One of our favourite wines is celebrated on May 21st – International Chardonnay Day. It’s a special day devoted to a grape that thrives in Canada’s cooler growing conditions. In fact, several Canadian Chardonnay wines have been getting international recognition in recent years for their outstanding quality. For the past 10 years, one of the largest celebrations of Chardonnay in the world has been held in Niagara – the International Cool Climate Chardonnay Celebration or i4C.

Chardonnay is a very versatile grape that can be made into a wide range of wines – from light bodied, crisp unoaked Chardonnay to Chardonnay that has been aged in oak barrels to become a full bodied & creamy wine with notes of butter, vanilla & spice. 

This Summer, the Savvy Wicked Wines club will feature some delicious wines, including a Chardonnay from Rosehall Run Vineyards in Prince Edward County. This wine region has been compared many times to Burgundy, France – one of the best known ‘Old World’ wine regions for Chardonnay – because of the similarity of the soil & climate. Prince Edward County and Burgundy are even on the same latitude.

Rosehall Run winemaker Dan Sullivan has been growing Chardonnay vines for more than 10 years and says it is the grape variety he enjoys working with the most. The grapes create a relatively neutral juice that’s more easily influenced by winemaking than many other varieties. Sometimes consumers avoid Chardonnay in the mistaken belief that it is always heavily oaked, but not at Rosehall Run. “We use large 500L French oak barrels to ferment and age our Chardonnay,” says Dan, “but I always want to be respectful of the fruit characteristics of the wine and make sure those shine through every vintage.”

Chardonnay is also an important grape in the production of Ontario sparkling wines. Many sparkling wines are blends of Chardonnay and Pinot noir, but others – often labelled ‘Blanc de Blancs’ – are all Chardonnay. Rosehall Run makes one of the best Blanc de Blancs our Savvy Sommeliers have tasted!

If you’re able to make a trip to your favourite wine region this Summer, we encourage you to try more delicious Ontario Chardonnay. It’s very food friendly! Dan at Rosehall Run says he particularly enjoys his JCR Chardonnay with a delicious pasta in cream sauce – like the recipe below!

Of course, you can always subscribe to the monthly Savvy Wicked Wines club and get a taste of featured wineries from different wine regions every month! To learn more, visit www.SavvyWickedWines.ca 

Dan’s Pasta with Mushroom Cream Sauce

          Ingredients:

• 8-10 ounces spaghetti
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 16 ounces cremini mushrooms, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup vegetable broth, or more, as needed
• sprinkle of rosemary, thyme & basil
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese or freshly grated Parmesan
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Directions: 

1. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic and mushrooms, and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender and browned, about 5-6 minutes. Whisk in flour until lightly browned, about 1 minute.
2. Gradually whisk in vegetable broth, rosemary, thyme and basil. Cook, whisking constantly, until incorporated, about 1-2 minutes. Stir in heavy cream, goat cheese (if using) and Parmesan until slightly thickened, about 1-2 minutes. If the mixture is too thick, add more vegetable broth as needed; season with salt and pepper, to taste.
3. Stir in pasta and gently toss to combine.

The countdown to Canada150 & Ottawa2017 celebrations is on!  We’re celebrating in a BIG way this year – by showcasing wines from British Columbia, Ontario, Quebec & Nova Scotia at our upcoming event: Oh Canada! Celebrate Red & White in Ottawa on Thursday, June 22 – next week!

100% Canadian wines.  You read that right…wines from British Columbia, Ontario, Quebec & Nova Scotia will be available for you to Taste & Buy….then have your favorites delivered to your doorstep.

Don’t miss it!  Celebrate Red & White 

Corks will be popping at this all-Canadian Taste & Buy as we celebrate winemakers who have worked incredibly hard to put our country on the world wine map. Meet these Canadian wine rockstars, taste their wines that are WOWing the world…then order your favs to enjoy at home.

It’s THE event you have been waiting for…

The #1 question we get asked: Can you buy from BC, NS & Quebec wineries as well those in Ontario?  YES you can!  Oh Canada! Celebrate Red & White Taste & Buy event is all about ordering wines from BC, NS, Quebec and Ontario…then have them delivered directly to your home or office to enjoy all summer long.

Show your colours!  Buy a $80 ticket & bring a friend for FREE OR $150 for a foursome of Canadian wine lovin’ friends

Canadian cheese too!

What goes best with Canadian wines?  Canadian artisan cheese of course! Cheesemakers & our Cheese Sommelier will be serving samples of award-winning cheeses that you can buy onsite too.

