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Tastings: April 2025
30 April 2025
88PTS
Canella Lido Prosecco Rosé 2023
Veneto, ItalyWe like the consistency this sparkler displays from year to year. It is an 85/15 mix of glera and pinot noir grown over rock and clay and fermented in stainless steel. Adding the bubbles via the secondary fermentation or Charmat method is completed in a stainless steel pressure tank for two months. The colour is an attractive pale pink. The bubbles are relatively fine for prosecco, and the flavours are a pleasant mix of fruity wild berries and black cherries that finish fresh and just off-dry. Spicy tuna rolls are a fun match.Prices:| BC | $26.99 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Tantalus Blanc de Noir 2022
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaHand picked from a single estate block of 1985 planted clone 93 Pinot Noir, this vintage saw a small addition of estate pinot meunier for the first time. All was fermented in older puncheons over 7 months prior to moving to bottle and 22 months sur lattes. It was disgorged in February 2025 with a dosage from their 2022 Maija Pinot Noir, bringing the RS to 4.1 g/L. Pouring a just barely there peach tint, this brisk, dry, and structured sparkler streams wild cherry, tayberry, peach fuzz, over a bed of river stones, finishing with snappy cherry blossoms. A useful fizz for a wide variety of foodstuffs.Prices:| BC | $36.50 | 750ml |
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92PTS
Tantalus Blanc de Blancs 2022
East Kelowna Slopes, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaFruit from this BC classic chardonnay brut comes off a single block of 2013 plantings, and was fermented in older puncheons for 7 months prior to heading to bottle for 22 months sur lattes. This bottle was disgorged in February 2025 with a low dosage (built from 2022 Chardonnay), leaving it around 5 g/L. Pouring a glowing deep yellow hue, this savoury sparkler streams crushed stones, deep lemon, green apple along the buzzy, energetic palate, with a cushy lees core finishing with a kiss of smoked stones. Not shy, this confident BdB commands attention, and deserves it. Excellent value.Prices:| BC | $36.50 | 750ml |
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92PTS
Cedarcreek Platinum Sparkling Chenin Blanc NV
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaTasted twice last week, this certified organic sparkler was made with the oldest chenin blanc vines in the valley. The fruit used to be part of the Road 13 program but is now heading up the sparkling wines at CedarCreek. Both wineries are part of the B.C. Iconic Wineries owned by Anthony von Mandl. The 50-year-old vines grown on the Golden Mile Bench south of the town of Oliver have few peers in North America, and the latest reimagned version is a treat to drink. It has the gravitas you would expect from elderly vines but also pitches a level of purity and freshness that grabs your attention. The wine spends 36 months ageing on its lees in a bottle, adding a creamy richness and toast to the mix and a refined mousse. But the flavours grab you, combining honey, pie crust, and fresh-cut red and green apples. The finish is long and distinguished with bright acidity. It is ready to drink but will age through 2028 with ease.Prices:| BC | $0.00 | 750ml |
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86PTS
Narrative XC Sparkling 2023
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaSparkling under screw cap? Believe it. Narrative's XC Sparkling is packaged in lightweight glass and stelvin that can handle the pressure of sparkling. Though strangely not labelled a rosé, this is most certainly that deep hue, a curious blend of auxerrois and chardonnay fermented in concrete, stainless, and large barrels. Cranberry, rhubarb, cherry is cut with an ale-like tartness, and dosed with orange tablet on the finish, a current 11.5%. Somewhat disjoined and confused at this stage however, best taken with a brisk chill and / or mixer.Prices:| BC | $28.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Coolshanagh Blanc de Blanc 2019
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThis Blanc de Blanc (where is the s?) is a new offering from Coolshanagh, a longtime project of Skip and Judy Stothert, with wines made by Okanagan Crush Pad. This organic chardonnay spent near 30 months sur lattes, disgorged in the end of 2022 with 0 dosage. Ripe and doughy, with baked yellow and red apple scented with orange peel, vanilla wafer, and caramel, to a snappy finish. Drinking now, with heartier canapés.Prices:| BC | $23.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Anna de Codorníu Blanc de Blancs Cava Brut NV
Sant Sadurní d'Anoia, Penedès, Catalunya (Catalonia Cataluña), SpainI first encountered this wine about 20 years ago and wondered why it wasn't sold in Canada. Eventually, it did make its way here, but it never got a fair shake in B.C. In fact, this is very good Cava made mostly from chardonnay with a splash of xarel-lo. The tight green apple fruit, streaked with notes of white fruits, citrus pith, and peel, is a delicious late afternoon aperitif or a wine you can serve with any number of sushi rolls or Spanish-style tapas—high quality at a reasonable price. Your guests will enjoy the stylish white wrap packaging as well.Prices:| BC | $28.99 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Stoneboat Vineyards Reserve Series Méthode Cuvée Close Piano 2020
Oliver, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe Stoneboat Methode Cuvée Close is whole cluster pressed. The free run juice is fermented in temperature controlled stainless steel with a secondary fermentation inside closed tanks. It is bottled 30 days after fermentation, meaning it has no bread dough or biscuit notes in sparklers aged much longer. A Prosecco style BC. bubble with cleaner and more intense fruit creates an attractive peachy, mandarin, apple bubble that goes down easily.Prices:| BC | $26.90 | 750ml |
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28 April 2025
88PTS
Pasqua Black Label Chardonnay 2022
ItalyThe Pasqua Black Label ticks many consumer boxes with its pleasant soft-ish styling, apple vanilla, and flavours. At only 13% alcohol, it presents fresh with creamy, nutty flavours and a long, lemony, dry finish. It is a versatile food, and you can serve it with clams or chicken, or the fun take is the classic spaghetti alla carbonara, what Pasqua calls Spaghetti Chardonnara. Pasqua farms many vineyards across the Veneto, grown over volcanic and clay-limestone soils, adding complexity and minerality to the final mix.Prices:| ON | $17.95 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Babich Hawke's Bay Chardonnay 2023
Hawkes Bay, North Island, New ZealandNew Zealand wine has a secret, and it's chardonnay. At Babich, they forsake oak to release a lively, bright, electric version of the world's best selling white. The wine opens with a strong pear scent with hints of brown spice. The palate is creamy but fresh, with lemon notes, pear, and cantaloupe. It's a juicy pour with nectarine in a dry finish. A perfect summer chardonnay for halibut or grilled chicken. Excellent valuePrices:| BC | $22.99 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Louis Jadot Bourgogne Chardonnay Couvent des Jacobins 2023
