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It's that time of year again when Ontario's I4C celebration occurs. This is a time to celebrate Ontario's cool climate Chardonnay and all it offers.This year's event, July 20 - 23, was unrivalled as attendees got a chance to go deep on Ontario Chardonnay, and see how these wines compare to their kin from around the world. Hands down, Chardonnay has captivated wine enthusiasts worldwide with its versatility and ability to express the unique characteristics of the regions in which it is grown. While regions like Burgundy and California have long been celebrated for their Chardonnay production, Ontario, Canada, has emerged as an unexpected powerhouse in the world of this remarkable white wine. In this blog post, we will embark on a journey to discover the unparalleled excellence of Ontario Chardonnay, and explore what makes it a compelling choice for wine lovers. Climate and Terroir The Ontario wine region benefits from a diverse terroir, encompassing a variety of microclimates, soil types, and topographies. This, combined with Ontario's celebrated climate, is a recipe for delicious vino, especially Chardonnay. Chardonnay production thrives in Ontario's cool climate, as it allows for a longer growing season and the development of grapes with vibrant acidity and elegant flavours. Moreover, the natural acidity in Ontario Chardonnay helps maintain balance, even in the ripest vintages, creating wines that are refreshing and age-worthy. Whether it's the mineral-driven wines from the limestone-rich soils of Niagara or the cool-climate elegance of the Prince Edward County and Lake Erie North Shore regions, Ontario's terroir, and climate impart distinct flavours and aromas to Chardonnay, resulting in wines of exceptional quality. Food Pairing Versatility If you have read any of my content, then you know how important versatile food pairing wines are to me, and when it comes to versatility that extends beyond the glass, Ontario Chardonnay delivers. Its bright acidity and complex flavours from wine making make it a fantastic match for an array of foods. Though it will pair wonderfully with seafood, think beyond that. Chardonnay is a great wine for white meats, and depending on how it is made, it will make your curry's sing! Make it a Point to Raise a Glass of Ontario Chardonnay Ontario's emergence as a world-class Chardonnay producer has brought newfound recognition to the region and its winemakers. The unique terroir, cool climate, and winemaking expertise combine to create Chardonnays that rival those from renowned wine regions around the globe. Winemakers in Ontario combine traditional winemaking techniques with innovative approaches to create exceptional Chardonnays. From careful hand-harvesting and gentle pressing, to fermentation in steel, barrel, or concrete egg, these winemakers craft wines that capture the essence of the grape and express the unique qualities of their respective place. The pursuit of excellence is a constant driving force in Ontario's wine industry, resulting in a continuous evolution of Chardonnay styles and expressions. Whether you prefer crisp and unoaked Chardonnays with vibrant citrus notes or rich and full-bodied expressions with layers of tropical fruit and toasty oak, Ontario offers an abundance of choices. So, the next time you seek a captivating white wine, raise a glass of Ontario Chardonnay and savour the excellence this remarkable region offers.

Every Caribana (Toronto Carnival) we make it a point to highlight which carnival delicacys pair nicely with wine. In this blog post you will see the round up of our 12 Days of Carnival Eats posts which pair delicious Caribbean food with wine!

