Varietals

2024 National Wine Awards

/ A Layman's Wine Musings / Leave a comment
Photo credit: winealign.com

The WineAlign National Wine Awards of Canada (NWAC) is the country’s largest competition, involving only 100 percent Canadian-grown and produced wines. The judging involves a select group of Canadian wine writers, educators, sommeliers and two international judges who spend a week assessing some 2000 wines and ciders. This year’s competition took place near Niagara Falls, Ontario.

Double Honour

The Winery of the Year and Small Winery of the Year is Kelowna British Columbia’s SpearHead Winery. In addition to the twin honours this year, they also had unprecedented success in an individual category (Pinot Noir), winning a total of seven medals for their Pinots, including three platinum, one gold, three silvers and a bronze. In total they earned a total of twelve medals.

Top 10 Wineries

Six of the top ten wineries this year are from British Columbia, with the remaining four from Ontario. The top ten are:

  1. SpearHead Winery, British Columbia
  2. Meyer Family Vineyards, British Columbia
  3. Henry of Pelham, Ontario
  4. Black Hills Estate Winery, British Columbia
  5. Thirty Bench Wine Makers, Ontario
  6. Quails’ Gate Estate Winery, British Columbia
  7. Nostalgia Wines, British Columbia
  8. Peller Estates Niagara-on-the Lake, Ontario
  9. Lake Breeze Vineyards, British Columbia
  10. Vieni Estates, Ontario

The Top 10 Small Wineries

Seven of the top ten small wineries are from British Columbia, with the remainder from Ontario. The top ten are:

  1. SpearHead Winery, British Columbia
  2. Meyer Family Vineyards, British Columbia
  3. Nostalgia Wines, British Columbia
  4. Lake Breeze Vineyards, British Columbia
  5. The Organized Crime Winery, Ontario
  6. Corcelettes Estate Winery, British Columbia
  7. Black Bank Hill, Ontario
  8. Kismet Estate Winery, British Columbia
  9. Fort Berens Estate Winery, British Columbia
  10. Lailey Winery, Ontario

Regional Top 10 Winners

British Columbia

  1. SpearHead Winery
  2. Meyer Family Vineyards
  3. Black Hills Estate Winery
  4. Quails’ Gate Estate Winery
  5. Nostalgia Wines
  6. Lake Breeze Vineyards
  7. Corcelettes Estate Winery
  8. Nk’Mip Cellars
  9. Burrowing Owl Estate Winery
  10. Kismet Estate Winery

Ontario

  1. Henry of Pelham
  2. Thirty Bench Wine Makers
  3. Peller Estates Niagara-on-the-Lake
  4. Vieni Estates
  5. The Organized Crime Winery
  6. Black Bank Hill
  7. Two Sisters Vineyards
  8. Lailey Winery
  9. Hidden Bench Estate Winery
  10. Marynissen Estates

Platinum and Gold Medal Winners

Only 1% of the wines entered earn a Platinum Medal. This year, 18 out of 1,800 wines received this recognition. Every Platinum winner has passed through a minimum of two tastings and a review by a minimum of five judges. These wines must be put forward by at least three judges in the first round and re-considered by at least five judges in the second round. 

Earning a Platinum Medal greatly increases a winery’s performance score based on the mathematical degree of difficulty in reaching Platinum. This helps to decide the Winery of the Year and the Top 25 list.

Platinum and Gold medals were awarded in the following categories, presented alphabetically below:

Cabernet Franc

Platinum Medal

  • Black Bank Hill 2020 Cabernet Franc, Lincoln Lakeshore, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • Vieni Estates 2022 Cabernet Franc, Vinemount Ridge, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario

Gold Medal

  • Bordertown 2020 Cabernet Franc Reserve, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Domaine Queylus 2022 Cabernet Franc Réserve du Domaine, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • Fielding 2022 Cabernet Franc, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • Megalomaniac Wines 2020 To Be Frank Cabernet Franc, Niagara Escarpment, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • Organized Crime 2020 Cabernet Franc Unfiltered, Beamsville Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • Stonebridge 2020 Reserve Cabernet Franc Single Vineyard, Creek Shores, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • Thirty Bench 2022 Winemaker’s Blend Cabernet Franc, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • Vieni Estates 2020 Cabernet Franc Reserve, Vinemount Ridge, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • Watchful Eye Winery 2022 Cabernet Franc, Lincoln Lakeshore, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario

Cabernet Sauvignon

Platinum Medal

  • Peller Estates 2020 Signature Series Cabernet Sauvignon, Four Mile Creek, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario

Gold Medal

  • Chaberton Estate Winery 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon, British Columbia
  • Colio Estate Wines 2020 Small Lot Series Cabernet Sauvignon, Niagara Lakeshore, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • Corcelettes 2021 Cabernet Sauvignon Estate Grown, Similkameen Valley, British Columbia
  • Hillside Winery 2020 Howe Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Kismet 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Nk’Mip Cellars 2020 Qwam Qwmt Cabernet Sauvignon, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Sprucewood Shores 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon Ha

Chardonnay

Platinum Medal

  • Henry of Pelham 2022 Speck Family Reserve Chardonnay, Short Hills Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • Meyer 2022 Chardonnay McLean Creek Road Vineyard, Okanagan Falls, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Quails’ Gate 2021 Rosemary’s Block Chardonnay, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia

Gold Medal

  • CedarCreek 2022 Platinum Jagged Rock Chardonnay, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • CedarCreek 2022 Platinum Lake Country Chardonnay, Lake Country, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Cloudsley Cellars 2021 Chardonnay, Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • Domaine Queylus 2020 Chardonnay Tradition, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • Fort Berens 2022 White Gold Chardonnay Reserve, Lillooet, British Columbia
  • Gray Monk 2022 Odyssey Chardonnay, British Columbia
  • Konzelmann 2022 Reserve Series Chardonnay Barrel Aged, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • Le Clos Jordanne 2021 Le Grand Clos Chardonnay, Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • Meyer 2022 Chardonnay Old Main Rd Vineyard, Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Meyer 2022 Dekleva Clone Chardonnay Anarchist Mountain Vineyard, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Monte Creek 2022 Living Land Chardonnay, British Columbia
  • O’Rourke Family Estate 2022 Twisted Pine Chardonnay, Lake Country, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Organized Crime 2022 Sacred Series Cuvée Krystyna Chardonnay, Beamsville Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • Quails’ Gate 2021 Stewart Family Reserve Chardonnay, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Redstone Winery 2021 Chardonnay Limestone Vineyard, Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • Solvero 2022 Chardonnay, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Tawse 2021 Quarry Road Chardonnay, Vinemount Ridge, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • The Good Earth 2021 Chardonnay, Lincoln Lakeshore, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • Thirty Bench 2021 Small Lot Chardonnay Extended Barrel Aged, Beamsville Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • Trius 2022 Showcase Chardonnay Wild Ferment Watching Tree Vineyard, Lincoln Lakeshore, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • Westcott 2021 Block 76 Chardonnay, Vinemount Ridge, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario

