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Today's LCBO find takes us to Patagonia, Argentina, which is very exciting as Patagonian wines are not commonly seen on the shelf, unlike you would Mendoza. The Koskil Pinot Noir 2021 is a welcomed treat showing what the southern hemisphere's cool climate wines can provide. About Patagonia Patagonia, Argentina, is an emerging wine region known for its high-quality wines due to its unique climate. Located in the far south of Argentina, the Patagonia region benefits from ample cooling effects from the Atlantic Ocean and surrounding Mountains. Moreover, the diurnal shifts of long hours of sunlight and cool nights promote and result in wines with concentrated fruit and brisk acidity. The area spans the provinces of Rio Negro, La Pampa, and Neuquen. Patagonia is home to various red and white cool climate grapes and more. The area is known for Malbec (it is Argentina!) and, more fittingly, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay given its climate. About Koskil Pinot Noir 2021 The Koskil Pinot Noir 2021 is produced by Grupo Peñaflor, one of Argentina's largest wine-producing companies. The group manages wine brands across six regions within Argentina, with Patagonia amongst them. The Koskil Pinot Noir is deep ruby in colour. On the nose, red, black, and blue fruits are present, such as cherry, cranberry, and black elderberry. The nose also provides ethereal, earthy, and mineral notes. Red and black berries persist on the palate, with the sweet and tart flavour of blood plum, blackberry, bay leaf, stout minerality, ginger and white pepper. The soft and supple tannins turn this into a delightful cool climate Pinot Noir. With food, this wine morphs into surprising nuances of flavours. A tremendously complex wine at a moderate price. We'll be heading back to the store to grab more! The Koskil Pinot Noir 2021 can be found at the LCBO vintages for $17.95.

Appellation designations, such as PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) and AOP (Appellation d'Origine Protégée), play a significant role in classifying and labelling wines worldwide. These designations are part of a system that ensures the authenticity and quality of wines based on their origin. Some of the elements regulated by appellation laws include: Terroir. Grape variety. Production style. The geographical location of the vineyard. The allowable grapes. The maximum yield of grapes. The required time a wine should age in the barrel and or bottle before being sold. Minimum alcohol levels may also be regulated, depending on the country and region. In short, an appellation designation system helps ensure the quality and uniqueness of a wine, a true benefit to the consumer as it tells a story about the wine on the shelf. Appellation Systems Around the World Europe The European Union introduced the PDO and PGI (Protected Geographical Indication) designations in 1992 to provide a uniform labeling protocol for wine producers and consumers. Wines with PDO and PGI status must meet strict rules and regulations regarding their geographical origin and production methods. While the AOC and DOC (Denominazione di Origine Controllata) systems are still in place, wines can also be classified under the overarching EU system as AOP (or PDO) and DOC. Though general European standards exist, looking at France, Italy and Spain, the leading wine producers in Europe, and the specificity of designations you could find on a wine label from these countries is essential. France In France, the AOC (Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée) system was created in the 1935 by the INAO (Institut National des Appellations d’Origine, now called Institut National de l’Origine et de la Qualité). It is by far the most well-known example of legal classifications and appellation designations. With France's AOC system, wines must adhere to specific production standards to benefit from using a designation on the label. Moreover, the AOC system has a hierarchical structure, with particular appellations having more stringent requirements than others. For example, the Grand Cru and Premier Cru appellations have stricter regulations within the Burgundy region than the regional AOCs. Italy In Italian wine, DOC (Denominazione di Origine Controllata) and DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita) are important quality classifications that guarantee the origin and quality of the wines. Here's a brief overview of the differences between the two: DOC (Denominazione di Origine Controllata): This designation ensures that the wine is produced in a specific, well-defined region using approved methods. It also guarantees a certain level of quality. However, DOC wines do not undergo a mandatory tasting test. With that said, some sub-appellations have taken it upon themselves to do producer led tastings of even DOC wines to preserve the quality and reputation of the area. DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita): This is the highest designation for Italian wines. DOCG wines not only adhere to strict production regulations within a defined area, but they also undergo a mandatory quality tasting