Château des Charmes ‘Estate – Barrel Fermented’ Chardonnay 2014
VQA Niagara-on-the-Lake $13.95 (81653) 13.0% alcohol
Citrus, green apple and pit fruit aromas introduce this medium-bodied, generously textured, creamy-smooth beauty. Tropical fruit, apple and poached pear flavours bathe the palate and dazzle the senses robed in baking spice—this aged 9 months in oak—and framed by gentle citrus notes. It finishes with generous replays on the lengthy aftertaste. This is wonderful to pour on its own or pair with roast chicken, pork or pasta in cream sauce. It’s terrific value, as well. (Vic Harradine)
Château des Charmes ‘Estate’ Pinot Noir 2012
VQA Niagara-on-the-Lake $16.95 (454967) 13.1% alcohol
Estate fruit for this sleek, polished Pinot was sustainably grown and aged six to nine months in seasoned, French oak barrel. Grilled herbs and baking spice aromas provide segue for a light-on-its-feet wash of herb-laced pie cherry and pomegranate bathing the palate garnished with a solid line of mouth-watering acidity. This is light-medium-bodied with a lip-smacking finish and aftertaste. Pour with smoked duck breasts or pasta in tomato sauce. (Vic Harradine)
Fielding Estate Winery Riesling 2013
VQA Niagara Peninsula $15.95 (146761) 10.5% alcohol
Piquant spice, citrus and flinty/mineral notes on the nose introduce a delightful stream of sweet- and tang-laden flavour with lime cordial and lemon chiffon pie to the fore. This is light-medium bodied with satin-smooth mouth feel and a finish that lingers longer than in-laws, only this is really enjoyable. Many readers will love sipping this on its own or poured with spicy Asian cuisine like pad Thai, tandoori chicken or chicken Masala. This is very good value. (Vic Harradine)
Long Weekend Wine Co. Chardonnay/Pinot Gris 2014
VQA Niagara Peninsula $12.95 (427310) 12.5% alcohol
Delicate, perfumed aromas of floral notes, mixed spice and orchard fruit introduce a lovely, light-on-its-feet flow of nectarine, spice, yellow plum and racy citrus on the palate, persisting through the refreshing, mouth-watering, balanced finish and aftertaste. Don’t necessarily wait for a weekend, this pours well with lighter-styled cuisine, appetizers, fish and white meat dishes any day of the week. This is exceptional value. (Vic Harradine)