September 12, 2026 LCBO VINTAGES Release Wine Picks: Ontario

Here are my top wine picks from the September 12, 2026 LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection (digital edition here), where local wines from Ontario are the focus of the feature story. While the release is quite good overall, with a number of high-quality wines, the first word that comes to mind when I think about this release is "disappointment."

My first disappointment with this release is that it contains only 83 products, including 14 Online & Flagship Exclusives, leaving just 69 products broadly available across the province. I’ve heard that smaller releases will be the norm for the next couple of months, and perhaps beyond. Second, while there are 20 wines from Ontario, plus one from Nova Scotia and two from British Columbia, there are also 26 wines from Italy. This means that 49 of the 83 wines, or 59%, come from just two countries. I love my Ontario and Italian wines, but diversity is lacking, in my opinion.

The last disappointment took place on Release Day (September 12), when I visited one LCBO store and discovered that it had received only one Ontario wine from the entire release. I then visited a second LCBO store, only to find that all six wines being poured for the Saturday tasting were from the previous release (August 29, which is apparently what they do at this location). Furthermore, their policy was to only place wines from this release, which they had already received, on the shelves the following Monday. Nevertheless, by now, everything should be available for purchase both online and at physical LCBO stores across Ontario.

Moving past my disappointments, let’s have a look at my top wine picks from the feature story, which focuses on great local wines from Ontario. Of the twenty Ontario wines featured, eleven are among my recommended buys. Ontario produces many fine sparkling wines, with Kew Vineyards being a specialist in this category. Kew’s Blanc de Blanc is crafted with Chardonnay, while its Blanc de Noir is made from Pinot Noir. Also featured in this release is a new category of sparkling wine called Fracette—a uniquely Canadian style in which an Icewine liqueur de tirage is used to initiate the secondary fermentation. The Kew Fracette is a blend of 41% Pinot Noir, 33% Chardonnay, 16% Pinot Meuiner, and 10% Vidal Icewine, while the Inniskillin Fracette is a Cabernet Franc sparkling rosé with Cabernet Franc Icewine used to initiate the second fermentation. White wines from Ontario include a pair of lovely Chardonnays, as well as a fine, gently off-dry Riesling. My top red wine picks from Ontario are a trio of Pinot Noirs, followed by a Cabernet Franc.

My top red wine picks from the main release begin with a pair of excellent Riojas from Spain. First is the 2014 Rioja, a blend of 75% Tempranillo, 15% Garnacha, and 10% Graciano & Mazuelo, followed by the 2015 Rioja, made with 80% Tempranillo, 15% Garnacha, and 5% Mazuelo & Graciano. From Italy, the Valpolicella is composed of 85% Corvina Veronese, 10% Rondinella, and 5% Corvinone, while the Toscana Rosso is a blend of 40% Sangiovese, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, and 10% Syrah. Staying in Italy, both the Chianti Classico and Rosso di Montalcino are crafted with 100% Sangiovese, while the wine from Basilicata is made with Aglianico. Lastly, the other mono-varietal reds are a Malbec from Argentina and a Shiraz from Western Australia.

Among my white wine recommendations from the main release, the only blend is a white wine from the Douro in Portugal, crafted with three indigenous varieties—Códega de Larinho, Rabigato, and Viosinho. Among the mono-varietal wines, at the top of the list is the outstanding Verdicchio from 50+-year-old vines, followed by the Pecorino, with both wines coming from the same producer in Italy. Other mono-varietal wines include a Sauvignon Blanc from Chile, a Pinot Grigio from northern Italy, an old-vine Chardonnay from Australia, and a Pinot Gris from New Zealand.

There are two sparkling wine picks outside Ontario. First up is a Prosecco from Italy crafted with Glera, while the second bubbly is a Cava from Spain composed of 55% Xarel·lo, 30% Macabeo, and 15% Parellada.

Enjoy my top wine recommendations from this release! Cheers!

Red Wine:

• FRANKLAND ROCKY GULLY SHIRAZ 2022 - Frankland River, Western Australia (#33371) (XD) - $17.95
• VITICCIO SOSPETTI TOSCANA ROSSO 2022 - IGT, Tuscany, Italy (#50775) (XD) - $18.00  88 pts  wine review
• ZENATO VALPOLICELLA SUPERIORE 2022 - DOC, Veneto, Italy (#995704) (XD) - $18.95  89 pts  wine review
• FABRE MONTMAYOU RESERVA MALBEC 2024 - Vegan, Sustainable, Mendoza, Argentina (#261867) (XD) - $19.95
• PATERNOSTER SYNTHESI AGLIANICO DEL VULTURE 2021 - DOC, Campania, Italy (#51672) (XD) - $19.95
• TAWSE GROWERS BLEND CABERNET FRANC 2021 - VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada (#284570) (XD) - $29.95

• WESTCOTT ESTATE PINOT NOIR 2023 - Sustainable, VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada (#427500) (XD) - $33.95  91 pts  wine review
• BACHELDER LES VILLAGES BENCH PINOT NOIR 2024 - VQA Niagara Escarpment, Ontario, Canada (#11582) (XD) - $34.95  91+ pts  wine review
• POGGIO SAN POLO ROSSO DI MONTALCINO 2022 - Sustainable, DOC, Tuscany, Italy (#60863) (XD) - $36.95
• FONTODI CHIANTI CLASSICO 2022 - DOCG, Tuscany, Italy (#933317) (XD) - $49.95
• DOMAINE LE CLOS JORDANNE LE GRAND CLOS PINOT NOIR 2023 - VQA Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara Escarpment, Ontario, Canada (#184564) (XD) - $55.00  review coming soon...
• R. LÓPEZ DE HEREDIA VIÑA BOSCONIA RESERVA 2015 - DOCa Rioja, Spain (#529586) (XD) - $59.95
• R. LÓPEZ DE HEREDIA TONDONIA RESERVA 2014 - DOCa Rioja, Spain (#356337) (XD) - $82.95

White Wine:

• MATAHIWI ESTATE PINOT GRIS 2024 - Wairarapa, North Island, New Zealand (#12679) (XD) - $17.95
• LEYDA GARUMA COASTAL VINEYARDS SAUVIGNON BLANC 2024 - DO Valle de Leyda, Chile (#99309) (XD) - $18.95
• QUADRUS WHITE 2024 - DOC Douro, Portugal (#667162) (XD) - $23.95
• SCHILD OLD VINE BAROSSA CHARDONNAY 2025 - Barossa, South Australia (#50189) (XD) - $23.95
• NALS MARGREID HILL PINOT GRIGIO 2025 - DOC Südtirol-Alto Adige, Italy (#17365) (XD) - $24.95
• HIDDEN BENCH RIESLING 2023 - VQA Beamsville Bench, Niagara Escarpment, Ontario, Canada (#183491) (D) - $26.95
• UMANI RONCHI CENTOVIE PECORINO 2024 - IGT Colli Aprutini, Abruzzo, Italy (#11108) (XD) - $28.95
• UMANI RONCHI CASAL DI SERRA VECCHIE VIGNE VERDICCHIO DEI CASTELLI DI JESI CLASSICO SUPERIORE 2023 - DOC, Marche, Italy (#98111) (XD) - $28.95  93+ pts  wine review
• DOMAINE LE CLOS JORDANNE JORDAN VILLAGE CHARDONNAY 2023 - VQA West Niagara, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada (#20455) (XD) - $30.00  review coming soon...
• DOMAINE LE CLOS JORDANNE LE GRAND CLOS CHARDONNAY 2023 - VQA Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara Escarpment, Ontario, Canada (#184549) (XD) - $55.00  review coming soon...