Gamay

Platinum Medal

  • No medal awarded

Gold Medal

  • 13th Street Winery 2023 Gamay, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • Deep Roots 2022 Reserve Gamay Noir, Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Malivoire 2023 Gamay, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • Malivoire 2023 Le Coeur Gamay, Beamsville Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • Stratus 2022 Gamay, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • Three Sisters Winery 2022 Gamay, Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia

Gewürztraminer and Viognier

Platinum Medal

  • No medal awarded

Gold Medal

  • Hillside Winery 2023 Gewürztraminer, Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Magnotta 2022 Gewürztraminer Venture Series, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • Meyer 2022 Gewürztraminer McLean Creek Road Vineyard, Okanagan Falls, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia

Icewine & Late Harvest

Platinum Medal

  • No medal awarded

Gold Medal

  • Inniskillin Niagara 2022 Vidal Icewine, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • Jackson-Triggs Niagara 2022 Reserve Vidal Icewine, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • Two Sisters Vineyards 2023 Riesling Icewine, Niagara River, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario

Malbec and other Red Single Varieties

Platinum Medal

  • No medal awarded

Gold Medal

  • Blasted Church 2022 Small Blessings Grenache, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Corcelettes 2021 Malbec Micro Lot Series Estate Vineyard, Similkameen Valley, British Columbia
  • Fox & Archer 2021 Malbec, Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Lailey Winery 2021 Wild Ferment Malbec Lailey Vineyard, Niagara River, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • Rainmaker Wines 2020 Malbec The Risk Taker Rattlesnake Vineyard, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Road 13 2021 John Oliver Selection Malbec, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Valley Commons 2021 Malbec Single Vineyard, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Van Westen 2021 Violeta, Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia

Merlot

Platinum Medal

  • No medal awarded

Gold Medal

  • Black Sage Vineyard 2020 Merlot, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Marynissen Estates 2020 Platinum Merlot, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • Nk’Mip Cellars 2021 Qwam Qwmt Merlot, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Nostalgia Wines 2020 Merlot, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia

Pinot Gris/Grigio

Platinum Medal

  • No medal awarded

Gold Medal

  • EastDell 2023 Pinot Grigio, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • Henry of Pelham 2023 Pinot Grigio, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • Inniskillin Niagara 2022 Reserve Pinot Gris, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • Marynissen Estates 2023 Pinot Grigio, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • Mayhem 2023 Pinot Gris, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Unsworth Vineyards 2023 Saison Vineyard Pinot Gris, Cowichan Valley, Vancouver Island, British Columbia

Pinot Noir

Platinum Medal

  • Meyer 2022 B Field Blend McLean Creek Road Vineyard, Okanagan Falls, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • SpearHead 2022 Club Consensus Pinot Noir, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • SpearHead 2022 Pommard Clone Pinot Noir, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • SpearHead 2022 Saddle Block Pinot Noir, East Kelowna Slopes, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia

Gold Medal

  • 1 Mill Road Winery 2022 Pinot Noir Black Pine, Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • 1 Mill Road Winery 2022 Pinot Noir Home Block, Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Blue Grouse Estate Winery 2021 Pinot Noir, Cowichan Valley, Vancouver Island, British Columbia
  • CedarCreek 2022 Estate Pinot Noir, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Domaine Queylus 2020 Pinot Noir La Grande Réserve , Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • Fort Berens 2022 Pinot Noir, British Columbia
  • Hidden Bench 2021 Pinot Noir Unfiltered Felseck Vineyard, Beamsville Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • Hidden Bench 2021 Pinot Noir Unfiltered Locust Lane Vineyard, Beamsville Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • Meyer 2020 Pinot Noir McLean Creek Road Vineyard, Okanagan Falls, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Meyer 2022 Micro Cuvee Pinot Noir McLean Creek Road Vineyard, Okanagan Falls, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Meyer 2022 Old Block Pinot Noir McLean Creek Vineyard, Okanagan Falls, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Monte Creek 2022 Living Land Pinot Noir, British Columbia
  • Organized Crime 2020 Sacred Series Tara Block Pinot Noir Unfiltered, Beamsville Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • Riverview Cellars 2021 Pinot Noir, Four Mile Creek, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • Rosehall Run 2022 Pinot Noir, Ontario
  • SpearHead 2021 Golden Retreat Pinot Noir, Summerland Lakefront, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Tightrope 2022 Pinot Noir Rubis, Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Unsworth Vineyards 2022 Cowichan Valley Pinot Noir, Cowichan Valley, Vancouver Island, British Columbia

Red Blends

Platinum Medal

  • Black Hills 2022 Bona Fide, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Burrowing Owl 2021 Athene, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Hester Creek 2022 GSM, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Nostalgia Wines 2020 Malbec Petit Verdot, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia

Gold Medal

  • Black Hills 2022 Ipso Facto, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Black Hills 2022 Addendum, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Colio Estate Wines 2020 Small Lot Series Meritage, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • Corcelettes 2020 Talus, Similkameen Valley, British Columbia
  • Foolish Wine 2020 Hooligan Meritage, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Henry of Pelham 2020 Speck Family Reserve Cabernet-Merlot, Short Hills Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • Hidden Bench 2020 La Brunante Unfiltered, Beamsville Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • Kismet 2020 Moksha, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Magnotta Pzazz N/V Merlot Cab Limited Edition, Ontario
  • Mt. Boucherie 2020 Summit, British Columbia
  • Nk’Mip Cellars 2021 Winemakers Talon
  • Nostalgia Wines 2020 Meritage, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Nostalgia Wines 2022 Rockabilly Red, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Organized Crime 2020 Pipe Down, Beamsville Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • Peller Estates 2021 Signature Series Estate Red, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • Pentâge Winery 2018 GSM Dirty Dozen Vineyard, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Road 13 2022 Honest John’s Bold Red, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Stag’s Hollow 2020 Renaissance Meritage Stag’s Hollow Vineyard, Okanagan Falls, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Stratus 2020 White Label Red, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • Tawse 2021 Meritage, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • Three Sisters Winery 2022 Bench Red, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Two Sisters Vineyards 2020 Eleventh Post, Niagara River, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • Wayne Gretzky 2022 Signature Series Cabernet Merlot, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario

Riesling

Platinum Medal

  • Thirty Bench 2021 Small Lot Riesling Wood Post Vineyard, Beamsville Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario