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. Scroll down to learn more about the canned wines we shared on this segment. The Business of Canned Wine In recent years, the wine industry has seen a significant shift in consumer preferences, and a new trend has emerged: canned wine. Once perceived as a novelty, canned wine has now evolved into a booming sector of the beverage market, appealing to a diverse audience seeking convenience, sustainability, and innovative experiences. In this blog post, we'll dive into the canned wine industry, exploring its growth, advantages, and the factors driving its success. The Origins of Canned Wine Canned wine is not an entirely new concept; it made its first appearance in the market in the early 2000s. However, it wasn't until the last decade that the canned wine industry experienced a meteoric rise in popularity. Driven by the success of canned craft beer and the growing preference for portable, single-serve beverages, winemakers and entrepreneurs saw an opportunity to disrupt the traditional wine packaging paradigm. Growth and Market Trends The growth of the canned wine industry has been nothing short of remarkable. What started as a niche product now accounts for a significant portion of the wine market share. Today, the canned wine market is worth $241 Million USD, and is projected to value $700 Million USD by 2030. Advantages of Canned Wine Convenience: Canned wine provides the ultimate convenience factor for consumers. Its lightweight and portable design make it ideal for outdoor activities, picnics, concerts, and other events where glass bottles would be impractical or prohibited. Sustainability: Aluminum cans have a lower carbon footprint than glass bottles, and they are more easily recyclable. As environmental consciousness grows among consumers, canned wine's eco-friendly appeal becomes a strong selling point. Freshness: Modern canning technology ensures that the wine maintains its freshness and taste, protecting it from harmful light and oxygen exposure. Challenges and Future Outlook Despite its rapid growth, the canned wine industry faces a few challenges. The perception of canned wine being of lower quality than bottled wine still persists among some consumers. Additionally, some traditional wine enthusiasts believe that canned wine lacks the elegance and sophistication associated with wine culture. However, as the industry continues to evolve and gain acceptance, it's likely that these misconceptions will fade away. Furthermore, innovative branding and marketing strategies, along with the introduction of premium canned wine offerings, are helping change perceptions and elevate the industry. The canned wine industry is here to stay, reshaping the way people consume and perceive wine. With its undeniable advantages of convenience, sustainability, and a growing focus on quality, canned wine has successfully tapped into the desires of modern consumers. As the industry continues to mature and adapt, we can expect even more exciting developments and offerings in the world of canned wine. So, whether you're a wine enthusiast or someone looking for a convenient and eco-friendly drinking experience, it's time to embrace the trend and raise a can to the future of wine. Cheers! The Wines Shown on The Social BTL Pink Between The Lines Winery, Ontario I always say that rosé is a double duty summer wine. You can chill it and turn it into a refreshing drink on a hot day, and you can pair it with food of all kinds given its structure (tannin, fruit profile, acidity, etc). The BTL Pink checks all the boxes when looking for a crowd pleasing pink sipper. It is a charmat method (sparkling) rosé that really is delightful. Aromas of pear, strawberry, rhubarb, and an effervescent palate where delicate bubbles dance on your tongue. Fun fact about Between the Lines winery, they were the first winery to put VQA wine in a can! This wine can be purchased from the winery directly, and selected LCBO stores in Ontario. Hogwash Rosé Amulet Estate, California Here, we’ve got another rosé, but a still one. One of the things I like about this rosé wine is that it was created with summer days in the park in mind. Moreover, it’s light, fun, doesn’t take itself too seriously, and is delicious. This wine has got aromas of white flowers, strawberry and grapefruit, and reminds me of a summer citrus salad! On the palate, exotic citrus and ginger sing. This wine can be purchased here. Soto Sake, Premium Junmai Soto Sake, Japan Now, this is a real treat. If you want to change things up in your canned consumption, here is a sake you should add to your shopping list. The Soto Sake does not miss a beat for my sake drinkers. Aromas of pomme fruits, florals with a slight nutty character, and on the palate, a delicate balance of umami, cucumber, and fruit. The Soto Sake is also natural, and gluten free. This Sake can be purchased here. Farm to Table White and Farm to Table Red Legends Estate, Ontario Our last expression of canned wine was both a red and a white wine from Legends Estate Winery, which they call Farm to Table. Both wines are vegan, and are made with minimal intervention from the winemaker. It is important to note that the Legends Estate winemaking philosophy does not change just because the packaging format does. The white is made from Gewurztraminer and Sauvignon Blanc, and both are highly aromatic grapes, which makes this so inviting as you bring it up to take a sip. The red is made from Merlot and Malbec. Malbec is a rare grape to see grown here in Ontario so already you know you are in for a unique experience. The Farm to Table Red possesses great dark fruit, an enticing currant profile, with a daring structure. This wine proves that canned wines are not made solely for white and rosé wines. Here, you have a canned red that is absolutely beautiful. Legends Estate is still family owned and operated, and all of the fruit in these cans are estate grown! These wines can be purchased from the winery here.

While Caribbean breakfasts are typically paired with non-alcoholic beverages such as tea, coffee, or fresh fruit juice, you can still explore wine pairings to enhance your breakfast experience. Here's an infographic to guide you on pairing Caribbean breakfast food with wine: Enjoy!

