91
Henry of Pelham ‘Estate’ Chardonnay 2016
VQA Niagara Peninsula $14.95 (291211) 13.5% alcohol
This well-balanced beauty displays aromas of honeycrisp apple, peach, pineapple and lemon curd. The palate’s treated to an abundance of orchard fruit—red apple, poached pear and peach—with hints of lemon and grapefruit pith. Dry, medium-light bodied, and nicely textured, the refreshing citrus notes persist through the lengthy finish. Pick up a bottle to enhance a mid-week, roast chicken dinner. (Lisa Isabelle)
83
Sue-Ann Staff ‘Fancy Farm Girl-Frivolous White’ 2015
VQA Niagara Peninsula $14.95 (394072) 11.5% alcohol
This 100% Niagara Riesling offers aromas of red apple, grapefruit and peach with wisps of honey and pretty floral notes. Decidedly off-dry and nicely textured, sweet orchard fruit replays on the palate with hints of peach pie. This easy-going well-priced white can be enjoyed on its own or alongside your favourite Thai curry. (Lisa Isabelle)
86
Fancy Farm Girl ‘Frissonesque’ Sauvignon Blanc 2016
VQA Niagara Peninsula $16.95 (552059) 12.5% alcohol
This 100% sauvignon blanc—from the 5th generation Niagara agriculturist Staff family and their respected, talented winemaker, Sue-Ann Staff—has a clean zesty tropical nose—starfruit, guava, pineapple, and a touch of freshly mown lawn. Fresh and crisp on the palate, the herbaceous flavours meld with pink grapefruit and white grapes paving the way to a lightly pithy/mineral, clean and refreshing finish. Drink now and pair with a fresh-dill rubbed and baked cod fillet with steamed asparagus. (Louise Boutin)