test. Only wines that pass this test are granted the DOCG status, providing additional assurance to consumers. In addition to the above, DOC wines do not have to abide by the same aging, yield, and alcohol regulations as seen with wines with DOCG status. Spain In Spain, the appellation designations for wines are known as Denominación de Origen (DO), Denominación de Origen Protegida (DOP), and the highest designation in Spain, DOCa (Denominación de Origen Calificada). As of today, the DOCa designation is currently held by only two regions in Spain, Rioja and Priorat. The mainstream quality wine regions in Spain are referred to as Denominaciónes de Origen Protegidas (DOP), similar to the French appellations. However. Spanish wine law became slightly more complex in 2003 when the hierarchical structure of wine classifications grew with the introduction of VP and VC wine indicators. VP stands for Vin de Pago. This term is assigned to high-quality estate wine, and the wine label houses the DO status and VP indication in these cases. VC stands for Vino de Calidad con Indicación Geográfica (quality wine from an indicted geographic area). These wines don't quite make it to DO standards but are of a quality greater than the wines in the IGP (protected geographical area) level. Fun fact: Spain is said to have launched their legal regulations for wine before France and Italy with Rioja in 1925. United States The American appellation designation system for wine is known as AVA (American Viticultural Area). An AVA is a grape-growing region with specific geographic and cultural features. The AVA system, which began in 1980, has since expanded to include 242 AVAs across the United States. To carry an AVA label, at least 85% of the grapes used in the wine must come from the listed AVA. Unlike other systems, such as the French AOC, the AVA system does not have a regional or quality-based hierarchy, and some AVAs are encompassed within others. For example, Oakville AVA is a sub-appellation of Napa Valley AVA. The Appellation System is a Consumer's Best Friend The appellation system helps to educate consumers about the origin and quality of the wine they are purchasing. By understanding the geographical and climatic conditions of a specific region, consumers can develop preferences for certain styles of wine and make more informed choices when selecting a bottle. For winemakers, appellations can be a powerful tool for marketing and differentiating wines in a crowded marketplace. Wines from prestigious or well-known appellations often command higher prices due to their quality and uniqueness. Lastly, and maybe most importantly, appellations are legally protected, and unauthorized use of a designation can result in legal action. This protection helps prevent misleading labelling and ensures that consumers receive the product they expect when purchasing a wine from a specific area. There is indeed much behind the appellation system and its designations and classifications. It really is the consumers best friend.

Today's LCBO find takes us to one of my favourite areas for white wine, Le Marche, Italy. Verdicchio from Le Marche has a pronounced mineral, zesty, yet fruity profile with a textured mouthfeel that makes for an incredible wine on its own or with food. Today's featured wine, Fontevecchia Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi Classico Superiore 2022, by CasalFarneto, is an excellent example of what this grape can provide out of Le Marche. High Level Le Marche and Verdicchio While Le Marche produces red wines and other white wines, the star variety of the area is Verdicchio. The best known areas for Verdicchio in Le Marche are Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi and Verdicchio di Matelica. Though the same grape is grown in both DOCGs, the aromatics and flavours have nuances unique to the terroir of each area. It makes a side-by-side tasting of Verdicchio from both Jesi and Matelica a fascinating study. About Fontevecchia Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi Classico Superiore 2022 The Fontevecchia Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi Classico Superiore 2022 is made by CasalFarneto, a production house big on maintaining tradition but exploring new technology and know-how. The winery was founded in 1995 and has expanded production over the years to 60 acres of land under vine, where 28 acres of that is dedicated to, you guessed it, Verdicchio. To us, wine must represent the “terroir” and its culture. Each bottle expresses land, tradition, culture and work. Paolo Togni, Principal CasalFarneto The Fontevecchia Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi Classico Superiore 2022 has aromatics that remind you of white flowers, specifically the scent of mock orange flowers, coupled with peach and pear. On the palate, expressive minerality and acidity provide the building blocks of structure. The palate is then balanced by lime, peach, pear, honey, and a nutty sensation. This is such an incredible sipper and one you must try. The Fontevecchia Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi Classico Superiore 2022 can be found at the LCBO vintages for $16.95.