Burgundy, FranceI have to say some of Burgundy's biggest negociants have upped their Bourgogne game in the last few years; a case in point is Jadot chardonnay. The Bourgogne Blanc fruit is chardonnay purchased from quality growers in the Mâconnais, Côte Chalonnaise, and recently, Côte d'Or vineyards. Only about one-third of this white wine sees oak; the remaining is fermented and aged in stainless steel. The result is a freshness or a bright acidity that brings a lemony/citrus character to a mineral, nutty white with a touch of straw. It is stylish stuff and a real introduction to white Burgundy. Food-friendly from everything to chicken, creamy pasta creations, or shellfish on the coast. It's an enjoyable chardonnay with true Euro style.Prices:| BC | $44.84 | 750ml |
| ON | $36.95 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Domaine Courtault Michelet Chablis 2022
Chablis, Burgundy, FranceStéphanie and Vincent Michelet are the force behind Domaine Courtault-Michelet's family collaboration, uniting the vineyards and the accumulated expertise of two generations of winemakers in 1984. The 20 hectare property sits over iconic Kimmeridgian limestone soils and spans Petit Chablis, Chablis, and Chablis Premier Cru appellations. The marlstone and fossilized oyster shells are the source of minerality that runs through this tightly wound Chablis, which is textbook in structure and flavour. Pale in colour, there are faint hits of apricot nose with a dry citrus stony palate and finish. Oysters, anyone?Prices:| BC | $49.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $46.99 | 750ml |
| QC | $43.95 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Santa Rita Floresta Chardonnay 2022
Valle del Limari, ChileLimarí opens onto the very cold Pacific and has long been a secret source of blending chardonnay for many southern Chile versions, but I like the full on Limarí take best. Grown over a mix of alluvial clay loams with stones and calcium carbonate, it's wild fermented in stainless steel and aged around eight months in 25% new French oak, getting regular bâtonnage. The ’22 is softer than the previous version, a delightful surprise for many, but a change that might upset a few who prefer the more electric version of this grape. The creamy palate is marked by sweet limes, pineapple, and hazelnuts, with a mix of honey and sea salt in the finish. This Modern Next World chardonnay is a true gem, a perfect match for BC served with Dungeness crab.Prices:| BC | $38.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $35.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $35.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Yalumba Y Series Lighter Chardonnay 2024
Barossa Valley, South Australia, AustraliaYalumba did a great job with its unwooded chardonnay, and this 7% chardonnay is equally impressive on the nose and at the front of the palate. I could say it lacks mid-palate weight and mouthfeel, but at this level of alcohol, it has to be expected and probably is by those who drink it exactly because it is a light white. Clean and fresh with citrus, green apple, and mango, it is fresh and juicy and ready to drink if you want something for lunch. If you feel better drinking less alcohol, this is a good alternative. The finish is clean, dry, and well suited to seafood dishes or sushi rolls. Oh, and it is taps out at 66 calories per 150 mL.Prices:| BC | $16.99 | 750ml |
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92PTS
Domaine Drouhin Arthur Chardonnay 2023
Dundee Hills, Willamette Valley, Oregon, United StatesNew World chardonnay with a charming Old World twist is always intriguing. French winemaker Veronique Drouhin has crafted a delicious bottle of Oregon chardonnay that begins with freshness and uses just the right amount of complexity to draw you into the wine. Thirty year old Dundee Hill vines are at the heart of the matter. Lemons, green apples, and a hint of baking spice run throughout a wine you can drink now and through 2028. Veronique's brother, Philippe Drouhin, looks after the viticulture, earning a well deserved international reputation for his work in Burgundy and Oregon. Ninety acres are now planted inside the 225 acre estate, with over 3100 vines per acre. Impressive.Prices:| BC | $54.99 | 750ml |
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88PTS
William Hill Chardonnay 2022
North Coast Region, California, United StatesThis is a classic, old-school California chardonnay that delivers on value. It's ripe and generously oaked, but without being over the top, thanks to crisp acidity that keeps everything in check. Laden with notes of sweet baking spices, peach yogurt, and ripe melon, the palate is rich and creamy with moderate length. Ed note: This wine was tasted before the tariff disputes and was subsequently pulled from government shelves. It is currently only available for private wine shops to order, so that you might find it in select stores or restaurants.Prices:| BC | $21.90 | 750ml |
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25 April 2025
89PTS
Santa Carolina El Pacto Agreement No 2 Carménère 2022
Los Lingues, Valle del Colchagua, Valle del Rapel, Region del Valle Central, ChileThe Carménère grape originated in Bordeaux but has slowly become a major varietal wine for Chile. It has a distinctive herbaceous, grilled bell pepper scent that is hard to miss. Santa Carolina releases a silky smooth version that pitches juicy, ripe black plum, raspberries, and cherries with an earthy, spicy undertone. The acid is bright, and the wine is lively. It is a perfect wine for grilled chicken or vegetarian fajitas with fresh chimichurri sauce. Good value.Prices:| BC | $19.99 | 750ml |
| QC | $14.70 | 750ml |
| ON | $16.88 | 750ml |
| NB | $26.26 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Three Sisters Winery Betty The Matriarch Series 2022
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe Matriarch Series is a heartfelt tribute to the extraordinary women who shape all our lives. Matthew and Rebecca Mikulic wanted to celebrate the matriarchs' strength, wisdom, and love and launch the eponymous series while inviting you to participate. "With every bottle, we honour their stories and lasting influence on future generations. "Betty is zinfandel, which pays homage to her Croatian heritage. DNA analysis has revealed that zinfandel is genetically identical to the Croatian grape varieties Crljenak Kaštelanski and Pribidrag, which have been grown for centuries. It is an alluring, easy sipping style, with juicy, bright, grapey fruit with nearly zero tannins. It's a pinot noir version of zinfandel. You can serve it to your mom or a wine aficionado; both will appreciate its style.Prices:| BC | $45.00 | 750ml |
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92PTS
Stags' Leap Petite Sirah 2020
Napa Valley, California, United StatesThis might be my favourite vintage yet of this relative classic. It remains bold and full bodied, but with a marked refinement, more complex than monolithic, combining ripe, crushed wild berries with a vibrant array of spices and dried florals. The wood is harmoniously balanced by the rich, inky fruit, with fine tannins and notable freshness that is hard to resist now. This held beautifully for several days after opening, and it's well worth tucking a couple of bottles away to revisit ten years from now. Excellent value.Prices:| BC | $48.95 | 750ml |
