shiraz Under $25

Jackson-Triggs Okanagan Estate, BC 2007 Proprietors’ Grand Reserve Shiraz $25.00

 

Syrah / Shiraz Over $25

Jackson-Triggs Okanagan Estate, BC 2008 Sunrock Shiraz Gold Series $35.00

 

Marechal Foch

Jost Vineyards Ltd., NS 2009 Marechal Foch $10.98

 

Baco Noir

D’Angelo Vineyards Estate Winery, ON 2008 Baco Noir $14.90

 

Other Single Hybrid Reds

Gaspereau Vineyards, NS 2008 Lucie Kuhlmann Barrel Select $24.99

 

Other Red Hybrid Blends

Beaufort Vineyard & Estate Winery, BC 2009 “Ca Beautage” $23.00

 

Other Single V.V. Reds

Desert Hills Estate Winery, BC 2010 Gamay $17.90

 

Other Red V.V. Blends

Ruby Tuesday Winery, BC 2009 Red Stiletto $25.00

 

Late Harvests

Vignoble du Marathonien, QC 2009 Vidal Vendange Tardives $28.00

** Larry Paterson Trophy, Best Dessert Wine of the Year

 

Riesling Icewine

Inniskillin Wines, ON 2008 Riesling Icewine $69.95 winery featured in Savvy Selections

 

Vidal Icewine

Peller Estates Winery Niagara 2008 Signature Series Vidal Icewine $54.95

 

Red Icewine

Inniskillin Wines, ON 2007 Cabernet Franc Icewine $79.95

 

Other Icewine

Caroline Cellars, ON 2009 Sauvignon Blanc Icewine $48.00

 

Soft Fruit Dry

Sanduz Estate Wines, BC N/V Dry Blueberry Wine $15.41

 

Soft Fruit Off-Dry

Applewood Farm Winery, ON 2009 Trio $14.95

 

Soft Fruit Dessert

Sanduz Estate Wines, BC N/V Raspberry Dessert Wine $19.28

 

Tree Fruit Dry

Les Vergers de la Colline, QC 2010 CID Cuivré $30.00

 

Tree Fruit Off-Dry

Forbidden Fruit Winery, BC 2010 Caught Apricot Mistelle $26.95

 

Tree Fruit Dessert

Coteau St-Paul, QC 2010 Carmina $18.00

 

Fruit Sparkling

Smith & Wilson Estates Wines, ON 2008 Pink Cadillac $18.00

 

Meades

Applewood Farm Winery ON NV Mac Meade $14.95

 

Iced Ciders

Applewood Farm Winery, ON 2008 Iced Cider $14.95

*Trophy, Best Fruit Wine of the Year

 

Grape Fortifieds & Other Desserts

LA FRENZ, BC 2009 Vintage Style Port $24.90

 

Medals of Merit

Sparkling

 

Gold

Hillebrand Winery, ON NV Trius Brut $24.95

Peller Estates Winery Niagara, ON NV Ice Cuvee Rose $35.00

Peller Estates Winery Niagara, ON NV Ice Cuvee $31.75

 

Silver

Gray Monk Estate Winery, BC 2008 Odyssey White Brut $24.99

Jackson Triggs Niagara Estate, ON 2009 Proprietors’ Reserve Cuvee Close Sparkling $14.95

Summerhill Pyramid Winery, BC NV Cipes Ice Brut $45.00

 

Bronze

Gray Monk Estate Winery, BC N/V Odyssey Rose Brut $24.99

Summerhill Pyramid Winery, BC NV Cipes Brut $24.99

 

Chardonnay, Unoaked

 

Gold

Fielding Estate Winery, ON 2010 Chardonnay Musque $16.95

Gray Monk Estate Winery, BC 2009 Chardonnay, Unwooded $16.99

 

Silver

Gehringer Brothers Estate Winery, BC 2010 Dry Rock Chardonnay Unoaked $13.99

Hillebrand Winery, ON 2009 Artist Series Unoaked Chardonnay $10.75

 

Bronze

Angel’s Gate Winery, ON 2008 Unoaked CHARDONNAY $12.95

Mt Lehman Winery, BC 2010 Unoaked Chardonnay $20.00

 

 

Chardonnay, Under $20

 

Gold

EauVivre Winery & Vineyards, BC 2008 Chardonnay $18.00

Red Rooster Winery, BC 2009 Chardonnay $16.99

Stoney Ridge, ON 2009 Simply White $14.00 winery featured in Savvy Selections

Strewn, ON 2008 Chardonnay Terroir $19.95 winery featured in Savvy Selections

 

Silver

Mission Hill Family Estate, BC 2009  Reserve Chardonnay $18.99

Mt. Boucherie Family Estate, BC 2009 Estate Collection Chardonnay $14.99

Pentage Wines, BC 2007 Chardonnay Reserve $19.90

Quinta Ferreira Estate Winery, BC 2009 Chardonnay $19.90

 

Bronze

Aleksander Estate Winery, ON 2010 Chardonnay $14.95

LA FRENZ, BC 2009 Chardonnay $19.90

Nk’Mip Cellars, BC 2009 Chardonnay $16.99

Pondview Estate Winery, ON 2009 Chardonnay $17.00

Quails’ Gate Winery,BC 2009 Chardonnay $19.99

Stoney Ridge, ON 2009 Warren Classic Chardonnay $15.00

 

Chardonnay Over $20

 

Gold

LA FRENZ, BC 2009 Reserve Chardonnay $28.90

Noble Ridge Vineyard & Winery, BC 2009 Chardonnay $23.90

Pondview Estate Winery, ON 2009 Bella Terra Chardonnay $24.00 winery featured in Savvy Selections

 

Silver

Huff Estates Winery, ON 2008 South Bay Chardonnay $29.95 winery featured in Savvy Selections

Niagara College Teaching Winery, ON 2009 Dean’s List Chardonnay $27.95 winery featured in Savvy Selections

 

Bronze

Church & State Wines, BC 2009 Chardonnay $24.90

Stoney Ridge, ON 2009 Excellence Chardonnay $26.00 winery featured in Savvy Selections

 

Riesling Dry

 

Gold

Caroline Cellars, ON 2008 Riesling $11.50

Gehringer Brothers Estate Winery, BC 2010 Dry Riesling $13.99

Quails’ Gate Winery, BC 2010 Dry Riesling $16.99

 

Silver

Mission Hill Family Estate, BC 2009  Reserve Riesling $18.99

Silkscarf Winery, BC 2010 Riesling Muscat $22.00

SummerGate Winery, BC 2009 Riesling Two (Certified Organic) $19.90

 

Bronze

Gehringer Brothers Estate Winery, BC 2010 Private Reserve Riesling $14.99

Gehringer Brothers Estate Winery, BC 2010 Riesling $13.99

Huff Estates Winery, ON 2008 Riesling Reserve $19.95 winery featured in Savvy Selections

Jackson-Triggs Okanagan Estate, BC 2008 Proprietors’ Reserve Riesling $12.99

 

Riesling Off Dry

 

Gold

Cornerstone Estate Winery, ON 2009 Riesling Reserve $20.00 winery featured in Savvy Selections

Hinterbrook Estate Winery, ON 2010 Riesling $18.00

Huff Estates Winery, ON 2009 Riesling Medium Dry $17.95 winery featured in Savvy Selections

 

Silver

Rockway Glen Estate Winery, ON 2009 Fergie Jenkins ‘Limited Edition’ $14.95

 

Bronze

Angel’s Gate Winery, ON 2009 SUSSRESERVE RIESLING $13.95 winery featured in Savvy Selections this August!

