wine

British Columbia’s Movers and Shakers for 2025

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This week I present my annual list of British Columbia wineries that most impressed me this year. This is not to suggest that these are the only great wineries in the province but simply those that attracted my attention this year.  The list varies in length from year to year as I like to focus on achievements rather than listing a specific number of wineries. The wineries are presented alphabetically as follows:

Laughing Stock Vineyards

Laughing Stock was recognized as the Best Performing Small Winery of the Year at this year’s National Wine Awards where they earned 2 Platinum, 3 Gold, 1 Silver and 2 Bronze medals. The winemaking team is led by winemaker Sandy Leier.

They aim to continually improve their wines and have been exploring a variety of fermentation vehicles over the past few years, including temperature regulated stainless tanks and the addition of eight concrete eggs. Six clay Amphorae have been acquired from Italy, in which a variety of limited production wines are produced. Complexity is added to the red wines through an extended barrel-aging program using 100% French oak in both standard barrel sizes and 500 liter puncheons.

Laughing Stock has 2 separate vineyards:

  • Naramata Bench Vineyard – The estate winery vineyard is home to all the Bordeaux grape varieties (Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec & Petit Verdot) that are included in their flagship wine, Portfolio.
  • Perfect Hedge Vineyard – Osoyoos – Since acquiring this 22-acre vineyard in 2007, it has become home to Bordeaux varieties (Merlot, Malbec & Cabernet Sauvignon) as well as Viognier and Syrah

This is Laughing Stock’s first appearance on the Movers and Shakers list.

Meyer Family Vineyards (2021, 2024

This is Meyers Family Vineyards third time on the Movers and Shakers List, having appeared previously in 2024 and 2021.

Meyer aims to produce the finest quality wines in the traditions of the Burgundy region of France. The grapes are hand-harvested, with great attention to detail and minimal winemaking intervention. The wines are produced from three main vineyards: the 6.9-hectare McLean Creek Road Vineyard in Okanagan Falls; the 1.62-hectare Old Main Road Vineyard on the Naramata Bench; and the 1.5-hectare Lakehill Road Vineyard in Kaleden. They also work with passionate quality-minded growers in Naramata and Osoyoos area to round out their portfolio of terroir-driven wines.

Winemaker Chris Carson’s philosophy is to care for the grape on the vine and maintain as much as possible a hands-off approach in the cellar to allow the true expression of the terroir. Each wine reflects the single vineyard of its origin, the soil, the climate and the slope.

The three main vineyards are:

  • McLean Creek Road Vineyard Okanagan Falls – This is the home vineyard. The vineyard was originally planted in 1994. Varietals grown include Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Gewurztraminer.
  • Old Main Road Vineyard Naramata Bench – This vineyard was originally planted in 1996 with 100% Chardonnay vines which is still the case today.
  • Lakehill Road Vineyard Kaleden – The vineyard was planted with 3 acres of Pinot Noir in 2009 and another 0.75 acres in 2019.

Mission Hill Family Estate

Mission Hill was named Winery of the Year earlier this year at the National Wine Awards, making it Canada’s only six-time winner. This is reflected in the fact that Mission Hill appeared as a Mover and Shaker previously in 2022, 2021 and 2020.

This year Mission Hill Family Estate was awarded top honours with two platinum and seven gold awards. The award winning wines are:

  • 2022 Perpetua: Platinum
  • 2022 Terroir Cabernet Franc – Member Exclusive: Platinum
  • 2023 Terroir Chardonnay – Member Exclusive: Gold
  • 2020 Compendium: Gold
  • 2022 Terroir Cabernet Sauvignon – Member Exclusive: Gold
  • 2021 Oculus – Member Release Fall 2025: Gold
  • 2020 Quatrain: Gold
  • 2023 Perpetua – Coming Spring 2026: Gold
  • 2022 Terroir Meritage – Member Exclusive: Gold

Fostering an ecosystem natural to the region supports quality grape growing, which in turn creates wine of depth and character. Bees, falcons and chickens replace pesticides and insecticides. Cover crops, earthworms and compost are used in place of chemical fertilizers.

Their practices are fundamentally rooted in Old World techniques which they now support with modern technology.

Stag’s Hollow Winery

This is Stag’s Hollow’s first appearance as a Mover and Shaker.

