2015 Featherstone Black Sheep Riesling – Vintages 80234 – $16.95 – ***** – The moment this wine entered my mouth it started to salivate. Featherstone easily lead the charge in proving that regardless of vintage Riesling belongs in Ontario. When you take your first sniff of Apple and Citrus in the glass you know you’ve got something good in your hands. The flavours are Apple, Lemon, and Lime. This wine is perfectly balanced with just a hint of sweetness balanced with great acidity. The finish on this wine leaves you with a nice applesauce finish and leaves your mouth begging for the next sip. Enjoy this with Fried Chicken, or on a shore lunch with fried Pickerel, Pike or Perch.
2013 Laughing Stock Portfolio – Vintages 71464 – $54.95 – ***** – On a personal note, this wine has been a bit of a White Whale for me. I have missed out on opportunities to taste these wines a few times over the past few years. Needless to say I wasn’t disappointed. The nose is heavy with Black Currant, Plum, Blueberry and Leather. The flavours are deep, complex and elegant. Blueberry, Black Cherry, Raspberry, Black Currant are layered over Woodsmoke and Leather. The tannin on this wine will make it difficult to keep around the house. Even though it is already silky smooth and elegant this is a wine meant for a choice spot in your cellar and something to hold onto for another 5-8 years. I can’t wait to get into a bottle of this with a rib steak.