Look who is coming:

From British Columbia…

Noble Ridge Vineyard & Winery
Sperling Vineyards
Abeego

From Niagara…  

Legends Estates Winery
Reif Estate Winery
The Good Earth Food & Wine Co.
Two Sisters Vineyards
Westcott Vineyards
Vieni Estates 

From Prince Edward County…

Casa-Dea Estates Winery
Huff Estates
Karlo Estates
Keint-he Winery & Vineyards
Kinsip House of Fine Distillers
Trail Estate Winery

From other corners of Ontario & Ottawa…

Copper Tree Creative Studio
Mariposa Dairy
Pure Bread Bakery
Sprucewood Handmade Cookie Co.
St-Albert Cheese Co-op
The Merry Dairy
Top Shelf Preserves

From Quebec…

Ferme Guy Rivest
Fromagerie Montebello
Fromagerie Nouvelle-France
Fromagerie du Presbytere
Vignoble Carone Wines

From P.E.I…

COWS Creamery

From Nova Scotia…

Gaspereau Vineyards
Jost Wines

Wine Shopping Heaven! 

At this Taste & Buy event, EVERYTHING is 100% Canadian.

Create your own combo of Canadian wines to have delivered to your home after the event. You won’t find any of the featured wines at the LCBO – the wines will be delivered straight from the winery anywhere in Canada directly to you.  AND…there’s FREE shipping on 6 or more bottles of your top picks.

Bring a picnic basket & fill it up with artisan cheeses & gourmet treats too.

TIP: Be a V.I.T!

What’s a V.I.T? A Very Important Taster.  With 100+ wines, cheeses & goodies to try, purchase your tickets then upgrade each person for an additional $25 to get a V.I.T. Pass.   

You’ll enjoy red carpet treatment with advance access from 5 to 7pm to spend more time sipping & meeting the makers.  Stay as long as you like for the main event.

Buy your Ticket & V.I.T. Pass >>

Don’t miss this all-Canadian celebration! 

Buy your tickets >>   Event Deets

DATE: Thursday June 22 – next week!
VENUE: Horticulture Building @ Lansdowne Complex in Ottawa

TIMES:
V.I.T. Reception – 5 to 7pm ($25 upgrade pass per person is required)
Main Event – 7 to 9pm

ADVANCE TICKETS ONLY: $80 + bring a friend FREE  OR  Group of 4 people for $150
IDEA: Take the bus.  OC Transpo is FREE – simply show a printout of your ticket.

Wear Red & White…Win $50

Be a proud Canadian  – come to this Taste & Buy event dressed head to toe in red & white and we’ll automatically give you $50 off your ticket to our next Savvy Event.

Unable to make it, but want to order?

Don’t sweat it!  The Savvy Team will help you stock up on featured wines showcased at this event. Call 613-SAVVYCO (728-8926) or email us & we’ll send you the complete list of wines & online order form.  You too can get FREE shipping – your order needs to be received by midnight on Sunday June 25.

WIN TICKETS!  Go on the Savvy Scavenger Hunt…

Find this video on our Facebook or Instagram pages, then…LIKE it & POST the name of your favorite Canadian wine.  On Monday, we’ll pick 2 lucky people to receive a pair of tickets & V.I.T. Passes to join us at Oh Canada! Celebrate Red & White.  It’s easy to win!  On your mark…Get Set…GO!!!

Psst…it’s Father’s Day weekend!

Yikes…totally forgot? Our #1 Father’s Day gift is a subscription to our Savvy Hip Hops beer-o-month club.

Click here to subscribe your Dad for 4 or 6 months & his fridge will auto-magically be filled with the best craft beers from a different Ontario brewery each month – bottles, growlers & cans not available at LCBO or The Beer Store.  100% guaranteed to make your Dad smile from beer to beer!

We’re hiring…

We have cool summer job opportunities for a high school or university students to work with the Savvy Team at Savvy HQ in Ottawa. We’re looking for creative & savvy students who are keen to learn about Canadian wine, artisan cheese, craft beer & cider.

Interested?  Contact us on 613-SAVVYCO (728-8926) or send your resume to cheers@savvycompany.ca

Happy Birthday Canada!
–Debbie & the Savvy Team

Savvy Company
613-SAVVYCO (728-8926)
cheers@savvycompany.ca
www.savvycompany.ca

Keep in touch with us…
@SavvyDebbie
@SavvyCompany
@SavvyWines
@SavvyHipHops
@SavvyCoolCurds
#CountyintheCapital
www.facebook.com/SavvyCompany
instagram.com/savvycompanyinc

I was pretty excited to see the feature at the LCBO Vintages be shining the spotlight on Ontario wines. I am a firm believer that we never have to look further than our own backyard for great vintages.