As if deciding what dish should be served or what wines to pour were not enough, the question of what wine glass should be used, especially if you are serving several wines at a dinner, may also creep its weary head. As selecting the proper stemware for wine could be crucial to enhance the overall experience, this post provides an overview of the different types of wine glasses you can encounter and what wine styles thrive within them. Wine Glasses 101 Red Wine Glasses: These glasses are more extensive to allow aeration, enhancing red wines' bold flavours and aromas. Common variety named glasses you could encounter are: Bordeaux - these glasses are tall, the tallest of red wine glasses, with a broad bowl. The distance from the wine to the rim of the glass allows for more oxygen, which in turn softens the tannins. These glasses are used for bigger and bolder red wines such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Tannat, and Malbec. Burgundy - these glasses have an extremely wide bowl. They are ideally shaped to allow aromas to hit the nose, and guide the wine to the middle of the palate. Though these are called Burgundy glasses, you can use them for more than Pinot Noir. Use them for other lighter-bodied red wines such as Barbera, Cinsault, and Gamay for example. White Wine Glasses White wine glasses are typically smaller than red wine glasses. They are more U-shaped to preserve white wines' crispness and delicate aromas. Be forewarned however that you could run into variety-based white wine glasses too (Riesling, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc), but it is not as commonly seen as red wine variety glasses. Stemless Wine Glasses Just as it sounds, these wine glasses do not have a long stem at the bottom; instead, they have flat bottoms like a regular drinking glass. The bowl is wide to help with aeration, but these glasses come at a disadvantage. Stemless glasses force you to hold the bowl of the glass to drink the wine. This means your body heat, cascaded through your hands, will undoubtedly change the wine's temperature prematurely, lessening the overall experience. Sparkling Wine People will serve sparkling wine in flutes and white wine glasses. Flutes rose to fame as a sparkling wine glass as it was said to preserve the bubbles because of its narrow shape. However, if a large part of the beauty of wine is smelling it, why use a glass that will stifle that, such as a flute? For this reason, it is now common to see sparkling wine, especially traditionally made sparkling wine, served in a white wine glass. Using a white wine glass with a wider bowl lets you capture the autolytic/brioche, apple, and pear characteristics of an exquisitely made sparkling wine. Dessert Wine Glasses These are smaller than standard wine glasses to elevate the intense flavours of sweet and fortified wines like Port, Madeira, and Sauternes. Universal Wine Glasses These are versatile glasses designed for both red and white wines, with a bowl shape that balances aeration and the preservation of a wine's aroma. For the record, there is no shame in this game. I have a few sets of universal wine glasses for ease, and they come in handy, especially when doing tasting research. This guide will prepare you for the glassware you could encounter, and we highly encourage, if the opportunity arises, to try one wine in multiple glasses to see and note the difference for yourself.

The stunning Loire Valley is in the northwest of France, stemming from the Atlantic Ocean and straddling the Loire River. A wine region regaled for producing Chenin Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc, Muscadet, and Cabernet Franc- some of the most loved varieties worldwide. The region is a bevy of discovery morsels, and this post will showcase some of the must-know and-see wonders of the Loire Valley wine region. The Loire Valley Then The Loire Valley is known as the 'Garden of France' due to the large number of vineyards that border the river, each producing wines that reflect the region's unique terroir and centuries-old heritage. But the Loire is more than a picturesque tapestry of vineyards and valleys. Its history is a marked and coloured one, filled with intrigue. The formation of the region as we know it today began after its conquest by Julius Caesar in 52 B.C. With just as much credence due, however, is Emperor Augustus who is said to be the one to unify and stabilize the Loire. The Loire Valley has always played a crucial part in history and has been seen as a pivotal region, given its access to the Atlantic. Its geographical positioning turned the Loire into a key port for trade and commerce. Like any other area of significance, great battles ensued over ownership of the Loire. The Loire Valley went from French ownership to British and, for a short time, German. Perhaps the least discussed but vital to the region's riches is its involvement with the slave trade. Nantes, the most western side of the Loire and the area where the stylistic Muscadet comes from, was particularly notorious for its participation in the slave trade. The city's port became one of the leading slave trade ports in France during the 18th century. Ships departed from Nantes to Africa, carrying goods for trade, and returned with enslaved individuals to be sold in the Americas. The profits from this trade contributed to the economic prosperity of the region, not unlike other coastal wine regions along France's western border, namely