Brad Mate

Domaine Queylus Cabernet Franc Tradition 2013

Perfect example of Niagara Cabernet Franc - poised, charming and complex.

Lailey Vineyard Syrah 2012, VQA Niagara River

Tasted the 2013 - Loads of smokey, hickory BBQ meats and ripe blueberries. Great mouth feel and finish.

Hecht & Bannier Côtes Du Roussillon Villages 2006, Ac

mmmmm so many choices out there at attractive price points...i'm glad i took a chance on this one. Finally a smooth, delicious, complex wine without a big price tag...wine nurds love finding this type of bottle, and i'm one of them. now i have to seek out an LCBO that has stock to buy a case...it has new world and old world characteristics that work well together, and i think that's great.

Kew Vineyards Blanc De Noir 2011, Niagara Peninsula

I love how crisp and clean this wine is. It has a nice fresh citrus kick to it. A fine mousse with every sip. The Blanc de Blanc was my favorite of the bunch due to the oak influence. However they are all high quality in my opinion. Great QPR for bubbles.

Pondview Bella Terra Barrel Fermented Chardonnay 2010, VQA Four Mile Creek, Niagara Peninsula

Tasted the 2011. Amazing, one of the most natural and beautiful expressions of Chardonnay from Niagara I have ever tasted. Check out the full video review and write-up by Michael Pinkus "the Grape Guy" at

www.niagarawinevideos.com

or

http://ontariowinereview.com/wine-reviews/by-winery/pondview-estate/pondview-2011-chardonnay-bella-terra

Hidden Bench Estate Pinot Noir 2009, VQA Beamsville Bench, Niagara Peninsula

Louis Bouillot Perle D'aurore Brut Rosé Crémant De Bourgogne, Traditional Method, Ac, Burgundy, France

Pours a nice creamy mousse, with a pretty pink-copper colour. It’s stylish, with delicate raspberry and strawberry flavors…there’s a hint of sweetness on the mid palate to add pleasure but finishes dry and crisp.

Oak Bay Gamay Noir 2012, BC VQA Okanagan Valley

I can see why WA folks like this Gamay...It's true to its roots, very much reminds me a Cru Beaujolais. The nose is a classic mix of roses, violets, beets, earthy mud and potpourri. The palate is smooth with an iodine thickness. Sweet and sour Swedish berry candies dominate. Remember to decant for an hour to release its full potential.

Beringer Chardonnay 2013, Napa Valley

David's review is spot on.

Château Saint Nicolas 2010, Ac Cadillac Côtes De Bordeaux

Impressive for the price. Some funky old world cheese scents, charcoal, blackberry, and cassis. Very dark on the nose. The palate is surprisingly soft but with noticeable tannins. Highly recommend!