There has been a growing interest in organic and biodynamic products in recent years across various industries, including winemaking. As consumers become more conscious of the origin and production methods behind their favourite beverages, organic and biodynamic wines have emerged as popular choices. In this blog post, we delve into the differences between organic and biodynamic wines, shedding light on their unique production processes and the benefits they offer. Understanding Organic Wines Before we delve into the explanation of what organic means in the world of wine, I want to state clearly that organic grape growing practices have been employed by reputable producers long before 'organic' was a thing. Because of this, the same long-standing environmentally minded producers will tell you they don't quite understand the organic movement as they have been farming like this from the beginning. The previous also means it is essential to understand the story and practices of the producer as the contents in that wine bottle in your hand could very well be organic, but it is not called out as such on the label. Organic wines are made from grapes grown in vineyards that strictly adhere to organic farming practices. This means that no synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides, or genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are used during cultivation. Instead, organic winemakers rely on natural alternatives, such as compost, cover crops, and beneficial insects, to maintain vine health and protect against pests. One of the primary aims of organic winemaking is to promote biodiversity and ecological balance. By avoiding synthetic chemicals, organic farmers help preserve the soil's fertility and promote the overall health of the vineyard ecosystem. This focus on sustainability often extends to other winemaking practices, including using of natural yeasts for fermentation and minimal intervention during the winemaking process. Unveiling Biodynamic Wines Biodynamic winemaking takes organic principles a step further, embracing a holistic approach that views the vineyard as a self-sustaining and interconnected system. Developed by Rudolf Steiner in the 1920s, biodynamic agriculture incorporates spiritual and cosmic elements alongside organic practices. Biodynamic vineyards follow strict guidelines based on a biodynamic calendar, which considers lunar cycles and astrological influences. This calendar guides key activities like planting, pruning, and harvesting, aiming to enhance vine vitality and align viticultural practices with natural rhythms. In addition to organic farming practices, biodynamic wineries use specific preparations, such as composts and herbal teas, to stimulate soil health and enhance the vine's ability to draw nutrients from its environment. Furthermore, some biodynamic winemakers employ unique techniques like burying cow horns filled with manure as a form of soil enhancement. Wrap Up As consumers become more discerning about the products they consume, organic and biodynamic wines have gained popularity for their commitment to sustainable farming practices and their ability to offer an authentic and pure drinking experience. Whether you opt for organic wines with their focus on avoiding synthetic chemicals, or biodynamic wines with their holistic and cosmic approach, both choices allow you to savour wines that respect the environment and reflect the distinct characteristics of their origin. So, the next time you uncork a bottle, consider the story behind it and let the flavors transport you to the vineyard where it all began.

Your list of must have red wines for patio season! When it comes to summertime libations, red wine may not be the first beverage that comes to mind. However, overlooking red wines during the warm months would be a missed opportunity to indulge in a world of vibrant flavours, refreshing textures, and delightful pairings. In this blog post, I curate a list of my go to red wines for summer, debunk the myth that red wines are exclusively reserved for cooler seasons, and invite you to explore the wonders of summertime red wines. So grab a glass, find a cozy spot in the shade, and let's embark on a journey through the enticing world of red wines perfect for the sun-soaked days. Room Temperature? We've all been told that red wines are to be served at room temperature. Given this, many will take a red wine from the cupboard, kitchen wine rack, under the bed, or wherever you store it, open it, and then consume. It's meant to be served at room temperature, after all. This is false. Red wines should be served anywhere between 13° to 18° Celsius. Room temperature, on the other hand, is 20° Celsius, a temperature much too warm for red wines. Also important to note is that the lighter the red wine, the cooler you can stand to go. When I give my Pinot Noir a slight chill, my red berries get a chance to play a leading role on the palate. If I've got a red wine higher in alcohol, a slight chill tempers that alcohol on the palate, and the rest of the wine's profile gets to shine. Slightly chilling red wines can provide a refreshing experience without compromising their distinct characteristics. Summer Food Fare Wine Pairings While red wines can be enjoyed on their own, exploring their culinary potential during summer adds another layer of enjoyment. Pairing lighter reds with grilled vegetables, fish or chicken is a sure fire winner. Doing ribs on the barbecue? Pull out that bottle of Carménère or Grenache. Doing a classic steak on the Q? Pull out that bottle of Barolo. Don't be afraid to experiment because of the season. Let your taste buds guide you toward unexpected and delicious combinations. My Go To Red Wines For Summer Pro tip - keep checking back as this list has grown, and more posts about new summertime red wine experiences are coming! Dolcetto Pinot Noir Gamay Cabernet Franc Summertime red wines offer a delightful alternative to the more traditional choices associated with warm weather. From chilling your reds to seeking out lighter styles and exploring rosé-inspired cousins, there is an abundance of options to enhance your summer.