Bordeaux. Historically, the beauty and riches of the Loire have been sung by much of the aristocracy, building an allure that led many notable characters its way. One such character was Leonardo Da Vinci, who spent the last three years of his life in the Loire at the Château de Clos Lucé. With the Romans' initial vine planting in the Loire in 1 B.C., to the famed Sancerre in texts of the 11th century, to its UNESCO status and title in the 2,000s, the wines of the Loire, and the valley itself have had an unparalleled ability to capture the hearts of many. Loire Valley Terroir The Loire Valley spans 280 kilometres and traces the Loire River. The region consists of various climates and soil makeup, adding to the list of reasons to explore the Loire. This geological diversity, varying exposures, and aspect ratios drive the grapes grown, the viticultural practices, bottling strategies, and even market positioning. For example, it is not uncommon to see producers demark their land as soils, and or the aspect changes. In some cases you will see two parcels of land that are side by side, vinified and bottled separately as the same grape shows so wildly different, plot to plot. Exploring a producer's range of Cabernet Franc in Chinon, for example, can be a truly eye-opening experience and a compound lesson on terroir. Aspect, soil, and the differing influence of the Loire River, as it is travelled, produces moderating effects that result in a fascinating range of microclimates amongst the vineyards. The Atlantic Ocean heavily influences Pay Nantais vineyards, producing moderate seasonal variations. Fall and winter are mild, and summers are hot and humid. Anjou vineyards see a similar climatic state to that of the Pay Nantais but do not have to deal with the depth of humidity as its neighbour, and they benefit from more significant sunshine hours. In the Saumur vineyards, the hills provide a barrier to winds blowing from the west, and the climate becomes continental with hot and long summers and very cool winters. The vineyards planted on the slopes of the Central Loire benefit from a diurnal shift, and forests and the Loire River help to moderate the continental temperatures. Some of the Upper Loire holds its distinction from the volcanic soils and is protected and moderated by mountainous geological factors. Loire Valley Appellations There are 51 Appellations d'Origine Protégée (AOP) across the Loire Valley, but I think a great way to look at the area is by following the natural regional divide. The Loire Valley is broadly split into four areas: Lower Loire, Middle Loire, Central Loire, and Upper Loire. Lower Loire Lower Loire, also known as Pays Nantes, is the area's most western section of the region and borders the Atlantic Ocean. Here, the climate is maritime in nature, very humid and wet. Fitting to the amount of rainfall and humidity of the area, the soils found here are gravel, schist, and slate, none of which are water-retaining soils and precisely what is needed in a climate such as the Lower Loire's. The region's primary grape is Melon de Bourgogne, which is used to make the white wine, Muscadet. Naturally, the famed appellations in this area are the Muscadet and Muscadet de Sèvre et Maine. Middle Loire The climate in this area is both maritime and continental. The Anjou area on the western side of the Middle Loire is maritime, and as you travel east to Touraine, the climate becomes more continental in nature. Primary soil type found here is tuffeau, which is a soft limestone. The primary grapes in the Middle Loire western region are Chenin Blanc, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Gamay and some Cot (Malbec). Further east in the Middle Loire, the primary grapes are Chenin Blanc and Cabernet Franc. This is where you find the famed appellations of Anjou, Samur, Savannières, Vouvray, Chinon and Bourgueil. Central Loire Here, the climate is more continental and relatively landlocked. Soils consist of flint, limestone and kimmeridgian clay. The primary grapes grown here are Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir, and this is where you find famed appellations Sancerre and Pouilly-Fumé. Upper Loire This area comprises appellations that are regionally detached from the rest of the Loire but fall under the same administration. These areas are 'upriver' to the east and then south of the Loire, taking you near to the regions of Burgundy and Beaujolais. The climate is continental, with long and hot summers and cool winters. Here, you will find volcanic soils and parcels of limestone. Primary grapes found in the Upper Loire are Pinot Noir and Gamay. An appellation of note here is the Côte d'Auvergne in the foothills of the Massif Central. Loire Valley Gastronomy Finally, wine is only one part of the gastronomic symphony in the Loire Valley. The region's culinary scene perfectly accompanies its wines, with local delicacies like goat cheese from Chavignol or Curé Nantais from Pay Nantais. While at it, source out rillettes from Tours and the renowned "tarte Tatin," offering a harmonious pairing with the diverse range of wines produced in the region. The Loire Valley's expanse alone makes it a wine enthusiast's dream, especially if digging into the concept of terroir. Travel west to east in your glass by starting with Muscadet and ending with Gamay, or stick in Chinon, taste Cabernet Franc from varying soils, and note the differences: either way, the Loire Valley is beyond worthy of exploration.