| AB | $46.95 | 750ml |
| ON | $58.99 | 750ml |
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24 April 2025
91PTS
Willakia Vineyard Pinot Noir 2019
Willamette Valley, Oregon, United StatesIntriguing, rounded, complex red berry and mulberry fruit nose and flavours with fine intensity and supple tannins. Some earthiness and forest floor with soft tension leads to a longish, juicy, berry finish. The wine spent 15 months in 100% French oak, 25% of which was new.Prices:| BC | $64.99 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Frank Family Vineyards Carneros Pinot Noir 2021
Carneros, Napa Valley, California, United StatesFully ripe Carneros fruit here shows dark cherry, baked strawberry, and slightly exotic dashes of cinnamon, pomegranate, herbs, and graphitic tannins. The texture is silky and full. It is all underpinned by a well-balanced, able acidity that keeps its elements in play. The wine is a blend of several vineyards and was aged for nine months in one-third of new French oak.Prices:| BC | $81.99 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Fogscape Arroyo Secco Pinot Noir 2022
Arroyo Seco, Monterey County, Central Coast, California, United StatesFine, high notes of cherry and raspberry. This follows through on the palate with smooth raspberry, cherry and strawberry fruit flavours plus a layer of minerality with fine-grained tannins. Stylish , elegant pinot at an affordable price.Prices:| BC | $29.05 | 750ml |
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92PTS
Adelsheim Ribbon Springs Vineyard Pinot Noir 2021
Chehalem Mountain , Willamette Valley, Oregon, United StatesPinot noir’s enticing contradictions are on show here. Typical of the Ribbon Ridge AVA, it’s very light bodied yet has a thin wire of flavour running through that emanates raspberry, strawberry, baking spice, hibiscus, cedar, and some florals. The texture is smooth and airy with an elegant, soft, and dangling finish. The vineyard sits at 120 to 200m elevation in the Ribbon Ridge AVA, a loaf-shaped, island-like ridge set apart from the surrounding Chehalem Valley in Oregon. During winemaking, most clusters were destemmed. It was aged in French oak barrels, 36% new, for 10 months before bottling. The clone involved is Pommard.Prices:| BC | $74.99 | 750ml |
| ON | $49.95 | 750ml |
| QC | $48.50 | 750ml |
| NB | $50.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Rodney Strong Pinot Noir 2020
Russian River, Sonoma County, California, United StatesRussian River Pinot Noirs exhibit some of the most intense and diverse flavours and aromas of this grape variety in California, while still maintaining balance, suppleness, and complexity. Initially, you can expect rich notes of dark plum and ripe blackberry. The wine offers good intensity, textured tannins, hints of barrel aging, and a touch of charcoal. Overall, it presents a skillfully balanced blend of elements that works harmoniously.Prices:| BC | $29.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $28.99 | 750ml |
| ON | $25.99 | 750ml |
| MB | $25.99 | 750ml |
| QC | $25.30 | 750ml |
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92PTS
Lingua Franca Avni Pinot Noir 2022
Eola-Amity Hills, Willamette Valley, Oregon, United StatesThis has long, even, very expressive, elegant cherry and berry, along with floral touches—the floating texture and layered, precise fruit speak of very attentive winemaking. The finish is long and echoing. Superb pinot noir.Prices:| BC | $69.00 | 750ml |
| US | $53.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Emiliana Organic Signos De Origen Pinot Noir 2023
Valle de Casablanca, Region de Aconcagua, ChileAromas of autumn leaves and strawberry, raspberry, and herbal notes are prominent. On the palate, tart cherries accompany good intensity and balance. It goes quickly to the mid palate, then fades slowly. The ending is long, balanced, and linear. The source is the El Rincón vineyard in the foothills of the Coastal Range, and it was aged in a combination of French oak and egg-shaped concrete vats. The clones involved are 777 and 110R. 2400 Cases produced.Prices:| BC | $31.99 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Ferrari-Carano Anderson Valley Pinot Noir 2019
Anderson Valley, Mendocino County, California, United StatesThis medium bodied red shows ripe cherry, plums, and cedar along with savoury herbs, barrel, and a touch of tar. Straight forward, lively, smooth fruit leads the way to a prolonged and polished finish. The wine spent nine months in oak barrels, 23% of which was new.Prices:| BC | $55.99 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Bogle Vineyards Elemental Pinot Noir NV
California, United StatesThe book itself is always more important than the cover, but Bogle takes reducing its packaging carbon footprint to another level. As part of their new Elemental line, the bottle is made from aluminum that’s 80% lighter than glass. The wine is simple, sound, and pleasing. Sourced from vineyards across California, it’s heftier but still supple, and delivers smooth red berry, vanilla tinged oak, baking spices, and some earthiness. It’s well balanced overall and there’s length in the finish. It was aged in new and neutral French and American oak.Prices:| BC | $40.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $18.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Villa Maria Single Vineyard Taylor's Pass Pinot Noir 2020
Marlborough, South Island, New ZealandBig strawberry, black cherry, and cherry pits mingle with sweet baking spices in this well balanced, very smooth red, with touches of wood and some light tannic friction. The pinot clones involved here are mostly clone 5 along with Dijon clone 667. Vinified partially whole cluster, it was fermented with native yeast and spent 14 months in 30% new French oak barriques.Prices:| BC | $24.00 | 750ml |
| ON | $22.00 | 750ml |
| NS | $25.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $22.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $24.00 | 750ml |
| NF | $25.00 | 750ml |
| QC | $24.00 | 750ml |
| SK | $26.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Mac Forbes Pinot Noir 2023
Yarra Valley, Victoria, AustraliaThis Yarra Valley Pinot Noir is Mac Forbes' overview of the Yarra, a declassified blend of multiple clones and sites from both the upper Yarra and valley floor. This vintage was 15% whole bunch, and 20% destemmed and foot stomped, all native fermented in concrete and open top stainless over 3 weeks. It then spent 11 months in small and large oak. Perfumed plum and cherry glide into a silken palate, with some dusky forest notes to season, and slippery fine tannins to guide this to a humming, baking spiced finish. Very complete, and super welcoming, this is a lovely intro to Yarra pinot.Prices:| BC | $50.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Nielson Pinot Noir 2021
