2015 Bachelder Niagara Chardonnay – Vintages – $24.95 – ****+ – Rich, and complex – this is a return to form after the leaner more mineral driven 2014 vintage of this wine. The aromas of peach and creamed corn climb out of the glass with nice intensity and a dash of vanilla tossed into the mix. This is nice and creamy on the palate but is met with perfect acidity keeping this wine a little light on the finish and nicely balanced. This wine has been, and continues to be the definition of great value for Chardonnay from Ontario. Expect to find this in my home without food and only being met with a second glass.
2013 Casa-Dea Reserve Cabernet Franc – Vintages 381327 – $26.95 – **** – Casa-Dea is a winery we don’t hear about very often – across the street from Norman Hardie’s on Greer road it’s worth the visit. I’m thrilled to see this bottle on the vintages shelves to convince you to make the stop. While the County seems to have defined itself with Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc is starting to take a foothold. Winemaker Paul Battilana works wonders with this variety. The acids are bright and vibrant keeping this wine light and lean – but there are nice flavours and aromas of cranberry, and cranberry. There is a slight cocoa note, but the finish is clean. This is a wine begging to be paired with lamb, or beef from the grill.