Pepperpot is a Guyanese dish traditionally made at Christmas. It is the holiday dish that sits and warms on the stove continuously because, at any time of the day, you could get a craving for pepperpot. As a child, we ate it at breakfast time; it was all a part of the ceremony of opening gifts, but as an adult, I would literally eat it for breakfast, lunch, and dinner if I could. In this post, we walk you through what pepperpot is, its origins, and, of course, what wine best pairs with it. What is Pepperpot Pepperpot is a Guyanese one-pot stew served at Christmas and eaten with homemade bread. You simply rip a piece of homemade bread, dip it in your bowl of pepperpot to soak the bread in the sauce, and then have the bread envelope a piece of meat, which you then drive into your mouth. Describing this is making my mouth water! Some eat pepperpot with rice and, therefore, use utensils, but my preferred way is to eat it with my fingers. At the heart of pepperpot lies a diverse array of ingredients that harmonize to create a truly mouth watering experience. The dish features meat, such as oxtail, cow heel, and cuts of stewing beef. The meat is slow cooked in a sauce flavoured heavily by cassareep which is made cassava and is aromatic, sweet, spicy, and bitter all at once. The History and Origins of Pepperpot The story told to me by my ancestors is that pepperpot was a Native Guyanese dish by origin. Once it was discovered that cassareep could act as a preservative, it was clear using it to cook meats and create dishes that would have longer staying power, especially in times when there was some uncertainty about the next hunt or the next meal, was sustainably innovative. What Wine Pairs with Pepperpot Once people hear about the meat used in pepperpot, they immediately think it must be paired with red wine because of the beef. But, like with many stews, the item you need to pair flavours with is the sauce which, in our case, is heavily driven from the flavours of cassareep: sweet, savoury, and bitter. When we set out to pair pepperpot with wine, we used a barely off-dry white wine, a sparkling rosé, two light bodied red wines, one saw oak whereas the other did not, and finally, a big bodied red wine that saw some oak treatment, and here's what happened. Off-dry White Wine: this pairing was pleasant but nothing wowing. The wine had great acidity, which helped with the cuts of meat, but it neither complimented nor supported the cassareep, it just was. Sparkling Rosé: this was a case where the wine lacked a depth of flavour to stand up to the dish, and as a result, the wine started to taste bad as we did the pairing. This was a definite no. Light Bodied Red Wine: the red berries were dominant, but the pairing was not balanced. The dish did the wine no justice, and vice versa. Light Bodied Red Wine with Oak Treatment: like the wine above, the red berries danced on the palate, but unlike the wine above, it was supported by nutmeg, chocolate and vegetal notes. The oak treatment, combined with the grape's natural fortitude, started to bring out the often unspoken ingredients in pepperpot, such as cinnamon and clove. Each bite and sip uncovered something new on the palate. Full Bodied Red Wine with Oak Treatment: the full bodied wine performed best with this dish when chilled to 17 degrees celsius. The berries became crunchier with new characteristics. The oak also built congruent moments on the palate, but the pairing experience stopped there with no new flavour discoveries. The winner That Light Bodied Red Wine with Oak Treatment produced the most significant wow factor on the palate. The experience was layered and both wine, and dish benefited from the pairing. It being lighter in body gave the pairing a purity that did not have to worry about astringency in the wine along with the dish. The subtle new oak treatment also worked wonders in building that congruent feel on the palate. If you are interested in trying this at home and are looking for a pepperpot recipe to follow, check out our friend at Metemgee!