 

Sauvignon Blanc

 

Gold

Hillebrand Winery,ON 2009 Trius Sauvignon Blanc $13.75

LA FRENZ, BC 2010 Sauvignon Blanc $21.90

Pentage Wines, BC 2010 Sauvignon Blanc $19.40

 

Silver

Henry of Pelham Family Estate, ON 2009 Sauvignon Blanc $14.95

Jackson Triggs Niagara Estate, ON 2009 Silver Series Sauvignon Blanc $17.95

 

Bronze

Dan Akroyd Wines, ON 2010 Sauvignon Blanc $14.95

Hinterbrook Estate Winery, ON 2010 Sauvignon Blanc $21.00

Stoney Ridge, ON 2010 Excellence Sauvignon Blanc $22.00 winery featured in Savvy Selections

 

Gewurztraminer

 

Gold

Flat Rock Cellars, ON 2010 Gewürztraminer $18.95

The View Winery, BC 2010 Gewürztraminer $16.95

Wild Goose Vineyards, BC 2010 Gewürztraminer $19.00

 

Silver

Red Rooster Winery , BC 2010 Gewurztraminer $15.99

Ruby Tuesday Winery, BC 2010 Gewurztraminer $20.00

Wild Goose Vineyards, BC 2010 Mystic River Gewurztraminer $23.00

 

Bronze

Arrowleaf Cellars, BC 2009 Solstice Gewürztraminer $20.00

Harwood Estates, ON 2009 Gewürztraminer $20.00

Kalala Organic Estate Winery, BC 2009 Gewürztraminer $17.95

See Ya Later Ranch, BC 2009 Gewürztraminer $14.99

 

Pinot Gris

 

Gold

8th Generation Vineyard, BC 2010 Pinot Gris $19.99

Fielding Estate Winery, ON 2010 Pinot Gris $18.95

Pentage Wines, BC 2010 Pinot Gris $17.40

Red Rooster Winery, BC 2010 Pinot Gris $16.99

Wild Goose Vineyards, BC 2009 Mystic River Pinot Gris $20.00

 

Silver

Black Widow Winery, BC 2010 PINOT GRIS $19.90

Blasted Church Vineyards, BC 2010 Pinot Gris $19.99

Inniskillin Wines, ON 2010 Pinot Grigio $12.95

Lake Breeze Vineyards, BC 2010 Pinot Gris $17.00

Therapy Vineyards, BC 2010 Pinot Gris $20.00

 

Bronze

Fielding Estate Winery, ON 2010 Estate Bottled Pinot Gris $21.95

Hester Creek Estate Winery, BC 2010 Pinot Gris $16.99

Peller Estates Winery Niagara, ON 2009 Private Reserve Pinot Gris $18.95

Smith & Wilson Estates Wines, ON 2010 Pinot Gris $14.00

Stoney Ridge, ON 2010 Pinot Grigio $17.00 winery featured in Savvy Selections

 

Pinot Blanc

 

Gold

Van Westen Vineyards, BC 2009 Vivacious $18.90

 

Silver

Wild Goose Vineyards, BC 2010 Mystic River Pinot Blanc $19.00

 

Bronze

Gehringer Brothers Estate Winery, BC 2010 Private Reserve Pinot Blanc $13.99

 

Viognier

 

Gold

Quinta Ferreira Estate Winery, BC 2009 Viognier $19.90

Silkscarf Winery, BC 2010 Viognier $22.00

 

Silver

D’Angelo Estate Winery, BC 2009 Viognier $19.90

Mt Lehman Winery, BC 2010 Viognier Reserve $24.00

 

Bronze

Serendipity Winery, BC 2009 Viognier $17.90

Van Westen Vineyards, BC 2009 Viognier $24.90

 

Vidal

 

Gold

Reif Estate Winery, ON 2010 Vidal $9.95 winery featured in Savvy Selections

 

Silver

Rockway Glen Estate Winery, ON 2010 Patio 19 $12.95

 

Bronze

Sanson Estate Winery, ON 2010 Autumn Harvest Vidal $13.95

 

Single White Hybrid

 

Gold

Gaspereau Vineyards, NS 2010 Seyval Blanc $16.99

Jost Vineyards Ltd., NS 2010 Cote St. George L’Acadie Blanc $15.99

 

Silver

Gaspereau Vineyards, NS 2010 L`Acadie Blanc $15.99

Jost Vineyards Ltd., NS 2010 Petite Milo $15.00

 

Bronze

Blomidon Estate Winery, NS 2009 L’Acadie Blanc $15.29

Domaine de Grand Pre, NS 2010 Muscat $18.50

 

Other Single V.V. Whites

 

Gold

Domaine de Chaberton, BC 2009 Bacchus Dry $15.40

Lake Breeze Vineyards, BC 2010 Semillon $19.00

SummerGate Winery, BC 2009 Muscat Ottonel (Certified Organic) $19.90

 

Silver

CedarCreek Estate Winery , BC 2010 Ehrenfelser $18.90

Domaine de Grand Pre, NS 2010 Ortega $20.00

LA FRENZ, BC 2009 Semillon $19.90

 

Bronze

Lake Breeze Vineyards , BC 2010 Ehrenfelser $19.00

Mt. Boucherie Family Estate, BC 2008 Estate Collection Semillon $12.99

Viewpointe Estate Winery, ON 2010 Auxerrois $14.95

 

White V.V. Blends

 

Gold

Arrowleaf Cellars, BC 2009 First Crush White $13.99

MUSE, BC 2010 Chardonnay/Semillon $19.00

Stag’s Hollow Winery , BC 2009 Con-Fusion $18.99

Therapy Vineyards, BC 2010 Alter Ego $25.00

 

Silver

Celista Estate Winery, BC 2010 Celista Conundrum $19.00

Diamond Estate Wines, Fresh, ON 2009 Gewurztraminer Riesling $11.95

Inniskillin Okanagan Vineyards, BC 2009 Discovery Series Marsanne Roussane $19.99

Ruby Tuesday Winery, BC 2010 White Stiletto $20.00

 

Bronze

Cherry Point Estate Wines, BC 2010 Ortega /Siegerrebe $20.01

Hester Creek Estate Winery, BC 2009 Semillon Chardonnay $15.99

Hillebrand Winery, ON 2009 Trius White $19.75

Reif Estate Winery, ON 2009 Trend White $12.95 winery featured in Savvy Selections

Therapy Vineyards, BC 2010 Freudian Sip $17.00

 

White Hybrid Blends

 

Gold

Forbidden Fruit Winery, BC 2010 SauVidal Earth Series $21.00

Pelee Island Winery, ON 2010 Blanc de Blanc $9.95

 

Silver

Jost Vineyards Ltd., NS 2010 L’Acadie Pinot Grigio $12.99

Jost Vineyards Ltd., NS NV Kellermeister $9.99

 

Bronze

Domaine de Grand Pre, NS 2010 Tidal Bay $22.50

Gaspereau Vineyards, NS 2010 Appellation Wine $24.99

 

Rose

 