Larry Gerelus and Linda Pruegger started with a 10 acre vineyard in 1992 that was planted with Vidal and Chasselas varietals. The winery was later constructed in 1995. At that time, Stag’s Hollow Winery was one of only 30 wineries in British Columbia. Initially Merlot, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Vidal were grown.

In 2011, another 18 acres of land was purchased which became Shuttleworth Creek Vineyard.

The vineyards are managed sustainably, which refers to conservation, pest management, responsible water usage and efficient energy use. To maintain good biodiversity and soil health in the vineyard, chemical fungicides are not used. Instead, only organic products are applied. All canopy management is performed by hand, which reduces energy consumption as well as allowing for far more precision. A natural vegetation buffer zone is used to provide breeding grounds for beneficial insects to control unwanted pests.

The winery’s two vineyards are:

  • Stag’s Hollow Estate Vineyard – Merlot and Pinot Noir blocks, now exceeding 30 years of age, are on the southwest facing slopes of the Hollow. 
  • Shuttleworth Creek Vineyard – This land, a former hay field, was purchased in 2011, recognizing that Pinot Noir was likely to be an excellent variety for its terroir. In addition, two Spanish varieties were planted – Albariño and Tempranillo, and two Italian varieties – Dolcetto and Teroldego.

Happy New Year!

Sláinte mhaith

Ontario’s Movers and Shakers for 2025

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As the end of the year draws near, it is time to reveal my annual list of wineries that I found to be most impressive in 2025. Once again, I am not suggesting that these are the only great wineries in the province but merely those that attracted my attention this year.   The list varies in length from year to year as I like to focus on achievements rather than listing a specific number of wineries.

Without further ado, here is my list for 2025, presented in alphabetical order:

Broken Stone Winery

Broken Stone is a boutique winery that is in the heart of the Prince Edward County wine region. I was first introduced to Broken Stone’s wines in 2023 and was impressed enough that I included it in my list of movers and shakers that year. I returned to the winery again this past spring and was equally impressed again by the quality of their wines.

Their objective is to grow the highest quality grapes and craft world-class wines that are created from grapes grown in their vineyards:

  • Kuepfer Vineyard – This is the original vineyard where Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Cabernet Franc, Pinot Gris, and Pinot Meunier grapes are grown
  • Applehouse Vineyard – This was the home of one of the first commercial plantings in the County that produces Riesling, Gewurztraminer and Chardonnay grapes.
  • King Eddie Vineyard – Varieties planted here include Gamay Noir, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Chenin Blanc.

The vintner continually works to improve the vineyard biodiversity and soils. They have adopted minimal winemaking approaches and use their knowledge of science and tradition to help the wines reveal their potential.

Karlo Estates Winery

Prince Edward County’s Karlo Estates first appeared on my Movers and Shakers list in 2021. Since then, it has continued to develop and improve not only their wines, but their customers’ experiences. Under the direction of their Executive Winemaker Derek Barnett and Winemaker Spencer Mayer, they have produced the first certified vegan wine in the world, and as a result are reducing their carbon impact.

Not only is the wine in their bottles certified vegan but all vineyard practices are vegan, their packaging is vegan and their restaurant menu is vegan. As a result, they have been placed on the “Top Ten Cutting Edge Wines of the World” list. 

The winery continues to provide the interesting single varietals and eclectic blends that it has become known for.

The Organized Crime Winery

I would be remiss if I failed to include the top Ontario winery at this year’s National Wine Awards. The Organized Crime earned a Platinum, 6 Gold, 4 Silver and 3 Bronze medals.

They are a second-generation, family-owned, small boutique winery located on the Beamsville Bench of the Niagara Peninsula. Owners Edward Zaski & Ania de Duleba farm the land themselves and assist in the winemaking throughout all stages of the process. Their production volumes are very small, but that hasn’t hindered them from appearing on my Movers and Shakers list previously in 2024 and 2020.

Two Sisters Vineyards

Two Sisters Vineyards began operations in 2007 guided by their passion to create exceptional wine. The winery and vineyards span over 130 acres in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario. Grape varietals include Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Chardonnay, Riesling and Sauvignon Blanc.

