2016 Flat Rock The Rusty Shed – Vintages 1552 – $26.95 – ***** – I’m not even sure where to being in describing how much I love this wine. When I opened the bottle to make these notes I didn’t expect to finish it as quickly as I did, and when I got to the bottom I was sad that I had run out. The aromas hit all the right notes for what you would expect from a hot summer in Niagara – there’s peach, pear, apple, vanilla, and mineral. On the palate this is rich and full, the orchard fruit opens up and fills your whole mouth like a warm embrace. Everything is in perfect balance in this glass with the rich texture of this wine met with nice acidity. The long finish on this wine has me thinking about fried chicken, or creamy pasta to enjoy with this.
2017 Calamus Crackle – Vintages 547844 – $18.95 – ***½+ – This Charmat style sparkling is a blend of Vidal and Chardonnay. This is liquid summer – with aromas of golden delicious apple, and white flower. On the palate this opens up with nice weight, and texture. Flavours are apple, pear, honey, and the floral quality opens up on the finish. The acidity is bright and crisp, but the addition of Chardonnay brings a little more orchard fruit to the glass. A perfect bottle to enjoy with a summer brunch, a fish fry, or on it’s own with hot weather and a patio.