Santa Barbara County, Central Coast, California, United StatesIf you are a fan of Earls restaurants and need a wine, pick this uncomplicated pinot noir. It offers a juicy, delicious mix of red fruits from cranberry and pomegranate to Bing cherry, with a streak of cola and baking spices. The tannins are negligible, making it fun to sip. It is the best buy on the Earls' wine list and is available at half price on Tuesdays. You can also track it down in select private wine shops before the tariffs make it disappear. It is stainless steel fermented, and barrel aged (only 12% new) in French oak, resting for 10 months. Uriel J Nielson envisioned launching Nielson Vineyard in 1964 on the Santa Maria Bench, two years before the 53 year old Robert Mondavi opened his winery on Hwy 29 in Napa Valley. His vision for pinot noir and chardonnay growing on marine soils attracted the Jackson family 50 years later to do what they always do: buy an excellent property, give it the resources it needs, and watch the people running it grow even more.Prices:| BC | $34.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $33.99 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Blank Canvas Escaroth Vineyard Pinot Noir 2020
Marlborough, South Island, New ZealandFrom Marlborough's Taylor Pass, this dry farmed pinot noir went into bottle unfiltered, apparent in the hazy cherry hue. Pointedly tart cherry is made more so with an olive tapenade and forest moss note, scented with perfumed cherry blossoms and pomegranate, and sided by a near negligible slip of tannins to a warming flush of a finish. Lean and light, this graceful pinot is drinking very well now. 444 cases.Prices:| BC | $52.00 | 750ml |
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92PTS
Davis Bynum Pinot Noir 2022
Russian River, Sonoma County, California, United StatesWinemaker Greg Morthole is the gatekeeper of the historic Davis Bynum labels, and his latest pinot noir, 2022, is a star. It is a blend of clones 115, 667, 777, Pommard, and Wente from four Russian River Valley vineyards: River West and Preston Vineyard in the warm northern area known as Middle Reach; as well as two Dutton Ranch vineyards located in the cool Green Valley. The nose is an enticing combination of exotic and floral spices mixed with red cherry and silky tannins. It spends 15 months in 46% new French and European oak. Morthole tempers the Russian River power, looking for a more subtle New World pinot style. The alcohol is 14.5%, more than the Russian River normal, but everything is balanced. Grilled salmon, mushroom pasta, chicken, and pork all work here. We enjoyed it with an Asian marinated grilled mahi mahi.Prices:| BC | $42.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $36.99 | 750ml |
| ON | $36.95 | 750ml |
| QC | $43.50 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Murphy-Goode Pinot Noir 2022
California, United StatesMurphy Goode is grown in coastal California vineyards, including Arroyo Seco, Santa Maria Valley, and Monterey. The sites are cool and contribute to its bright acidity, keeping the wine fresh and moving across the palate. It's aged eight months in French and American oak with a tiny amount of new wood that helps the wine expand and pitch its fruit to the foreground. The attack is round and pinot-soft with earthy, cranberry, and cherry, with a dash of spice. Perfect for mid-week meals or lunch. Think pulled pork sandwiches.Prices:| BC | $28.99 | 750ml |
| NB | $26.99 | 750ml |
| MB | $21.99 | 750ml |
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22 April 2025
91PTS
Oenops Xinomavro 2022
Naousa, Makedonia, GreeceOenops was founded in 2015 by winemaker Nikos Karatzas, with a focus on indigenous and rare grape varieties grown on profound terroir. He selects organically grown cool climate sites and old vine plots, from vineyards in Drama and Macedonia. This xino was aged 10 months in concrete, and bottled unfiltered. Fragrant wild plum, perfumed cherry, crushed scrubby herbs flood this lifted, finessed xino, with buoyant, jubilant acidity, and finely grippy, tea lined tannins. The finish lingers with cherry blossoms and a kiss of salinity. Super smart and interesting.Prices:| BC | $32.00 | 750ml |
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92PTS
Oenops Limniona 2022
Thessaloniki Area, Makedonia, GreeceOenops was founded in 2015 by winemaker Nikos Karatzas, with a focus on indigenous and rare grape varieties grown on profound terroir. He selects organically grown cool climate sites and old vine plots, from vineyards in Drama and Macedonia. This ancient varietal limniona comes from selected plots, and was native fermented in amphora and open top barrel before blending and aging 10 months in amphora. It was bottled unfined. Alluring scrubby herbs, wild plum, tayberry, and oolong tea are woven through the lofted palate, with finely grippy tannins to frame, and buoyant easy acidity to carry through the spiced finish. Really charming.Prices:| BC | $35.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Oenops Xinomavraw 2021
Naousa, Makedonia, GreeceOenops was founded in 2015 by winemaker Nikos Karatzas, with a focus on indigenous and rare grape varieties grown on profound terroir. He selects organically grown cool climate sites and old vine plots, from vineyards in Drama and Macedonia. As you may have guessed from the name, this is a raw version of xinomavro, with lowest intervention (native ferment, no SO2, unfiltered), fermented in amphora, where it remained aging for 6 months. This hazy brown / crimson hued wine streams muddled cherry, crushed plum with a lift of spritz. Acidity is slight, as are the fine tannins, pulling with a sticky resistance, through allowing the fine texture of the amphora to shine. Enjoy this naked view of the ancient grape with a slight chill.Prices:| BC | $33.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Stoneboat Vineyards Estate Series Pinotage 2022
Black Sage Gravel Bar, Oliver, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaFrom the Black Sage Bench's Gravel Bar, and its stony, mineral-rich soils comes this deeply-hued pinotage. Mulled plum, boysenberry rule the darker-shaded palate, with hints of tar and black earth alongside toasted baking spice and puffs of smoke. Acidity is somewhat astringent, and tannins are powdery, both of which would be mitigated by fatty ribs or hearty veg stew.Prices:| BC | $32.90 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Stoneboat Vineyards Pinotage Reserve Series 2022
Black Sage Gravel Bar, Oliver, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaFrom Black Sage Bench's Gravel Bar, and its stony, mineral-rich soils, this Reserve Pinotage opens with a wall of reduction that eventually blows off to reveal perfumed cassis and damson plum over a deep bed of dark earth. Tannins are sinewy, and acidity is tart, finishing with some bittersweet dark chocolate and charcoal. Best taken with hearty stews or grilled ribs.Prices:| BC | $41.90 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Paso Primero Moristel 76 2021
Somontano, Aragon, SpainFrom Somontano, in north east Spain's Aragon region, this is the rarely seen indigenous grape moristel, grown nearly exclusively here. These vines were planted in 1976, and was fermented with 15% whole bunches before 100+ days in 500L oak barrels and concrete. Pouring a lightly hazy crimson hue, this light (12%) red dances on the palate with pomegranate, crunchy plum, wild cherry, and a kiss of lifting spritz. Tannins are slight, and all seasoned with wild fresh and dried herbs. A charmer, and beauty example of new wave Spain. 5333 bottles produced.Prices:| BC | $27.00 | 750ml |