The vineyards are Certified Sustainable by Sustainable Winegrowing Ontario. Two Sisters employ a science-based, decision-making process to reduce risks from grape pests in a way to minimize environmental risks. The winery also follows vegan practices as the wine fining agents that are used are vegan.

Two Sisters Vineyards was previously included as a Mover and Shaker back in 2020.

Coming up next week will be British Columbia’s 2025 list.

Sláinte mhaith

Holiday Season Wine Pairings

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With Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa, and New Year’s Eve celebrations all quickly approaching, there’s a lot to consider when it comes to choosing what to eat and drink during those festive gatherings. Here is a list of some of the best wines to pair with the flavours of the holidays.

Photo credit: winedevaexperiences.com

For rich, buttery foods, wines with good acidity will refresh the palate. As always, match the weight of the wine to the food: Light-bodied wines go with lighter dishes, while full-bodied wines can stand up to hearty, richer food.

If you are serving sparkling wine, be sure to keep it chilled. Sparkling wine always adds an instant celebratory feel and pairs well with everything from appetizers to desserts.

If you want to keep it simple, you can offer a red, white, and a sparkling option to cover the diverse flavours on the dinner table. Guests can then choose which wine they prefer. Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Riesling are all good general options.

Here are some classic holiday pairing selections:

Main DishesRed WineWhite Wine
Roast turkeyPinot NoirChardonnay (oaked or unoaked)
Glazed hamPinot NoirPinot Gris, Riesling
Prime Rib / Roast BeefCabernet SauvignonChardonnay  
Roast ChickenPinot NoirChardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc
Salmon / Baked FishPinot NoirSauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris
Beef BrisketSyrah, MalbecRiesling
Spicy Gumbo Off-Dry Riesling
Side Dishes / AppetizersRed WineWhite Wine
Charcuterie Sparkling
Crab cakes          Sparkling
Creamy dishes Pinot Gris, Chardonnay
Vegetable dishesPinot Noir          Sauvignon Blanc
Collard Greens Dry Riesling
Sweet Potatoes Chardonnay
Mashed potatoesPinot NoirChardonnay
Potato latkes     Sauvignon Blanc
Squash soup      Chardonnay
Pasta salad        Beaujolais, GamayPinot Gris
DessertsRed WineWhite Wine
Peach cobbler Late Harvest Riesling
Apple PieTawny PortDemi-Sec or Doux Sparkling Wine
Bread puddingTawny Port, SherrySémillon
Sticky toffee pudding   Tawny Port, SherrySémillon
Pecan pieTawny Port, Gamay 
Crème brûléeTawny PortDemi-Sec Champagne
Christmas cakeTawny Port, SherryChampagne or Prosecco

Enjoy the festive season!

Sláinte mhaith

Bock Winery, Villany, Hungary

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While on a recent Danube River cruise through some of the former Iron Curtain countries of eastern Europe, I visited the Bock Winery, which is located near Mohacs (“the mother of wine”), Hungary. It is a tenth-generation family winery that was established in 1850. It spreads out over 125 hectares or about 310 acres.

Bock’s cellars

Bock’s wines are aged in a combination of French, American and Hungarian oak barrels. The use of Hungarian oak introduces a flavour and nose that is slightly different than what would be experienced with most new world wines of Australia, North America or South America. The vintner also uses a combination of both new oak and old oak barrels, depending on the specific wine being produced.

In addition to wine, Bock also produces grape seed oil, grape seed tablets and grape seed flour. This is done to minimize the amount of waste resulting from the wine making process.

While there I had the opportunity to try four of Bock’s wines – a 2023 Villányi Hárslevelú, a 2024 Villányi Rosé Curvée, a 2017 Villányi Bock Curvée, and the 2022 Cabernet Franc.

2023 Villányi Hárslevelú

This is a fresh and fragrant white wine that is produced from a native Hungarian grape variety. It is made using overripe grapes grown on 40-year-old vines in the Göntér vineyard. Its colour is a medium-intensity, straw yellow. The aroma reveals linden blossom, combined with a slight citrus note, which is also reflected in the taste.

2024 Villányi Rosé Curvée

This is a fresh and fragrant wine produced from the virgin must of blue grape varieties from Bock’s vineyards. It has a medium colour with salmon-pink hues. The aroma and taste consist of strawberries, accompanied by satisfying acidity. The wine is enhanced with carbon dioxide before bottling.