What's in your glass this holiday weekend? When I think of Canada Day, I think of late night fetes the night before and a good ol' friends and family backyard barbecue the day of. If you are like me and usually the host of the outdoor soiree, you're busy making sure 'all the things' are just right. The foods served must be a blend of enough simplicity, but yet feature food dazzling surprises. (Ask me about my rack of lamb seasoning process!) When it comes to the wines, however, I generally let the holiday theme guide my selections, hence the Canada Day Backyard Wines list below. Canada Day Backyard Wine List White - Albariño This is a light white wine from the Rias Baixas region in Spain. Its crisp acidity and subtle tannin give it a fantastic structural and textural feel. With Albariño (Alvarinho in Portugal), you also get lively supportive notes such as grapefruit, peach, and melon. Albariño is an easy drinking white wine, and when served with a chill on a hot day, it is a refreshing drink. Albariño is common to find in our market, and often available for under $20. LCBO Option: Castelo do Mar Albariño Rosé - Syrah While I support rosé wine made from all red grapes, there is something about a well made rosé from the Syrah variety. Syrah is a red grape known for its red and black berries, great acidity, herb, and peppery notes. I think the bevy of flavours attributed to this grape is what makes any rosé made from it superb. No matter how lightly kissed the musts were by the skins, you are guaranteed a rosé with layers. LCBO Option: Francis Coppola Sofia Rosé Red - Grenache I bet you thought I would have said Pinot Noir here, and normally I would have, but we're curating a list for a Canada Day backyard soiree, where I know I need crowd pleasing sipping wines that pair with conversation as well as food, and that is Grenache. Grenache is responsible for making some of the most sought after wines in the world, from Priorat all the way to Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Lucky for us, it's also used in affordable red blends from the south of France, in the Languedoc-Roussillon area. Grenache is a medium bodied red grape that can be served with a bit of a chill (15° Celsius), making it a delight on a hot summer's day. Expect crisp acidity, medium tannins, plush berries, chocolate, and fennel on the palate. LCBO Option: M. Chapoutier Bila-Haut Occultum Lapidem With that, I raise a glass to you all on this holiday long weekend, regardless of what wine you choose to dig into! Cheers

On an international stage some of you may not think Ontario, Canada as a place that comes to mind when thinking about world-class wine regions, but this beautiful province has been making a name for itself in the global wine industry, and it's time we here in Ontario take note. Nestled between the Great Lakes and adorned with lush vineyards, Ontario boasts a diverse range of microclimates that create the perfect conditions for grape cultivation. To truly appreciate the uniqueness and quality of Ontario wines, one must explore its distinct wine appellations. In this blog post, we will delve into the hidden gems of Ontario's wine appellations and discover the extraordinary wines they produce. Ontario Wine Appellations Niagara Peninsula The Niagara Peninsula is Ontario's most renowned wine region, often considered the heart of the province's wine industry. The peninsula benefits from a moderate climate and the warming influence of the lakes. This appellation is known for its exceptional cool-climate wines, particularly Riesling, Chardonnay, Sparkling Wine, and Pinot Noir. The Niagara Peninsula is worthy of more discussion, which we'll do in a later post, as this area is broken down into two regional appellations (Niagara Escarpment and Niagara-on-the Lake). The regional appellations are then further broken down into 10 sub-appellations designated because of their individual expressions of climate, soil, and variety rightness. Prince Edward County Prince Edward County may just be Ontario's fastest-growing wine region. Its proximity to the lake results in a unique terroir, characterized by limestone-rich soils and cool-climate conditions. The region is celebrated for its crisp and refreshing Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Sparkling Wines. The county's burgeoning wine scene, complemented by charming boutique wineries and stunning landscapes, attracts both wine enthusiasts and tourists alike. Lake Erie North Shore Situated in the southwestern part of Ontario, near the shores of Lake Erie, the Lake Erie North Shore appellation benefits from the moderating effects of the lake, creating milder temperatures and a longer growing season. This region is known for its red wines, particularly Cabernet Franc and Merlot. The area also produces exceptional white wines and boasts a thriving viticultural history that dates back to the 1860s, making it Ontario's first wine region! Conclusion: While the above represents the long-standing appellations in Ontario, it's important to note that impressive new and emerging wine regions continue to make themselves known. Ottawa, Norfolk County, and Elgin County are some of the emerging regions to be on the lookout for. Ontario's wine appellations are a testament to the province's viticultural potential and the dedication of its winemakers. From the internationally acclaimed Niagara Peninsula to the emerging wine regions, each appellation showcases its own unique terroir and grape varieties. At Spring Into Spice, we're dedicating an entire seminar to Ontario Riesling's and their different expressions. This will give you a chance to explore Ontario through the lens of one grape. Whether a wine enthusiast or an adventurous traveler, exploring Ontario's wine appellations offers a delightful journey through stunning landscapes and exceptional wines. So, raise a glass and savour the hidden gems that Ontario's wine regions have to offer. We're more than just Icewine.