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87PTS
Paarl Heights Cape Red 2023
Paarl, Coastal Region, South AfricaThis vintage of Paarl Heights Red blend is entirely cinsault, blending dry farmed bush and trellised vines from Paarl's decomposed granite soils. It was fermented in stainless where it remained until bottling. This medium bodied red is smooth and red fruited, with some cinnamon and white pepper spicing the cherry-led palate. Tannins are smoothed, kissed with black tea astringency, which takes this to a snappy, spiced finish. Easy and friendly, and very good value.Prices:| BC | $15.99 | 750ml |
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21 April 2025
90PTS
Vietti Langhe Nebbiolo Perbacco 2021
Langhe, Cuneo, Piedmont, ItalyThis Langhe Nebbiolo is sourced from declassified cru sites and aged for less than the minimum requirements. Therefore, it does not qualify for the Barolo DOCG. All the better for us who get a delicious cru nebbiolo from 40ish year old vines at an affordable price. Far more structural and unyielding than the last time I tasted it (reflective of vintage?), this has firm, grippy, ferrous-lashed tannins framing black cherry, dark raspberry, and crushed florals, threaded with broken stones and medicinal cherry. Acidity is easily lofted, and the finish sticks with espresso and salinity. Certainly tastes of a youthful Barolo, so give this some airtime and try with grilled steaks or lamb ragu.Prices:| BC | $50.00 | 750ml |
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93PTS
Elena Fucci SCEG 2022
Basilicata, ItalyIn 2016, Elena Fucci, responsible for saving her family’s high altitude, volcanic soiled vineyards and solidifying the appellation with her singular Titolo cru, began another passion project, SCEG (translation pomegranate), to help out friends of her 94 year old grandfather Generoso. To preserve their vines and tradition, she makes this special wine from his friends’ vines, four parcels near her family’s vineyards, and vines ageing 70+ years. SGEC (pronounced Sheg) is organically farmed Aglianico, spending one year in 500L tonneaux and 6 months in bottle before release. Fragrant plums, wild blueberry, perfumed roses, and fleshy black cherry weave their way through this striking red, taut with volcanic soils and altitude, and layered with old vine wisdom. Tannins are long, fine, and lightly grippy, giving structure without weighing this charming wine down. The finish lingers with buzzy minerality and scrubby herbs. Drinking beauty now and with time ahead.Prices:| ON | $35.00 | 750ml |
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95PTS
E. Pira and Figli de Chiara Boschis Barolo Cannubi 2020
Barolo, Cuneo, Piedmont, ItalyOne of 3 Barolo released by Chiara this year, with vinification and aging, is kept the same across the three to highlight the differences of the terroir. From the famed Cannubi vineyard, this 0.7-hectare plot sits at 300m and faces S/SW. After a native ferment in stainless, with frequent pumping over and punch downs, all of the Baroli were aged in lightly toasted 30% new French oak for 24 months and one year further in the bottle before release. Deep, dark, and fleshy, this is woven with thorny blackberry, stony minerality, and plush dark plum coursing through the savoury, structural palate. Tannins are firm and fine, guiding this through a lingering stony, bitter espresso, and orange rind finish. Still very much in youth, this has the acidity and structure to age for a couple of decades in your cellar.Prices:| ON | $223.00 | 750ml |
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94PTS
E. Pira & Figli de Chiara Boschis Barolo Via Nuova 2020
Barolo, Cuneo, Piedmont, ItalyOne of 3 Barolo released by Chiara this year, with vinification and aging are kept the same across the three to highlight the differences of the terroir. Barolo Via Nuova comes from 6 different organic cru located in three different villages: Barolo (Terlo – Liste); Monforte d’Alba (Ravera di Monforte – Mosconi); and Serralunga d’Alba (Gabutti e Baudana). All told, these 2.5 hectares sit at 340m, and face southeast. After a native ferment in stainless, with frequent pumping over and punch downs, all of the Baroli were aged in lightly toasted 30% new French oak for 24 months, and one year further in the bottle prior to release. Fragrant black cherry, wild plum, dark raspberry streak along the structured, stony palate, vibrant with lofty acidity, and centered by firm, long tannins. All is scented with crushed florals, balsam, and black tea, which lingers on the saline finish. Super smart now, and I can't wait to retry in 10 years.Prices:| ON | $137.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
E. Pira and Figli - Chiara Boschis Langhe Nebbiolo 2022
Langhe, Cuneo, Piedmont, ItalyFrom the MGA Le Coste, in Monforte d’Alba, and grapes from the 'Bell of Respect' off the vineyards near their non-organic neighbours, this Nebbiolo is rooted in calcareous clays at 400m. After a stainless ferment, this aged 1 year in French barriques. Pretty wild strawberry, cherry, and raspberry stream through the fine, firm palate, with long and lithe tannins, and easy lofted acidity to carry this through a lingering saline finish. Feels like it needs more time in bottle to relax some, or partner it with truffled pasta now.Prices:| ON | $67.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
E Pira & Figli - Chiara Boschis Dolcetto d’Alba 2023
Piedmont, ItalyThis organic Dolcetto comes off Ravera di Monforte d’Alba, Mosconi, and Le Coste di Monforte d’Alba, and clay lime marls, around 400m. It was fermented and aged in stainless for a few months. Cushy crushed plum, jammy strawberry, pink florals flood a pretty, 12% palate, with finely strident tannins to frame, and bright, tart acidity to lift. Drinking now.Prices:| ON | $42.00 | 750ml |
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90PTS
E. Pira and Figli - Chiara Boschis Barbera d'Alba Superiore 2022
Alba, Cuneo, Piedmont, ItalyFrom organic Mosconi, Ravera, and Gabutti vineyards in Monforte d’Alba and Serralunga, and a mix of clay lime marls around 350m, this was fermented in stainless, and aged 12 months in French barriques. Crushed cassis, wild blackberry runs over a stony base, with tart, bright blackcurrant acidity to lift through a lingering perfumed violet finish. Tannins are long and fine, hugging this charming wine through the finish. Surprising freshness for its 14.5%.Prices:| ON | $59.00 | 750ml |
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93PTS
Feudi di San Gregorio Serpico 2014
Campania, ItalyFrom pre-phylloxera, ungrafted vines in Feudi di San Gregorio's Dal Re vineyard in Irpinia, this is a dense, brooding Aglianico that spent 18 months in French oak (barriques and 50 hl vats), followed by years in bottle. It’s just beginning to show its age, opening with layered aromas of dark cherry, sappy wild berries, dried mint, and balsamic, all wrapped in smoky volcanic earth and baked clay. The palate offers impressive concentration and intensity, with dense yet finely knit tannins that are precisely sculpted, leading to a persistent, balanced finish. Still youthful, this powerful expression of Aglianico will continue to evolve gracefully for another decade or more.Prices:| BC | $105.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $82.99 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Travaglini Gattinara 2019