2017 Villányi Bock Curvée

2017 Villányi Bock Curvée

This is Bock Winery’s flagship wine, produced from a blend of premium red grapes from several Bock vineyards which produce a full-bodied wine. It is a Bordeaux-type blend of Cabernet Sauvignon (60%), Cabernet Franc (30%) and Merlot (10%) that has developed in new, small oak barrels for 24 months and then in the bottle for an additional year. The wine is characterized by a deep, dark intensity and dark purplish red hue. It is a full-bodied wine, with a scent of ripe cherries and tobacco, and a taste of overripe fruits, chocolate and vanilla.

This was my personal favourite of the wines I sampled.

2022 Cabernet Franc

This is a medium-bodied red wine using grapes from several of Bock’s vineyards. After fermentation, the Cabernet Franc matures in large oak barrels for 12 months to produce a dark, intense, deep red wine with a large body. It has a complex aroma and taste, in which the fruitiness forms a unity with the aromas from the barrel.

Good news for Ontario residents, Bock Wines are periodically available liquor stores.

Sláinte mhaith

French Cuisine with French Wine

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Inspired by my excursion earlier this year to France, I have compiled a list of popular French foods along with complimentary French wines.

Photo credit: joinusinFrance.com

Asparagus and Hollandaise with Condrieu

Condrieu is the highest form of Viognier, a white grape known for its thick texture and exuberant aromatics. Asparagus makes a good combination.

Brie de Meaux with Champagne

The richness of the creamy cheese is balanced by the acidity and lightness of the bubbly Champagne. It creates a very decadent experience. 

Coq au Vin with Beaujolais

Beaujolais is the often-underestimated red from southern Burgundy. Made from pure Gamay, the wines are easy to appreciate. The freshness in Beaujolais allows it to cut through the richness of stew. However, the berry notes of the wine are better suited with chicken rather than beef or pork.

Boeuf Bourguignon with Red Burgundy

Boeuf bourguignon, being robust and savory, is well complimented by a red Burgundy, which is a complex and subtle expression of Pinot Noir.

Chèvre with Sauvignon Blanc 

As simple as it sounds, fresh goat cheese and Sauvignon Blanc make a great combination. The pungent flavours in chèvre are highlighted by the minerals and acidity of Sauvignon Blanc.

Comté with Vin Jaune

Vin Jaune is the oxidized, sherry-like wine made in France’s Jura region. It has intense, delicious notes of walnuts, dried fruit, curry and pine. It can be a bit sharp on its own, but with cheese, such as Comté, it is very appealing.

Duck with Red Burgundy

A red Burgundy will be a good compliment for roasted duck breast. It combines delicate berry fruits with cool earthiness. As the wine ages it is enhanced by notes of mushrooms and leather.

Foie Gras with Sauternes

Steeped in French tradition, foie gras should be paired with a Sauternes from the Bordeaux region.

Lamb with Northern Rhône Syrah

Northern Rhône Syrah is both subtle and elegant, combining characteristics of dark berry with lightweight aromatics. There are often notes of smoked meats, bacon, licorice, and cloves, which pairs well with lamb.

Mussels with Muscadet

Muscadet is a refreshing, uncomplicated white wine that is produced along the Loire River near the Atlantic Coast. With the ocean nearby, it’s a perfect match for shellfish, particularly oysters or mussels.

Olive Tapenade with Rosé

Olive tapenade served on seasoned crackers or crusty slices of baguette combined with a crisp Rosé is a great combination.

Oysters with Chablis

Chablis is a sub-region of Burgundy, known for its Chardonnay wines made with little or no oak. Classic Chablis is full of minerality and zest making it a great pairing with most oyster dishes.

Roquefort with Sauternes

Sauternes is a unique wine, being created from mold-covered shriveled up grapes just south of Bordeaux. It has notes of apricot, pineapple, ginger, caramel and honey. It pairs well with blue cheese.

Salade Lyonnaise with Beaujolais 

A traditional salad lyonnaise (greens, bacon, croutons and mustard dressing topped with a poached egg) is the perfect match for the low levels of tannins and high acidity found in Beaujolais, which is produced from Gamay grapes.