Did you know we're doing a deep dive Ontario Riesling Seminar? Check our Spring Into Spice events listing. Riesling is a white grape variety that is widely regarded as one of the world's greatest wine grapes. It is grown in many regions around the world, but its spiritual home is in Germany, where it has been cultivated for centuries. In this blog post, we will explore the history, characteristics, and versatility of Riesling. History of Riesling The origins of Riesling are somewhat unclear, but it is believed to have originated in the Rhine region of Germany, where it has been grown for over 600 years. The first written record of Riesling dates back to 1435, when it was mentioned in a document from the town of Rüsselsheim. Over time, Riesling became popular throughout Germany, and by the 19th century, it had become the most widely planted grape variety in the country. It was also exported to other countries, including France and the United States, where it gained a following among wine enthusiasts. Characteristics of Riesling Riesling is a highly aromatic grape variety that is known for its floral, and fruity aromas, which can range from lime and lemon to peach and apricot. It is also known for its high acidity, and minerality, which gives it a crisp, refreshing taste. Riesling is a versatile grape that can be used to make a range of different styles of wine, from dry and mineral to sweet and honeyed. It is also an excellent grape for producing dessert wines, such as Eiswein and Trockenbeerenauslese. Riesling Around the World Riesling is grown in many regions around the world, including Germany, France, Austria, Australia, New Zealand, the United States, and Canada. In Germany, Riesling is grown in many different regions, including the Mosel, Rheingau, and Pfalz, where it produces some of the world's finest and most sought-after wines. In France, Riesling is grown primarily in the Alsace region, where it is used to produce dry, mineral wines that are known for their complexity and elegance. In Austria, Riesling is grown in the Wachau region, where it produces wines that are rich and full-bodied, with a distinctive mineral character. In the New World, Riesling is grown primarily in Australia and New Zealand, where it is used to produce a range of different styles of wine, from dry and crisp to sweet and honeyed. In the United States, Riesling is grown primarily in Washington State and New York, where it produces wines that are known for their bright acidity and citrusy flavors. In Canada, and in particular the Niagara Peninsula region of Ontario, producers are known for producing Riesling wines that are crisp, clean, and mineral-driven, with flavours of green apple, lime, and peach. The Niagara Peninsula's cool climate and mineral-rich soils provide ideal growing conditions for Riesling. If you want to dig into Ontario Riesling, join us at Spring Into Spice 2023 and signup for our deep dive Riesling seminar. Conclusion Riesling is a grape variety that has been cherished for centuries for its aromatic, fruity, and versatile character. It is grown in many regions around the world and is used to produce a wide range of different styles of wine. Whether you prefer dry and mineral or sweet and honeyed, there is a Riesling out there for everyone to enjoy. So next time you're looking for a refreshing and complex wine, consider giving Riesling a try!