We have wineries in the Niagara Escarpment, Prince Edward County, Lake Huron, Pelee Island and Georgian Bay, just to name a few.  This past summer, my husband I toured around the Twenty Valley and Niagara-on-the-Lake regions visiting several wineries and the enticement of uncorking new wines that we could not purchase locally just overcame us. We stocked up!  If you have not had a trip to wine country this summer, here is the opportunity to go wild at Vintages and pick up some gems.

The 2016 grape harvest is underway! Ontario winemakers have finished picking grapes for sparkling wine and are now busily harvesting white wine grapes.  By all reports from wineries, the crops are looking good!  Pick up some Ontario wines to celebrate our beautiful province and let’s toast the winemakers that make it all happen.

–Julie

If I only had $100, I would buy…
LCBO Vintages Release for Saturday September 17, 2016

13th Street White Palette 2015

VQA Niagara Peninsula
$15.95 (Vintages #207340) 12.5% alcohol 

A fabulous & unique blend of 53% Riesling, 18% Chardonnay, 17% Gewurztraminer, 9% Sauvignon Blanc with a dash of 3% Pinot Gris. The grapes were hand harvested from a variety of vineyards throughout the Niagara Peninsula, with the vast majority from the 13th  Street Estate vineyards. All varieties were fermented separately in stainless steel then blended in the final stage.

Aromas of orchard wildflowers at their peak housed in a soft golden colour. There’s gentle honeysuckle and lemon aromas on the palate with tree fruit; apricots and yellow apples mixed with some buttery almonds on the finish. Delicious and flavourful. My husband and I enjoyed this white wine with some grilled chicken and Caesar salad and it was over the top perfect!

Flat Rock Riesling 2014

VQA Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara Peninsula
$16.95 (Vintages # 43281)  11%  alcohol

White blossoms and ripe tree fruit capture the senses.  Slightly off-dry with lots of fruity flavours, ripe peaches and apples. This medium-bodied white wine has a delectable seam of acidity that sends you back for another sip. It’s smooth and elegant.

Lovely on it’s own or with lighter fare of fish tacos, salads or a bowl of steamed mussels.

Smoke & Gamble Cabernet/Merlot 2012

VQA Ontario  (Rapscallion Wine Company)
$19.95 (Vintages #332825) 13% alcohol 

Located in Port Dover in the county of Norfolk, this winery is new for me and does not disappoint. On the bottle label it states 44% barrel aged and 56% stainless – meaning that this is a blend of wine that was both aged in barrels and tank resulting in a medium bodied red wine.

There is a subtle whiff of dusty aromas (that is a good thing for a wine that is 4 years old already!) with suggestions of roses and violets coupled with red and blackberries on the palate. There is a subtle sweetness of black plums with freshly ground green and black pepper on the long finish. It is slightly tart with firm tannins but then moved into a fabulously smooth and tantalizing red wine blend.  Would definitely marry a hearty autumn stew or thick-with-meat chili.

Westcott Vineyards Temperance Red 2014

VQA Vinemount Ridge Niagara Peninsula
$19.95 (Vintages # 469189) 13.4% alcohol

Bravo to these young retired folks, who bought a 200 year-old timber frame barn, restored it to build a winery around the original structure.  And on top of all that, they planted 26 acres of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes. Talk about a leap of faith. This relatively new winery located in Jordan, Ontario, is right in the heart of the Twenty Valley region, where the soil is the creme de la creme for growing grapes.

This interesting Cabernet Franc & Pinot Noir red wine blend is loaded with red berries – cherry and raspberry flavours jump from this light bodied pale red nectar. It shows more like a light bodied Pinot Noir with layers of personality. Pair it with pork or roast poultry encrusted with lots of herbs.

Pondview Vidal Icewine 2014

VQA Niagara Peninsula
$19.95 (Vintages #390351) 11% alcohol

It has been a while since I included an icewine in my list.  This one is a great price!

By definition, icewines can only be made from grapes that have naturally frozen on the vine and picked when the thermometer dips to -8°C or lower. While the grape harvest yield is particularly low, (hence the high expense), icewine offers a mouthfeel and sweet deliciousness that is worth every penny. With a under $20 price tag on this icewine, our friends at Pondview are giving it away.

This dessert wine has aromas and flavours of sweet baked yellow apple, pear and marmalade, citrus notes at the end of this long divine finish. Dinner becomes memorable when you end with such panache.