Sole or Flounder with Sancerre

Sancerre is pure Sauvignon Blanc. It is aged in a stainless steal tank without any oak. The combination of juicy grapefruit and mineral freshness matches beautifully with any fine white fish prepared in butter.

Steak with Bordeaux

Steak pairs well with many reds from France, but one sure bet is Bordeaux, especially the Right Bank Merlot dominant wines.

Stew with Southern Rhône Red

Southern Rhone reds usually consist of a blend of Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre. The resulting wines are bold and rich, with texture and dark, jammy notes. Most beef stews work well with these wines.

Veal with White Burgundy

White Burgundy is the highest expression of Chardonnay. As long as the wine retains some acidity, it should match beautifully with the subtle, delicate flavours of veal.

Bon appetite!

Sláinte mhaith

The Effects of Tariffs on the U.S. Wine Industry

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With the introduction of tariffs this year by the U.S., American wine makers are now paying a higher price for all their wine making materials including French oak barrels, glass bottles, corks and even the wine-making equipment itself, such as pumps and de-stemmers. The 15% levy that was imposed on all goods entering the U.S. from the European Union means the cost of wine making supplies increased 15%. For example, each wine barrel now costs California wine makers an additional $100 to $150 US.

Photo credit: globaltradelawblog.com

California’s Paso Robles Wine Country Alliance said international wine orders were drying up as the aftereffects from President Trump’s trade war resonated around the world. U.S. winemakers are saying that this puts wine producers in high-cost California at an even greater disadvantage.

European wine producers are reducing their amount of American wine purchased. Danish wine stores are boycotting U.S. made wines. In Sweden, the state liquor store, Systembolaget, has seen sales of American wines drop 15%. Portugal as well has sought out alternatives to American wine.

Canada, who purchased 33% of all U.S. wine exports in 2024, has removed American wine and alcohol from liquor store shelves in most provinces. Robert P. Koch, president of California’s Wine Institute, said, “Canada is the single most important export market for U.S. wines, with retail sales in excess of $1.1 billion annually”. In April 2025, U.S. wine exports to Canada decreased 72.5% compared to April of last year. According to the American Association of Wine Economists (AAWE) exports declined by $25.5 million to $9.69 million.

It’s feared that these new anti-American sentiments are unravelling decades of marketing work and relationship building. Former consumers of American wine are now discovering interest in other New World wines, such as Australia, South Africa, South America and Canada.

Oregon is facing the same challenges as California. Oregon’s leading export targets are Mexico, China and Canada, representing about 81,000 jobs that are reliant on that export trade. Close to half of all Oregon wine exports in recent years have gone to Canada; in 2022, that was 73,323 cases of a total export of 162,939.

In April, the US Wine Trade Alliance stated that “restaurants will suffer, domestic producers will face new obstacles in bringing their wines to market, and retailers, importers, and distributors across the country will be placed at serious risk “.

I guess we will all have to wait and see what the longer-term effects of this trade war will be. However, I tend to agree with the economists who conquer that a trade war is a war that no one wins.

Sláinte mhaith

Buying Wine Online

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I have previously shared my experiences on purchasing wine from a winery in a foreign country and shipping it home. Today I look at another purchase option, buying wine online.

Photo credit: vinpark.com

The online sources vary from individual wineries to liquor stores to wine brokerage houses to wine clubs and even auction houses. Online searches will help you find rare wines and older vintages. It also makes it easy to search where a specific wine is sold and allows you to compare prices. These sites will often provide additional information about the wine you are interested in, such as the vintner’s notes, wine critic reviews, a link to winery websites and other technical information.

However, before you begin scrolling through the wide assortment of online vendors, there are some things you need to be aware of.  First, if you are purchasing wine or any other alcohol from a website outside your country or province there will be a number of taxes and charges.  For example, alcohol being imported from outside Canada to Ontario will have a levy of 102.2% for wine, 143.7% for spirits and $1.70 per litre for beer.

In addition, there will most likely be a shipping fee, which will be a significant percentage of the per bottle price. The only exception I am aware of is when I purchase alcohol online from my liquor store (the LCBO); the price I pay is the same price as it would be in the bricks and mortar store. The only difference is my purchase is shipped to the local liquor store where I then go to pick it up. It enables me to purchase wines and spirits that I would otherwise not have access to, living in an area where there is a limited variety of selections.