And just like that, 2023 is coming to a close. So, to celebrate all that we've done this year, we're running down the top 7 posts for 2023, based on traffic, shares and views. Enjoy reading and count down to number one with me. 7 - What is Phenolic Bitterness Wine enthusiasts often find themselves navigating a complex world of flavours, aromas, and textures. Among the myriad elements that contribute to a wine's profile, one aspect that occasionally takes center stage is phenolic bitterness. Check this post as we discuss phenolic bitterness in white wine and its impact on taste. 6 - What Wine Pairs With Mango Sour We are back at it, looking at our Caribbean kitchen, focusing on what we love to eat, and deciding what wines work best when paired with them. Today, we are pairing wine with Mango Sour. Check this post to read our mango sour and wine pairing tips. 5 - What Wine Pairs With Callaloo Most who are familiar with callaloo generally eat it as an accompaniment to something else, Callaloo and Saltfish, for example. That said, I have been known to sit down to a simple bowl of callaloo on its own, and it's the lone callaloo snack times when I get to wondering "what wine would pair nicely", hence this post. Check this post to read our callaloo and wine pairing must-do's. 4 - Corbieres Wine Region And Why You Need To Know It One of the keys to finding deliciously striking yet affordable wines is understanding some of the lesser talked about wine regions and the wines they produce. From there, you source what that region does best, and I guarantee you that most of your go-to and repeat-buy wines will come from this exercise. Check this post to read about my exploration of wines from the Corbières region. 3 - Wine In A Can And What You Need To Know Now that having a libation in the park is legal here in Toronto, we thought it only timely to share both our thoughts on canned wine, a few recommendations, and a whitty segment we did on the daytime television show called The Social. Check this post to see the segment on The Social and read more on the wines we featured. 2 - Why The Wines of Languedoc Should Be On Every Wine Drinkers Radar Whether you have been drinking wine for years or are just getting your palate wet along the vino path, the region of Languedoc-Roussillon produces a variety of wine styles that can captivate any palate. Its contrasts, appellation to appellation, are enough to make anyone a fan before too long. Check this post to read more on our love of Languedoc wines. 1 - What Wine Pairs with Corned Beef A.K.A. Bully Beef While hashing out the FriendsMas dinner for this past holiday, one friend piped up to talk about the price of food these days. Then one of us, in jest but partially largely due to nostalgia, said, "we should make bully beef and call it a day", and that is just what we did! We unscrewed a tin of Hereford Bully Beef and made magic happen! Check this post out to see what wines we paired with bully beef!

In the wineworld, the term ‘black grapes’ describes the grapes that go into making red wine. On February 21st, however, we’re using the phrase to celebrate wines with contributions made by the black community to celebrate Black History Month. Tickets can be purchased here. With its ability to transcend cultural boundaries, wine provides the perfect canvas for expression. On February 21, 2024, we're spotlighting the talents and contributions of black individuals who have left an indelible mark on the world of wine. From winemakers and sommeliers to vineyard owners and industry leaders, their voices echo through the clinking of glasses and the pouring of fine wines. Black Grapes is an engaging walk-around tasting. Take the time to delve deep into different wine styles and expressions of grapes with a hand from the black community. Enjoy Caribbean bites from Flavours of Guyana and more. While at Black Grapes, take the time to visit our artist gallery rooms to support young black artists from the community. So, join us for an event that honours the past, celebrates the present, and toasts a future where every palate is represented , and every story is heard. Cheers to diversity, innovation, and the shared joy that comes from savouring the excellence of black voices in wine. Get your Black Grapes tickets now! Special thanks to a sponsor we'd like to call out Accelerate Auto. Accelerate Auto is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to increasing Black representation in the Canadian automotive industry. They provide Black talent and youth with access to mentorship for skills building and peer networking to support professional growth and career development. They facilitate career pathing through the form of internships to attract more Black talent to automotive and build awareness of opportunities within the industry. Accelerate Auto is dedicated to creating a stronger and more diverse automotive workforce. Please checkout our Sponsor list as a whole: At Scotiabank, we recognize the importance of access to opportunities that enrich Canadian communities. By helping Canadians across the country bring their passions to life, we believe we're all richer. That's why we prioritize our support of hockey, the arts, marathons, and many other community initiatives that celebrate our unique passions and embrace our diversity.