Gold

8th Generation Vineyard, BC 2010 Pinot Meunier Rosé $19.99

Hinterbrook Estate Winery, ON 2010 Rosé $16.00

Oliver Twist Estate Winery, BC 2010 Patio Passion $18.00

The View Winery, BC 2010 Distraction Rosé $14.50

 

Silver

CedarCreek Estate Winery, BC 2010 Pinot Noir Rosé $17.90

Coffin Ridge Boutique Winery, ON 2010 Resurrection Rosé $17.80

Greata Ranch Estate Winery, BC 2010 Rosé $13.90

Tinhorn Creek Vineyards, BC 2010 Oldfield Series 2Bench Rosé $22.99

 

Bronze

Colio Estate Wines Inc., ON 2010 Girls’ Night Out Chard / Merlot Rosé $12.75

Jackson-Triggs Okanagan Estate, BC 2009 Black Series Rosé $15.99

Kacaba Vineyards, ON 2010 Rebecca Rosé $14.95 winery featured in Savvy Selections

Pondview Estate Winery, ON 2009 Cab Franc Rosé $15.00 winery featured in Savvy Selections

Volcanic Hills Estate Winery, BC 2010 Rosé $15.90

 

Cabernet Sauvignon Under $25

 

Gold

Legends Estates Winery, ON 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve $17.95

 

Silver

Inniskillin Okanagan Vineyards, BC

2008 Dark Horse Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon $24.99

 

Bronze

Colchester Ridge Estate Winery, ON 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon $19.80

 

Cabernet Sauvignon Over $25

 

Gold

Lakeview Cellars Estate Winery, ON 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve $34.95

Painted Rock Estate Winery, BC 2008 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon $40.00

 

Silver

Muscedere Vineyards,ON 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon $30.00

Nk’Mip Cellars, BC 2008 Qwam Qwmt Cabernet Sauvignon $29.99

 

Bronze

Desert Hills Estate Winery, BC 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon Proprietor’s Red $29.90

 

Merlot Under $25

 

Gold

Angel’s Gate Winery, ON 2008 MERLOT $14.95 winery featured in Savvy Selections this August!

Red Rooster Winery, BC 2009 Merlot $18.99

Thornhaven Estates Winery, BC 2008 MERLOT $24.90

Tinhorn Creek Vineyards, BC 2008 Merlot $17.99

 

Silver

Jackson-Triggs Okanagan Estate, BC 2008 Gold Series Merlot $20.00

Robin Ridge Winery, BC 2007 Merlot $19.90

Tinhorn Creek Vineyards, BC 2007 Oldfield Series Merlot $24.99

Wild Goose Vineyards, BC 2008 Merlot $20.00

 

Bronze

Legends Estates Winery, ON 2007 Merlot Reserve $17.95

Mission Hill Family Estate, BC 2007 Reserve Merlot $24.99

Seven Stones Winery , BC 2009 Row 128 Merlot $25.00

Sumac Ridge Estate Winery, BC 2008 Black Sage Vineyard Merlot $19.99

Merlot Over $25

 

Gold

Kalala Organic Estate Winery, BC 2008 Merlot $28.95

Ruby Tuesday Winery, BC 2008 Merlot Grand Reserve $40.00

 

Silver

Mission Hill Family Estate, BC 2006 Select Lot Collection Merlot $29.99

Van Westen Vineyards, BC 2007 Vivre la Vie $27.90

 

Bronze

Poplar Grove Winery, BC 2007 Merlot $29.90

 

Pinot Noir Under $25

 

Gold

D’Angelo Estate Winery, BC 2007 Pinot Noir $24.90

Lake Breeze Vineyards, BC 2008 Seven Poplars Pinot Noir $25.00

Mike Weir Wine, ON 2008 Pinot Noir $19.95

Mt. Boucherie Family Estate, BC 2009 Summit Reserve Pinot Noir $19.99

 

Silver

EauVivre Winery & Vineyards, BC 2008 Pinot Noir $19.00

Flat Rock Cellars, ON 2009 Pinot Noir $19.95

Stonechurch Vineyards, ON 2007 Pinot Noir Reserve $19.95

 

Bronze

Grange of Prince Edward, ON 2008 Trumpour’s Mill Pinot Noir $16.95

Mission Hill Family Estate, BC 2007  Reserve Pinot Noir $24.99

Robin Ridge Winery, BC 2009 Pinot Noir $21.90

Therapy Vineyards, BC 2009 Pinot Noir $22.00

 

Pinot Noir Over $25

 

Gold

Kacaba Vineyards, ON 2007 Reserve Pinot Noir $42.95 winery featured in Savvy Selections

Nk’Mip Cellars, BC 2009 Qwam Qwmt Pinot Noir $29.99

 

Silver

CASSINI CELLARS, BC 2009 Pinot Noir Reserve $29.00

Church & State Wines, BC 2009 Hollenbach Pinot Noir $25.90

 

Bronze

LA FRENZ, BC 2009 Reserve Pinot Noir $31.90

Road 13 Vineyards, BC 2008 Jackpot Pinot Noir $39.99

 

Cabernet Franc Under $25

 

Gold

Colio Estate Wines Inc., ON 2007 CEV Cabernet Franc $20.75

Inniskillin Wines, ON

2008 Winemaker’s Series Two Vineyards Cabernet Franc $22.95

 

Silver

Hillside Estate Winery, BC 2008 Cabernet Franc $24.99

Tinhorn Creek Vineyards, BC 2008 Cabernet Franc $17.99

 

Bronze

Colchester Ridge Estate Winery , ON 2008 Cabernet Franc $17.80

Pelee Island Winery, ON 2010 Cabernet Franc $11.45

 

Cabernet Franc Over $25

 

Gold

Peller Estates Winery Niagara, ON 2008 Signature Series Cabernet Franc $38.00

 

Silver

Seven Stones Winery, BC 2009 Cabernet Franc $28.00

 

Bronze

Thirty Bench Wine Makers, ON 2008 Small Lot Cabernet Franc $40.00

 

Bordeaux Blends Under $25

 

Gold

Cerelia Vineyards & Estate Winery, BC 2008 Misceo $23.00

Colio Estate Wines Inc., ON 2006 CEV Meritage $20.75

Pelee Island Winery, ON 2008 Alvar Cabernet Merlot $12.95

 

Silver

Gehringer Brothers Estate Winery, BC 2009 Dry Rock Cabernet-Merlot $14.99

Jackson Triggs Niagara Estate, ON 2009 Black Series Cab Franc Cab Sauvignon $13.45

Ridgepoint Wines, ON 2007 Meritage $25.00

Smith & Wilson Estates Wines, ON 2007 Raleigh Vines $14.00

 

Bronze

Harvest Estate Wines, ON 2007 IT’s Our Time $13.95

Hester Creek Estate Winery, BC 2009 Cabernet Merlot $15.99

Lake Breeze Vineyards, BC 2008 Meritage $22.00

Stag’s Hollow Winery, BC 2008 Heritage Block $24.99

 

Bordeaux Blends Over $25

 

Gold

Church & State Wines, BC 2007 Quintessential $49.90

Gray Monk Estate Winery, BC 2009 Odyssey Meritage $34.99

LA FRENZ, BC 2007 Grand Total Reserve $39.90

Quinta Ferreira Estate Winery, BC 2007 Obra-Prima $34.90

Thornhaven Estates Winery, BC 2008 EVOLUTION $31.90

 