Sparkling Wine:

• ALESSANDRO BERSELLI SIGNATURE COLLECTION VALDOBBIADENE PROSECCO SUPERIORE 2025 - DOCG, Italy (#51608) (D) - $19.95  89 pts  wine review
• CYGNUS SADOR ORGANIC RESERVA BRUT NATURE CAVA - Vegan, Sustainable, Traditional Method, DO Penedès, Spain (#352856) (XD) - $19.95
• KEW FRACETTE SPARKLING 2025 - Charmat method, VQA Ontario, Canada (#53239) (XD) - $26.95  review coming soon...
• KEW BLANC DE BLANC 2019 - Traditional Method, VQA Beamsville Bench, Niagara Escarpment, Ontario, Canada (#438994) (XD) - $32.95  review coming soon...
• KEW BLANC DE NOIR 2021 - Traditional Method, VQA West Niagara, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada (#380030) (XD) - $32.95  review coming soon...
• INNISKILLIN FRACETTE ROSÉ SPARKLING 2025 - Charmat Method, VQA Ontario, Canada (#53240) (XD) - $34.95  review coming soon...
  
  

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Tapiz Alta Collection San Pablo Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2023 (Argentina) - Wine Review

Tonight's red wine review is a lovely, high-altitude, single-vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon from the Uco Valley that was featured as a Hand-Picked Gift in the recent August 29 LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection.

Like the lovely 2023 Tapiz Alta Collection San Pablo Vineyard Malbec I enjoyed a few months ago, this red wine is produced by Fincas Patagónicas, one of Argentina's most prominent wine producers. Fincas Patagónicas was established in 2003 by Patricia Ortiz with the goal of crafting exceptional wines from Argentina's most distinctive terroirs. The winemaking philosophy combines traditional methods with innovative techniques to create wines from high-altitude vineyards in Mendoza and along the Atlantic coast of Patagonia that truly express the unique terroir of each region.

Fincas Patagónicas has three winery projects in Argentina — Zolo, Tapiz, and Wapisa. Tapiz is located in the heart of the San Pablo Geographical Indication (GI), within the Tunuyán department of the Uco Valley, Mendoza. Situated at 4,600 feet above sea level, the estate is home to one of Mendoza's highest-elevation vineyards. At Tapiz, sustainable winemaking traditions are combined with modern innovation at its state-of-the-art winery, which was constructed in 2016 and is surrounded by estate vineyards. Under Patricia's guidance, Tapiz has been a pioneer in the region and played a role in the development of the San Pablo GI. The San Pablo GI benefits from extremes of altitude, temperature, and soil heterogeneity, allowing for the creation of full-bodied and concentrated wines that are also elegant and balanced.

Tapiz is committed to environmentally conscious practices and to producing wines that faithfully express their unique terroir. Today, the wines are crafted by the celebrated winemaking team of Fabián Valenzuela and famed Bordeaux winemaker Jean-Claude Berrouet, who was the winemaker at Pétrus for 44 vintages. The name "Tapiz" is Spanish for tapestry, and the label and capsule depict the different components that come together to create wine, including high-altitude fruit, the land, the sun, and the workers. Thus, Tapiz represents a beautiful tapestry of terroir and innovation. Through her wineries, Patricia is also dedicated to giving back to the environment through sustainable practices while encouraging responsible practices among staff, suppliers, and customers.

This red wine is crafted with 100% Cabernet Sauvignon grown in the San Pablo Vineyard surrounding the winery. The estate vineyard is situated at 4,600 feet above sea level, and the 16-year-old vines were sustainably farmed. To vinify the wine, the grapes underwent a cold pre-maceration at 8˚C for 5 days to extract colour and aromas. The wine was then fermented in stainless steel tanks at approximately 28˚C for 14 days before resting on its lees for 16 days. It was subsequently aged in French oak barrels for 12 months, with 15% of the barrels being first-use and the remainder second- and third-use.

The 2023 vintage in Argentina was defined by multiple frosts, which greatly reduced yields in most parts of the country. However, higher-elevation sites with natural slopes fared better as the cold air moved to lower areas. Spring eventually turned warm and dry, leading to the hottest Argentine summer since 1961 and historic drought conditions. With lighter fruit loads, the grapes ripened more quickly than average, resulting in an earlier harvest. Despite the heat and drought, the low yields concentrated flavours, while the dry conditions kept disease at bay. From a vintage with high expectations for red wines from high-altitude vineyards, let's see how this 2023 Cabernet Sauvignon from the Uco Valley is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

TAPIZ ALTA COLLECTION SAN PABLO VINEYARD CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2023 - Valle de Uco, Mendoza, Argentina (#403345) (XD) - $20.95
The medium-high intensity nose offers ripe black fruits, blackberry, black plum, and cedar oak aromas followed hints of black currant, cassis, and grilled herbs. On the dry, medium+ to medium-full bodied palate has delicious, ripe black fruits, black currant, blackberry, black plum, and oak spice flavours, along with touches of graphite, and grilled herbs. It has clean, fresh acidity, alongside finely textured and firm tannins with good structure that will benefit from a few years in the cellar. It's well-balanced throughout with black currant, cassis, and cedar oak notes, plus hints of graphite lingering on the long, slightly youthful finish. Highly recommended buy! Score: 90 pts

The aforementioned Malbec is available at the LCBO, along with another Malbec, while the full range of Fincas Patagónicas wines can be ordered through their Agent - DB Wine & Spirits.

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Domaine Welty Bélénus Gewürztraminer 2023 (Alsace) - Wine Review

Tonight's white wine review is a beautiful, organic, and off-dry Gewürztraminer from Alsace that made its debut at the LCBO last month. It arrived as part of the feature on Great Wines for Takeout Nights in the August 15 LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection and would be ideal for pairing with spicy dishes such as Thai or Indian curries.

It is produced by Domaine Welty, a small, family-run winery situated in the commune of Orschwihr in southern Alsace, at the foot of the Bollenberg hill. The family's story began when M. Welty planted her first vines in 1738 on the dry and arid hills of the Bollenberg. Eight generations later, the Welty family continues with the same faith and passion, with a beautiful family history that binds them strongly to the land, vineyard, and wine.