Gold Medal

  • Henry of Pelham 2023 Speck Family Reserve Riesling, Short Hills Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • Inniskillin Niagara 2022 Discovery Series Susse Reserve Riesling, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • La Frenz Winery 2022 Riesling 21B Freedom 75 Vineyard, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Lailey Winery 2022 Off-Dry Riesling Lailey Vineyard, Niagara River, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • Lake Breeze 2023 Riesling, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Megalomaniac Wines 2021 Narcissist Riesling, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • Organized Crime 2023 Riesling, Beamsville Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • Peak Cellars 2022 Estate Grown Block 11 Riesling, Lake Country, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Quails’ Gate 2022 Clone 49 Riesling, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Quails’ Gate 2023 Clone 49 Riesling, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Storm Haven 2022 Riesling Boulders, Okanagan Falls, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Synchromesh 2023 Dry Riesling Storm Haven Vineyard White Label, Okanagan Falls, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Tantalus Vineyards 2021 Old Vines Riesling, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Thirty Bench 2021 Small Lot Riesling Triangle Vineyard, Beamsville Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • Two Sisters Vineyards 2021 Riesling , Beamsville Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • Van Westen 2022 Viscous, Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia

Rosé

Platinum Medal

  • Fresh N/V Rosé, Ontario

Gold Medal

  • Culmina 2023 Saignée, Golden Mile Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Fox&Archer 2022 Unfiltered Saignée, Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Mercator Vineyards 2023 Compass Rosé, Nova Scotia
  • Tinhorn Creek 2023 Reserve Rosé, Okanagan Valley, British Colu

Sauvignon Blanc

Platinum Medal

  • No medal awarded

Gold Medal

  • Peller Estates 2022 Signature Series Sauvignon Blanc, Niagara Lakeshore, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario

Sparkling Wine

Platinum Medal

  • Henry of Pelham Cuvée Catharine Brut Rosé, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario

Gold Medal

  • Huff Estates 2021 Cuvée Peter F. Huff, Prince Edward County, Ontario
  • La Frenz Winery 2020 Aster Estate Grown Chardonnay Pinot Noir Brut, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Lightning Rock 2021 Elysia Vineyard Blanc de Noirs, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Liquidity Wines N/V Reserve Sparkling Brut, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Marynissen Estates 2020 Blanc de Blancs, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • Noble Ridge 2018 Noble Knights McEachnie Vintage Blanc de Blanc, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Noble Ridge 2019 The Pink One, Okanagan Falls, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Queenston Mile Vineyard 2018 Blanc De Blanc, St. David’s Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • Ravine Vineyard N/V Brut, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • Redstone Winery 2022 Sparkling Rosé, Lincoln Lakeshore, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • Road 13 2019 Select Harvest Old Vines Sparkling Chenin Blanc, Golden Mile Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Thirty Bench N/V Sparkling Riesling, Beamsville Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • Township 7 2020 Seven Stars Polaris, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Two Sisters Vineyards 2021 Lush Sparkling Rosé, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario

Syrah

Platinum Medal

  • Lake Breeze 2020 Cellar Series Mistral, Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia

Gold Medal

  • Black Hills 2022 Syrah, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Corcelettes 2021 Syrah , Similkameen Valley, British Columbia
  • Creekside 2020 Broken Press Syrah Reserve Queenston Road Vineyard, St. David’s Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • Fielding 2020 Syrah Lowrey Vineyard, St. David’s Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • JoiRyde Winery 2022 Syrah, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Kismet 2021 Family Select Syrah, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Konzelmann 2022 Syrah Barrel Aged Reserve, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • Laughing Stock 2021 Syrah , Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Le Vieux Pin 2022 Syrah Cuvee Violette, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Phantom Creek 2020 Kobau Vineyard Syrah, Golden Mile Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Roche Wines 2021 Amulet Syrah, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Tantalus Vineyards 2022 Syrah, Similkameen Valley, British Columbia
  • The Wine Umbrella 2020 Co-Syrah
  • Tinhorn Creek 2021 Reserve Syrah, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia

White Blends

Platinum Medal

  • No medal awarded

Gold Medal

  • Lake Breeze 2022 Roussanne Viognier, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Terravista Vineyards 2022 Figaro, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Terravista Vineyards 2023 Fandango, Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia

Other White Single Varieties

Platinum Medal

  • No medal awarded

Gold Medal

  • Black Hills 2022 Roussanne, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Fort Berens 2023 Small Lot Grüner Veltliner Red Rock Vineyard, British Columbia
  • Peak Cellars 2022 Gruner Veltliner, Lake Country, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Quails’ Gate 2022 Clone 220 Chenin Blanc, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Terravista Vineyards 2023 Albariño, Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia

The complete list of this year’s results can be found at winealign.com/awards.

Sláinte mhaith

2024 All Canadian Wine Championships

/ A Layman's Wine Musings / 2 Comments

The All Canadian Wine Championships (ACWC) were held earlier this month. It is open to all Canadian licensed wineries, cideries and meaderies and content must be grown and made in Canada. This year there were 995 entries submitted by 173 wineries.

The panel of judges consisted of wine writers, sommeliers, and professional wine judges from the Wine Judges of Ontario. There were 10 judges from Ontario, 2 from Alberta and 1 from each of Quebec and New Brunswick.

The 2024 trophy winners were as follows:

The Best Sparkling Wine of the Year was presented to British Columbia’s (BC) Bench 1775 Winery, for their 2020 Blanc de Blanc ($39.75 CDN).

The Best Red Wine of the Year was BC’s Sunrock Vineyard’s 2021 Shiraz ($40.24 CDN).

The Best White Wine of the Year was awarded to BC’s Van Westen Vineyards, for their 2022 Viscous ($27.40 CDN).

The Best Dessert Wine of the Year was Quebec’s Vignoble du Marathonien, for their 2021 Vin de glace ($50.00 CDN).

The Best Rosé Wine of the Year was awarded to yet another BC winery, Hester Creek Estate Winery, for their 2023 Rosé Noir ($32.19 CDN).

The Best Fruit Wine of the Year was presented to another BC winery, Maan Farms Winery, for their N/V Raspberry Dessert ($29.99 CDN).

The Best Cider of the Year was Nova Scotia’s Domaine de Grand Pré, for their N/V Vintage Sparkling Cider ($29.00 CDN).

The Best Mead of the Year was presented to Manitoba’s Shrugging Doctor Beverage Co, for their N/V Apple Cinnamon Mead ($18.47 CDN).