Gattinara, Piedmont, ItalyThis comes in a distinctive bottle, matching the equally distinctive style of nebbiolo from Gattinara, which is well exemplified here. It’s leaner and more herbal than Langhe expressions, leaning even further into nebbiolo’s savoury character. The 2019 vintage from Travaglini hits all the right notes. There’s a freshness to the red cherry, layered with thyme, oregano, and a ferrous minerality. You could easily mistake this for a Bourgogne Rouge in a blind tasting, with (relatively) soft tannins that makes it unusually accessible now. Fantastic value, try this instead next time you're reaching for a Langhe Nebbiolo.Prices:| BC | $48.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $32.99 | 750ml |
| ON | $29.95 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Feudi di San Gregorio Rubrato Aglianico 2019
Campania, ItalyThis offers a brighter, juicier expression of aglianico compared to the brooding Serpico. It still reflects the warmth of Campania, with notes of baked red fruits, sun-baked clay, and a gentle thread of spice. Medium bodied and lighter in structure, it lacks the density and richness of Serpico but compensates with freshness and approachability, making it a versatile companion at the dinner table. Think of this as a southern Italian alternative to Langhe nebbiolo.Prices:| BC | $36.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $35.00 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Feudi di San Gregorio Taurasi 2018
Campania, ItalyFeudi di San Gregorio was established in 1986 in Sorbo Serpico, a tiny village in Campania’s Irpinia region, near Mount Vesuvius. From the outset, the Capaldo and Ercolino families have aimed to share the identity of the Mediterranean through indigenous grapes, made modernly and respectfully. This aglianico comes from 15–20 year old vines up to 500m, in volcanic bedded silty sands, and spent 18 months in French barriques. Dense and compact, with sundried cherries, baked boysenberry, crushed violets on a full palate, hemmed with sticky tannins to a bitter chocolate / espresso finish. Give this giant red ample air time before pouring alongside equally hearty ragu or grilled lamb.Prices:| BC | $56.00 | 750ml |
| AB | $49.00 | 750ml |
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18 April 2025
86PTS
Ruby Blues Cabernet Merlot 2022
Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe 2022 Cabernet Merlot blends 37.5% cabernet sauvignon and 37.5% cabernet franc, along with 25% merlot, from a quartet of Naramata Bench vineyards. Pouring a deep / opaque hue, this compact red shows dark earth, bitter cassis and brown spices, with hard press tannins finishing with a bitter espresso note. Not much love to find here solo, but a rustic stew / braise will help coax out some charm.Prices:| BC | $47.90 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Bartier Bros. Illegal Curve 2022
Oliver, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaFrom Oliver's Black Sage Terrace, this blend of 51% cabernet franc, 48% petit verdot, and 1% pinot noir was destemmed, crushed and fermented over 3 weeks in stainless, before aging 14 months in neutral French barrels. Grilled meats, smoked cassis, and thorny blackberry work their way through the chewy palate, with powdery tannins pinning in the sides, and espresso lingering. One for the BBQ: think hearty burgers, or ribs.Prices:| BC | $25.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $21.99 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Narrative Red Merlot Cabernet Franc 2022
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaNot too much is known about this Narrative Red other than its blending partners, merlot and cabernet franc. Pouring a browning crimson hue, this juicy red shows plums and dark cherry on the palate, with some grippy, sinewy tannins, and bright, fresh acidity to counter. A useful red for partnering with grilled sausages or burgers now.Prices:| BC | $19.90 | 750ml |
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92PTS
Clos du Soleil Signature 2021
British Columbia, CanadaThis year's Signature, the aptly named flagship red of the winery, blends fruit from Keremeos and Cawston. The 2021 result was 34% merlot, 32% cabernet sauvignon, 18% cabernet franc, 9% malbec, and 7% petit verdot. Each vineyard block was harvested separately, destemmed, and native fermented in concrete. After a gentle pressing, the wines were aged for 16 months in French oak, with the best barrels selected for the final blend. Smoked cassis, blackberry, thorns, pipe tobacco, and toasted baking spice roll out across the full palate, seasoned with cracked pepper and dark chocolate. Tannins are at the fore, but well integrated into the density of fruit here, giving just a sticky tug as a reminder of their presence. The stony finish lingers with gravels and crushed violets. Quite a statement wine, and well suited to an equally statement dish at this point, or a couple of years' rest in your cellar.Prices:| BC | $55.90 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Clos du Soleil Célestiale 2022
Similkameen Valley, British Columbia, CanadaCélestiale is the little sibling to Clos du Soleil's icon Signature red. Theoretically, you can enjoy this one now (signal screwcap) while waiting for Signature to mature. The 2022 blends 44% merlot, 25% cabernet franc, 22% cabernet sauvignon, 5% malbec, and 4% petit verdot from vineyards in Keremeos and Cawston. Smouldering blackberry, cassis, perfumed violets, and earthy thorns floods a juicy, full palate, with supple / sticky tannins to frame, and a scrubby rosemary note to scent the espresso finish. The tannins would be best met with grilled meats / root veg at this point, but should tame some with a little time in your cellar.Prices:| BC | $29.90 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Clos du Soleil Estate Reserve Red 2020
Similkameen Valley, British Columbia, CanadaClos du Soleil's top red comes from two Similkameen estate vineyards and is a barrel selection led by cabernet sauvignon at 49%, with merlot (21%), cabernet franc (15%), malbec (9%), and petit verdot (6%) filling up the rest. Each were destemmed, crushed, and native fermented separately in concrete before moving to French barrels for 18 months' rest. It was bottled unfined and unfiltered. Perfumed dusky violets, thorny wild blackberry, smoked black plum, tobacco, and pencil shavings are woven throughout this muscular, yet elegant red, alongside a stony Similkameen underlay, and fragrant desert scrub perfume. Tannins are fine, firm, and tensive, structuring this for some time ahead, though the lofted, seamless acidity beckons drinking now. The finish lingers with bittersweet chocolate and fine salinity. Quite smart, and will continue to evolve in your cellar.Prices:| BC | $64.90 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Château la Grolet Cuvée Classique Rouge Côtes de Bourg 2022