Grand Total – $92.75

If your birthday coincides with the LCBO Vintages release on July 25th, your horoscope is dictated by Leo the Lion. You are supposedly characterized by being highly outgoing and independent, possessing a highly social nature so to give these characteristics adage, you should go shopping at Vintages.

This release displays some old tried and trues with a focus on “Wines to Chill”, (probably both figuratively and literally) Argentina and Greece, great new choices for our last week of July 2015 and at terrific price points as you can see below.

And for a little trivia, July 25 is the 206th day of the year (207 in leap years), in the Gregorian calendar. How many of you knew that?

Summertime and my living is easy.
Cheers,
Julie

If I had $100, I would buy these wines at LCBO Vintages…
July 25, 2015

Trius Divine White 

VQA Niagara Peninsula
$19.95 (Vintages #054957) 12.5% alcohol

Aromas of white blossoms and orchard fruits. Pale in colour, this delicate white wine is one beautiful light bodied blend of Riesling, Pinot Gris, Gewurtztraminer and Chardonnay. The taste really is divinely light and fresh. I almost detected a slight effervescence on the palate combined with tastes of pear and melon with a little citrus on the finish. Makes for a lovely afternoon sipper or with some soft cheese, maybe some skewered shrimp in a Thai dressing. A class act.

Pietro Marini Torrontés 2013

Salta, Argentina
$12.95 (Vintages #408443) 13.2% alcohol

The Argentinian signature Torrontes grape never fails to disappoint with its pale golden colour and aromatic nose of white flowers and fruit.Harvested at 1750 feet above sea level gives this wine a distinct light bodied appearance but with a backbone of fresh acidity, pear and lime flavours on the palate. It is a wonderful light-bodied summer white wine; great on its own or with seafood/ summer salads.

Squealing Pig Sauvignon Blanc 2014

Marlborough, New Zealand
$21.95 (Vintages #414789) 13.5 % alcohol

Aside from great marketing (and you should see the bottle!) your nose really perks up with pineapple and strong citrus aromas of lime. Lots of green apple and stone fruit on the palate of this white wine which makes it interesting for a Sauvignon Blanc. It’s so fresh and racy with a slightly herbaceous edge, makes you literally squeal with delight on the finish. Great acidity makes it a fab food partner. It’s fun and very yummy.

Valle Las Acequias Oak Cabernet Sauvignon 2011

Mendoza, Chile
$16.95 (Vintages #287516) 13% alcohol

This 100% Cabernet Sauvignon has it all. Spending 10 months in French Oak has created layers of ripe plums, blackberries and blueberries with aromas of cedar and pencil shavings. Although only 13% alcohol, it’s gutsy. Bone dry but luscious, velvety with soft tannins and a long fruity sweet spice finish. Deserving of a fine quality steak with the hottest horseradish you can find. This red wine stands up to be counted – nirvana.

Grant Burge 5th Generation Shiraz 2013

Australia
$18.95 (Vintages #361295) 14% alcohol

This 5th generation winery never fails to disappoint. This dense purple in colour and fruit forward Shiraz is loaded with opulent ripe plums and black fruit characteristics from start to finish. Some woodsy aromas prevail in this red wine with rich bouquets of the fruit. Ripe tannins with sweet spice and a little menthol on the finish. It reminds me of a chocolate coated mint that sends you back for another (sip) – delicious.

Grand Total: $90.75

The LCBO Vintages release for July 11 focuses on Cool Climate Chardonnay’s, wines from Spain and more Flagship In Store Discoveries (ISD). It’s so easy to find new discoveries with every LCBO release especially this time of year when sitting outside on the patio is everyone’s favourite pass-time…browse through the magazine then off to shop!

Ontario also celebrates Cool Climate Chardonnay, dare I say festival ? from July 17-19 in St.Catherines at various venues including local wineries. Everything from Ontario’s best cuisine to tasting dozens of the region’s finest Chardonnays.

I attended the celebration several years ago when it was held at the Tawse Winery. It might be time for a return trip.

Summertime and the living is easy.

Cheers,
Julie

If I had $100, I would buy these wines at LCBO Vintages…
July 11, 2015

Sunnybrook Redhaven Peach Wine 2013

VQA Niagara Peninsula
$16.95 (Vintages #426551) 12% alcohol

Many years ago, my husband and I visited Sunnybrook Wine Farm and were literally blown away by the vast array of fruit wines. I recall bringing plum and pear wines home to serve with Thanksgiving dinner. They were bone dry but very fruity. The winery produces a huge array of fruit wines that reflect all the ripe fruit grown in the Niagara region. This peach wine is new to LCBO Vintages, medium weight and would be nice over ice as an aperitif served with some soft cheese. It was downright peachy!