Today's LCBO find takes us to Alsace, France's version of the sunshine state. While it has been a while since I've dug into Alsace, it still holds a position as a staple wine region and one you need to know. So, for those just embracing their wine journey, the Pfaff Tradition Gewürztraminer is an excellent gateway into the wonders of Alsace, and at only $16.95. The Storyed History of Alsace France The history of Alsace, rightfully, needs its own article; it's that complex. Despite the complexity, we will do our best to summarize it in a paragraph. I once listened to a podcast with an Alsatian producer as the featured guest. He said something along the lines of, his great-grandfather spoke German. His grandfather spoke French, while his father spoke both German and French, and he, himself, spoke French. The mental ping-pong game of languages resulted from the region changing hands through eras of war and turmoil. In fact, in just 80 years, Alsace changed hands (between the German and French) four times. The Rhine River, travelling through Germany and France, was the early catalyst for political convolution. Finally, after WWII, the region stayed firmly as a part of France. With that said, travelling through Alsace, the mixed cultural references can be seen from the architecture through to even the cuisine celebrated in the region. About Pfaff Founded in 1957, Cave des Vignerons de Pfaffenheim represented over 50 members as a cooperative. The organisation still functions as such today, with vines being catered to through the hands of the area's talented and dedicated grape growers and the wines being made at the cooperatives winemaking facility. Cave des Vignerons de Pfaffenheim produces 145 different wines today and exports 62% of its production. Fun fact: Canada is the cooperatives largest export market. About Pfaff Tradition Gewürztraminer 2020 This was such a fun wine to taste, especially with food. Pfaff Tradition Gewürztraminer has a pale golden hue with green flecks. Lime, green apple skin, honeydew melon, white flowers, and ginger are present on the nose. On the palate, lemon, green apple, tangerine, and this is where you start to see the typical lychee, pineapple, almond, honey, and that persistent ginger make for an enjoyable sipper. This Gewürztraminer's crisp acidity tempers both the wine's sugars and phenolics. Enough said, my vote is in, and it's the Pfaff Gewürztraminer for a fun wine to be paired with dishes with depth of flavour. The Pfaff Tradition Gewürztraminer 2020 can be found at the LCBO for $16.95 in vintages.

Welcome to the picturesque landscapes of the Basque Country, where breathtaking shorelines, and centuries of tradition intertwine with modern wine craftsmanship. Though a part of Spain, Basque Country stands out because of its distinctive cultural traditions, distinct language, and local cuisine. Here, winemaking is not just a skill; it's a cultural legacy passed down through generations. In this article we walk you through the wine styles and designated areas for winemaking in the Basque. Where is Basque Country Basque Country is an Autonomous Community in northern Spain. It sits on the extreme western end of Spain's border with France. The region is surrounded by the Bay of Biscay to the north, Navarra communities to the east, La Rioja to the south, and Cantabria to the west. The Basque Country boasts a unique terroir that breathes life into its wines. The diverse microclimates and varied landscapes create the perfect conditions for cultivating various grape varieties. From the coastal vineyards with their saline influence to the mountainous terrains that lend a mineral character, every bottle tells a story of the land it hails from. The Grapes and DOs of Basque Country One of the charms of Basque Country wines lies in its commitment to indigenous grape varieties. Txakoli, pronounced "chak-oh-lee," is the region's signature white wine crafted from the Hondarrabi Zuri and Hondarrabi Beltza grapes. These native varieties are resilient to the local conditions and contribute to the distinct flavours that make Basque wines stand out on a global scale. There are four designated wine growing areas (Designations of Origin or D.O.) of the Basque: DO Arabako Txakolina DO Arabako Txakolina is a designation of origin located in the Alava province. Established in 2001, it's the youngest of all the Basque DOs. Lesser known fact is that in Alava, there is also a big production of Rioja wine. The climate in the area is influenced by the Atlantic Ocean, with cool summers and cold winters. The grape varieties accepted by DO Arabako Txakolina are Hondarribi Zuri, Gross Manseng, Petit Manseng, and Petit Corbu in whites, and Hondarribi Beltza for red grapes. DO Bizkaiko Txakolina DO Bizkaiko Txakolina is located in the Vizcaya province, in the north of the Basque Country, and it was established in 1994. Vines are planted at around 500 feet, and they're affected by an Atlantic climate on the coast (cool and humid) and a continental climate (dryer and warmer) as you move more inland. The allowed grape varieties are