The number of retailers able to ship to you may be restricted by shipping regulations in the vendor’s location. Thus, your online wine purchase options may not be as lucrative as it may seem.

Sláinte mhaith

Wine with Fast-Food

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Serving wine with your fast-food meal is a great way to enhance your dining experience. A little planning when it comes to your wine pairing can be very rewarding, so don’t just grab any bottle of wine off the shelf or from the fridge. Generally, wines with higher levels of acidity work well with fattier, greasy foods. Also, don’t forget to consider any side dishes you are having with your fast food. The wine should complement all the elements of your dinner. Robust, bold-flavoured dishes need to be paired with an equally powerful wine. Sweeter wines, like Riesling, will counterbalance hot or spicy dishes.

If in doubt, sparkling wines are generally a safe bet when it comes to fast food.

Photo credit: providencejournal.com

Burgers

Since burgers usually have a high fat content, more acidic wines pair well. Beef and medium-bodied red wines, such as Malbec or Syrah are a great match while chicken, turkey and veggie burgers go best with lighter-bodied white wines. Sauvignon Banc, Pinot Gris or Chenin Blanc are all good options.

If having cheeseburgers, a light-bodied Pinot Noir or a fruity Grenache is a good choice.  Bacon cheeseburgers are complimented by a bold Cabernet Sauvignon or Shiraz.

Curry

When matching wine with curry there are a couple of considerations: texture and the spice level. High alcohol wines intensify the heat from curries, so these are best avoided with spicy curries. Crisp, cold white wines are a good match at offsetting the curry’s heat. Sparkling wines are best avoided as they can leave an unpleasant metallic aftertaste.

An off-dry Riesling or Pinot Gris works well, as does a light or medium-bodied red wine such as a Beaujolais or Pinot Noir.

Fish and Chips

When it comes to light, white fish such as cod or haddock, white wine is the recommended option. Lean, flaky fish pairs well with a light and zesty Sauvignon Blanc. Meatier fish-like halibut goes well with a medium-bodied Chardonnay. Sparkling wines are also a good choice as they offset the salt and their acidity helps to balance the oil.

Fried Chicken

The wine needs to complement the mild flavour of the chicken while cutting through the salty, crispy deep-fried coating. Medium-bodied white wines with higher acidity levels work best at accomplishing this. Options include Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc or sparkling wine such as Champagne or Prosecco.

Chicken Nuggets

Whether from your grocer’s freezer section or your local McDonalds, chicken nuggets or chicken fingers pair well with Rosé.

French Fries

Good old fashion French fries go well with Cava, Champagne or any other sparkling wine.

Kebobs

Rich reds with fruity flavours are the best choice as lighter wines may be overpowered by the flavours of the meat. A Merlot or Cabernet Franc are good possibilities. White wines with higher acidity and apple notes can be a good option as well. A Pinot Gris or Riesling could be considered.

Pizza

For pizza and wine pairings see my post from either January 28, 2023, or March 9, 2024.

Tacos

Tacos will be complemented by Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Gris.

Bon appetite!

Sláinte mhaith

The Best Wine for Your Sign

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Photo credit: tastingtable.com

When I recently came across a post on social media suggesting that the wines best suited for you to drink are those that compliment your zodiac sign, I was shocked to learn that there have been quite a few articles, including some from renowned wine authorities, written on the subject.

It was interesting to see that the various writers generally agreed on what types of wines are best suited to each zodiac sign.

♈ Aries (March 21 — April 19): Bold and Adventurous

Aries are said to be confident, competitive and direct. Bold mouth-zapping whites such as Grüner Veltliner or reds such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel or Barbera are thought to be a good match. These wines contain a higher alcohol content that compliments Aries fiery spirit. The spicy, robust and full-bodied wine flavours compliment Aries zest for life and passion for taking on new challenges.

♉ Taurus (April 20 — May 20): Sensual and Indulgent

Taurus are thought to be down-to-earth, strong, ambitious, and lovers of creature comforts. Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre blends from the Rhone, or a Châteauneuf-du-Pape would suit very well. Cabernet Sauvignon is also suggested as another choice. White wine, such as Viognier would be equally as suitable.