Toro De Piedra Grand Reserve Chardonnay 2014

Maule Valley, Chile
$17.95 (Vintages #417493) 14.9% alcohol

A first class Chard. from the Maule Valley. Tropical heady fruits, smooth as silk on the palate, robust layers of pineapple, mango and almonds. A full bodied white wine, rounded with a pinch of sweet spice on the finish.

Cave Springs Estate Bottled Chardonnay 2013

VQA Beamsville Bench, Niagara Peninsula
$18.95 (Vintages #256552) 12% alcohol

An easy going Chardonnay that is perfect for the summer. Tropical fruits, yellow and green apples abound in the aromas of this white wine. On the palate are suggestions of almonds, pineapple, apricots and a little butter. Medium to full bodied, it is mouth filling with deliciousness with a long finish of fruits and toast. On its own or with some grilled chicken or salmon, it’s one fine wine.

Rosehall Run Cuvée County Pinot Noir 2011

VQA Prince Edward County
$22.95 (Vintages #225748) 12.% alcohol

I’m always a fan of Rosehall wines! Winemaker Dan Sullivan does not disappoint with this delicate but complex Pinot Noir. Gentle and silky on the palate, aromas of cranberry and sour cherries with tastes of ripe cherries and some raspberry. It’s soft but rounded, lots of body and interest and you could serve this with anything from light fish to steak or burgers. A versatile red wine with soft tannins and just plain yummy.

Zuccardi Q Malbec 2012

Mendoza, Argentina
$19.95 (Vintages #723478) 14.5 % alcohol

Ripe plums and blackberries, dark and inky, another rich dark Malbec that is a must for the grill. Juicy and rich, full bodied with soft tannins. Also aged in a oak, this red wine finishes long with some sweet spice, sending you back for another sip. With some steak fajitas it would certainly impress.

Grand Total: $ 96.75

The LCBO Vintages release on May 2nd focuses on New Zealand, Germany and rosé wines (High time for the latter). If you’ve had the pleasure of visiting “greenland” down under, you will know that the region is famous for the crisp Sauvignon Blanc’s and Pinot Noir’s. New Zealand even has an official Sauvignon Blanc day in April; how’s that for promoting the varietal?

Although New Zealand only produces less than 1% of the world’s wine, there is an impressive array of varieties and styles.

Rosés just never go out of style and are a fabulous accompaniment to many foods. This release will display all kinds of pink on the shelves so I hope you pick up one or three and think “pink”. Here’s to warm weather and the patio!

Cheers,
Julie

If I had $100, I would buy these wines at LCBO Vintages…
May 2, 2015

Te Whare Ra Sauvignon Blanc 2014

Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand
$24.95 (Vintages # 411603) 13% alcohol

Gooseberry and grassy aromas support the fleshy backbone of stone fruit. Flavours of ripe peach, the citrus has some spicy notes but this white wine is smooth as silk. It’s harmonious and gave me the impression of a well made wine. Balanced with an aftertaste of sweet pink grapefruit pith. A great sipper or with some fish tacos or salmon salad.

Frogpond Organic Chardonnay 2013

VQA Niagara on the Lake
$15.00 (Vintages # 203547) 12.2% alcohol

A fresh and lively new Chard. from the Niagara region. The winemaking philosophy behind Frogpond is “harmony in nature is the prerequisite for truly authentic wine”. I was not disappointed and more than amazed at the price point of this white wine.

It’s lively with some tropical fruit, green grass and apple, light bodied but very satisfying on the palate with a respectable fruity finish.

Perfect for a summer luncheon, salad fare or a wonderful sipper on its own.

Carpineto Dogajolo Rosato 2014

IGT Toscana, Italy
$14.95 (Vintages #699934) 12.5% alcohol

Pale salmon in colour, floral and fruity aromas. Tart cherry and apple flavours, great acidity and soft in the mouthfeel. It’s light bodied, soft and juicy with a light fruity finish. A beautiful summer rose. I have served this with everything from fish to chicken and someone always ends up checking the beautiful label on the bottle, not (as we know) that that makes the wine! I recently found a recipe for crispy cod taco with a smoked pineapple sauce – this will be my summer match!