Silver

Church & State Wines, BC 2008 Coyote Bowl Meritage $34.90

Church & State Wines, BC 2008 Quintessential $49.90

Kacaba Vineyards, BC 2007 Reserve Meritage $44.95

LA FRENZ, BC 2008 Grand Total Reserve $39.90

 

Bronze

CASSINI CELLARS, BC 2009 Collector’s Series Maximus $29.00

Harbour Estates , ON 2007 Premier Vintage $45.00

Jackson-Triggs Okanagan Estate, BC 2007 Sunrock Meritage $35.00

Painted Rock Estate Winery , BC 2008 Estate Red Icon $55.00

Van Westen Vineyards , BC 2007 Voluptuous $29.90

 

Syrah / Shiraz Under $25

 

Gold

Moon Curser Vineyards, BC 2009 Syrah $24.90

 

Silver

Peller Estates Winery Okanagan, BC 2008 Private Reserve Syrah $19.99

 

Bronze

Mt. Boucherie Family Estate , BC 2007 Summit Reserve Syrah $24.99

Quinta Ferreira Estate Winery , BC 2008 Syrah $24.90

 

Syrah / Shiraz Over $25

 

Gold

Red Rooster Winery, BC 2009 Syrah Reserve $29.99

Tinhorn Creek Vineyards, BC 2007 Oldfield Series Syrah $29.99

 

Silver

Black Widow Winery, BC 2009 SYRAH $31.90

Mission Hill Family Estate, BC 2007 Select Lot Collection Syrah $36.99

 

Bronze

CedarCreek Estate Winery, BC 2008 Platinum Syrah $39.90

Painted Rock Estate Winery, BC 2008 Estate Syrah $40.00

 

Marechal Foch

 

Gold

Skimmerhorn Winery & Vineyard, BC 2009 Marechal Foch $19.50

 

Silver

Larch Hills Winery, BC 2009 Marechal Foch $16.40

Summerhill Pyramid Winery, BC 2007 Organic Foch $26.95

 

Bronze

Jost Vineyards Ltd., BC 2009 Cote St. George Marechal Foch $14.99

 

Baco Noir

 

Gold

Henry of Pelham Family Estate, ON 2008 Reserve Baco Noir $24.95

 

Silver

Sandbanks Estate Winery, ON 2008 Baco Noir Reserve $24.95

 

Bronze

Coffin Ridge Boutique Winery, ON 2009 Baco Noir Reserve $24.80

 

Other Single V.V. Reds

 

Gold

Domaine de Chaberton, BC 2009 Gamay Noir $15.25

Featherstone Winery, ON   2009 Gamay $19.99

Inniskillin Okanagan Vineyards, BC 2008 Discovery Series Malbec $24.99

 

Silver

Mt. Boucherie Family Estate, BC 2008 Family Reserve Zinfandel $34.99

The View Winery, BC 2009 Red Shoe Red (Pinotage) $14.50

 

Bronze

Legends Estates Winery, ON 2007 Petit Verdot Reserve $19.95

 

Other Single Hybrid Reds

 

Gold

Gaspereau Vineyards, NS 2009 Triomphe D’Alsace $17.99

 

Silver

Gaspereau Vineyards, NS 2008 Lucie Kuhlmann $21.99

 

Bronze

Annapolis Highland Vineyards , NS 2010 DeChaunac $22.00

 

Other V.V. Blends

 

Gold

Inniskillin Wines, ON 2008 Winemaker’s Series Shiraz Cabernet $24.95 winery featured in Savvy Selections

Road 13 Vineyards, BC 2009 Rockpile $24.99

 

Silver

Hester Creek Estate Winery, BC 2009 Character Red $19.99

Reif Estate Winery, ON 2009 The Magician $19.95 winery featured in Savvy Selections

 

Bronze

Kalala Organic Estate Winery, BC 2009 Cuvée Noir $15.95

SMITH & WILSON ESTATE WINES, ON 2007 DOUBLE BARREL $15.00

 

Red Hybrid Blends

Gold

Gaspereau Vineyards, NS NV Vitis $21.99

Jost Vineyards Ltd., NS 2010 Valley Roads Leon Millot Baco Noir $9.99

L’Acadie Vineyards, NS 2009 Innovation Series Red $29.99

Stoney Ridge, ON 2010 Radical Red $25.00

 

Silver

Eastdell Estates Winery, ON 2009 Black Cab $12.95

Gillis of Belleisle Winery, NB 2010 Belleisle Premium Red $24.80

House of Rose Winery, BC 2009 Hot Flash $17.90

 

Bronze

Averill Creek Vineyard , BC 2009 Prevost $22.00

Domaine & Vins Gélinas , QC 2008 Rouge Réserve $20.00

Skimmerhorn Winery & Vineyard , BC N/V Devil’s Chair $19.50

 

Late Harvest Wines:

Gold

Hester Creek Estate Winery, BC 2009 Late Harvest Pinot Blanc $15.99

 

Silver

Reif Estate Winery, ON 2009 First Growth Riesling TBA $50.00 winery featured in Savvy Selections

 

Bronze

Calamus Estate Winery, ON 2009 Special Select Late Varvest Vidal $23.10 winery featured in Savvy Selections

 

 

Riesling Icewines:

 

Gold

Jackson-Triggs Okanagan Estate, BC 2009 Gold Series Riesling Icewine $70.00

 

Silver

Mission Hill Family Estate, BC 2009 Reserve Riesling Icewine $59.99

 

Bronze

Jackson-Triggs Okanagan Estate, BC 2007 Proprietors’ Reserve Riesling Icewine $60.00

 

Vidal Icewines:

 

Gold

Inniskillin Okanagan Vineyards, BC 2008 Vidal Icewine $52.99

Inniskillin Wines, ON 2008 Sparkling Vidal Icewine $69.95

Mike Weir Wine, ON 2006 Icewine Vidal $39.95

Silver

Peller Estates Winery Niagara, ON 2008 Private Reserve Vidal Icewine $26.85, 200ml

Bronze

Domaine de Grand Pre, NS 2010 Vidal Icewine $39.50

Inniskillin Wines, ON 2007 Vidal Icewine $49.95

 

Red Icewines:

 

Gold

Pondview Estate Winery, ON 2009 Cab Franc Icewine $35.00

Strewn, ON 2008 Cab Franc Icewine $63.00

 

Silver

Hinterbrook Estate Winery, ON 2009 Cabernet Franc Icewine $48.00

Peller Estates Winery Niagara, ON 2008 Signature Series Cabernet Franc Icewine $90.00

Pondview Estate Winery, ON 2009 Bella Terra Cab Sauvignon Icewine $40.00

 

Bronze

Mike Weir Wine, ON 2008 Icewine Cabernet $39.95

Niagara College Teaching Winery, ON 2008 Dean’s List Cabernet Franc Icewine $54.95 winery featured in Savvy Selections

 

Other Icewines:

 

Gold

Caroline Cellars, ON 2009 CHARDONNAY ICEWINE $42.00

LuLu Island Winery, BC 2007 Riesling Chardonnay Icewine $69.00

 

Silver

Therapy Vineyards, BC 2010 Bi-Polar $50.00

 

