New in Ontario Wineries - November 23, 2022
New in Ontario Wineries
• The following 2017 Henry of Pelham ‘Cuvée Catharine – Carte Blanche - Estate - Blanc de Blanc’ Sparkling Wine was sourced from the oldest and best hand-harvested chardonnay of all of the estate chardonnay. The best juice is isolated, partially barrel-fermented then aged for 54 months on its lees – aka, spent yeast cells. This wine from Niagara was, and is, lockstep with Champagne in its winemaking procedures. The price is considerably less than Champagne on this top calibre gem earning 95 points and following the steps of Méthode Traditionnelle. Kudos to the entire winemaking team!
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Henry of Pelham ‘Cuvée Catharine – Carte Blanche - Estate - Blanc de Blancs’ Sparkling Wine 2017
VQA Short Hills Bench $49.95 (315200) 12.5% alcohol
Initial aromas and mousse go hand in hand with fine-bead bubbles winding their way to the top of the pure ambrosia in your glass as it sports aromas of baking brioche, nutty notes and notions of spent yeasty notes. There’s a gusher of palate flavours led by lemon chiffon pie and hints of vanilla. It’s quite elegant with good balance, texture and plenty of yin and yang expressed as sweet and tang, first on the palate, then on the lingering finish and lip-smacking aftertaste. Pour as a welcoming glass to friends and neighbours and continue on with it when the snacks and/or dinner is served. You don’t necessarily need a special occasion to serve this outstanding bottle. (Vic Harradine)