Wirra Wirra Church Block Cabernet/Shiraz/Merlot 2012

McLaren Vale, Australia
$19.95 (Vintages #24034) 14.5 % alcohol

There is lots going on here with 49% Cabernet, 35% Shiraz and 16% Merlot, not a bit of wonder this masterful red wine blend brings on aromas and flavours of dense, velvety, rich fruit. Impressive structure with soft tannins, lots of backbone! It is a rich wine that would stand up to anything grilled or just on its own – almost approaching nirvana. This is really yum.

Lenz Moser Prestige Trockenbeerenauslese 2012

Prädikatswein, Burgenland, Austria
$20.95 (Vintages #729657) 10% alcohol

Deep golden yellow the flavours in this desert wine are absolutely delectable. Sweet luscious honeysuckle flavours of baked apple raisin compote with toasted almonds. Creamy deluxe with a seam of acidity that sends you back for more. Absolutely mouth coating and a perfect end to a dinner regardless of the season. Balanced and outstanding, it’s desert on its own but with a strong cheese, your tastebuds are pretty close to heaven.

Grand Total: $ 95.80

So what happens when two Canadian-wine-loving guys – Shawn McCormick of Uncork Ontario and Calvin Hanselmann (@TheEvilDoctorD) – lament the fact that Canadian Wine Day (June 28th) is only one day? Why, they end up challenging each other to go for a year without drinking anything but Canadian wine!   When we caught wind of this all Canadian endeavor, the Savvy Team wanted to take part too.

As the saying goes, ‘the more the merrier!’

We invite Canadian wine lovers from coast to coast to coast to take part in the first annual The Great Canadian Wine Challenge (@TGCWC)!  The start line begins on September 1st…and it goes for a whole year.

Being a challenge of who-can-stick-to-the-drink-Canadian-wines-for-365-days, there are some basic rules & reds…err, I mean regs:

#1 – It is all about drinking great Canadian wine, but it is also about having fun along the way!

#2 – The duration of the Challenge is 12 calendar months, starting Sept 1, 2013

#3 – You may only purchase or open Canadian wine for the duration of the Challenge. This allows for a few exceptions like international wine events that may be attended, dinner parties where the host unwittingly opens something non-Canadian, wine-related courses you may be taking where other wines may be opened, and events like i4c2014 or The Riesling Experience where it would be terrible to miss the international wines on offer. With feedback, we decided to allow for international travel exemption as well, as we know how hard it is to get Canadian wine within Canada, let alone the rest of the world!

#4 – You must drink wine from at least three (3) provinces during the 12 month period, and at least 12 different wines during that time. Any Canadian wine counts – VQA, non-VQA, fruit wines, anything that involves fermenting fruit from this great country of ours.

#5 – Commit to a weekly update in one of these ways: via Twitter #TGCWC, a blog post, or an email Shawn & Calvin  and they will track updates from participants & feature in the TGCWC weekly updates.

Ready to take on the Challenge?

To join in the fun by emailing Shawn & Calvin or send a Tweet to #TGCWC.

If you are on Twitter, follow @TGCWC, @TheEvilDoctorD, @UncorkOntario and include #TGCWC of course!

“We also figured we should have some prizes for anyone who can complete The Great Canadian Wine Challenge @TGCWC“, explains Shawn (in red shirt at bottom).  “We’re putting our heads together on some outstanding Canadiana prizes, so stay tuned.  Until then, share on Twitter about the Canadian wines that you have discovered throughout the year.”

Nudge, nudge…
If you are a winery or wine-related business and would like to donate some swag & prizes, contact Shawn or Calvin at thegreatcanadianwinechallenge(at)gmail(dot)com or on Twitter @TGCWC.  They will be sure to praise you all over the interwebs and in a special blog post.

Happy Canadian Wine Year!

Calvin & Shawn

Join the growing list of Challengers…

Want to be famous?  All you have to do is sign up for the Challenge and send Savvy Company your photo and you will be included in our poster-board of Challengers. Take a look to see who have committed to enjoying ONLY Canadian wine this year…

Shake off the winter blues & join our team of Savvy Sommeliers for a fun wine tasting the “coolest” wines from Niagara & Prince Edward County boutique wineries.

These back to back events will take place in small & intimate venues so that you can spend the evening chatting with the winemakers & winery owners about their vineyard, winemaking styles & all the goings on at the winery during the winter months….and stock up on your favorite wines too!

ROCKCLIFFE PARK

Tuesday January 29 @ 7pm
Rockcliffe Community Hall – 380 Springfield Rd

BUY TICKETS > >

~ OR~

WESTBORO

Wednesday January 30 @ 7pm 
Exposure Gallery – 1255 Wellington St West (2^nd floor of Thyme & Again)

BUY TICKETS > >

What is the TWIST?  

