• The following 2018 Pierre Sparr Géwurztraminer is a Vintages Essentials product always available in select LCBO retail stores.

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Pierre Sparr Géwurztraminer 2018
AOC Alsace, France $17.95 (373373) 13.5% alcohol
A dominant and alluring aroma of rosewater provides segue to this spice-laden generously textured gem. It dazzles the palate with piquant spice carried on a medium-plus bodied river of off-dry palate flavours—lychee nut, lemon pie filling and grapefruit zest—that cleans up nicely on the mouth-watering finish and aftertaste. This is crisp and refreshing, making it a great dance partner for quiche Lorraine, pan-seared fish or baked ham. (Vic Harradine)

• The following 2018 Tawse ‘Sketches of Niagara’ Rosé is a Vintages Essentials product always available in select LCBO retail stores.

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Tawse ‘Sketches of Niagara’ Rosé 2018
VQA Niagara Peninsula $17.95 (172643) 12.5% alcohol
This gorgeous Rosé is a cabernet franc/cabernet sauvignon/gamay/pinot noir blend. It’s salmon pink hued with lifted aromas of orange blossom and mixed cherry/berry fruit. Tang-laced flavours of mandarin orange, piquant spice and crunchy red fruit—pie cherry, currant and raspberry—cascade over the palate with persistent purity. It finishes as it began with delightful flavour, mouth-watering tang and is quite moreish. Tasty on its own, you can also pour with pan-seared salmon, roast bird or a verjus-dressed green salad and chèvre. (Vic Harradine)