Bronze

Domaine & Vins Gélinas, QC 2010 Signature Swenson White $32.00

Stoney Ridge, ON 2009 Excellence Gewurztraminer Icewine $100.00

 

Grape Fortifieds & Other Desserts

 

Gold

Harwood Estates, ON 2009 Just Desserts $25.00

House of Rose Winery, BC 2006 Vintage Okanagan Port $29.90

Stoney Ridge, ON n/v Passion $25.00

 

Silver

Annapolis Highland Vineyards, NS 2010 Highland Beauty $24.00

River’s Bend Winery, BC N/V AMBER $13.00

 

Bronze

La Halte des Pèlerins Inc., QC 2009 Le Miraculé $23.00

Stoney Ridge, ON 2009 Forte $20.00

 

Soft Fruit Dry

 

Gold

Westham Island Estate Winery, BC 2010 SnoGoos Wine $14.95

 

Silver

Sanduz Estate Wines, BC N/V Blueberry Merlot $16.37

 

Bronze

Living Sky Winery, SK 2010 Rhubarb $17.00

 

Soft Fruit Off Dry

 

Gold

Domaine Le Cageot, QC 2010 Le Frambleu $22.25

Muskoka Lakes Winery, ON 2009 Cranberry Blueberry $16.75

Westham Island Estate Winery, BC 2010 Raspberry Wine $12.95

 

Silver

Black Bear Farm Estate Winery, ON 2007 PAPA’S SPECIAL RESERVE $18.00

Living Sky Winery, SK 2010 Raspberry $17.00

Rocky Creek Winery, BC 2010 Blackberry $20.00

Silverside Farm & Winery, BC 2011 Tayberry $20.00

 

Bronze

Aleksander Estate Winery, ON 2010 Raspberry $13.95

Field Stone Fruit Wines, AB N/V Raspberry Fruit Wine $15.95

Harvest Estate Wines, ON N/V Blueberry Mist $9.95

Westham Island Estate Winery, BC 2010 Blueberry Wine $12.95

 

Soft Fruit Dessert

 

Gold

La Vallée de la Framboise Inc., QC 2010 Le Brochu $20.00

Muskoka Lakes Winery, ON 2009 Red Maple $18.85

 

Silver

Coastal Black Estate Winery, BC 2009 Raspberry Dessert $18.00

Field Stone Fruit Wines, AB N/V Saskatoon Berry Dessert Wine $19.95

Kawartha Country Wines, ON 2010 BlackBerry Dessert $9.80

 

Bronze

Black Bear Farm Estate Winery, ON 2009 STRAWBERRY & RED RASPBERRY $15.00

Black Bear Farm Estate Winery, ON 2009 BEAR’S SPECIAL BLEND $20.00

 

Tree Fruit Dry

 

Gold

Forbidden Fruit Winery, BC 2010 Cherysh Cherry Rose $19.95

 

Silver

Les Vergers de la Colline, QC 2010 Ancestral $8.78

 

Bronze

Cypress Hills Vyd & Winery, SK 2010 Saskatchewan Sour Cherries $18.75

 

Tree Fruit Off Dry

 

Gold

Harvest Estate Wines, ON n/v Nectarine Peach $9.95

Les Vergers de la Colline, QC 2010 Rosé (ROSEHIPS) $10.53

 

Silver

Domaine de Grand Pre, NS NV Stutz Hard Apple Cider $10.50

Muskoka Lakes Winery, ON 2010 Georgian Bay Rose $16.95

 

Bronze

Blue Moon Estate Winery, BC 2010 SIRIUS, Apple Table Wine $16.90

 

Tree Fruit Dessert

 

Gold

Jost Vineyards Ltd., NS NV Maple Wine $14.99

 

Silver

Living Sky Winery, SK 2010 Juliett Port-style $23.00

 

Bronze

Forbidden Fruit Winery, BC 2009 Cerise D’Eve Red Cherry Portstyle $29.95

Stoney Ridge, ON 2009 Blueberry Maple Ice $40.00

 

Meades

 

Gold

Applewood Farm Winery ON N/V Madrigal Meade $14.95

 

Silver

Munro’s Meadery, ON 2010 Sweet Mead $15.12

 

Bronze

No Bronze Awarded

 

Iced Ciders

 

Gold

Cidrerie du Minot, QC N/V CRÉMANT DE GLACE $25.00

Domaine Pinnacle, QC NV Reflet d’hiver Ice Cider $21.99

 

Silver

Cidrerie Verger Léo Boutin, QC 2009 Mont de Glace $19.50

Domaine Félibre, QC 2009 Givré $22.75

 

Bronze

Cidrerie du Minot, QC 2006 DU MINOT DES GLACES $15.50

Domaine Leduc-Piedimonte, QC 2007 Ice Cider $26.50

 

Fruit Sparkling

 

Gold

No Gold Awarded

 

Silver

Verger Belliveau Orchard, NB 2009 Framboise Mousseux $12.95

 

Bronze

Domaine Le Cageot, QC 2010 Le Cageolais $29.25

 

Congratulations to all of the winners!

Ontario Wine Awards 2011

The winners were announced on June 10, 2011 with great fanfare at this year’s Ontario Wine Awards. All of us in the Savvy Team congratulate the award winners – several winemakers who we are proud to have shone the spotlight on their talent & wines in our Savvy Selections wine of the month club.

Raise a glass & enjoy fantastic Ontario VQA wines!

Sparkling Wine Award

Gold: Peller Estates NV Ice Cuvée Rosé

Silver: Château des Charmes 2008 Rosé Sparkling Methode Traditionnelle – winery featured in Savvy Selections

Bronze: Henry of Pelham Family Estate NV Cuvée Catharine Brut – winery featured in Savvy Selections

Bronze: Peller Estates NV Ice Cuvée

Dry Riesling Award

Gold: Château des Charmes 2008 ‘Old Vines’ Riesling Estate Bottled – featured in Savvy Selections

Silver: Henry of Pelham Family Estate 2008 Riesling

Bronze: Thirty Bench 2009 Small Lot Riesling Steel Post Vineyard

Semi-Dry Riesling Award

Gold: Mike Weir Estate 2008 Riesling – winery featured in Savvy Selections

Silver: Hillebrand Estates 2009 Showcase Riesling Four Mile Creek Vineyard

Silver: Flat Rock Cellars 2009 Riesling

Bronze: Tawse 2010 Quarry Road – winery featured in Savvy Selections

Dry White Varietal Award

Gold: Nyarai Cellars 2010 Viognier – winery & wine featured in Savvy Selections

Gold: Creekside Estate 2009 Viognier Reserve – winery featured in Savvy Selections

Silver: Konzelmann Estate 2008 Riesling Traminer Late Harvest – winery featured in Savvy Selections

Bronze: Château des Charmes 2009 Aligoté Estate Bottled – winery featured in Savvy Selections

Gewurztraminer Award

Silver: Konzelmann Estate 2008 Gewurztraminer – winery & wine featured in Savvy Selections

Bronze: Malivoire Wine Company 2010 Gewurztraminer – winery featured in Savvy Selections

Pinot Blanc/Pinot Gris Award

Gold: Calamus Estate 2009 Pinot Gris – winery featured in Savvy Selections

Silver: Fielding Estate 2009 Pinot Gris – winery & wine featured in Savvy Selections