At these Taste & Buy events, there will be a wide selection of hard-to-find wines that are not available at the LCBO.  This gives you the unique opportunity to a taste a variety of sparkling, white, red & dessert wines that you can order your new favorite wines that will be delivered directly to your home or office – within a week!

Feature wineries include:

Casa Dea Estates Winery (Prince Edward County) – one of the first wineries in The County will showcase their new range of wines.

Fielding Estates Winery (Beamsville Bench – aka Niagara Escarpment)  – from sparkling to reds, their wines are fantastic!

Lighthall Vineyards (Prince Edward County) – one of the newest boutique wineries in The County…and their wines are turning heads!

Palatine Hills Estates Winery (Niagara-on-the-Lake) – one of the oldest vineyards in the region makes spectacular reds, whites & bubblies

Pondview Estates Winery (Niagara-on-the-Lake) – they’ll be serving their Bella Terra Reserve wines

Rosewood Estate Winery & Meadery (Beamsville Bench) – outstanding white wines & a lovely Pinot Noir awaits…and meads too (winespeak for wine made with honey)

Sue-Ann Staff Winery (Beamsville Bench) – international winemaking star will charm you with her vivacious personality & her impressive wines.

You can purchase your favorite artisan cheese too!

And as wine & cheese is a classic pairing, Vanessa – our Cheese Sommelier – will be on hand at the Artisan Cheese Bar serving handcrafted cheeses from Ontario & Québec that may be purchased to take home with you that night.

ADVANCE TICKETS ONLY

HELD OVER! $55 per person before January 25 (regular $65)

$200 for a group of 4 people (save $15 per person)

Only 50 tickets available per event.  Click to buy yours …

ROCKCLIFFE PARK event on January 29 >>

WESTBORO event on January 30 >>

Price includes wine tasting, cheeses, HST & a special Savvy wine tasting glass

Share this invitation with your friends – everyone is welcome.

These events are hosted in partnership with:

Having raved about Ontario wines throughout September, it is now time to have a look at the southern hemisphere. The 13th October release at LCBO Vintages focuses on “Artisanal Aussies”  as well as premium Chilean sites. I don’t think there is any purposeful connection between the two countries except they both harvest their grapes in January or February and rely on favourable big heat conditions with little risk of frost or harvest time rains- lucky for them! Consequently, their wines can be big, ripe and luscious and this release certainly has some of those.

There are also some bottles well worth a pick-up from California, many are above my budget, but if a special occasion happens to be in the near future or you’d just like to splurge on a couple of bottles for the cellar, the Ravenswood Teldeschi Single Vineyard Zinfindel 2008 at $44.95 is rich and stunning as well as the Grgich Hills Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2008 at $74.95. The latter, made from biodynamic grapes with silky solid flavours is memorable and beyond. Both of these would cellar well and I would be ecstatic to come across one tucked away in 3-4 years.

Also, thanks to this release, I was reminded of an Ontario winery I have yet to explore called Coffin Ridge; Grey County’s first winery overlooking Georgian Bay. This release features their “Back from the Dead Red 2010” which I have included in my $100 dollar basket. This wine is made from the Maréchal Foch grape (pictured on left), which is something of an Ontario specialty.  I think of it as our Ontario “Beaujolais” as it has similar characteristics: light to medium bodied, fruity with lively acidity. The Maréchal Foch grape has been described as a vigorous, work-horse grape that is resistant to cold, ripens early, is frequenty used in blends, but not very often on its own. Both Malivoire and Coffin Ridge produce wines made from 100% Marchel Foch – bravo for our little known Canadian grape.

Halloween wine anyone?

For anyone hosting a Halloween party, with names like “Bone Dry Riesling, Resurrection Rosé and the above, they’d be “hallowed” on any tasting bar. Coffin Ridge also won two Double Golf/Best in Categories at the 2012 All Canadian Wine Championships for their 2011 l’Acadie Blanc and 2010 Marguette. So all to say, this is a winery to watch for and it’s already on my radar for next year’s Ontario journey.

So, the wines are picked. With minimal effort, I could put together a Halloween party; I just have to find a grape costume.

