Cuvée 2020 Program - An Online Experience

An Online Experience

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The Cuvée wine weekend has become a highly anticipated staple on the calendars of wine-lovers and industry professionals year after year. For the first time in its 32-year history, Cuvée 2020 was not able to be held due to the health and safety concerns surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic. Following the advice of public health experts at the regional, provincial and national levels, organizers made the determination that cancelling the event was simply the right thing to do.

While this came at great disappointment to all of our friends of Cuvée, the Ontario VQA wine industry is comprised of a closeknit, supportive, and resilient community that will undoubtedly rally together to overcome this obstacle stronger than ever. While we look forward to the days when we are able to gather together to enjoy the incredible wines made in our province, let’s take this opportunity to celebrate our industry in creative and inventive ways. Let’s continue to support our wineries by making purchases online (especially those wines that would have been poured at Cuvée 2020!) and by promoting our local wines and wineries to others around the world.

Cuvée 2020 - An Online Experience Although practicing responsible physical distancing means that we can’t come together in person this year, we have developed an exciting online program to allow for the celebration of Ontario VQA wines, beers, cider and culinary delights to still take place online! Cuvee.ca will launch its “Online Grand Tasting” experience beginning on May 22, 2020. Hosted on Cuvee.ca, a new event page will allow us to showcase our industry in a virtual and interactive way!

• See what each winery selected as the “winemakers favourite” and would have poured at Cuvée 2020.

• Order the Winemakers Favorites online and enjoy them while reading each winemaker’s unique story in the comfort of your own home.

• See the lineup of Chefs, breweries and cideries as well as a special video from the band, Jonesy.

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Cuvée milestones 1989

ictoria Park Restaurant hosts its first Cuvée. Approximately V 350 guests attend and 16 wineries participate.

1990

Cuvée en Route begins. First Experts Tasting is organized.

1991

Addition of General List Wine Awards.

1993

Wine Writer Gerald Asher, is appointed Honorary Chairman.

1994

Skyline Brock Hotel hosts Cuvée.

1995

ueen’s Landing Restaurant hosts Cuvée. Addition of Q Sparkling and Dessert Wine Awards. Six chefs contribute to the Cuvée feast.

1998

Cuvée’s 10th Anniversary.

2000

Addition of Limited Edition Red and White Wine Awards.

2001

ddition of Cuvée Awards of Distinction for restaurants with A the best representation of Ontario wines on their wine lists.

2003

White Oaks Conference Resort and Spa hosts Cuvée.

2004

iagara Community Foundation takes over the planning and N production of Cuvée.

2005

Addition of the Gold Awards.

2006

His Excellency Jean-Daniel Lafond named Patron of Cuvée.

2007

Fallsview Casino Resort becomes hosting sponsor of Cuvée.

2008

Cuvée Award of Excellence in Viticulture is introduced.

2010

Savour Ontario is the culinary host.

2011

His Excellency David Johnston named Patron of Cuvée.

2012

Record 63 wineries entered into the competition.

2013

25th Anniversary Silver Celebration and the introduction of a new Grand Tasting format that celebrates the winemakers favourites rather than a wine competition.

2014

5th Anniversary of the first Experts Tasting.

2 Niagara Community Foundation announces the transition of stewardship of Cuvée to Brock University’s Cool Climate Oenology and Viticulture Institute (CCOVI).

2015

rock University’s CCOVI takes over the planning and B production of Cuvée.

2018

uvée’s 30th Anniversary and introduction of the Cuvée C Award of Excellence in Winemaking.

2020

Cuvée is postponed for the first time in its 32-year history due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The event rallies back to host the Cuvée Grand Tasting Online.

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Discover Ontario VQA wines at your local LCBO or shop online for an even wider selection.

Visit lcbo.com to learn more.

@lcbo 32932

Connect with us: @ lcbo /lcbo

32932 P13 Cuvee Program Guide Ad_2020.indd 1

2020-03-10 1:42 PM

You may want to applaud our grape solutions.

(Or just stomp your feet.)

To learn more, visit agsolutions.ca/horticulture or contact AgSolutions® Customer Care at 1-877-371-BASF (2273).