Bronze: Inniskillin 2010 Pinot Grigio – winery featured in Savvy Selections

Sauvignon Blanc/Semillon Award

Gold: Jackson Triggs 2009 Gold Series Fumé Blanc

Silver: Creekside Estate 2009 Sauvignon Blanc Reserve – winery & wine featured in Savvy Selections

Bronze: Jackson Triggs 2009 Gold Series White Meritage

Oaked Chardonnay Award ~ Under $20

Gold: Magnotta Winery 2007 Chardonnay Special Reserve

Silver: Stoney Ridge Estate 2009 Warren Classic Chardonnay – winery featured in Savvy Selections

Bronze: Lailey Vineyard 2009 Chardonnay – winery featured in Savvy Selections

Oaked Chardonnay Award ~ Over $20

Gold: Exultet Estates 2009 Chardonnay

Silver: Tawse 2009 Robyn’s Block Chardonnay – winery featured in Savvy Selections

Bronze: Coyote’s Run Estate 2009 Red Paw Vineyard Chardonnay – winery featured in Savvy Selections

Unoaked Chardonnay Award

Gold: Niagara College Teaching Winery 2009 Unoaked Chardonnay – winery & wine featured in Savvy Selections

Silver: Vineland Estates 2009 Chardonnay Musqué – winery featured in Savvy Selections

Bronze: Tawse 2010 Chardonnay Musqué – winery featured in Savvy Selections

Rosé/Blanc de Noir Award

Gold: Flat Rock Cellars 2009 The Rogue Pinot Noir

Silver: Malivoire Wine Company 2010 Ladybug Rosé – winery featured in Savvy Selections

Bronze: Palatine Hills Estate 2010 Cabernet Franc Rosé – winery featured in Savvy Selections

Bronze: Tawse 2010 Sketches Rosé – winery & wine featured in Savvy Selections

Bronze: Southbrook Vineyards 2010 Connect Organic Rosé – winery & wine featured in Savvy Selections

Gamay Award

Gold: Malivoire Wine Company 2010 M2 Small Lot Gamay – winery featured in Savvy Selections

Silver: Malivoire Wine Company 2010 Gamay – winery featured in Savvy Selections

Bronze: Malivoire Wine Company 2009 Courtney Gamay

Pinot Noir Award

Gold: Tawse 2008 Laidlaw Pinot Noir – winery featured in Savvy Selections

Silver: Stoney Ridge Estate 2009 Excellence Pinot Noir – winery featured in Savvy Selections

Bronze: Rosewood Estates 2009 Pinot Noir Reserve – winery featured in Savvy Selections

Red Hybrid Award

Silver: Sandbanks Estate 2008 Foch Reserve

Bronze: Sandbanks Estate 2009 Baco Noir

Cabernet Sauvignon Award

Gold: Fielding Estate 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon – winery featured in Savvy Selections

Silver: Southbrook Vineyards 2007 Whimsy Cabernet Sauvignon Lot 19 – winery featured in Savvy Selections

Bronze: Strewn 2007 Terroir Cabernet Sauvignon – - winery & wine featured in Savvy Selections

Cabernet Franc Award

Gold: Kacaba Vineyards 2007 Cabernet Franc Reserve  – winery featured in Savvy Selections

Silver: Hillebrand Estates 2008 Showcase Cabernet Franc ‘Carlton Vineyard’

Silver: Peller Estates 2008 Signature Series Cabernet Franc

Bronze: Pillitteri Estates 2007 Exclamation Cabernet Franc Reserve  – winery featured in Savvy Selections

Bronze: Rosewood Estates 2008 Cabernet Franc  – winery featured in Savvy Selections

Merlot Award

Silver: Kacaba Vineyards 2007 Merlot Reserve – winery featured in Savvy Selections

Bronze: Hillebrand Estates 2007 Showcase Merlot ‘Carlton Vineyard’

Syrah/Shiraz Award

Gold: Flat Rock Cellars 2007 The Rogue Syrah

Silver: Lakeview Cellars 2007 Syrah Reserve (Diamond Estates-The Winery)

Bronze: Southbrook Vineyards 2009 Triomphe Syrah – winery & wine featured in Savvy Selections

Bronze: Kacaba Vineyards 2008 Syrah - winery featured in Savvy Selections

Bronze: Creekside Estate 2007 Shiraz Reserve- winery featured in Savvy Selections

Meritage and Cabernet/Merlot Blends Award

Gold: Kacaba Vineyards 2007 Meritage Reserve – winery featured in Savvy Selections

Silver: Vineland Estates 2007 Cabernet Merlot Reserve – winery featured in Savvy Selections

Bronze: Magnotta Winery 2007 Merlot-Cabernet Sauvignon Special Reserve

Late Harvest Award

Gold: Konzelmann Estate 2008 Special Select Late Harvest Vidal – winery & wine featured in Savvy Selections

Silver: Château des Charmes 2008 Late Harvest Riesling Estate Bottled – winery featured in Savvy Selections

Bronze: Calamus Estate 2009 Special Select Late Harvest Vidal  – winery featured in Savvy Selections

Vidal Icewine Award

Gold: Inniskillin 2007 Pearl Vidal Icewine

Silver: Inniskillin 2008 Sparkling Icewine

Bronze: Inniskillin 2006 Oak-Aged Vidal Icewine

Vinifera Icewine Award

Gold: Magnotta Winery 2007 Cabernet Franc Icewine Limited Edition

Silver: Mike Weir Estate 2008 Cabernet Icewine

Bronze: Peller Estates 2008 Signature Series Cabernet Franc Icewine

Blended White Award

Gold: Peninsula Ridge Estates 2009 Top Bench White – winery featured in Savvy Selections

Silver: Hinterbrook 2010 Cabernet Franc Blanc

Bronze: Legends Estates 2010 Truth

Blended Red Award

Gold: Wayne Gretzky Estates 2008 Estate Series Shiraz/Cabernet

Silver: Reif Estate 2009 The Magician – winery featured in Savvy Selections

Bronze: Vineland Estates 2009 Pinot Meunier – winery featured in Savvy Selections

Best Label Design Award

Gold: Kacaba Vineyards 2008 Single Vineyard Syrah

Silver: Lakeview Cellars 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve

Bronze: Fielding Estate 2007 Chosen Few Red

Wine Journalism Award

Beppi Crosariol, The Globe and Mail

White Wine of the Year Award

Château des Charmes, 2008 ‘Old Vines’ Riesling Estate Bottled

Red Wine of the Year Award

Flat Rock Cellars, 2007 The Rogue Syrah

Innovation in the Vineyard Award

Deborah Paskus, Closson Chase Vineyards

Winemaker of the Year Award

Paul Pender, Tawse Winery – Savvy Selections June featured winery & winemaker

Known as the “Oscars” of the Ontario wine industry, the highly anticipated results of the prestigious Cuvée Wine Awards have been announced & celebrated! Several of the wineries & their award winning wines have been featured in our Savvy Selections wine of the month club

Red Wine – Thirty Bench Wine Makers, Small Lot Cabernet Franc 2007

 

Limited Edition Red Wine – megalomaniac – John Howard Cellars of Distinction, Sous Terre Cabernet Merlot Reserve 2007

 

White Wine - Riverview Cellars Winery, Gewürztraminer 2009 **Savvy Selections feature winery in August 2011

 

Limited Edition White Wine - Creekside Estate Winery, Queenston Road Vineyard Reserve Viognier 2009 **Savvy Selections feature winery in March 2011