Cotes de Bourg, Cotes de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, FranceChâteau La Grolet is a 17th century manor house at the bottom of a valley surrounded by its 50 hectare estate, including 38 hectares of vines. The Hubert family acquired the estate in 1997 and began its conversion to biodynamics, with Demeter certification coming in 2000. Château La Grolet Cuvée Classique Rouge blends 70% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Cabernet Franc, and 5% Malbec. The vines at Grolet are 50ish years, and this wine was native fermented and aged in a mixture of concrete and wooden vessels (20%) before being bottled without fining or filtration, and minimum sulphur. Dusty cherry, plum, and raspberry fills the compact palate, with blocky tannins framing through a bretty, bitter cherry finish. Best enjoyed with grilled meats or tourtière to meet the strident nature of this red.Prices:| ON | $32.00 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Mouton Cadet Rouge 90th Birthday 2022
Bordeaux, FranceDirector of Wines Jerome Aquirre has done a great job upgrading this old brand in the vineyard and the bottle. The ‘22 is especially attractive for the price and is undoubtedly one of the best red blends in the market under $20. The blend is merlot primarily, with small amounts of cabernet sauvignon and cabernet franc, mixing cedar and red fruit that spill onto the palate. It has both weight and density that takes you through a long, polished finish with more red and black fruit lined with damp earth and dried spices. It is a perfect introductory look at Bordeaux made by people who care. The tannins are soft, and the wine is ready to drink with any number of dishes, such as beef tartare, barbecue chicken, or a favourite young soft cheese. Good value.Prices:| BC | $19.99 | 750ml |
| ON | $17.95 | 750ml |
| QC | $17.10 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Bartier Bros. Illegal Curve 2022
Oliver, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaWinemaker Michael Bartier is a big hockey fan, and this merlot with a dash of cabernet franc is an ode to the curved stick that transposed hockey to another level, something Bartier has been doing with wine in the south Okanagan. The ’22 is deep and dark with savoury, resiny black fruit lined with green pepper streaks and firm tannins. At just under 14%, it is as warm as the Bartier reds get. Youthful and dry in the back end, this needs time in the bottle to come together and let the vintage show through, or a rare-ish grilled steak now.Prices:| BC | $25.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $21.99 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Bartier Bros. The Goal 2022
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe Goal is winemaker and Pentictonite Michael Bartier's ode to the 1955 World Champion Penticton Vees, a team that excelled through sheer hard work. Bartier, a closet Montreal Canadian fan, credits the Habs for allowing him to get into the vineyard and work hard most every spring, given their penchant for missing the playoffs. The Goal is predominantly merlot and cabernet franc with the odd addition of syrah as needed. The '22 is on point, fresh, red fruited, mineral scented, and silky smooth in the same way Guy Lafleur used to patrol the wings in the old Montreal Forum. But enough hockey talk. The Goal is a ready-to-drink, versatile red from an excellent vintage. You can serve this with many favourites, including chicken, beef, or grilled vegetables. An early spring evening around a fire with a piece of Brie would be fun, too.Prices:| BC | $38.99 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Township 7 Benchmark Series Reserve 7 2021
Oliver, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaA merlot-dominant Bordeaux blend pitches intense spicy black cherry and plum with a savoury scented nose. The palate is equally fierce with resiny cedar black fruit, boasting the power of youth. Merlot and cabernet sauvignon from the rocky soils of Blue Terrace Vineyard in Oliver, added merlot from the Front Yard Vineyard in Naramata, and rounded it out with Cabernet Franc from Raju Vineyard. It is aged in a 96/4 combination of French and American oak barriques and puncheons for 24 months (22% new). Lamb or roasted pork are the matches while it's young. This is best cellared for five years.Prices:| BC | $44.97 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Stoneboat Vineyards Reserve Series Lakes's Edge Red 2022
Black Sage Gravel Bar, Oliver, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaLake's Edge is a 47 / 32 / 9 / 8 / 4 merlot, cabernet franc, malbec, petit verdot, and syrah blend. The nose is a spicy cedar affair that previews a dry palate with slightly sticky tannins and savoury red and black fruit that reflect its youthful manner. It's aged in French oak for 18 months, of which 23% was new, leaving a vanilla sheen that, with the tannins, should dissipate over the next 2-4 years. It is a solid effort. You can drink it now with richer proteins or wait through 2026 to taste it at its peak.Prices:| BC | $32.90 | 750ml |
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92PTS
Maison Smith Montpetit The Journey 2023
Cawston, Similkameen Valley, British Columbia, CanadaErich Smith-Peter is the president, the winemaker, and a director and owner of Maison Smith Montpetit Bottega & Vineyards in the Similkameen Valley. His early releases have been impressive, and you can add his latest label, "The Journey", to the list. This cabernet franc/merlot is a winner from its attractive, fragrant nose to its youthful, balanced, layered and perfectly ripened savoury, red and black cherry fruit flavours. Expect this to age effortlessly. Smith Peter has a light hand and has found a special place in the Similkameen to make magic. Local industry veterans Jim Bagan and Richard Goodine have joined forces to launch "The Journey," a series of select wines emanating from global producers, in this case, Smith Montpetit that embodies the spirit of community and commitment to giving back. It's a statement of support for the British Columbia Hospitality Foundation, and $40 a case — $20 on behalf of the buyer/seller and $20 on behalf of the winery — will be donated to the BCHF's fundraising campaign. Interested restaurants, retailers and consumers can contact Jim at 604.551.6911 or Richard at 778.778.9475 or buy the wine directly online from Maison Smith Montpetit. You won't be sorry.Prices:| BC | $33.99 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Maison Smith Montpetit Muse 2023
Cawston, Similkameen Valley, British Columbia, CanadaMuse is a cabernet franc / merlot blend focused on expressing its Similkameen Valley terroir. In this case, red fruits, floral undertones, and tobacco draw you into the glass, culminating in a long, smooth style. In this case, 12 months in 30% 2 year old French oak and 70% neutral French oak barrels were the vessels. It is bottled unfiltered and unfined. It was not quite up to last year, but it will fill the gap if you need something for drinking through 2028.Prices:| BC | $29.99 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Clos du Soleil Célestiale 2022