Double Gold, Gold, Silver and Bronze medals may be awarded in each category. Double Gold and Gold medals were presented to the following participants:

Sparkling Wine-Traditional Method

Gold

  • Two Sisters Vineyards, ON – 2021 Lush Sparkling Rosé – $57.80
  • Two Sisters Vineyards, ON – 2020 Blanc de Franc – $63.80
  • Ravine Vineyard Estate Winery, ON – N/V Brut – $44.80

Sparkling Wine–Charmat Method

Double Gold

  • Bella Terra Vineyards, ON – N/V Sparkling Rose – $24.95

Gold

  • Three Dog Winery, ON – 2023 Debut Sparkling – $27.80
  • Harbour Estates, ON – 2023 Sparkling Riesling – $25.00

Sparkling Wine–Frizzante Method

Double Gold

  • Planters Ridge Winery, NS – 2022 SEK – $22.43

Gold

  • Jost Vineyards, NS – N/V Luvo Sparkling White – $5.89

Chardonnay, Unoaked

Double Gold

  • Calamus Estate Winery, ON – 2023 Unoaked Chardonnay – $18.95

Gold

  • Kacaba Vineyards and Winery, ON – 2023 Select Series Unoaked Chardonnay – $15.95

Chardonnay Under $35.00

Double Gold

  • Wending Home, ON – 2021 Chardonnay Estate Vineyards – $34.95

Gold

  • Chaberton Estate Winery, BC – 2022 Barrel Aged Chardonnay – $27.05
  • Solvero Wines, BC – 2022 Chardonnay – $34.60
  • Magnotta Winery, ON – 2020 G. Marquis Chardonnay VQA – The Silver Line – $19.75

Chardonnay Over $35.00

Double Gold

  • Nk’Mip Cellars BC – 2022 Qwam Qwmt Chardonnay – $41.39

Gold

  • Kacaba Vineyards and Winery, ON – 2022 Premium Series Barrel Fermented Chardonnay – $49.95
  • SpearHead Winery, BC – 2022 Chardonnay Clone 95 – $41.40

Riesling Dry

Double Gold 

  • Four Shadows Vineyard & Winery, BC – 2023 Riesling Dry – $28.74

Gold

  • Broken Stone Winery, ON – 2023 Riesling – $21.75

Riesling Off Dry

Gold

  • Gaspereau Vineyards, NS – 2023 Riesling – $23.79
  • Sue-Ann Staff Estate Winery, ON – 2020 Riesling Loved By Lu – $18.75

Sauvignon Blanc

Double Gold

  • Dirty Laundry Vineyard, BC – 2023 Sauvignon Blanc – $25.29

Gold

  • River Stone Estate Winery, BC – 2023 Sauvignon Blanc – $27.49
  • Alderlea Vineyards, BC – 2023 Sauvignon Blanc – $27.60

Gewürztraminer

Double Gold

  • Wild Goose Vineyards, BC – 2023 Gewürztraminer – $19.99

Gold

  • Colchester Ridge Estate Winery, ON – 2022 Gewürztraminer – $20.75
  • Chaberton Estate Winery, BC – 2023 Gewürztraminer – $21.80

Pinot Gris Style

Double Gold

  • Alderlea Vineyards, BC – 2023 Pinot Gris – $26.45

Gold

  • Hillside Winery & Bistro, BC – 2023 Unoaked Pinot Gris – $25.00
  • River Stone Estate Winery, BC – 2023 Pinot Gris – $27.49
  • Villa Romana Estate Winery, ON – 2023 Pinotino – $24.95

Pinot Grigio Style

Double Gold

  • Kismet Estate Winery, BC – 2023 Pinot Grigio – $26.44

Gold

  • Three Dog Winery, ON – 2023 Pinot Grigio – $19.75
  • Inniskillin Okanagan Estate, BC – 2023 Okanagan Estate Pinot Grigio – $20.69

Viognier

Double Gold

  • Hester Creek Estate Winery, BC – 2023 Viognier – $27.59

Gold

  • Bordertown Vineyard & Estate Winery, BC – 2023 Viognier – $21.90

Other Single Vitis Vinifera Whites

Double Gold

  • Scorched Earth Winery, BC – 2023 Pinot Noir Blanc – $22.95

Gold

  • Wild Goose Vineyards, BC – 2023 Pinot Blanc – $21.99
  • Bonamici Cellars Ltd., BC – 2022 Observatory Gruner Veltliner – $28.74

White Vitis Vinifera Blends

Double Gold

Nk’Mip Cellars, BC – 2022 White Mer’r’iym – $41.39

Gold

  • Hillside Winery & Bistro, BC – 2023 Chef’s Whites – $35.00
  • Alderlea Vineyards, BC – 2023 Valerie – $26.45
  • River Stone Estate Winery, BC – 2023 Splash – $26.34

Single White Hybrids

Double Gold

  • Monte Creek Winery, BC – 2023 Living Land Frontenac Gris – $25.29

Gold

  • Planters Ridge Winery, NS – 2022 L’Acadie – $18.52
  • Valley of the Springs, BC – 2023 Epicure – $25.30

White Hybrid Blends

Double Gold

  • Monte Creek Winery, BC – 2023 Hands Up White – $22.99

Gold

  • Forbidden Fruit Winery, BC – 2023 Dead End Skrewd – $25.00

Pet Nat

Double Gold

  • Bench 1775, BC – 2022 Blanc de Blanc Ancestral – $39.99

Gold

  • Trail Estate Winery, ON – 2022 White Pét Nat – $36.00

Orange Wines

Double Gold

  • Byland Estate Winery, ON – 2021 Skin Fermented White Chardonnay – $28.00

Gold

  • Last House Vineyard, ON – 2021 Electrum – $29.00

Rosés Dry

Gold

  • Creekside Estate Winery Ltd., ON – 2023 Rosé – $15.95
  • Chaberton Estate WInery, BC – 2023 La Fleur de Chaberton – $27.55
  • Lakeview Wine Co., ON – N/V 20 Bees Rosé – $13.95

Rosés Off Dry

Double Gold

  • Gaspereau Vineyards, NS – 2022 Rosé – $23.79

Gold

  • Richibucto River Wine Estate, NB – 2020 Camrose – $16.63
  • Chaberton Estate Winery, BC – 2023 Chaberton Pink – $21.80
  • Three Sisters Winery, BC – 2023 Rosé – $25.00

Cabernet Sauvignon Under $35

Double Gold

  • Chaberton Estate Winery, BC – 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon – $31.00

Gold

  • Paglione Estate Winery, ON – 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon – $21.95

Cabernet Sauvignon Over $35.00

Double Gold

  • Colio Estate Wines, ON – 2020 Small Lot Series Cabernet Sauvignon – $40.00

Gold

  • Kismet Estate Winery, BC – 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve – $68.99

Merlot Under $35

Double Gold

  • Four Shadows Vineyard & Winery, BC – 2020 Merlot – $33.34

Gold

  • Nk’Mip Cellars, BC – 2021 Winemaker’s Merlot – $34.49
  • Alderlea Vineyards, BC – 2020 Merlot – $32.20