 

LCBO Red Wine – EastDell Estates Winery, Black Cab 2009

 

LCBO White Wine – Jackson Triggs Niagara Estate, Black Series Sauvignon Blanc 2009

 

Sweet Wine – Inniskillin Wines, Riesling Icewine 2008 **Savvy Selections feature winery in 2008

 

Limited Edition Sweet Wine

Strewn, Riesling Icewine 2008 1ST PLACE **Savvy Selections feature winery in May 2011

Stoney Ridge Cellars, Gewürztraminer Icewine Barrel Fermented Barrel Aged 2009 2ND PLACE **Savvy Selections feature winery in October 2010

 

Sparkling Wine

13th Street Winery, Premier Cuvée NV 1ST PLACE **Savvy Selections feature winery in 2010

Henry of Pelham Family Estate Winery, Cuvee Catherine Rosé Brut NV 2ND PLACE

Hillebrand Winery, Trius Brut NV 3RD PLACE

 

Chardonnay

Niagara College Teaching Winery, Dean’s List Chardonnay 2009 1ST PLACE **Savvy Selections feature winery in November 2010

Pondview Estate Winery, Barrel Fermented / Aged Chardonnay 2009 2ND PLACE **Savvy Selections feature winery in April 2011

 

Riesling

Twenty Twenty-Seven Cellars, Fox Croft Vineyard Riesling 2009 1ST PLACE

Cave Spring Cellars, Riesling CSV 2008 2ND PLACE

Gewürztraminer – Riverview Cellars Winery, Gewürztraminer 2009 **Savvy Selections feature winery in Sept 2011

 

Sauvignon Blanc

Creekside Estate Winery, Creekside Estate Vineyard, Reserve Sauvignon Blanc 2009 1ST PLACE **Savvy Selections feature winery March 2010

Five Rows Craft Wine of Lowrey Vineyards, Sauvignon Blanc 2009 2ND PLACE

White Assemblage – Stonechurch Vineyards, Quintet White 2009

 

Pinot Grigio / Pinot Gris – Five Rows Craft Wine of Lowrey Vineyards, Pinot Gris 2009

 

Viognier – Creekside Estate Winery, Queenston Road Vineyard Reserve Viognier 2009 **Savvy Selections feature winery March 2010

 

Cabernet Sauvignon – Strewn, Cabernet Sauvignon Terroir 2007 **Savvy Selections feature winery in May 2010

 

Cabernet Franc

Thirty Bench Wine Makers, Small Lot Cabernet Franc 2007 1ST PLACE

Kacaba Vineyards, Reserve Cabernet Franc 2007 2ND PLACE **Savvy Selections feature winery in 2010

Meritage – Henry of Pelham Family Estate Winery, Reserve Cabernet Merlot 2007

Merlot – Hillebrand Winery, Showcase Merlot ‘Carlton Vineyard’ 2007

 

Red Assemblage – Nyarai Cellars, Veritas 2007 **Savvy Selections feature winery in 2009 & 2011

 

Syrah/Shiraz

Jackson Triggs Niagara Estate, Delaine Vineyard Syrah 2007 1ST PLACE

Stonechurch Vineyards, Syrah Reserve 2007 2ND PLACE

 

Tony Aspler Cuvée Award of Excellence – Bill Redelmeier of Southbrook Vineyards:

For selflessly promoting the Ontario wine industry in London and New York. (Bill organized and arranged for Ontario Chardonnays to be blind-tasted by leading wine writers in Toronto to select the best to be shown to the trade and wine press in London and New York).

**Southbrook Vineyards was a Savvy Selections feature winery in 2010

 

Cuvée Award of Excellence in Viticulture – Kevin Donohue, Colio Estate Wines Inc.

 

More about the awards…
The Cuvée Wine Awards are the only awards in Canada where the winning wines are chosen by the winemakers.  The judging process upholds strict criteria for the award winners and the wines selected for pouring at the Gala. This year, 50 winemakers tasted over 270 wines from 62 wineries to determine the winners.

 

 

 

 

We are excited to announce that we have won Small Business of the Year in this year’s Kanata Chamber of Commerce People’s Choice Business Awards.  Many thanks to all of you who voted for Savvy Company and recognize our talented team of Sommeliers.

We raise a glass of wine to celebrate all that we have accomplished in the past 5+ years and the wonderful people who we have met in the world of wine.

Cheers!

Comments from supporters:
WOW – I am so glad there is such recognition for all of your hard work, Debbie.  Actually, it is much more than hard work.  It takes an intuitive, insightful, creative – not to mention Savvy – person to accomplish what you have.  Congrats! – Vicki

This is amazing news. Congrats to the Savvy Team!  - Amy

Fabulous news!  A big congrats from Marc & I – Lynne

Fantastic & well deserved.  Congrats to everyone in the Savvy Company – Peter

Congrats debbie! you deserve it! – Jess

Congrats!  It’s time for a celebration – Tim

Well Done!!! Congratulations!!! – Naomi

Congratulations Debbie.  We should celebrate.  – Siva

Awesome! – Chef Ken of Chop Chop Catering

To people who have experienced Savvy Company…there was never a doubt that you are award winning.  Congrats Debbie and team. – Peter

Congratulations!  A well-deserved win! – Su

Saw your photo in the paper. Congratulations Deb! – Danielle

Congratulations Debbie to you and your team - Allyson

Gina & I attended the Cuvee Gala and Awards in Niagara on Friday February 26th – billed as the ‘Academy Awards for the Ontario wine industry’, this evening made a big impression on both of us.  I had attended 5 years ago and it was a small black tie affair – more like cocktail reception.  This year was Gina’s first time and she was overwhelmed with the range of wines being served and the size of the venue.  Everything from sparkling to red icewine poured by winemakers in tuxes and cocktail dresses – many people who we did not recognize as we often meet them in the cellar or vineyards donning their finest jeans and t-shirts.

In chatting with Donna Lailey of Lailey Vineyard and one of the wine industry pioneers, she recalled the very first Cuvee event, “it took place in a hotel boardroom and was more of a small party of friends. Now look at this – we are in the grand ballroom at Niagara’s posh Casino.”  There was not enough time to visit every winery!

Cuvee marked a milestone as this evening was the 20th anniversary – a true testament of the rapidly growing industry. During the awards ceremony it gave us great delight to see winemakers who we feature in the Savvy Selections and our winemakers dinners being recognized for their outstanding wines.

And the winners are…
Here is the list of Cuvee winners (those marked with ** are featured in past or upcoming Savvy Selections). Congrats to all and keep up the great work of making fine wines in Ontario!

