Ontario

Tawse Winery ‘Quarry Road’ Chardonnay 2006
VQA Vinemount Ridge $35.20 (111989)
This is the first single-vineyard bottling from this site although the vines are 10 – 15 years old. It’s vanilla, leesy, toasty, oaky on the nose— barrel fermented, indigenous yeast, 20% new French oak. This is extremely well paced and deftly balanced with everything in synch. Look for spicy notes, delectable tropical fruit and ripe citrus nuances delivered on a medium-bodied bed of silky-smooth texture. The luxurious finishes lingers with the fruit flavours and racy tang in perfect harmony. (VH)


Tawse Winery ‘Robyn's Block’ Chardonnay 2005
VQA Twenty Mile Bench $48.60
Lifted aromas of floral, mineral and vanilla notes segue the rich and incredibly expressive flavours of ripe citrus, white peach, ripe sweet peach and green apple that wash over the palate in a deftly balanced fully textured stream. It's medium to full bodied and delivers a lingering finish that layers on hints of spice and white grapefruit. It's a mouth-watering experience that deserves fine cuisine and a special occasion, turkey with sage dressing and all the fixings would be appropriate. (VH)


Tawse Winery Meritage 2006
VQA Niagara Peninsula $48.20 (111963)
This blend—50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc—is from single three vineyard plots—Laundry, Hughes, David’s. Although not yet certified, they’re organically farmed. Spice box and ripe red berry fruit on the nose, the rich flavours include ripe cranberry, red cherry and hints of forest floor on the lengthy finish. It’s medium bodied, nicely textured and, as in all Tawse wines, there’s impeccable balance and elegant structure. Pair this with breaded pork cutlets and kasha. (VH)