Hondarribi Beltza in reds and Hondarribi Zuri, Folle Blanche, Gros Manseng, and Petit Manseng in whites. DO Getariako Txakolina DO Getariako Txakolina was established in 1989, making it the oldest designation of origin for Txakoli. The vineyards are located in the north of the Guipúzcoa province, close to the coast, and planted on slopes facing away from the sea to protect the vines from the strong ocean breezes, while ensuring they get enough sun. The accepted grape varieties here are Hondarribi Beltza in reds and Hondarribi Zuri in whites. DOCa Rioja Alavesa DOCa Rioja Alavesa is a subzone of DOCa Rioja and its vineyards in the south of the Basque Country. The vineyards are planted right on the shore of the Ebro River, at 1150-1600 feet, where they benefit from many hours of sun exposure. Around 80% of the land under vine is composed of the Tempranillo grape, with another 4% dedicated to other red grapes such as Graciano. The remainder of vines are dedicated to several varieties of white grapes, the most common being Viura. Pintxos Small Bites No exploration of Basque Country wines would be complete without talking about the delectable pintxos, the region's answer to tapas. Pintxos are small snacks served on skewers, and they vary between meat, seafood, peppers, etc. The small bite delicacy was named from the Spanish word 'pincho', meaning 'spike'. The Basque way is to raise a glass of Txakoli in one hand and have a pintxos in the other to create the perfect pairing of food, wine, and tradition. While rooted in tradition, Basque winemakers are fearless in innovating. Modern techniques and a commitment to sustainable practices have ushered in a new era of winemaking in the region. From eco-friendly vineyard management to cutting edge cellar techniques, Basque wines reflect a harmonious blend of heritage and innovation, and its a region you need to discover.

Today's LCBO find takes us to the Douro region of Portugal. While the Douro may be known to you for its Port wine production, its non-fortified wines are highly noteworthy in their own right. Today's find, Cabral Reserva 2020, from Porto Cabral, is a highly aromatic white blend you will want to discover. About Porto Cabral Porto Cabral was founded in 1996 by Emanuel A. Cabral, a recognized Port and still wine authority in the Douro. The company is hailed for its Port production, but the brand has expanded its offering given Cabral's love of still wine. In addition to their dedication to great Port and wine is the company's mission and aspiration: Create long-term partnerships based on trust, transparency and integrity. Develop competitive and effective marketing strategies to make our products leaders in their respective categories. Offer a diversified range of products of great value to consumers. About Cabral Reserva 2020 This fun white blend has never met a dish it couldn't match. Its acidity and rich palate profile from nine months in used oak barrels make it a food pairing joy. Cabral Reserva is a blend of hand-harvested Gouveio, Arinto Viosinho et Rabigato. On the nose, pear, peach, and white flowers take centre stage. On the palate, zesty acidity and salinity amongst flavours of bosc pear, honeysuckle, and white pepper provide a long finish. The Cabral Reserva 2020 can be found at the LCBO for $14.95 in Vintages.

When it comes to Spanish wines, the spotlight often shines on renowned varieties like Tempranillo or Albariño. However, hidden in the green landscapes of the Basque Country, there's a wine that deserves its own moment in the sun, the effervescent and lively Txakoli wine. In this post, we give you the history of Txakoli and profile its characteristics. What is Txakoli Txakoli, pronounced "chak-oh-lee," hails from the coastal regions of Northern Spain, particularly in the Basque Country. This crisp and slightly sparkling wine is traditionally made from indigenous grape varieties such as Hondarrabi Zuri (white grape) and Hondarrabi Beltza (red grape). Depending on the producer, you might also see other grapes blended in such as Chardonnay, Riesling, Folle Blanche, or Petite manseng. Txakoli wines are renowned for their zesty acidity, medium minus to medium alcohol content, and a subtle effervescence that tingles on the palate. The initial burst of citrusy flavours, are accompanied by green apple pear and vegetal notes. Fittingly, the name itself, Txakoli, is believed to be derived from the Basque words "txakolin" or "txakolinua," meaning "sour wine." Txakoli's vibrant acidity and effervescence make it an ideal partner for various dishes. Oysters, ceviche, and fried fish dishes are my go-to Txakoli pairing foods, along with light to medium-bodied cheeses. Serving Ritual Part of the allure of Txakoli lies in the theatrics of its traditional pouring method. Txakoli is poured from a height to fully appreciate its effervescence, creating a beautiful cascade of bubbles and releasing delightful aromas. The slight fizz and the lively pour add a sense of celebration to the experience, making it a wine meant to be enjoyed, especially at festive times when in good company.