Château des Charmes Viognier 2008
VQA St. David’s Bench $25.95 (432948) 13.5% alcohol
Honeysuckle, peach and fig on the nose, this bustles from the glass with a gorgeous wash of fruit compote and honeydew melon. It’s medium bodied and nicely textured with a dry and lengthy balanced finish that’s quite refreshing. This has structure and charm, sip on its own or pour with pan-seared scallops in light-cream sauce. Order from ‘Vintages Direct’1-800 266-4764—they’ll ship one bottle or more to the LCBO retail store of your choice. (Vic Harradine)


Malivoire Chardonnay 2009
VQA Niagara Escarpment $19.95 (573147) 12.5% alcohol
Balanced and appealing, this first-rate Chardonnay displays appealing aromas of vanilla, toasted nuts, orchard fruit and fresh citrus. Medium bodied, the texture is creamy yet crisp, the oak well integrated, flavours of citrus and apple are vivid. The lengthy finish is fresh with elusive notes of spiced butterscotch lingering. Enjoy it with roasted halibut with tomato purée and saffron rice. A Vintages Essentials product, this wine is always available at select LCBO stores. (Susan Desjardins)