Eating outdoors is one of the best ways to enjoy summer. Why dine inside when we do that all winter long?
I strongly believe that a good meal deserves to be served with good wine. To make sure that I have wine on hand this summer, I took a daytrip to Prince Edward County – a three hour drive from Ottawa or Toronto – to buy wines at the wineries located off-the-beaten-track as well as stock piled favorites I discovered at a wine tasting that Savvy Company hosted showcasing wines from Niagara-on-the-Lake. In both cases, wines were purchased directly from the winemaker as the wines at the LCBO has a modest selection of all of the wines that are crafted at the wineries throughout Ontario. For a greater selection, contact the wineries directly or contact me & I’ll arrange for these wines to be sent to your home, office or even cottage!
Debbie`s Summertime Wine Picks:
Sparkling wine
Prince Edward County pick: Lighthall Vineyard Progression Sparkling Vidal VQA 2011 $20 – refreshing lemon/lime/grapefruit combo of tastes with fine bubbles
Niagara-on-the-Lake pick: Konzelmann Sparkling Rosé $16 – looks like a sunset in the glass. Dry, refreshing – great to sip on before dinner or to unwind with after a meal
White Wines
Prince Edward County pick: Exultet Estates Cru X White Light VQA 2011 $22.95 – The County’s newest winery making impressive wines – including this blend.
Niagara-on-the-Lake pick: Lailey Vineyard Unoaked Chardonnay VQA 2001 $15 – a crowd pleasing dry white wine that is perfect to sip on while the BBQ warms up.
Rosé Wines
Prince Edward County pick: Karlo Estates Frontenac Gris Rosé VQA 2011 $18 – reminds me of watermelon – its colour, aromas & tastes!
Niagara-on-the-Lake pick: Pondview Cabernet Franc Rosé VQA 2011 $15 – a stunning pink colour with refreshing aromas & flavours of juicy strawberries
Red Wines
Prince Edward County pick: Kient-He Winery P2 VQA 2010 $25 – a unique blend of Pinot Noir & Pinot Meunier grapes that makes a medium bodied red wine perfect for burgers or steak.
Niagara-on-the-Lake pick: Riverview Cellars ‘Old Red Tractor’ Syrah VQA 2010 $29.95 – a BIG bold red wine with a fantastic story on the label that will be a great conversation starter!
Raise a glass to a summer filled with delicious Ontario wines!
Cheers,
Debbie