The modern era of Domaine Welty began in 1984, when Jean-Michel took over management of the estate from his father, Fernand. As the seventh generation of the family, Jean-Michel gradually doubled the vineyard size to what is now 14 hectares of vines. In 2012, Jean-Michel was joined by his son, Jérémy, who represented the eighth generation of the family and brought a wind of freshness to the domaine, including new ideas and cultivation techniques – specifically organic agriculture. In 2018, the domaine received its Organic Farming certification, while Jérémy also took over winemaking responsibilities. In 2021, Jérémy took over the domaine from his father.

Since the beginning, the Welty family's daily work has been guided by their conviction that nature will give them what they have given it. Every day they apply with passion and fervor the principles of organic farming, observing the virtues that it generates in the vineyard. Additionally, by cultivating their vines organically, they have gained a better understanding of the vineyard. They have also begun implementing new processes, in particular developing decoctions in order to carry out homeopathic vine treatments. Today, the philosophy at Domaine Welty has evolved strongly in order to listen to nature, respect it, understand it, and seek balance. This allows the family to produce the most natural wines possible, along with the purest expression of their terroir.

Domaine Welty has several ranges of wines, with this particular wine coming from their "Blancs de Terroir" range, a group of terroir-driven white wines. It is crafted using 100% Gewürztraminer that was organically grown on clay-limestone soils. The name Bélénus is associated with the Bollenberg hill near the domaine's vineyards. Belenus (or Belenos) was an ancient Celtic deity whose name is generally associated with brightness, light, and the sun, making the name a fitting reference to the dry Bollenberg hill and its excellent exposure to the sun.

To craft this Gewürztraminer, the grapes were hand-harvested and placed in small crates. Upon arriving at the winery, the whole grapes were direct-pressed using a pneumatic press, and then fermented using indigenous yeasts in stainless steel vats at a controlled temperature. It was matured on fine lees until bottling.

The growing season in Alsace in 2023 began with a dry and mild winter, followed by a cool and wet March, which pushed budburst beyond the reach of early April frosts. While April remained wet and cool, May brought summer warmth, particularly towards the end of the month, followed by flowering and significant heat during the first two weeks of June. Gewürztraminer fared well in the weather conditions as July remained warm and dry, however, drought was becoming problematic. The end of July and early August was cooler and wetter, while dry heat arrived towards the end of the month. Due to the dry conditions, phenolic maturity was unusually ahead of sugar maturity, which resulted in harvest taking place a little bit later than anticipated. From another excellent vintage (8th out of the last 9 years), let's see how this 2023 Gewürztraminer from Alsace is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

DOMAINE WELTY BÉLÉNUS GEWÜRZTRAMINER 2023 - AOC Alsace, France (#49863) (M) - $25.95
This organic Gewürztraminer from Alsace has a lovely, intense, medium-high to highly aromatic nose with perfumed aromas of lychee, rose floral, yellow fruit, and citrus with touches of spice. The rich, weighty, medium-full bodied palate has very good concentration with lovely lychee, rose floral, citrus, yellow fruit, and spice replays in an off-dry flavour profile. It's framed by fresh, lively acidity that tempers the sweetness. Clean and well-balanced throughout with leesy, mineral, and spice notes lingering on the long, savoury, and textured finish. Highly recommended buy! Score: 91 pts

Other lovely wines by Domaine Welty can be ordered through their Agent - KOLONAKI Group of Companies.

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La Nerthe Les Cassagnes Côtes-du-Rhône Villages 2023 (France) - Wine Review

Tonight's red wine review is an excellent, organic GSM blend from the Côtes du Rhône-Villages appellation of the Southern Rhône Valley. It arrived at the LCBO in the August 15th LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection and was featured as a Great Wine for Takeout Night, ideally paired with takeout burgers.

It is produced by Domaines Richard, a winemaking family passionate about wine since 1892. The Richard family's expertise has been passed down through the generations and is rooted in the constant pursuit of perfection from vine to glass. Since 1960, the Richard family has drawn inspiration from the major wine regions of the Rhône Valley, Bordeaux, and Beaujolais to craft wines with many expressions that reflect the richness and diversity of their grape varieties.

In 1985, Domaines Richard acquired Château La Nerthe, a historic and renowned estate situated in Châteauneuf-du-Pape. In 1994, Domaine de la Renjarde was acquired and would go on to become Les Cassagnes de La Nerthe, just 15 km north of Châteauneuf-du-Pape. The vineyards of Les Cassagnes are situated in the named village appellation of Massif d'Uchaux, and are composed of three terraces, the highest of which overlaps with the surrounding Mediterranean forest, while garrigue (thyme, rosemary, laurels, evergreen oaks, olive trees, and genista) is found everywhere.

The Les Cassagnes vineyards are made up of 50 hectares in Sérignan-du-Comtat, along with another 20 hectares in Mondragon that were acquired a short time ago. While these two vineyards share proximity and similarities, they are also complementary. The historic vineyard in Sérignan-du-Comtat is situated at the level of the Rhône River, only 70 metres above sea level, while the newly integrated plots in Mondragon are about 200 metres above sea level. In Sérignan-du-Comtat, the vineyard is a succession of large terraces, while in Mondragon it is a mosaic of 38 small plots with their own micro-terroirs, separated by wooded patches. While both vineyards are rich in red sands and siliceous clay, the Mondragon plots seem richer in limestone, with many flat white stones visible on the surface. The vines also seem to be planted directly on rock, a somewhat rare occurrence in the Southern Rhône Valley.

The philosophy at Les Cassagnes de La Nerthe is focused on nature. With a commitment to preserving the environment, terroir, health of consumers, and the teams, the Les Cassagnes vineyard has been certified organic since 2013. In nature, the synergy between the sown plants and the soil microorganisms allows restructuring and enrichment of the soils, especially in organic matter, which is beneficial to the cultivation of the vine. The abundance of plants on the ground also provides a refuge for birds, small rodents, small herbivores, and insects, which promotes a balanced ecosystem and natural regulation of certain insect pests of the vine. By implementing forest hedges, they believe this will help with climate change, keep the plots cool, and protect them from hard-blowing winds. They have also started having sheep graze in the vineyards.

This red wine is crafted using a blend of 55% Grenache, 40% Syrah, 4% Mourvèdre, and 1% other varieties. The grapes were grown organically at La Nerthe's "Les Cassagnes" vineyards within the communes of Sérignan-du-Comtat and Mondragon. The vineyards are planted at altitudes up to 182 metres above sea level, featuring multiple microclimates and soils composed of poor sand, clay, and calcareous rocks that provide natural filtration. The name Les Cassagnes means oak trees and refers to the green oak forest that surrounds the vineyards.

To vinify this wine, the grapes were hand-harvested and sorted in the vineyard. Upon arriving at the winery, the grapes were lightly crushed, with several daily pump-overs, to gently extract colour and tannins. The three main varieties were co-fermented over a long maceration of 3–4 weeks. After fermentation, the final blend was aged on fine lees in stainless steel tanks for 12 months before bottling.