Merlot Over $35.00

Double Gold

  • Wesbert Winery, BC – 2021 Merlot – $45.94

Gold

  • Priest Creek Family Estate Winery, BC – 2020 Merlot – $52.90
  • De Simone Vineyards, ON – 2021 Merlot – $59.80

Pinot Noir Under $35

Double Gold

  • The Grange of Prince Edward, ON – 2022 County Pinot Noir – $34.00

Gold

  • Cherry Point Estate Wines, BC – 2022 Pinot Noir – $32.90
  • Inniskillin Okanagan Estate, BC – 2022 Okanagan Estate Pinot Noir – $25.29

Pinot Noir Over $35.00

Double Gold

  • Wending Home, ON – 2020 “Up Above” Pinot Noir – $42.95

Gold

  • Solvero Wines, BC – 2020 Pinot Noir – $40.35
  • SpearHead Winery, BC – 2022 Pinot Noir Okanagan Valley – $41.40

Cabernet Franc Under $35

Double Gold

  • Inniskillin Okanagan Estate, BC – 2022 Okanagan Estate Cabernet Franc – $29.89

Gold

  • Monte Creek Winery, BC – 2022 Living Land Cabernet Franc – $31.04
  • Three Sisters Winery, BC – 2022 Cabernet Franc – $30.00

Cabernet Franc Over $35.00

Double Gold

  • Watchful Eye Winery, ON – 2021 Cabernet Franc Reserve – $41.95

Gold

  • Privato Vineyard and Winery, BC – 2022 Cabernet Franc – $40.24
  • Bordertown Vineyard & Estate Winery, BC – 2020 Cabernet Franc Reserve – $49.90

Bordeaux Blends Under $35

Double Gold

  • Bench 1775, BC – 2021 Groove –  $22.75

Gold

  • Clos du Soleil Winery, BC – 2021 Celestiale – $34.39
  • Sunrock, BC – 2020 Red Meritage – $34.49
  • Magnotta Winery, ON – 2019 Meritage Gran Riserva -$ 31.95

Bordeaux Blends Over $35.00

Double Gold

  • Moraine Winery, BC – 2021 Meritage – $42.00

Gold

  • Vanessa Vineyard Estate Winery Inc., BC – 2019 Right Bank – $57.49
  • Colio Estate Wines, ON – 2020 Small Lot Series Meritage – $40.00
  • Hainle Vyds Estate Winery Ltd., BC – 2022 Hainle’s Red Cuvee – $40.24

Syrah/Shiraz Under $35

Double Gold

  • Oxley Estate Winery, ON – 2020 Syrah Reserve – $32.95

Gold

  • Terralux Estate Winery, BC – 2018 Syrah – $34.99

Syrah/Shiraz Over $35.00

Gold

  • Nk’Mip Cellars, BC – 2020 Qwam Qwmt Syrah – $49.44
  • Moon Curser Vineyards, BC – 2022 Syrah – $37.94

Single Red Hybrids

Double Gold

  • Potter Settlement Artisan Winery, ON – 2020 Frontenac Rouge – $35.00

Gold

  • Front Road Cellars, ON – 2022 Marquette Canadian Oak – $23.95
  • Magnetic Hill Winery, NB – 2023 Terroir Generator TP 1-1-12 – $30.00

Red Hybrid Blends

Double Gold

  • Jost Vineyards, NS – N/V Luvo Simply Red – $5.89   

Gold

  • Monte Creek Winery, BC – 2022 Hands Up Red – $25.29
  • De Simone Vineyards, ON – 2023 De Simone Red – $24.80

Other Single Red Vitis Vinifera

Double Gold

  • Noble Ridge Vineyard and Winery, BC – 2022 King’s Ransom Touriga Nacional – $74.75

Gold

  • Bonamici Cellars Ltd., BC – 2022 Sangiovese – $36.80

Other Red Vitis Vinifera Blends

Double Gold

  • Hester Creek Estate Winery, BC – 2022 GSM – $39.19

Gold

  • Kacaba Vineyards and Winery, ON – 2023 Select Series Cabernet – $15.95
  • Nk’Mip Cellars, BC – 2021 Winemaker’s Talon – $37.99

Marechal Foch

Double Gold

  • Alderlea Vineyards,BC – 2022 Clarinet – $27.60

Gold

  • Skimmerhorn Winery, BC – 2022 Estate Reserve Foch – $31.00

Malbec

Double Gold

  • Nostalgia Wines Inc., BC – 2020 Malbec – $42.00

Gold

  • Moon Curser Vineyards, BC – 2022 Malbec – $43.69

Gamay

Double Gold

Deep Roots Winery, BC – 2022 Reserve Gamay – $34.90

Gold

  • Deep Roots Winery, BC – 2022 Gamay – $25.90
  • Monte Creek Winery, BC – 2022 Living Land Gamay – $33.34

Appassimento Style

Double Gold

  • De Simone Vineyards, ON – 2019 Stallion – $154.80              

Gold

  • Magnotta Winery, ON – 2020 Enotrium Gran Riserva – $59.75

FRUIT WINES

Soft Fruit Dry

Double Gold

  • Black Bear Farms of Ontario Estate Winery, ON – 2015 Black Currant – $30.00

Gold

  • Black Bear Farms of Ontario Estate Winery, ON – N/V Red Raspberry & Red Currant – $20.00

Soft Fruit Off-Dry

Double Gold

  • Maan Farms Winery, BC – 2022 Raspberry Table – $23.08

Gold

  • Maan Farms Winery, BC – 2023 Strawberry Rhubarb – $22.51
  • Applewood Farm Winery, ON – 2021 Trio – $18.00

Soft Fruit Dessert

Gold

  • Maan Farms Winery, BC – N/V Blackberry Dessert – $29.99

Tree Fruit Dry

Double Gold

  • Muskoka Lakes Winery, ON – 2022 Georgian Bay Rose – $18.75

Gold

  • Forbidden Fruit Winery, BC – 2023 Speachless White Peach – $22.00

Tree Fruit Off Dry

Double Gold

  • Forbidden Fruit Winery, BC – 2023 Cherysh Cherry Rose – $22.00

Gold

  • Shrugging Doctor Beverage Co., MB – 2022 Carmine Jewel Cherry Wine – $21.99

Tree Fruit Dessert

Double Gold

  • Black Bear Farms of Ontario Estate Winery, ON – 2019 Apple – $20.00

Gold

  • Forbidden Fruit Winery, BC – 2023 Pomme Desiree Iced Apple – $28.00

Fruit Sparkling

Double Gold

  • Krause Berry Farms and Estate Winery, BC – N/V Strawberry Sparkling – $27.00

Gold

  • Coopérative Forestière du Nord Ouest Ltée., NB – N/V Noaska Jazzy Sparkling Red –  $18.90

