2011 Flat Rock Riddled Sparkling – Vintages 383315 – $34.95 – ****+ – Value for sparkling from Ontario is always going to be the story here – as this bottle is easily in the same league as entry level Champagne selling for double the price. The aromas are fantastic orchard fruit wrapped up with a nice toasty note. The flavours are rich and loaded with lemon, pear, peach, and golden delicious apple. There is a nice mineral note that creeps in on the finish.
2015 Vineland Estates Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon – Vintages 582056 – $49.95 – ****+ – When I look back at my notepad where I put my impressions of this wine – the first 2 words were in all caps SO GOOD. This is showing incredibly well in its youth – but it’s definitely crafted to sit in a cellar for 10-15 years if you’re looking for a flagship wine to show the potential of Bordeaux style varietals in Ontario. Lots of cassis, raspberry, blackberry, plum, there is nice smoke in this deeply rich and complex wine. The fruit is very ripe and juicy but at the same time show some restraint. If you’re familiar with the outstanding Cabernet Franc that you can find in the general list – splurge – you’ll thank me later.