In 2023, the growing season in the Southern Rhône began with a dry and windy winter with episodes of Mistral winds, followed by a wet spring with rain that provided the water needed for the growing period. While summer temperatures were hot, water stress was not critical and there was no disease in the vineyards. A final strong heatwave led to harvest beginning at the end of August and ending at the beginning of October, with the end results being generous red grapes that produced lovely, balanced wines. From a good vintage for vines grown on clay soils beneath rolled pebbles in the Southern Rhône, let's see how the 2023 Côtes du Rhône-Villages red wine is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

LA NERTHE LES CASSAGNES CÔTES-DU-RHÔNE VILLAGES 2023 - AOP, France (#494674) (XD) - $27.95
Organic blend of 55% Grenache, 40% Syrah, 4% Mourvèdre, and 1% other varieties. Elegant, gently perfumed aromas of medium-high intensity rise out of the glass with black raspberry, garrigue, strawberry, cherry, and peppery spice aromas flecked with stony minerals and scorched earth. The mid-weighted, slighty warm palate is dry and ripe with lovely black raspberry, garrigue, plum, cherry, strawberry, peppery spice, stony mineral, and earthy flavours in a complex profile. Acids are well-balanced, while the smooth, refined tannins have a somewhat creamy mouthfeel that leads to a supple, fine-grained, and gently chalky textured back palate. Red berry, garrigue, and peppery spice notes taper to stony mineral and savoury earth on the long, balanced, and very satisfying finish. Highly recommended buy! Score: 91+ pts

Extremely limited quantities of other fantastic wines by Château La Nerthe are available at the LCBO, while the full portfolio can be ordered through their Agent - Woodman Wines & Spirits.

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Luis Felipe Edwards Cinso Reserva Cinsault 2024 (Chile) - Wine Review

Happy long weekend! Tonight's red wine review is a delicious, vegan-friendly, and unoaked Cinsault from the Itata Valley in Chile that made its debut at the LCBO in last month's August 15 LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection.

It is produced by Luis Felipe Edwards (LFE), a major wine producer in Chile that makes premium wines with unique styles and characteristics. It was established in 1976 by Luis Felipe Edwards Sr. after he and his wife returned to Chile following some years in Europe. The couple was enamoured by an estate in Colchagua Valley that was for sale by a family friend and already had 60 hectares of vineyards, a small winemaking facility, and a historical country farmhouse. This estate was the foundation for what would become one of Chile's largest wineries, while also committing to maintaining their family heritage.

Over the years, Luis Felipe Edwards purchased more vineyard holdings and produced bulk wine, but in the 1990s, he recognized the quality of the wines being produced from his estate grapes and decided to bottle his wine and sell it under his own brand, using his own name as a seal of quality on each bottle.

In the 2000s, Luis Felipe Edwards Jr. took over the role of General Manager, while all director positions are held by members of the family. The focus was to preserve the quality of his wines while also diversifying the portfolio, which led to the exploration of new terroirs, most notably an estate in coastal Leyda Valley. Since 2010, LFE has grown exponentially by increasing vineyard plantings and winemaking and bottling capacities in order to keep up with growing demand, with a particular focus on premium wine grapes.

Today, LFE Wine Group is still family-owned and -managed. Their mission is to be the leading ambassador of Chilean wine across all categories, while also offering exceptional quality at the best value to wine drinkers worldwide. LFE is committed to innovation, sustainability, and biodiversity, while honouring their heritage in every bottle they produce.

LFE Wine Group has several estates and many brands and ranges of wines, and what makes them unique is their exclusive origin and the gentle care in which they are crafted, which gives them their distinctive personalities. All of the company's wines are produced at their Puquillay Estate in the Colchagua Valley and are vegan-friendly. This particular red wine is from LFE's Heritage range of wines. This Cinso and its companion Paí are fresh and unique wines crafted using grapes from small producers in Chile's Itata Valley. These Cinsault and País vines were planted on their own roots more than 30 and 80 years ago, respectively, and are head-trained and traditionally harvested by hand, giving rise to a pair of wines that are a true reflection of their terroir and the history of Chile.

This red wine is crafted with 100% Cinsault that was sourced from small growers located in various areas of the Itata Valley, about 500 km south of Santiago. The vineyards are situated at high altitude on gently rolling terrain approximately 30 km inland from the ocean, while the vines are more than 30 years old and are planted on their own roots, without rootstock. Vineyard work was carried out traditionally, with tillage on horseback and without machinery.

To vinify this wine, the grapes were hand-harvested during the first and third weeks of April, and different winemaking techniques were used to achieve the greatest expression of fruit. Maceration was carried out using both thermo-flash and traditional techniques. Some berries were destemmed, while others remained as whole clusters, and everything underwent a delicate crushing prior to alcoholic fermentation, which was carried out over 10 days with wild and native yeasts. The wine was then macerated for another 15 days on its skins, and was then aged on its fine lees and bottled unfiltered. It had no contact with wood, resulting in a wine of intense colour and spice notes, and a rustic character.

The 2024 growing season in southern Chile began with a wet winter and cool spring due to El Niño. However, this also meant that there were no summer heat spikes, which allowed for slow, even ripening and higher-than-usual acidity levels. Despite some challenges, quality expectations are high. Let's see how this 2024 Cinsault from Chile is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

LUIS FELIPE EDWARDS CINSO RESERVA CINSAULT 2024 - Vegan, Unfiltered, Unoaked, DO Valle del Itata, Chile (#51147) (XD) - $16.95
Screw cap. The medium+ to medium-high intensity has engaging aromas of peppery spice, dark red berry, wild berry, and dried herbs with savoury, underbrush, and earthy undertones. The dry, medium+ bodied palate has a nice, weighty mouthfeel with a fine mix of fruity-herbal-earthy notes with dark red berry, mild peppery spice, and earthy mineral flavours. Crisp, citrusy acids are fresh and juicy, while the tannins have a slightly chalky textured grip, with good structure. Tangy wild berry and dried herbal notes taper to savoury earth and underbrush on the dusty textured finish, with very good length. Recommended buy! Score: 89 pts

A couple of other wines by LFE Wine Group are available at the LCBO, while wines from the full portfolio can be ordered through their Agent - Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits of Canada.

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Bortoluzzi Pinot Grigio delle Venezie 2024 (Italy) - Wine Review

Tonight's white wine review is a delicious Pinot Grigio from the delle Venezie DOC in northeastern Italy that returned to the LCBO in last month's August 15th LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection.

It is produced by Bortoluzzi Wines, a family-owned winery that was established in 1982 by Giovanni Bortoluzzi, in the region of Friuli-Venezia Giulia in northeastern Italy. The family estate is situated at Borgo Tintor, within the comune of Gradisca d'Isonzo, in the far eastern part of Italy, close to the Slovenian border. Since its founding, the family's production philosophy has been based on the Latin motto "Ad Maiora", which means "towards greater things."