Fruit Fortifieds

Double Gold

  • La Vallée de la Framboise Inc., QC – N/V Douce Anna – $20.00

Gold

  • La Vallée de la Framboise Inc., QC – N/V Le Fabuleux – $20.00

DESSERT WINES

Late Harvests

Double Gold

  • Vignoble du Marathonien, QC – 2021 Vendange tardive sélective – $28.00

Gold

  • Bench 1775, BC – 2022 Paradise Ranch Late Harvest Sauvignon Blanc Semillon – $29.75

White Icewines (Riesling, Vidal, Other)

Gold

  • Magnotta Winery, ON – 2019 Riesling Icewine Niagara Peninsula Limited Edition  – $39.95
  • Magnotta Winery, ON – 2021 Vidal Icewine Niagara Peninsula Limited Edition –       $34.75

Red Icewines

Double Gold

  • Magnotta Winery, ON – 2019 Cabernet Franc Icewine Niagara Peninsula Limited Edition – $44.95

Gold

  • Lakeview Wine Co., ON – 2022 Lakeview Wine Co. Cabernet Franc Icewine – $60.00

Grape Fortified

Double Gold

  • Moraine Winery, BC – 2021 O’Port – $45.00

Gold    

  • Noble Ridge Vineyard and Winery, BC – 2017 The Crown – $45.99

The complete listing of this year’s results is available from the All Canadian Wine Championships website at https://allcanadianwinechampionships.com/acwc-2024-results

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Info Seminar or Infomercial?

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An American wine club operator from Napa Valley, California had arranged for a group of his members to take part on our recent river cruise aboard the Scenic Sapphire, through the Burgundy and Rhône wine regions. The group excursion included the CEO of Cuvaison Estate Wines of Napa, California, Dan Zepponi.

While sailing down the Rhône River between ports, Zepponi treated the passengers to two seminars; the first was an exploration of Chardonnay wine. The presentation included tastings of two different Chardonnays from Cuvaison which were compared to two French Chardonnays that are regularly served as part of dinner service on the ship.

The tastings were conducted as a head-to-head comparison. First, his unoaked Methibiton Chardonnay, was compared to an unnamed, unoaked French wine. The second comparison was between two oaked Chardonnays, Coeurtina from his winery against a second unidentified French.

In each comparison I found the flavours of the Napa wines to be extremely close to the French, though to me the French was slightly more mellow and smoother. The Cuvaison wines are priced at $70 US each and are only available directly from the winery.  In comparison, the ships wines would have an equivalent price of approximately $15 – $20 US per bottle.

During the second seminar Zepponi discussed micro-lots as they pertain to the wine industry. When a winery wants to produce a type of wine but does not have enough of the varietal in their own vineyard they may purchase the varietal from another grape grower.   The purchased grapes are then used to make a specific wine exclusively from that purchased micro-lot. This allows the winemaker to better control the grapes being used and the wine produced, in a similar manner that would be done if the vintner was using their own estate grown grapes.

Two taste comparisons were conducted, the first was with Cuvaison’s 2022 En Cigar Chardonnay Blanc and the ship’s undisclosed Sauvignon Blanc house wine. The second comparison was conducted using their 2022 Fiddlestix Pinot Noir and an undescribed French Pinot Noir. I favoured the French Sauvignon Blanc over the Cuvaison but did find Cuvaison’s Pinot to be smoother and less fresh that the French Pinot. Once again though, the price between the American and French wines was significantly different – $70 US for both Cuvaison’s versus under $20 US for the French wines.

Unfortunately, the two seminars lacked substance and honesty as they were actually marketing presentations for Cuvaison wines. Zepponi would have had more credibility in my eyes if he had presented his talks as being an introduction to Cuvaison wines. There was no value in conducting taste comparisons with wines that are not even identified by name, let alone any information about where or how the wines were produced. He should have simply talked about how his wines are produced.

Based on information presented about the various Cuvaison wines, they are producing decent wines at a reasonable price point. However, the feeble attempt at conducting product comparisons was an insult to the intelligence of the ship’s passengers.

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The Châteauneuf-du-Pape District of France

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While on a river cruise that was part of my recent trip to France, I overheard someone say that Châteauneuf-du-Pape is a famous French winery. Well, that is not exactly true. Châteauneuf-du-Pape is a French Appellation d’origine contrôlée (AOC) located around the village of Châteauneuf-du-Pape in the Rhône wine region in southeastern France. It is one of the most renowned appellations of the southern part in the Rhône Valley, and its vineyards are located around Châteauneuf-du-Pape and in the neighboring villages of Bédarrides, Courthézon and Sorgues, between Avignon and Orange. The region covers more than 3,200 hectares or 32 square kilometres and produces over 110,000 hectolitres of wine each year.

The primary grape grown in the district is Grenache, but Cinsault, Counoise, Mourvèdre, Muscadine, Syrah, Terret noir, Vaccarèse, Grenache Blanc, Bourboulenc, Clairette blanche, Picardan, Roussanne, and Picpoul are also cultivated.

The terroir consists of white limestone. The stones absorb the heat of the sun and transfers it to the roots of the vines. The stones also help with allowing rain to penetrate the roots. This is critical since temperatures rise to about 45 degrees Celsius in the summer and irrigation is not permitted.

The harvest takes place from late August to early September. There are 323 vineyards in the district, all of which are family operated companies. Given the conditions, production yields are low and this is reflected in the price at your local wine store. However, the higher cost does not deter buyers as some wineries are selling their wines two years in advance.

Selections at Maison Bouachon

I visited Maison Bouachon winery, which has been in operation since 1898. The vines on the estate generally range from 80 to 100 years in age. Wine production is completed following the methods and rules established by the AOC.

While there I sampled three of their wines, 2023 Côtes du Rhône white, the Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2021 and the Châteauneuf-du-Pape Special Edition. My personal favourite was the Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2021, which is a blend of Syrah, Grenache and Mourvèdre grapes. I purchased a bottle which was later enjoyed by my wife and me. Unfortunately, like so many of the French wineries, Maison Bouachon wines are not available outside of France. Such a pity.

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The Beaujolais Wine District

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My wife and I recently returned from an excursion to France, which included exploration of several wine regions including the Beaujolais district of Burgundy. Beaujolais is a French Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée (AOC) wine, generally made from Gamay grapes.  The grapes are thin skinned and are low in tannins.

The soil (terroir) consists of granite, schist, clay and sandstone. The vines are pruned using the goblet method, which is mainly practiced in the Mediterranean regions because having a foot close to the ground shelters the vine from the wind and the falling vegetation protects the grapes from the sun. This method of pruning only allows 3 to 5 branches to be kept on the vine. The branches end with a spur of 3 or 4 buds.