Julie

Oakridge Over the Shoulder Chardonnay 2011

Yarra Valley, Victoria, Australia
$24.95 (Vintages #285759)  12.3% alcohol

I am sometimes suspicious of a Chardonnay that is not golden yellow. This baby is very pale straw in colour and has many of the traditional Chard. flavours of pineapple, apricots and a  little pink grapefruit. It is wonderful to feature a dry, clean, crisp and refreshing Chardonnay that is smooth and subtle, medium bodied with a little toast and butter at the end of a very rich and delicious finish. I had the pleasure of tasting other products from the Oakridge winery and if anyone has a trip to Australia planned, it would be well worth seeking them out. I found all their wines to be complex and memorable.

Coffin Ridge Back from the Dead Red 2010

VQA Ontario
$17.00 (Vintages #260463)  12% alcohol

The Marchel Foch grape was formerly grown in the Loire, France, but because it is a hybrid (the crossing of 2 or more grape varieties) its’ cultivation is restricted by the European union. The grape was brought to Canada in 1946 by Brights Wines winemaker, Adhemar de Chaunac. How’s that for trivia?

The wine is a surprisingly deep plum in colour with aromas of mocha, sour cherry, plums, forest floor and a tad dusty smoke. It is bone dry (no pun intended!) light bodied, the above flavours follow through on the palate with a fair punch of acidity. It might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but with some fatty sausages to soak up all this Ontario grape – it would be magic.

Willy Gisselbrecht Tradition Gewurztraminer 2010

Alsace, France
$18.95 (Vintages #928390) 13% alcohol

There is no wonder that this was a Gold Medal winner at Concours Général Agricole 2011 in Paris.

I was going to say if only these aromas could be bottled but that is what Willy has done.  This lovely pale straw coloured wine is extremely floral with fragrances of red roses, white blossoms and lychee. While swirling this wine in the glass, I could not wait to taste it. Medium bodied, luscious, a little spice on the finish and all I could think of was enjoying this with some turkey curry (most of us have left overs) Pad Thai, spicey spring rolls or just a little chilled on its own – delicious.

Maquis Lien 2006

Colchagua Valley, Chile
$19.95 (Vintages #292250)  15% alcohol

An elegant silky beauty made from 42% Syrah, 30% Carmenere, 12% Cabernet Franc, 9% Petit Verdot, and 7 % Malbec; how could you not love it?  The Winery is located at the convergence of two rivers in the Colchagua Valley of Chile that benefits from a Mediterranean climate. Dark delicious ripe berries come forward on the palate, a little leather with just enough tannicky pucker to make an exqusite melange. Medium bodied mouthfeel but rich with a little spice on the end. Would be fabulous with any grilled meat.

Sasso Al Poggio 2006

IGT Toscana, (Piccini) Italy
$18.95 (LCBO #134809) 14 % alcohol

A dark ruby red that just glistens in the glass. Aromas of ripe cherries and a hint of licorice that follow through on the palate. Medium to full bodied; woodsy tastes with with a bit of chocolate and spice at the end of a long finish. Soft and rich in texture, an absolutely lovely smooth mouth feel; and I can’t count the dishes this could accompany, but lasagne and pasta bolognese certainly come to mind.

Grand Total: $99.80

whew – that was cutting it close !

There is a growing trend in Niagara of grape growers transforming their family business to include a winery.  The Dyck family has done exactly that.  For 3 generations they’ve been growing grapes for larger wineries, yet 4 years ago, the family realized their dream of opening their own winery – Cattail Creek Family Winery –  using only the best grapes from their well established vineyards.

This delicious white wine is made with the unique Chardonnay Musqué grapes.  Don’t be misguided that it is anything like a Chardonnay wine, rather it is a clone that is intensely aromatic – similar to that of Muscat grapes.  This wine is a hands down favorite of several Savvy Selections wine club subscribers – what do you think?

Cheers & Enjoy!

Cattail Creek Chardonnay Musqué VQA 2011

$17.95
Savvy Sommelier Tasting Notes:  Intense aromas of pear, white peach, & lemongrass jumps from your glass then continues in the taste with added flavours of ripe tropical fruit (do you find mango? pineapple? banana?). This medium bodied wine is well balanced & lingers forever.

Suggested Food Pairing:  Great to sip on its own or with light curry dishes, shrimp, soft cheese or stuffed pork tenderloin would be a delicious food pairing.

Want to buy this wine?  We can arrange for it to be delivered!

Cattail Creek Estate Winery has been a feature winery in our Savvy Selections wine of the month club. Want to buy this wine or some of their other outstanding wines? We can help! Simply call on our Savvy Team by phone 613-SAVVYCO or email & we will gladly offer our wine recommendations of Cattail’s wines.

Or why not subscribe to Savvy Selections wine club & outstanding Ontario wines will be delivered to your home or office!