Red Wine

88 
Château des Charmes Pinot Noir 2015
VQA Niagara-on-the Lake $16.95 (454967) 13.0% alcohol
This estate-grown and sustainably farmed, traditional-style pinot noir unveils gamy aromas combined with tart cherry, bay leaf and wild mushroom. The tart cherries take centre stage on the palate joined by pleasant, dry herb flavours with young tannins adding desired structure on the finish. This versatile pinot pairs and pours particularly well with braised, wild mushroom and chicken ragout. (Louise Boutin)

White Wine

89 
Château des Charmes Estate ‘Barrel Fermented’ Chardonnay 2016
VQA Niagara-on-the-Lake $16.95 (81653) 13.0% alcohol
Alluring aromas of spiced green apple, tropical fruit and ripe pear abound. It caresses the palate with clean, crisp flavours of ripe apple, poached pear and soft Meyer lemon decorated with wisps of white pepper and mineral notes. This offers a price-quality balance tipped in your favour. Pick up a few to have on hand or to pour with pan-seared fish, lemon chicken or grilled prawns or calamari under a squeeze of fresh lemon. (Vic Harradine)

Sparkling Wine

89 
Louis Bouillot ‘Perle Noire’ Blanc de Noirs-Brut-Non-Vintage
Product of France $16.95 (464776) 11.5% alcohol
This Méthode Traditionelle sparkling wine was sourced from pinot noir fruit. A frothy mousse when poured, this carries a delicate nose of floral notes and lemon aromas introducing a lively flow of lemon-tinged biscuit, apple and sweet pear on the palate. It persists through the lingering crisp, clean and refreshing finish. Perfect when served as an aperitif or welcoming wine, it also has structure and oomph to pair with appetizers and mains—at this great price keep a few handy for friends who drop by. (Vic Harradine)