Goblet pruning is a drought-resistant and berry-protected method but prohibits the use of mechanized harvesting methods. Economically, the reduction in yields can be significant. The cost of production can be high due to an increased need for labour and the drop in production.

Climate change has been presenting a variety of challenges during recent years. Netting has had to be installed to protect the grapes from summertime hailstorms that have been regularly occurring since 2007. Very wet spring seasons, like this year, are threatening to delay the start of the growing season, thus reducing the yield potential and increasing the risk of mold on the vines.

The wines produced in the Beaujolais district include Beaujolais, Beaujolais Villages, cru Beaujolais and Beaujolais Nouveau. The region also produces a small amount of Chardonnay (about 4%) but none of that wine is sold outside of France.

Isabelle Brossard

We visited Château de Pravins, a 12th century winery. The current owners acquired the winery in 1941. The purchaser was Joseph Mathieu, whose descendant, Isabelle Brossard, operates the winery today. It is a biodynamic winery (uses organic processes) that expands across 26 hectares. The grapes are still crushed by feet, but pipes and pumps are also now used. One kilo of grapes is required to produce a single bottle of wine.  The AOC limits the Beaujolais wineries from producing any more than 6,000 litres of wine per hectare and allows only cement vats to be used in the production process.

While there we sampled three red wines, l’argile ardente No 2, les moraines, and l’argile ardente. I found all tree wines to be as equally as nice.

Based on the slow soggy start to the 2024 growing season, don’t be surprised if the 2024 vintage of Beaujolais wine is limited and thus more expensive than some previous years.

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Ancient Roman Grapes

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Historically, the Romans are famous for their love of wine.  It is ironic that the wine Roman Emperors consumed was nothing like the wonderfully delicious wines that the world enjoys today.  During Roman times, what was referred to as wine was actually vinegar with honey and spices added, or sometimes garlic. Despite this, it was considered very good compared to other wines of the time.

Photo credit: disholicioussite.blog

Recently, three historic, yet little-known indigenous grape varieties, Bellone, Nero Buono and Cesanese are making a comeback in Italy’s ever changing wine market.

Bellone

Bellone is an ancient white grape variety that is referred to as ‘uva pantastica or pane d’uva’, meaning a ‘grape as good as bread’ or a ‘grape that goes well with bread’, depending on the source. The white grape often brings bright, fruity characteristics of stone fruit, melon and citrus fruits. Some bottles also have flavours of herbs, tropical fruits and toast.  It still grows on the original roots of ancient times.

Casale del Giglio wine estate, located 50 kilometres south of Rome, has spent years reintroducing the native grapes of Lazio. In 2022, its work was recognized by Gambero Rosso magazine when the winery’s Anthium Bellone, which is produced using ungrafted vines, was awarded the coveted Italian award for wine excellence, Tre Bicchieri.

Nero Buono

The black or red grape variety, Nero Buono, almost exclusively grows in the volcanic soil of Monte Lepini. Insects do not thrive in its cool, windy climate, thus alleviating one risk to this finicky grape. The deeply coloured wine brings flavours of dark-skinned fruits, rhubarb and black pepper.

Nero Buono is difficult to grow so there are no clones. It is very wild and produces many leaves which must be thinned out several times per year.  The berries are tight and close together making the vines susceptible to disease.

Producers are committed to supporting native grape production, even when there is minimal demand for the grapes.  Winemaker Marco Carpineti now makes wine only with sustainably grown fruit that is native to the area. Today Carpineti is one of the best-known winemakers of Lazio. He devotes 25 percent of his production to Nero Buono and Bellone-based sparkling wine made in the traditional method.

Cesanese

Originally called Latium, the Lazio region of Italy borders Tuscany to the north, Abruzzo to the east, Umbria to the northeast and Campania to the south. Rome is in this region, making it the primary winemaking region of the Roman Empire.

Cesanese is the signature red wine of Lazio.  Cesanese refers to one of two sub-varieties: Cesanese Comune or Cesanese di Affile. Both are used to make high-quality wines, which were highly prized in ancient times. There are three Cesanese appellations which include Cesanese del Piglio DOCG, Cesanese di Olevano Romano DOC and Cesanese di Affile DOC. All are within a 50-kilometer vicinity.

Cesanese is a red wine that contains flavours of dark-skinned berries, herbs, cedar and cooking spices. It’s ruby in colour and has high acidity and tannin, with the ability to age for a long time.

The Campania Region

Modern winemaking in Campania, a southern region referred to as ‘the ankle of the boot’, is closely identified with the Mastroberardino family, specialists in the wines of ancient times. The family’s involvement in winemaking can be traced back to the late 1500s.  However, today, brothers Antonio and Walter, along with sons Piero and Carlo, run the winery which is 60 kilometres northeast of Naples.

The family’s extensive library of ancient viticulture books has enabled the Mastroberardinos to grow grapes that were popular centuries ago.

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Barbaresco vs. Barolo

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I recently enjoyed a bottle of Barolo with dinner one night followed by a Barbaresco the following night. Having the two bottles back-to-back reminded me how different the two wines are despite being made from the same Nebbiolo grapes and being produced in the Piedmont region of Italy.

Photo credit: pinterest.co.kr

Production of both Barolo and Barbaresco occur in the Langhe hills near the town of Alba. The Barbaresco zone is northeast and the Barolo zone is southeast of the town.  In accordance with Italy’s governing body, the DOCG (denominazione di origine protetta or Denomination of Controlled Origin.) Barolo may only be produced in the comuni or townships of La Morra, Castiglione Falletto, Serralunga d’Alba, Barolo, Verduno, Roddi, Cherasco, Novello, Grinzane, Diano d’Alba and Monforte d’Alba. Barbaresco wine is produced in Treiso, Neive, San Rocco Seno d’Elvio and Barbaresco.

There are differences in the two sub-regions. The Barolo area is located at a slightly higher altitude and has more south-facing vineyard exposures. This results in slower ripening grapes than those of the Barbaresco area to the north. The northern region it is warmer, due to the lower altitudes and warm sea winds. As a result, the grapes ripen faster.

The soils of the two area are different as well. The soils of Barbaresco are slightly sandier, less compact, and have more nutrients. As a result, the wines have a softer character. The firmer soils of Barolo create bolder, more tannic wines.

According to DOCG regulations, Barbaresco must be aged a minimum of 26 months, with at least 9 of those months in oak. Barbaresco Riserva must be aged a minimum of 50 months with at least 9 months in oak.

Barolo wines are aged a minimum of 38 months, with 18 months being in oak. Barolo Riserva needs to age 60 months with 18 months in oak. The longer aging requirements are necessary because of the more intense tannins that are in Barolo wines.

When it comes to flavour, Barolo is the bigger, bolder and more structured. It may have an array of aromas of plums, sour cherries, tobacco or truffles.