Spring Into Spice Tickets Now Available! Though it's been months in the planning, it still seems surreal to be able to announce to all of you that tickets for Canada's 1st ethnic food and wine festival, Spring Into Spice are now available for purchase. Date: June 3, 2023 Time: Noon to 10PM Where: Hotel X - Stanley Barracks Garden Tickets: Click here The Spring Into Spice outdoor ethnic food and wine festival is a first of its kind event for Canada. On June 3, 2023, the community will walk through our carefully designed Ethnic Food and Wine Pavillion at the Santley Barracks Garden. Festival attendees will get a chance to leisurely munch on tasty cuisines such as Caribbean, African, Indian, Thai, Latin American, and so much more. At the same time, venture over to a wine tent to try various wines with their foods. You'll have countless pairing at your fingertips. For those interested in digging deeper into food and wine pairing, take advantage of the deep dive seminars scheduled throughout the day! If you celebrated with us at the festival last year then you know this is one not to be missed. ​ If this is your first Spring Into Spice festival just know that you are in for a treat. Interested in exhibiting at the festival, click here. Come and join us at these Spring Into Spice events as we PAIR THE WINES WE LOVE WITH THE SPICES WE LOVE!

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. The History of the Languedoc The Languedoc-Roussillon is the largest wine region in the world, producing more than a third of all French wines. While this magnitude of production may impress you, it was, at one point, a factor in public demur of the area's wines. In the mid to late 19th century, the region turned from producing quality wines written about with favour, to producing wines on mass to support the growing demand, partly due to the Industrial Revolution. From the 5th century to the early 19th, the Languedoc was hailed for its wine. Its position as France's oldest wine-producing region fit it well and proudly. According to Karen MacNeil's book, The Wine Bible, "In the 14th century, wines from certain parts of the Languedoc-Roussillon were so famous that the hospitals of Paris prescribed them for their healing powers" (p.294). Alas, it was unfortunate that monetary expansion, at the expense of quality, led the region down the path of mass wine production. With mass production being the regional wine program, the area soon became known for thin, one-dimensional red wine. It was the low-tier table wine, and used for military rations during WWI and WWII. Though outwardly, the poor quality wines continued to be made, there were winemaker protests in opposition, and regional evangelists making wine that paid homage to the early years of production; to the styles of wine that gave the region a place of prominence in wine. Overall, it took a series of protests during the 20th century, changing consumer palates, and an unfortunate and literal, 'wine lake' from overproduction to get the region to refocus its energy. Languedoc AOC Regional transformation created two camps, those who were forced to leave winemaking finding it hard to monetize anything but mass production, and then, the camp we benefit from today, those with a keen focus on quality production. The winemakers and grape growers who continued, concentrated on the right varietal expressions for their soils and vineyard area. The launch of Languedoc AOC ( Appellation d’Origine Controllée) in 1990 also provided guidelines for quality that vignerons strived for, keeping in mind labelling benefits. This was a way for them to distance themselves from the torrid mass-produced wine of the past. What we saw was that, over time, wine producers invested heavily in improving their winemaking techniques and cellars, which resulted in a marked improvement in quality across the board. Given the history of the Languedoc and their relatively recent regional transformations, in a sense some could say the region is young when it comes to the rebirth of overall quality production. It is for this reason that I believe the Languedoc is an area to watch given its road ahead. Ironically, the very thing that makes Languedoc interesting to me (its recency to world acclaim) also makes it highly affordable and one of the best value for money wine regions out there. Languedoc Range of Wine Within the Languedoc-Roussillon area, there are 36 appellations covering 40,000 ha. Given the size of the area, you get a wide diversity of soils, climates and grapes, resulting in very unique wines, appellation to appellation. Diverse terroir and the many microclimates also allow for a wide range of flavors and aromas. The variety of wines and their styles makes the Languedoc a joy to discover, one glass at a time. The Languedoc-Roussillon produces an extensive range of varietals, from old classics like Grenache, Carignan, and Mourvèdre, to more modern grapes like Syrah, Viognier, and Marselan. You can find them blended together or as single varietals. When you try some of the red blends of Grenache, Carignan, and Syrah from the area (the most popular in export markets outside of the regions rosé), you find it hard to fathom that the wines of this place were once thought of as thin and one-dimensional. These blends come with a level of complexity that takes you from fruit to non-fruit dimensions: red and black berries, plum, fig, mushroom, dark chocolate, and peppercorn. At times, depending on the sub-appellation, you'll also find aromas of dried herb and lavender. The rosé wines from the region stand out for their lovely bouquet of ripe citrus, stone fruit, and white flowers, enveloping you into a tropical sensory trip, coupled with that recognizable minerality that makes it a great food wine. These are primarily blends of Mourvèdre, Grenache, and Carignan. Look out for rosé blends that include Syrah. This is becoming a very popular style for the added structure and peppery notes Syrah can add. Though not as common to see in export markets are single-varietal bottlings of Languedoc's Marselan grape. This is a red wine of elegant aromas and a layered flavour construct of red, black, and blue fruit and dried oregano. It is a Cabernet Sauvignon and Grenache cross, and both parents come to mind while sipping. The must know grapes from Languedoc Roussillon White Muscat à Petits Grains Chardonnay Grenache Blanc Picpoul Roussanne Marsanne Vermentino Sauvignon Blanc Viognier Red Grenache Syrah Mourvèdre Carignan Cinsault Merlot Cabernet Sauvignon The takeaway from a visit to the Languedoc-Roussillon area, physically and by way of your glass, is that not only are the wine delicious, but they are also affordable! In fact, they are among the best-value wines in France, if not the world! What's more, is that regional diversity means there is something for everyone in this vast and distinct wine region, making it a must to explore.