The Bortoluzzi family's passion for wine was handed down from one generation to the next. Giovanni worked in the wine industry as a consultant and bottler for many years before deciding to establish his own estate with his wife, Mireide. Today, the children of Giovanni and Mireide hold important roles in the family business, as Alberto is the Agricultural Expert and Vineyard Manager, Angela is Administration and Marketing Manager, and Alessio is Sales Director and Cellar Manager.

Together, they tend to their lands and vineyards which are treated like gardens. The Bortoluzzi vineyards are divided between the hills and plains, in the prestigious DOC wine regions of Collio and Isonzo, within Friuli Venezia Giulia. They pay great attention to detail, ranging from the extraordinary order of their rows to everyday work at the winery. While firmly believing that sensitivity is fundamental to creating excellent wines, their ability to listen to the land and perceive subtle changes in the vineyard allows Bortoluzzi to understand their terroir, adapt, and improve, which is at the heart of their wine production.

As good wine is made in the vineyard, sustainability is an indelible imprint that permeates every aspect of the Bortoluzzi family's daily lives. In order to make progress, it is essential to look to the future without forgetting the valuable lessons imparted by history and experience. They have great respect for the rhythms of nature as the vineyards are the beating heart of the winery, and their commitment to sustainability begins with the meticulous care of the rows of vines.

This white wine is crafted with 100% Pinot Grigio that was grown on the outskirts of the comune of Gradisca d'Isonzo, right on what in Roman times was the important Via Gemina. Half of the grapes come from 50 hectares of vineyards surrounding Bortoluzzi's Borgo Tintor estate, while the remainder comes from the prestigious DOCs of Collio and Isonzo. To craft this wine, all the grapes were hand-harvested and gently pressed whole. After being cold-decanted, the must was fermented at a controlled temperature of 17°C in stainless steel tanks for 6 months.

The growing season in 2024 in delle Venezie began with abundant spring rains, with different frequency and intensity depending on the area, followed by a sharp increase in temperatures, which improved the situation. With proper management in the vineyard, the result was healthy and quality grapes. Let's see how this 2024 Pinot Grigio from DOC delle Venezie is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

BORTOLUZZI PINOT GRIGIO DELLE VENEZIE 2024 - DOC, Italy (#27621) (XD) - $23.95
The lifted, medium-high intensity nose offers fresh spring flowers, lemon citrus, apple, pear, and garden herb aromas with hints of honey blossom emerging with time in the glass. On the dry, medium-bodied, and textured palate it is ripe with lemon citrus, honey blossom, floral, apple, and pear replays joined by spice and leesy mineral flavours. It's supported by clean and fresh acidity, while citrus, apple, and pear flavours taper to leesy minerals and gentle pithy notes on the long, textured finish. Recommended buy! Score: 89 pts

Other delicious wines by Bortoluzzi can be ordered through their Agent - Woodman Wines & Spirits.

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August 29, 2026 LCBO VINTAGES Release Wine Picks: Book Club Wines

Here are my top wine picks from the August 29, 2026 LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection (digital edition here), where “Book Club” is the title and main theme of the release. With 92 products offered, this is on the smaller side of the spectrum. There are 40 red wines in the release, along with just 26 white wines, while sparkling wines and rosé make up much of the remainder. The average price per bottle comes in at just under $25. Overall, it is a good release, with all but one of my recommendations priced below $40, and everything should be readily available for purchase both online and in stores at LCBO outlets across Ontario.

We’ll begin with the feature story titled “Book Club – Thoughtful Wine and Literary Pairings,” which includes seventeen wines that are perfect pairings for book lovers. Since my picks are focused on the wines themselves, only a couple of wines from the feature are included among my recommendations. One is a blend of 65% Tempranillo and 35% Grenache from Australia, while the other is a Malbec from Argentina.

Among my top red wine picks, we’ll go local first with a pair of blends from Niagara. The wine from Niagara-on-the-Lake is composed of 53% Cabernet Franc and 47% Merlot, while the wine from Leaning Post is 47% Merlot, 39% Cabernet Franc, and 14% Syrah. Other blends include the Roussillon red, which is composed of approximately 70% Syrah, 20% Grenache, and 10% Carignan, as well as the Chianti Classico, which is composed primarily of Sangiovese (90%), with Canaiolo and Colorino completing the blend. Among the mono-varietal reds, there is a Barolo crafted with Nebbiolo, while the Riserva Chianti Classico is 100% Sangiovese. The remaining mono-varietal reds are a Gamay from Beaujolais, a Pinot Noir from South Africa, and a pair of Cabernet Sauvignons—one each from Argentina and South Africa.

The only blend among my top white wine recommendations is the Rhône wine, which is crafted with 70% Grenache Blanc, 15% Clairette, 10% Viognier, and 5% Roussanne. Chardonnay is particularly well represented in this release, with four recommendations—one each from Niagara, Prince Edward County, Chile, and New Zealand. There are also a pair of Sauvignon Blancs, one each from the Loire and New Zealand. Rounding out the selection are a fine Malagouzia from Greece, a Chenin Blanc from South Africa, and a Graševina from Croatia.

The remaining recommendations are in other styles, rather than red or white wines, and are all blends. At the top of the list is a Champagne crafted with 60% Pinot Meunier, 30% Chardonnay, and 10% Pinot Noir, while the Cava is approximately 40% Xarel·lo, 40% Parellada, and 20% Macabeu. Both of the rosé recommendations are from Provence and are dry in style, with the Coteaux d’Aix-en-Provence a blend of Grenache, Syrah, and Cinsault, while the Côtes de Provence is crafted with 46% Cinsault, 34% Grenache, 12% Mourvèdre, 4% Syrah, 2% Rolle, and 2% Sémillon.

Enjoy my top wine recommendations from this release! Cheers!

Red Wine:

• CAP MARITIME COASTAL PINOT NOIR 2024 - Vegan, Sustainable, WO Cape South Coast, South Africa (#51626) (XD) - $19.95
• ZONTE'S FOOTSTEP SPLITTING HARES TEMPRANILLO/GRENACHE 2022 - Vegan, Fleurieu, South Australia (#30847) (XD) - $19.95
• RUSTENBERG STELLENBOSCH CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2023 - WO Stellenbosch, South Africa (#443374) (XD) - $19.95
• CHÂTEAU SAINT-ROCH CHIMÈRES CÔTES DU ROUSSILLON-VILLAGES 2022 - AOP, France (#119354) (XD) - $19.95  90+ pts  wine review
• TAPIZ ALTA COLLECTION SAN PABLO VINEYARD CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2023 - Valle de Uco, Mendoza, Argentina (#403345) (XD) - $20.95  90 pts  wine review
• MANOS NEGRAS STONE SOIL MALBEC 2023 - Paraje Altamira, Valle de Uco, Mendoza, Argentina (#482109) (XD) - $22.95

