Colio Estate Vineyards “Barrel Aged” Cabernet Franc Reserve 2002
VQA Lake Erie North Shore $18.25 (432096)
Nuances of bell peppers, cedar, earth and Damson plums waft from the glass. Crushed cranberries and raspberries are apparent in the mouth along with a firm grip and good acidity to hold the balance. Drinking now to 2010. Try with grilled Portobello mushrooms accompanied by a grilled Brie and greens salad. A well made wine from a good vintage. (VH)

Lailey Vineyards “Old Vines” Chardonnay 2001
VQA Niagara Peninsula $39.00 (706242)
A tour de force! Leesy and spicy notes emanate from the glass in this full blown magnificent Chardonnay. Picked from 30 year old vines the fruit was meticulously handled and carefully aged for 17 months in barrel. It is unfiltered and has undergone full malolactic. Shows a creamy and vibrant mouth feel with tantalizing flavours of tropical fruit, apples and vanilla. Drink over the next 5 years. (VH)

Reif Estate Chardonnay Reserve 2001
VQA Niagara Peninsula $20.00 (728022)
Twenty year old vines are showcased throughout this wine. Tropical fruit, apples and Bosc pears caress the nose while the palate becomes infused with the same wonderful flavours from this Burgundian-styled beauty. The oak is well integrated and the acidity provides a lovely clean finish. Pair it with Chicken Kiev or Veal Scaloppini. Well made, well priced. (VH)