Red Wine – Thirty Bench Wine Makers, Small Lot Cabernet Franc 2006 GOLD

Limited Edition Red Wine – Creekside Estate Winery , Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2005 GOLD **

White Wine – Legends Estates Winery, Riesling Reserve 2003 GOLD

Limited Edition White Wine – (Tied for 1st Place)
Cattail Creek Estate Winery, Barrel Fermented Chardonnay 2007 GOLD **
Creekside Estate Winery, Viognier 2007 GOLD **

General List Red Wine – Dan Aykroyd Winery, Cabernet Shiraz 2007

General List White Wine – Jackson Triggs Niagara Estate Winery, Proprietors’ Reserve Sauvignon Blanc 2007 GOLD

Sparkling Wine 
Hillebrand Estates Winery, Showcase Sparkling Riesling 2006
AND
Maleta Estate Winery, View Old Vines Brut 2006 **

Sweet Wine
Inniskillin Wines, Riesling Icewine 2007 **
AND
Konzelmann Estate Winery, Vidal Icewine 2007 **
AND
Peller Estates Winery, Riesling Icewine 2006

Limited Edition Sweet Wine – De Sousa Wine Cellars, Cabernet Franc Icewine 2006

Meritage 
Tawse Winery, Meritage 2006 **
AND
Strewn Winery, Three Terroir 2006

Pinot Noir 
Niagara College Teaching Winery, Dean’s List Pinot Noir 2007 **
AND
Flat Rock Cellars, Pinot Noir 2007

Cabernet Franc
Thirty Bench Wine Makers, Wine Makers Small Lot Cabernet Franc 2006
AND
Cave Spring Cellars, Cabernet Franc Estate 2006
AND
Grange of Prince Edward Estate Winery, Cabener Franc Northfield Block 2007 **

Merlot – Harvest Estates Winery, Merlot 2006

Syrah/Shiraz
Creekside Estate Winery, Broken Press Shiraz 2006 **
AND
Lailey Vineyard, Syrah Niagara River 2007 **

Red Assemblage – Wayne Gretzky Estate Winery, Shiraz Cabernet 2006

Riesling – (Tied for 1st Place)
Legends Estates Winery, Riesling Reserve 2003
Tawse Winery, Sketches of Niagara Riesling 2007 **

Gewürztraminer – Calamus Estate Winery, Gewürztraminer 2007 **

Chardonnay Musqué – Cave Spring Cellars, Chardonnay Musqué 2007

Sauvignon Blanc – (Tied for 1st Place)
Peninsula Ridge Estates Winery, Sauvignon Blanc Wismer Vineyards 2007 **
AND
Peninsula Ridge Estates Winery, Fumé Blanc 2006 **

Chardonnay
Peller Estates Winery, Signature Series Chardonnay Sur Lie 2007
AND
Southbrook Vineyards, Triomphe Chardonnay 2006 **
AND
Vineland Estates Winery, Elevation Chardonnay 2007 **

White Assemblage – Hillebrand Estates Winery, Trius White 2007

Tony Aspler Cuvée Award of Excellence – Darryl Brooker, Hillebrand Estates Winery
Darryl Brooker, Hillebrand’s winemaker, who raised the bar of quality for Ontario wines by bringing his extensive experience of winemaking in Australia and New Zealand to Canada and sharing it magnanimously with his peers.

Cuvée Gold Award – Inniskillin Wines, Cabernet Franc Icewine 2007 **

Cuvée Award of Excellence in Viticulture -  Martin Schuele, Schuele Vineyards

For those of you with an interest in fine wines and great blends of the traditional Bordeaux varietals, don’t miss the opportunity to obtain a bottle of one of the Okanagan’s great wines – Osoyoos Larose Le Grand Vin. 

Not only can you purchase a bottle of the 2005 vintage at LCBO Vintages as of its release date, February 28, 2009, you can make an advance purchase in Ottawa on February 27, meet the winemaker, Pascal Madevon, and perhaps have him autograph your bottle!  As a gift to yourself, for a special future event, or for that special winelover, this is a rare opportunity to purchase an outstanding BC wine.

All this is happening at Ottawa’s flagship LCBO shop, at Rideau and King Edward, between 1-3 p.m. on Friday, February 27.

Last October, we had the opportunity to meet with Pascal Madevon at the winery, as the grapes were making their way from the vineyards to the winemaking facility near Oliver.  With rain forecast in the coming days, Pascal and his team were working day and night to ensure the harvest was completed in time.  Said he, “The grapes have to be perfect.” 

Pascal is a friendly and charming Frenchman, whose classical studies in mathematics took a unique turn when he decided he wanted his career to include outdoor work.  When he met with his university counselor and expressed an interest in the wine industry, the fellow questioned his decision – “Pascal, are you sure you want to drive a tractor the rest of your life?”  Undaunted, Pascal moved to Bordeaux, living there, studying, and working in the wine industry for 15 years. 

He first came to the Okanagan in 2001, bringing his young family with him in 2002.  “When I saw the grapes and this location, I knew I could make great wine.”  While this most southerly area of the Okanagan reminded him of Bordeaux, he felt that the steady temperatures in the summer favored the flavors in the grapes, while the warm September weather favored soft tannins.  As he carefully monitored the arrival of the grapes, he commented that he spends 80% of his time in the vineyard.  “Once the grapes arrive at the winery, I worry less – you have many more variables in the vineyard.   Once the winemaking begins, I can control this process.” 

Pascal described what he sees as the critical factors in the creation of outstanding wines:

 - the terroir is primary; and he feels that the southern Okanagan offers an outstanding terroir

- the age of the vineyards has an influence on the wine.  The Osoyoos Larose vineyards were planted in 1999, so we can expect the wine to evolve with each vintage

- climate is an important factor.  He says that certain parcels always produce the best grapes.  For instance, his best parcels of Merlot are located lower on the hills so that they get early shade, while the Cabernet Sauvignon is planted higher to obtain the longest exposure to the heat of the sun.

- the viticulturalist acting on the vineyard is the final factor; for instance deciding how much and when to prune leaves or thin fruit.

Each year, Pascal applies a similar “recipe” in the production of Osoyoos Larose, including similar proportions of the five varietals and specific yeasts.  But each wine is unique, a reflection of the factors he described.  While he has shared vintages of Osoyoos Larose with his colleagues in Bordeaux, Pascal insists that he has no desire to duplicate Bordeaux wines.  “You have to focus on terroir, reveal the terroir.  We want to make a great wine that is uniquely Okanagan.”

Osoyoos Larose was created as a result of the unique partnership established in 1998 between Vincor Canada and Groupe Taillon of Bordeaux.  Their goal was to create great wines of stature, based on the Bordeaux varietals of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Malbec and Petit Verdot, which express the unique character and terroir of BC’s southern Okanagan valley.  Each vintage is selectively allocated to markets around the world, as the wine is sought after by collectors and connoisseurs.

The wine’s name reflects its origins:  the vineyards are located on the gently sloping dry hills above Lake Osoyoos, a few kilometers from the Washington State border; Larose is the name of one of Groupe Taillon’s prestigious estate wineries, Chateau Gruaud-Larose.  The wine is more in the “right-bank” style of Bordeaux, with the primary varietal being Merlot (67%), followed by Cabernet Sauvignon (23%), Cabernet Franc (4%), Petit Verdot (4%) and Malbec (2%).  Sixteen months in a combination of new and one-year-old French barrels were followed by six months of bottle-aging.  Acclaimed by critics, it is a wine meant to be enjoyed with a great meal, an elegant wine which can age for many years.

Don’t miss this opportunity to begin your collection of Osoyoos Larose.  It will be available in Ottawa the afternoon of Friday, February 27, at Rideau and King Edward (LCBO # 626325, $44.95).

If you’d like a unique opportunity to participate in a component and vertical tasting of Osoyoos Larose, consider a trip to the Vancouver Playhouse International Wine Festival, taking place March 23-29, 2009.  Read my blogs for more information about the Playhouse Winefest.