• CHÂTEAU DES TOURS BROUILLY 2024 - AOC, Beaujolais, France (#637835) (XD) - $23.95
• CARPINETO CHIANTI CLASSICO 2023 - DOCG, Tuscany, Italy (#356048) (XD) - $24.95  89 pts  wine review
• NOMAD WANDERLUST 2022 - VQA Niagara Lakeshore, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, Canada (#451328) (XD) - $25.95
• LEANING POST CUVÉE WINONA 2023 - VQA Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada (#32020) (XD) - $28.95
• BORGO SCOPETO VIGNA MISCIANO RISERVA CHIANTI CLASSICO 2021 - DOCG, Tuscany, Italy (#36331) (XD) - $35.95  91 pts  wine review
• SAN SILVESTRO PATRES BAROLO 2021 - DOCG, Piedmont, Italy (#377986) (XD) - $37.95  91+ pts  wine review

White Wine:

• BISQUERTT LA JOYA GRAN RESERVA CHARDONNAY 2024 - Sustainable, Valle Central, Chile (#48241) (XD) - $16.95  89 pts  wine review
• TOI TOI SAUVIGNON BLANC 2025 - Sustainable, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand (#454785) (XD) - $18.95
• BORD ELEGANCE LAUDUN CÔTES-DU-RHÔNE VILLAGES BLANC 2024 - AOC, France (#644385) (XD) - $19.95  89 pts  wine review
• KUTJEVO GRASEVINA 2025 - Slavonia, Croatia (#519074) (XD) - $19.95
• BADENHORST SECATEURS CHENIN BLANC 2025 - WO Swartland, South Africa (#37537) (XD) - $19.95
• ALPHA ESTATE TURTLES SINGLE VINEYARD MALAGOUZIA 2025 - Vegan, PGI Florina, Greece (#32161) (XD) - $21.95  91 pts  wine review
• LOVEBLOCK CHARDONNAY 2022 - Sustainable, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand (#50255) (XD) - $29.95
• CHATELAIN HARMONIE POUILLY-FUMÉ 2024 - Sustainable, AOC, Loire, France (#50130) (XD) - $30.95
• HUFF CATHARINE'S CHARDONNAY 2023 - VQA Prince Edward County, Ontario, Canada (#88955) (XD) - $34.00  91 pts  wine review
• FEROX SILVER LION COLLECTION CHARDONNAY 2022 - VQA Lincoln Lakeshore, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada (#53054) (XD) - $35.00

Rosé Wine:

• CHÂTEAU LA TOUR DE L'ÉVÊQUE ROSÉ 2025 - AOC Côtes de Provence, France (#319392) (XD) - $20.95
• AIX ROSÉ 2025 - AOP Coteaux d'Aix-en-Provence, France (#451906) (XD) - $24.95

Sparkling Wine:

• PERE VENTURA PRIMER ORGANIC RESERVA BRUT CAVA 2023 - Traditional Method, DO Cava, Spain (#51587) (D) - $20.95
• ESTERLIN BRUT ÉCLAT CHAMPAGNE - AOC, France (#49321) (XD) - $64.95

Fortified Wine:

• BARBEITO 5-YEAR-OLD RAINWATER RESERVA MEDIUM DRY MADEIRA - DOP, Portugal (#51850, 500 mL) (MS) - $18.95

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Mega Spileo Assyrtiko 2024 (Greece) - Wine Review

Tonight's white wine review is a lovely Assyrtiko from Greece that arrived at the LCBO a couple of weeks ago in the August 15 LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection. It was included as part of the feature on "Great Wines for Takeout Night" and, per the magazine, is recommended for pairing with aromatic and mildly spiced dishes.

It is produced by Mega Spileo Estate, a winery with deep historical roots connected to the historic Mega Spileo Monastery. The monastery's origins date back to 362 A.D., when it was established by two brothers, Symeon and Theodore, who were also monks. Situated near the town of Kalavryta in the Achaea region of the northern Peloponnese, Mega Spileo holds a special place in Greek Orthodox tradition and history.

Vine cultivation was introduced to the lands surrounding the monastery around the mid-15th century, with the grapes used by the monks to produce wine for both Holy Communion and as a nutritious dietary supplement. A massive barrel called "Angelis" was acquired during this period and was used to store 12 tonnes of wine. Remarkably, the barrel still survives to this day.

In 1999, Mega Spileo turned a new chapter when brothers Giannis and Theodoros Anastasiou received a long-term lease on the Estate from the Monastery, with a vision to revitalize the historic vineyard. Working with a team of experienced oenologists and wine producers, they re-planted the vines and implemented best practices in the vineyard and winery, including environmental protection and sustainable agricultural techniques.

Today, the modern winery of Mega Spileo Estate resides only a few minutes from the historic monastery, within the UNESCO Chelmos-Vouraikos Global Geopark, which covers an area of 647 sq. km. The area surrounding the Estate features tall mountains, plateaus, sheer gorges, ancient trees, wild herbs, flowers, and cool breezes, all of which come together to create a unique microclimate that is ideal for grape cultivation. By focusing on high-quality grapes and careful winemaking, Mega Spileo has become an important reference point in Greek wine production and, more recently, a destination for wine tourism.

Like the 2023 Mega Spileo Assyrtiko I enjoyed last year, this white wine is crafted with 100% Assyrtiko grown in the mountain vineyards of Aigialeia and Kalavryta, at a relatively high elevation of more than 700 metres above sea level. Classified as PGI Achaia, the grapes were grown in an area situated between the Ionian Sea to the west and the Patras and Corinthian Gulfs to the north, along the northwestern coast of the Peloponnese.

For vinification, the grapes were harvested in late September, followed by static racking of the grape must after 48 hours. The wine underwent alcoholic fermentation with selected yeasts at low temperatures, followed by three months of lees contact in stainless steel tanks. To add further complexity and texture, one-third of the wine was then matured in oak barrels for an additional three months.

In 2024, the growing season in Greece was marked by one of the warmest years on record, requiring careful vineyard management and precise harvest timing. While yields were lower than average, quality was exceptional, with the resulting wines described as highly gastronomic. Let's see how this 2024 Assyrtiko from Greece is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

MEGA SPILEO ASSYRTIKO 2024 - PGI Achaia, Greece (#31680) (XD) - $24.95
Clean and elegant, the medium-high intensity nose has lovely floral, white citrus, pear, apple, stone fruit, and ripe grapefruit aromas nuanced with hints of leesy mineral and vanilla notes. The medium-bodied bodied palate is dry and gently honeyed with delicious ripe citrus, grapefruit, pear, apple, leesy mineral, and spice flavours accented with floral and vanilla. Tangy on the mid-palate with crisp and refreshing acidity. Nicely textured with good structure throughout. Pear, apple, and citrus notes taper to savoury, leesy minerals on the long, juicy finish. Highly recommended buy! Score: 90+ pts

Several wines by Mega Spileo are available at the LCBO, including at Destination Collection stores, while the full range can be ordered through their Agent - KOLONAKI Group of Companies.

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Xavier Vignon Côtes du Rhône 2023 (France) - Wine Review

Tonight's red wine review is a lovely Côtes du Rhône blend of Grenache and Syrah that arrived at the LCBO at the beginning of the month in the August 1st LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection.

