• Had the pleasure of tasting the following wine in the top-notch, wine-friendly ‘Petit Bill’s Bistro’ at 1293 Wellington St. West in Ottawa with three friends, ‘Mac’ Macdonald, well-known winemaker and knowledgeable person handling the purchase and sale of fresh grapes and juice to home winemakers at the rear of Preston Hardware in Little Italy, along with a former, well-respected, much-loved wine columnist for the Ottawa Citizen, Peter Ward. Peter made lasting connections with his wine column readers enhancing their wine knowledge and wine appreciation. He also suggested the following 2016 Château des Charmes Aligoté and it was a delectable, inspired match with the seafood chowder and Steam Whistle Pilsner beer-battered fish and frites. The third friend? Petit Bill’s co-owner, Randy Fitzpatrick, a very thoughtful guy who made a special trip to the restaurant that lunch to sit and talk with Peter Ward.

  
Château des Charmes Aligoté 2016
VQA Niagara-on-the-Lake $15.95 (296848) 13.0% alcohol
Vineyard Manager, Miguel Fontalvo, points out leaves on Aligoté vines are quite large resulting in enhanced photosynthesis and ripe, juicy fruit. This is balanced, fully fruited and creamy smooth with alluring aromas—ripe apple, melon and soft citrus notes—prominent flavours—Meyer lemon, grilled pineapple, ripe pear and lemon chiffon pie—nicely supported by excellent acidity on the finish and aftertaste. Punching well above the price, get some while the getting is good. (Vic Harradine)