♊ Gemini (May 21 — June 20): Versatile and Social

Gemini are said to be lively, versatile and expressive. This personality should be well-suited to aromatic New World Sauvignon Blanc, Champagne, Vinho Verde or Grüner Veltliner.

♋ Cancer (June 21 — July 22): Nurturing and Intuitive

Cancers are often family-oriented foodies who adore sharing a table with others. A Merlot, Cabernet Franc or a Bordeaux blend is a good choice, although Riesling may be as equally appealing.

♌ Leo (July 23 — August 22): Regal and Dramatic

Leos are optimistic, flamboyant and larger than life. This is said to be a good match for a New World Shiraz or an Amarone della Valpolicella. Citrusy, bright and zippy Sauvignon Blancs are also a good choice, as well as Prosecco, Cava, Crémant, Sparkling Rosé, Sekt and Lambrusco.

♍ Virgo (August 23 — September 22): Practical and Sophisticated

Virgos are loving and gentle, yet practical. Their personality pairs well with the delicate flavours of a Beaujolais or Pinot Noir.

♎ Libra (September 23 — October 22): Balanced and Charming

Libras are said to be fair, suave and indulgent. Their social nature means that they seek out foods and drinks that are all about harmony, approachability and lightness. A Riesling or a decadent bottle of Sherry is said to be a good choice. Medium-bodied French Rosé is also a good option.

♍ Scorpio (October 23 — November 21): Intense and Mysterious

Scorpios are said to be intense and persistent but guarded. These traits pair well with the vivid boldness of a Barolo, a savory, spicy Syrah, or the smoky intensity of a Spanish Tempranillo.

♐ Sagittarius (November 22 — December 21): Adventurous and Free-Spirited

Flexible, intellectual, and given to wanderlust, Sagittarius is a match for the complex notes of Cabernet Franc, Spanish Grenache, Malbec or Sangiovese.

♑ Capricorn (December 22 — January 19): Ambitious and Disciplined

Pragmatic, ambitious and serious individuals, Capricorn are a perfect fit for the rich but straightforward flavours of a Montepulciano d’Abruzzo, or the bold, elevated alcohol content of a Primitivo, a Merlot or Cabernet Franc.

♒ Aquarius (January 20 — February 18): Innovative and Eccentric

Aquarius is said to be logical, eccentric, and witty, a good combination with Petit Verdot or Chablis. Orange wines are also said to be a great option as Aquarius are said to veer towards exotic scents and tastes that might be surprising to others.

♓ Pisces (February 19 — March 20): Dreamy and Compassionate

Pisces are compassionate, romantic and quirky. Their personality is well suited for the rich, full flavours of an Argentinian Malbec, a sparkling Rosé or even a Brut Rosé Champagne.

I admit that I am not a follower of the zodiac and that I was at first very quick to dismiss the wine suggestions, particularly because I am an enthusiastic fan of red wines, and there was not a single red option suggested for my sign. However, after thinking about it, I remembered a winery visit I made in Prince Edward County several years ago, where I purchased a particular orange wine solely because I was intrigued by its unique flavour. It will never be a ‘go to’ wine for me but its distinctiveness enticed me to purchase it. Maybe there is something to this wine for my sign.

Sláinte mhaith

The 2025 National Wine Awards

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Photo credit: winealign.com

This year Penticton, British Columbia hosted the 25th anniversary of the WineAlign National Wine Awards of Canada (NWAC). The NWAC is the country’s largest competition, involving only 100 percent Canadian-grown and produced wines.

This year a new category was introduced – Library Wines. This classification includes wines that are 5 years or older. These aged wines were not compared against each other but instead, each wine was independently assessed as to where it was in its lifecycle and how well it was ageing and tasting.

The Replacement wines or Crafted in B.C. wines were not included as part of The WineAlign National Wine Awards.

Winery of the Year

The 2025 Winery of the Year is Penticton, British Columbia’s Mission Hill Family Estate. This is the sixth time Anthony von Mandl has been awarded this prestigious honour.

This year, Mission Hill entered 11 top-tier wines, earning two Platinum medals, five Golds and one Silver medal.