It is produced by Xavier Vins, a Rhône wine producer that was established in the late 20th century by Xavier Vignon, a renowned and pioneering Rhône oenologist. Xavier caught the wine bug after a chance encounter with an oenologist while studying in the faculty of pharmacy in the Champagne capital of Reims. This led to Xavier gaining valuable experience at several Champagne houses and marked the beginning of his journey into wine. In 2002, Xavier Vignon began making and marketing his own wines under the name Xavier Vins.

The philosophy at Xavier Vins is based on a creative approach that is original, unusual, and daring. Having spent time in both Champagne and Bordeaux, Xavier developed strong values around the freedom of blending and the notion of beginning with an idea before embarking upon the creation of a wine. Naturally, each year will be different and a source of surprise. The combination of different grape varieties in a blend can impart complexity while also enhancing the expression of terroir. To create a faithful expression of wine, Xavier works with a wide range of ingredients, including grapes, terroirs, parcels, exposures, altitudes, vintages, wooden vessels, and stainless-steel vessels. With his in-depth knowledge of each and every part of the Rhône Valley, Xavier uses this knowledge to select the soil, parcel, and varietal combinations needed to create a loyal and harmonious wine.

Xavier believes that wines are always the result of contrary or complementary unions, and that bringing together these different entities can give the best possible result. Therefore, each cuvée is a unique experience and an expression of a vintage, varietal, or terroir. The wines of Xavier Vignon are a source of emotion, guided by the pleasure of sharing, and an invitation not only to dream but also to better understand the landscapes of the Rhône Valley, which he holds so close to his heart. Xavier strives to capture this little part of the southern Rhône in the bottle, encapsulating its aromas, colours, and textures, with the ultimate aim of making people happy!

I last enjoyed the 2020 Xavier Vignon Côtes du Rhône nearly four years ago, when it was a blend of primarily Grenache, with Syrah and Mourvèdre in support. This vintage is a blend of 70% Grenache and 30% Syrah, elaborated from very old vines ranging from 45 to 100 years of age, and the wine is from Xavier Vins' "The Originals" collection. The grapes were selected from more than 250 parcels, mainly located in the southern Rhône, from a diverse range of terroirs consisting of clay, pebbles, limestone, and sandy soils. To craft this wine, the grapes were manually harvested, with harvest dates determined by daily berry tasting. It was fermented at moderate temperatures to favour gentle diffusion of aromatic compounds. 80% of the blend underwent a short period of ageing in concrete vats to enhance the aromas, while the remainder was aged in wooden truncated-cone vats.

The growing season in 2023 began with a very dry start from January to March, which resulted in a relatively late budburst in early April, while the Mistral winds blew frequently during the period between budburst and flowering—precisely when growers would have preferred calmer conditions. Welcoming rains fell in May and June, followed by a warm and arid summer, which climaxed at 43°C in late August and led to some grapes suffering from sunburn and maturation issues. However, rainfall at the end of August allowed the vines to recover and the grapes to resume ripening. In September, the weather cooled with substantial diurnal temperature variation, which helped retain aromatics and acidity, while harvest took place during an Indian summer and continued into mid-October for the red varieties. Coming from a good vintage for vines grown on clay soils beneath rolled pebbles in the southern Rhône, let's see how the 2023 Côtes du Rhône red is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

XAVIER VIGNON CÔTES DU RHÔNE 2023 - AOP, France (#297317) (XD) - $19.95
A 70/30 blend of Grenache and Syrah from very old vines ranging from 45 to 100 years old. This has a lovely, fragrant, medium-high intensity nose of both black & red fruits, white pepper spice, black raspberry, dark red cherry, garrigue, plum, and savoury herb aromas with meaty undertones and touches of scorched earth and stony mineral in a complex profile. On the dry, medium to medium-full bodied palate it has lovely black raspberry, dark red cherry, garrigue, meaty, peppery spice, savoury herbs, scorched earth, and mineral flavours supported by fresh and juicy acidity. Smooth, supple, and elegant tannins have a very gentle grip on the back palate. Savoury herbs with black raspberry, scorched earth, and mineral notes linger on the long, well-balanced finish. Enjoy this highly recommended buy over the next 4–5 years! Score: 90 pts

A few wines by Xavier Vignon are available in various quantities, while the full range be ordered through their Agent - Noble Estates Wines & Spirits.

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Beronia Rueda Verdejo 2025 (Spain) - Wine Review

Tonight's white wine review is a lovely, unoaked Verdejo from Rueda, Spain, that was included as part of the feature on wines "Beyond Chardonnay" in the June 20th LCBO VINTAGES New Release Collection, with plenty of inventory available at LCBO outlets across Ontario.

It is produced by Beronia, a bodega that was established in La Rioja, Spain, in 1973 by a group of friends that were united in their love of gastronomy and had a mission to create great wines to complement their culinary creations. Situated in the Rioja Alta village of Ollauri, within a landscape shaped by the River Ebro and the Cantabrian Mountains, the winery is rooted in the region and pays tribute to the Celtic tribe — Los Berones — who inhabited the region in 3rd Century B.C. In 1982, Beronia joined González Byass, a large, family-owned Spanish wine group.

In 2017, Beronia expanded into Rueda and created a winery solely for the production of Verdejo, a Spanish variety whose home is in Rueda. Today, they have 65 hectares of vines in Rueda, all dedicated to the production of their award-winning Verdejo wines. The stony, alluvial, and free-draining soils are rich in minerals, encouraging the vines to work hard for water and resulting in wines that are rich, aromatic, and flavourful.

Both wineries were specifically created for optimal sustainable production. Everything from the design and materials of the buildings to the technological innovations inside has been developed to promote maximum efficiency and minimal impact on the environment. They strive for the perfect balance between honouring local traditions while using advanced, modern practices to make the very best wines that their land can produce.

To craft this 100% Verdejo, the grapes were mechanically harvested at night to maintain fruit freshness and prevent oxidation through expedited processing. The grapes were gently pressed in an inert atmosphere to minimize browning in the must, while separation of musts was also performed based on their quality. It was fermented in both stainless steel and concrete tanks with selected yeasts at a controlled-temperature of between 14–17ºC for 10–15 days. Fermenting in stainless steel provides for absolute control over temperature and fermentation speed, and results in wines with clean, complex, and intense aromas. Fermentation in concrete promotes wine contact with lees, along with the vessel's porosity (micro-oxygenation) that helps achieve wines with a great mouthfeel. After ageing on its lees for 2 to 3 months, with weekly stirrings, the wines were clarified, filtered, blended, and bottled.

To craft this 100% Verdejo, the grapes were mechanically harvested at night to maintain fruit freshness and prevent oxidation through expedited processing. The grapes were gently pressed in an inert atmosphere to minimize browning in the must, while separation of musts was also performed based on their quality. It was fermented in both stainless steel and concrete tanks with selected yeasts at a controlled temperature of between 14–17ºC for 10–15 days. Fermenting in stainless steel provides precise control over temperature and fermentation speed, resulting in wines with clean, complex, and intense aromas. Fermentation in concrete promotes greater lees contact, while the vessel's porosity allows gentle micro-oxygenation that helps achieve wines with a great mouthfeel. After ageing on its lees for 2 to 3 months, with weekly stirrings, the wines were clarified, filtered, blended, and bottled.