Barbaresco is generally a lighter wine with flavours of ripe fruit. Barbaresco is strongly influenced by the soil, vineyard location and the winemaker’s techniques.

As to which wine is better, that is up to you to decide.  Personally, I like both equally. My preference is determined in the moment, whether it be a dinner pairing or simply my mood.

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Pinot Gris or Pinot Grigio

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Pinot Gris and Pinot Grigio are made from the same grape and are obviously both white wines, but it can be argued that the similarity ends there.

Photo credit: vinomofo.com

Pinot Gris originates in France and is believed to be a mutation of Pinot Noir. It’s mainly grown in the Alsace region of France. The grape is thought to have reached Italy during the 1300s where the variety was called Pinot Grigio.  The Italian version is primarily grown in the Alto Adige region of northwestern Italy.

Gris is the French word for gray and grigio is gray in Italian. The gray describes the grayish-purple skin of the grapes.

Both Pinot Gris and Pinot Grigio will appear on wines produced in countries other than France or Italy. There is an abundance of Pinot Gris grapes produced in countries such as Canada, the United States, Australia and New Zealand.

So what determines why some are labelled Pinot Gris while others are referred to as Pinot Grigio? Winemakers have the choice of selecting which name they use. There is no hard and fast rule, however most will base the name on the style of the wine they produce. You can usually tell the style by the colour. Pinot Gris style wines are typically darker and more yellow in colour, whereas Pinot Grigio wines are very light yellow, almost clear.

Pinot Gris wines are rich, full-bodied and accompanied by higher alcohol content. Made with fully ripe grapes that are occasionally barrel fermented, Pinot Gris often has extra sweetness and a creamy feel. The darker grape skins tend to produce a golden colour.

By contrast, Pinot Grigio is harvested early, resulting in a light-bodied, crisper wine with a lower level of alcohol. The aromas are primarily of fresh fruit and florals.

Pinot Gris embodies complex flavours such as cinnamon and lemon, with a tingly aftertaste. Late harvest French-style Pinot Gris is a rather sweet wine. This is due to noble rot, which creates honeylike undertones.

Pinot Grigio tends to be a lighter, crisp, dry style of wine with flavours of citrus and green apple, pear, lime and lemon, with a refreshing spark of acidity. Some Italian-style Grigio wines also have a floral aroma of honeysuckle.

The Pinot Gris style pairs well with roast pork, creamy pasta, and dense cheeses like Comté or Gruyère, seared scallops, or creamy mushroom risotto. Off-dry versions go well with spicy Asian or Indian dishes like chicken tikka masala or Thai green curry.

The lighter Pinot Grigio is a great apéritif but, also goes well with grilled shrimp, salads or fruit platters and sushi.

Now it is up to you to decide whether you prefer Pinot Gris or Pinot Grigio.

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Sauternes Wine

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Sauternes is a sweet wine from France’s Bordeaux region.  It is made from Sémillon, Sauvignon Blanc and Muscadelle grapes that have been affected by Botrytis cinerea, also known as noble rot. Sauternes is one of the few wine regions where infection with noble rot is a frequent occurrence. The noble rot causes the grapes to partially shrivel like raisins, resulting in concentrated and distinctively flavoured wines.

Sauternes is a full-bodied, sweet, late-harvest white wine that is an exceptional dessert wine. It is well complimented by aging in oak barrels and will keep for several decades.

Wine production is not consistent from one year to the next as harvests vary widely.  The wines produced from Sauternes can be very expensive, largely due to the very high cost of production.

Sauternes are characterized by sweetness with the zest of acidity. Some common flavour notes include apricot, butterscotch, caramel, coconut, mango, marmalade and citrus, as well as honeysuckle and toasted baking spices. The finish may remain on the palate for several minutes. A Sauternes typically starts out with a golden yellow colour that darkens as it ages.

Most Sauternes are sold in half bottles of 375 ml. The wines are typically served chilled at 10 °C, but wines older than 15 years are often served a few degrees warmer.

Sauternes is a great dessert wine but it may also be served with several food pairings. Consider cheesecake of all kinds, almond tart, lemon tart, meringues and custards. As well, it may be served along side something savory such as Roquefort or Livarot cheese and foie gras or terrine with caramelized onions.  Mains such as herb-roasted poultry or spicy Asian fare are recommended as well.

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Right and Left Bank Bordeaux Wines

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Bordeaux; most people have heard of this French wine region, which is one of the most famous Old World wine regions, but many people don’t understand it. To begin with, Bordeaux is divided into two sections, referred to as the Left Bank and the Right Bank. The banks refer to the left (west)and right (east) bank of the Gironde Estuary and Garonne River.

The Left and Right banks have significantly different terroirs. A terroir is the natural environment in which a particular wine is produced, including factors such as the soil, topography, and climate.  

The soil is rockier on the Left Bank. It is packed with gravel and deep deposits of limestone which serves to provide more character and potential quality in the wine. This is why Left Bank wines are considered prime candidates for aging, while Right Bank wines are generally thought to be smoother and more drinkable at the time they are released for sale.

This is not to suggest that Right Bank wines are simple and boring. With limestone closer to the surface and less gravel for the vine roots to contend with, the wines of the Right Bank don’t lack character; it’s just that they possess a different kind of character.

When it comes to the grape varietals grown, because of the differences in the terroir between the Left and Right Bank, each supports its own type of grape. As a result, this is often the best way to distinguish between a Left and Right Bank Bordeaux, as the label will not often tell you. Left Bank wines are mostly Cabernet Sauvignon with a smaller portion of Merlot. The Right Bank wines are dominated by Merlot balanced by a smaller proportion of Cabernet.

The Cabernet dominated Left Bank wines tend to be higher in tannin, thus the reason why they age well. Aging the wine helps to mellow out the tannins and integrate the flavors of the wine. Merlot-based Right Bank wines are generally smoother, with softer fruit flavours as tannins are not as dominating.

The last comparison is between the wineries or chateaux themselves. These are the castle-like structures that appear on many of the Bordeaux wine labels.  Generally, the Left Bank chateaux have larger vineyards than those of the Right Bank. Left Bank vineyards are on average 5o to 80 hectares in size versus those of the Right Bank, which only have a maximum of about 30 hectares. However, this is only a fun-fact as vineyard size really has no impact on the quality or character of the wine. Arguably the most renown chateaux include Chateau Margaux, Lafite, and Mouton Rothschild on the Left Bank and Petrus and Cheval Blanc from the Right Bank.

So, which wines are better?  Neither. If you are looking for a wine to enjoy with dinner tonight, a Right Bank wine is probably the better choice, whereas if you are looking for a wine to age and appreciate in the future, you will find that a Left Bank wine will improve with age and provide a delightfully satisfying experience when it is uncorked in a few years’ time.

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