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. What is Mango Sour? My friends, mango sour is the Caribbean condiment you put on everything! Ok, well, maybe not everything, but for sure pholourie, potato balls, and fish cake. It is so delicious that I literally drown my pholourie in mango sour; literally dripping of mango sour. So, when you think you are pairing wine with the pholourie... umm... not really. It is that heaping serving of mango sour that you are pairing, with some consideration to the texture of the pholourie. Ok, so what is Mango Sour. It is a mixture of mango (you probably guessed that), onion, thyme, garlic, vinegar, wiri wiri pepper, a little bit of sugar, and other spices to taste. After the mango comes to a boil, you mash it or blend it to reduce the consistency to a paste. The flavour profile of mango sour is the perfectly packaged sweet and sour combo with a drive of umami from Caribbean spices. Simply the best of everything in one condiment. The Wines Below are the wines I selected for this mango sour and wine pairing experiment. These wines were chosen based on structure and overall makeup, but even with thoughtful consideration, there were still some surprises! Late Harvest Riesling Why this wine - I selected a Riesling of this kind because of its acidity and residual sugar. It's got enough sugars to play with the spice in the sour and enough acidity to make it a great food wine. The result - the wine's mineral notes really shot to the front of the stage in this food and wine pairing. Strong tropical notes on the sour also sung. This pairing was ok, but the aggressive mineral push made things a little unbalanced for me. Rosé from Nebbiolo Why this wine - I picked a rosé because it can be served chilled, which may be a benefit to pairing with the pepper in the sour, also the Nebbiolo grape is adorned with skilled red fruit that I know for a fact gets enhanced in a pairing like this. The result - this pairing worked. The red fruit was enhanced as expected, and it was pleasant. Natural White Blend Why this wine - I simply picked this wine because of my affinity for well-made natural wines and food. A word of warning, however, when using natural wine in a pairing, you do have to know your wine's makeup (structure, how it progresses over time, etc.) before attempting. The blend in the natural white wine that I used for the mango sour pairing was 50% Verdejo and 50% Grillo. The result - The natural wine became slightly candied on the palate, but that was it. There were no other transformative moments. While this pairing was ok, it would not be my first choice. Red Blend Why this wine - this is a blend of Carignan, Grenache, and some Syrah, from Southern France. Carignan and Grenache are both medium-bodied reds, which is a safe bet when doing a pairing like this. Carignan also pulls up with medium+ acidity, so I am counting on it to do some work here. Moreover, this wine comes with 14.5% alcohol, meaning the fruit will appear riper on the palate, and the sense of sugar is heightened. The result - THE WINNING MATCH! The spiced notes in the wine and the spice in the mango sour created an astounding congruent pairing. It was like a mashup of peppercorn and red and black berries on the palate. Just so many levels of joyful complexity to break down. This was not the pairing I pegged to win, but that goes to show that when you find commonality in two different dimensions of your food and wine pairing it can produce a wow moment. I'll raise a glass to that! Are you interested in trying to make mango sour yourself? Check out this Guyanese recipe.