One of the most distinctive features of this wine is Beronia's ability to preserve a portion of the freshly pressed must in cold storage and delay its alcoholic fermentation until the following spring. This allows the winery to produce freshly fermented Verdejo well beyond the normal harvest period, helping to preserve the wine's vibrant freshness and intense varietal aromas.

In 2025, the growing season across Spain was almost unanimously declared as "exceptional". One of the main factors that influenced the vintage was the return of rainfall, after several years of severe drought conditions. This helped the vineyards recover, but also led to mildew pressure after the spring rains. Heat waves in June and August caused a reduction in yields, but did not compromise quality. In DO Rueda, slow and homogeneous ripening led to grapes with excellent alcohol levels, balanced acidity, and intense varietal aromas, especially in the region's signature grape — Verdejo. From an excellent vintage, let's see how this 2025 Verdejo from Rueda is tasting tonight...

Tasting Note:

BERONIA RUEDA VERDEJO 2025 - Vegan, DO Rueda, Spain (#461327) (XD) - $16.95
Screw cap. Clean, medium to medium-high intensity nose is fresh and gently spicy with ripe lemon citrus, golden apple, pear, saline, and leesy mineral aromas, plus touches of white floral and herbs. On the dry, medium+ bodied palate it is refreshingly vibrant with lively acidity lifting the delicious lemon citrus, golden apple, pear, saline, leesy mineral, spice, and herbal flavours with an underlying savoury earth note. It has a lovely, textured mouthfeel throughout with lemon, apple, saline, and mineral notes lingering on the long, juicy finish. Highly recommended buy! Score: 89 pts

Quite a few wines by Beronia are available at the LCBO, while the full range can be ordered through their Agent - Woodman Wines & Spirits.

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Featherstone Blanc de Noirs 2023 and Reserve Stone & Vine 2023 (Niagara) - Wine Reviews

Tonight's wine reviews are a pair of lovely, premium wines that were just released by Featherstone Estate Winery. Both of these wines are only available direct through the winery in Niagara, including their online shop.

Featherstone is an award-winning and eco-friendly winery situated in the prestigious Twenty Mile Bench appellation in Niagara. It was established in 1999 by Louise Engel and her winemaker husband, David Johnson. In February 2024, in the midst of its 25th anniversary, Featherstone underwent a transformative change in ownership and is now owned by philanthropist Rayla Myhal and businessman George Myhal.

The history of the Featherstone vineyard began in the 1970s when the first vines were planted. The grapes were sold to a large wine conglomerate until 1999, when the first Featherstone wines were made. Featherstone has thriving Chardonnay and Cabernet Franc vines planted in 1986, as well as Riesling vines dating to 1978, which are among the oldest Riesling vines in Niagara. Situated in Vineland, Ontario, Featherstone has 23 acres of rolling hills on the prestigious upper Twenty Mile Bench along the Niagara Escarpment in the Twenty Valley wine region of Niagara.

Since 1999, Featherstone has distinguished itself through insecticide-free and eco-friendly farming practices. The winery continues to farm naturally and without the use of insecticides while embracing sustainable winegrowing practices. It encourages biodiversity in an environment that is healthy and completely unique, believing that this individuality translates into its wines. In 2023, Featherstone received its Sustainable Winegrowing Ontario (SWO) certification, assuring wine drinkers that the complete grape-to-glass cycle is sustainable.

The winemaking philosophy at Featherstone is based on the scientific and intuitive processes involved in grape growing and winemaking. The winery crafts wines that reflect both the character of the grapes and the artistry of the winemaker. Kevin Qin, who joined the Featherstone family in 2014, is the vineyard manager and head winemaker at Featherstone. He works throughout the growing season to enhance the grapes' natural attributes, ensuring that at harvest he can create exceptional, artisanally crafted wines with minimal winemaking embellishments. The team philosophy at Featherstone is based on the belief that a healthy team creates a healthy winery — investing in their people is just as important as investing in their vineyards. The winery also values work-life balance, provides a supportive workplace culture, and pays a living wage.

In 2023, the growing season in Niagara ended up being a very good one thanks to a warm, dry autumn, which provided relief from the wet, dreary, and smoke-filled summer. The extended growing season in Niagara contributed to the development of phenolic ripeness, concentrated flavours and complexity, along with ripe tannic structure, finesse, and juicy acidity. Let's see how these two wines from the 2023 vintage in Niagara are tasting tonight...

Tasting Notes:

FEATHERSTONE BLANC DE NOIRS 2023 - Vegan, Sustainable, Traditional Method, VQA Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara Escarpment, Ontario, Canada (XD) - $34.95
100% Pinot Noir grown on heavy clay soil. Grapes were hand-picked in early September, sorted, and whole-cluster pressed. Primary fermentation took place in stainless steel tanks, with the wine remaining in tank until the beginning of February, after which it underwent tirage and was held on its lees for 24 months before disgorging. The medium-high intensity nose is toasty with strawberry, raspberry, and cherry aromas nuanced with citrus blossom, and leesy notes, plus touches of autolytic and reductive characters. The mid-weighted palate is dry and tangy with a delicious mix of citrus, strawberry, raspberry, red berry, mandarin, and toasty flavours supported by fresh and vibrant acidity, alongside crisp and refreshing bubbles. The mid-palate has a slightly creamy mouthfeel, while tangy citrus and red berry notes continue on the back palate, eventually joined by savoury, leesy notes on the long, crisp finish. This recommended buy is enjoyable now, but will reward ageing and should continue to drink well over the next 5-7 years. Score: 91 pts

FEATHERSTONE RESERVE STONE & VINE 2023 - Vegan, Sustainable, VQA Ontario, Canada (XD) - $45.95
Blend of equal parts Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Cabernet Sauvignon that were harvested over fifteen days beginning Oct. 26. Each component was individually fermented in their climate-controlled cellar, and included undergoing 100% malolactic fermentation. The Merlot was fermented and aged in French oak barrels, while the Cabernets were fermented and aged in American oak. The best individual barrels of each varietal were hand selected and then blended. Rich, concentrated, medium-high intensity nose features ripe dark berry fruit and fine oak spice aromas of blackberry, black plum, black currant, dark cherry, sandalwood, and wet earth with a slightly reductive character. The medium to medium-full bodied palate is dry and ripe with lovely, tangy dark fruited, black plum, blackberry, black currant, tobacco, sandalwood, oak spice, dried spice flavours, plus some mocha notes. It's framed by crisp and juicy acidity, alongside elegant tannins that are supple with a gently grippy mouthfeel. Tangy dark berry notes taper to savoury earth and mocha on the long, well-balanced finish. Enjoy this recommended buy over the next 5+ years. Score: 91 pts

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