The balance of the top 10 wineries are:

  • Laughing Stock Vineyards, Penticton, British Columbia
  • Meyer Family Vineyards, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • SpearHead Winery, Kelowna, British Columbia
  • The Organized Crime Winery, Beamsville, Ontario
  • Quails’ Gate Winery, Kelowna, British Columbia
  • Peller Estates, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario
  • Fielding Estate Winery, Lincoln, Ontario
  • Trius Winery, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario
  • Tantalus Vineyards, Kelowna, British Columbia

Best Performing Small Winery

This year’s Best Performing Small Winery is Penticton, British Columbia’s Laughing Stock Vineyards. Laughing Stock earned eight medals at this year’s event: two Platinum, three Gold, one Silver, and two Bronze. 

When the winery was acquired by Arterra Wines in 2017, some experts had concerns as to whether Laughing Stock would maintain its boutique identity under its new corporate umbrella. However, the winery continues to operate with a small, focused team and remains fully independent in its winemaking approach.

The balance of the top 10 small wineries are:

  • Meyer Family Vineyards, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • SpearHead Winery, Kelowna, British Columbia
  • The Organized Crime Winery, Beamsville, Ontario
  • Tantalus Vineyards, Kelowna, British Columbia
  • Township 7 Vineyards and Winery, Penticton, British Columbia
  • Stag’s Hollow Winery, Okanagan Falls, British Columbia
  • Moon Cruiser Vineyards, Osoyoos, British Columbia
  • Orofino Vineyards, Similkameen Valley, British Columbia
  • Thirty Bench Wine Makers, Beamsville, Ontario

Platinum Awards

A Platinum medal is the highest award possible. Less than 2% of the 1,700 wines and ciders entered received this award.

The award process involves a minimum of eight judges, three or four in the first round, and five or six in the second round. Each wine must have achieved an aggregate score of 93 points by five of those judges. 93 points or better is considered entering the realm of “outstanding.” Thus, not every judging category had a Platinum recipient.

This year’s Platinum Award winners are listed below:

Library Wines

  • Moon Curser 2020 Malbec, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia

Red Blends

  • Black Hills 2023 Bona Fide, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Laughing Stock 2022 Blind Trust Red, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Nomad at Hinterbrook Winery 2021 Wanderlust, Niagara Lakeshore, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • Palatine Hills Ramblers 2024 Schmoozer Cabernet Merlot, Niagara Lakeshore, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • The Organized Crime 2022 The Download, Beamsville Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • Trius 2022 Grand Red, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario

Pinot Noir

  • 1 Mill Road 2022 Pinot Noir Home Block, Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Lightning Rock Winery 2022 Pinot Noir Canyonview Vineyard, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Meyer 2022 Old Block Pinot Noir   McLean Creek Road Vineyard, Okanagan Falls, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • SpearHead 2022 Okanagan Valley Pinot Noir, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • SpearHead 2022 Pommard Clone Pinot Noir, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia

Chardonnay

  • 1 Mill Road 2023 Chardonnay, Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Meyer 2022 Chardonnay McLean Creek Road Vineyard, Okanagan Falls, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Mission Hill Family Estate 2022 Perpetua, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Quails’ Gate Winery 2022 Rosemary’s Block Chardonnay, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia

Syrah

  • Laughing Stock 2022 Syrah, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Sandhill 2022 Syrah Terroir Driven Wine, British Columbia
  • Stag’s Hollow 2022 Syrah, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia

Riesling

  • CedarCreek 2022 Aspect Collection Riesling, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Peller Estates 2023 Signature Series Riesling, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • Thirty Bench 2022 Small Lot Riesling, Triangle Vineyard, Beamsville Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario Trius 2023 Showcase Riesling, Ghost Creek, Four Mile Creek, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario

Icewine and Late Harvest

  • Inniskillin 2023 Riesling Icewine Niagara Estate, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • Byland 2023 Riesling Icewine, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario

Cabernet Franc

  • Black Bank Hill 2022 Cabernet Franc, Lincoln Lakeshore, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • Fielding 2023 Cabernet Franc, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • Kismet 2022 Cabernet Franc Reserve, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Mission Hill Family Estate 2022 Terroir Cabernet Franc, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Niagara College Teaching Winery 2022 Dean’s List Cabernet Franc, St. David’s Bench, Niagara Peninsula, Ontario
  • Tinhorn Creek 2022 Cabernet Franc, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
  • Merlot

The complete list of award winners can be found at www.winealign/awards.

Sláinte mhaith