Similkameen Valley, British Columbia, CanadaCélestiale has always been a lighter, early drinking Clos du Soleil red wine, with one foot in Bordeaux tradition and one foot in the reality of the wild, windy Similkameen. The ‘22 is a nice jump up in quality over the ‘21. It is an unabashed Bordeaux blend mixing 44% merlot, 25% cabernet franc, 22% cabernet sauvignon, 5% malbec and 4% petit verdot. The fruit is fresh and ripe, pitching a mix of raspberry and blackberry blended in concrete seamlessly, preserving all the fruit. The grapes are all handled separately and fermented in concrete before spending 15 months in French oak barrels, but with only 13% new. Even then, only the best barrels made the final blend. Richer beef or lamb dishes work here. Good value.Prices:| BC | $29.90 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Clos du Soleil Signature 2021
British Columbia, CanadaSignature is a blend of Keremeos and Cawston fruit grown in the Similkameen Valley. The ’21 blend is merlot (34%) and a bit less cabernet sauvignon (32%), 18% cabernet franc, with malbec 9% and 7% petit verdot. Each block of fruit is harvested separately and fermented with native yeast in concrete before spending 16 months in French oak, before the best barrel, or Signature selection, is made. A consistent performer over the years, the nose is wild Similkameen in a warm year with black fruits, pipe tobacco, fresh pepper, and a difficult to explain suave, concrete palate. The palate is similar, with light chocolate notes and a long, smooth, lingering finish. Try this now with a pepper steak or pork tenderloin.Prices:| BC | $55.90 | 750ml |
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09 April 2025
92PTS
Mac Forbes Chardonnay 2022
Yarra Valley, Victoria, AustraliaThis is Mac Forbes Yarra Valley chardy overview, with fruit from grower and winery-farmed vineyards across the Upper Yarra and valley floor. Destemmed and crushed fruit was native fermented in old barriques on lees, aging 11 months in older oak of varying sizes, and going to bottle without fining. Kisses of alluring flinty reduction are easily woven throughout this smart, slight (11.5%) white, carrying crystalline lemon, green apple, pencil shavings, and flake salt along the lees-decked palate. A lovely, serious Yarra overview.Prices:| BC | $50.00 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Bartier Bros. Pristine Chardonnay 2024
Columbia Valley, Washington, United StatesThe Pristine Chard is grown at Soaring Eagle Vineyard in the Wahluke Slope AVA of Washington State. The replacement wine was made in Oliver, BC, by winemaker Michael Bartier, known for his pristine wines. Bartier chose 40 year old vines grown in hot, fine, sandy loam soils with a southern aspect, not unlike much of the south Okanagan. It was night harvested, destemmed, crushed, and pressed immediately before being transported to Bartier Bros, arriving in BC before lunch. The wine could not be made any simpler. It was fermented in stainless steel and spent a modicum of time on its fine lees before being bottled. The nose has an attractive, sweet, red apple aroma. The palate is a pure, pristine green apple and citrus affair with a short finish. It is ready to drink at 12.5% alcohol. Perfect for spaghetti vongole, especially at $19.Prices:| BC | $18.99 | 750ml |
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88PTS
Domaine Artema Chardonnay 2023
CanadaDomaine Artema has taken over the old Desert Hills property on Black Sage Road across from Phantom Creek and Burrowing Owl Vineyards. This village chardonnay is made from hand picked, destemmed fruit that is pressed and fermented in a 50/50 mix of stainless steel and neutral French oak barrels, mixing indigenous and selected yeasts. The final blend spent some time in new French oak before bottling up the mouthfeel. The nose is fresh, pitching apple orchard fruit that spills onto the palate. The flavours vacillate between apricots and citrus, with a dusting of sagebrush and yellow fruit at the end. Clean, simple, austere, and ready to drink, it is best served now with creamy pasta or fish dishes.Prices:| BC | $34.90 | 750ml |
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91PTS
Maison Smith Montpetit Chardonnay 2023
Cawston, Similkameen Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe Cawston Flats are home to this Similkameen Valley chardonnay grown at the estate Champs Alizés vineyard. The chardonnay is handpicked at 2 tons per acre, whole cluster pressed and cold fermented in oak for 7 weeks. The wine and fresh lees goes to barrel to finish the ferment before ageing in 50% new French oak barrels that get regular bâtonnage every 2 weeks. Full malolactic provides this wine with a magical, creamy texture mixing with nutty stone fruit, bright acidity, and rich toasted oak. It's an impressive start for this winery, making it well worth watching. The Similkameen is beginning to fulfill its wine promise, making wild and excellent wines. The Valley is surrounded by high elevation mountains, oriented north-south, allowing maximum sunlight but with no lake impact to moderate temperatures. By mid-afternoon, the winds howl, keeping the vineyard fresh and dry. Summer brings dramatic diurnal effects, with temperatures rising and falling some +/- 20C in 24 hours. The soils mix poor, deep sandy loams and rich valley bottom soils, along with rocky hillsides and benchlands dotted with alluvial fans. Maison Smith Montpetit soils sit at Cawston Flats located at the 49th parallel. They are marked by a mix of heavy, rich soil over river rock with loam, sand and gravel (2-5 ft deep). It has some river/water table influence and is part of the windiest area. Diminished vigour enhances grape quality, helps organic viticulture, and gives some frost protection.Prices:| BC | $34.99 | 750ml |
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90PTS
Stag's Hollow Renaissance Chardonnay Herrera Vineyard 2022
Similkameen Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe Stag's Hollow Renaissance has changed neighbourhoods, but the wine is fine. The last time out in 2021 was Naramata based, but in 2022, the winery has turned to the windswept vineyards of the Similkameen Valley, namely Herrera Vineyard. It's a softer version that will appeal to a particular crowd with more oxidative almond notes and a smooth finish. It has all the earmarks of a ripe chardonnay, yet it sits at a perfectly light 12.6% alcohol. It would be a fine match for lobster, a creamy seafood dish, or an equally soft and creamy cheese.Prices:| BC | $36.87 | 750ml |
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89PTS
Quails' Gate Chardonnay 2022
West Kelowna, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, CanadaThe Quails’ Gate Chardonnay is a friendly introduction to serious BC chardonnay. It comes from several family owned sites and is fermented in a mix of vessels from stainless steel tanks to neutral French oak. It goes through partial malolactic fermentation to add a creamy character while retaining freshness. The attack is a balanced mix of citrus and creamy bakery notes spiked with fresh pear and barrel spice. The stylish, round, and easy to drink white is the perfect chardonnay at a price point you can serve to crowds. Shellfish, halibut, and roasted chicken all work here.Prices:| BC | $26.99 | 750ml |
| AB | $25.99 | 750ml |
| SK | $26.99 | 750ml |
| ON | $24.95 | 750ml |
| NS | $26.00 | 750ml |
| MB | $25.98 | 750ml |
| NB | $24.99 | 750ml |
| QC | $25.50 | 750ml |
| NL | $24.98 | 750ml |
| PE | $24.99 | 750ml |
| YK | $24.90 | 750ml |
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May 2025