Always read and follow label directions.

AgSolutions, CEVYA, REVYSOL, and SERIFEL are registered trade-marks of BASF. CEVYA and SERIFEL fungicides should be used in a preventative disease control program. © 2020 BASF Canada Inc.

Client: BASF Hort

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Publication: Cuvee Program

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Desiree

Chefs of Cuvée 2020 Thank you to all of our Cuvée chefs.

Please continue to support our culinary partners in advance of Cuvée 2021, as they work to bring you inspired cuisine using alternative service solutions in these unusual times.

13th Street Winery Restaurant 1776 FOURTH AVE., ST. CATHARINES, 905-984-8444 13thstreetwinery.com/casual-dining

AG Inspired Cuisine 5195 MAGDALEN ST., NIAGARA FALLS, 289-292-0005 agcuisine.com

Cold Break Brewery Restaurant 193 ST. PAUL ST., ST. CATHARINES, 289-501-0638 coldbreakbrewing.ca

Hillfire SMK & BBQ 1455 PELHAM ST., FONTHILL, 289-897-9587 hillfirebbq.ca

Honsberger Estate Restaurant 4060 JORDAN RD., JORDAN, 905-562-4339 honsbergerestate.com/restaurant

Incoho Restaurant B-281 ST. PAUL ST. W., CATHARINES, 905-682-0766 incoho.ca

Kitchen 76 240 JOHN ST. E., TWO SISTERS VINEYARD, NOTL, 905-468-0592 twosistersvineyards.com

Righteous Monger 25 PELHAM TOWN SQUARE, FONTHILL, 289-969-4263 righteousmonger.com

Scotiabank Convention Centre 6815 STANLEY AVE., NIAGARA FALLS, 905-375-6222 fallsconventions.com

Tide and Vine Oyster House 3491 PORTAGE RD., NIAGARA FALLS, 905-356-5782 tideandvine.com

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Sweets Criveller Cakes 4435 PORTAGE RD., NIAGARA FALLS, 905-356-9441 crivellercakes.ca

Italian Ice Cream 5458 VICTORIA AVE., NIAGARA FALLS, 905-356-3866 italianicecream.ca

Fresh Florals, Weddings & Events Planning & Day-Of Coordination Everyday & Special Occasions Brad Baker, CIFD, WPICC

bbblooms.com | 905-682-5525

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Cuvée winery program listings 13th Street Winery 1776 FOURTH AVE., ST. CATHARINES, 905-984-8463 13thstreetwinery.com WINEMAKER: Jean Pierre Colas FAVOURITE WINE: 2017 Gamay Blanc de Noir, $34.95 W O “ Our first sparkling wine made entirely from Gamay; the fruit was hand-harvested in the first week of September 2017 from the first few rows of our Whitty Vineyard in Creek Shores. The grapes were transferred gently into the press and the free-run juice was captured separately to preserve the elegant profile. Primary fermentation was kept cool, and in 100% stainless steel. Malolactic fermentation was suppressed to keep the fresh fruit character in the wine. The secondary fermentation took place in bottle and the wine was aged sur lattes for a minimum of 12 months. After the lees was removed, winemaker Jean-Pierre Colas felt the wine was in perfect balance and decided to not add any sugar to the dosage, resulting in a classically dry sparkling wine in the zerodosage style.”

FAVOURITE WINE: 2018 Cabernet Franc, $24.95 W “ Sourced exclusively from our June’s Vineyard in the Creek Shores sub-appellation, our Cabernet Franc 2018 was harvested in late-October after a warm summer and wet, early fall. The grapes were sorted on shaker tables to ensure perfect quality.

After crushing and de-stemming, the must and skins were moved to stainless steel fermenters where the primary fermentation took place over three weeks with pumpovers for colour and flavor extraction. After pressing, malolactic fermentation was completed in tank, where the wine was kept until bottling in August 2019 following a light fining and filtration.”

Adamo Estate Winery 793366 THIRD LINE, MONO, 519-942-3969 adamoestate.com WINEMAKER: Shauna White FAVOURITE WINE: 2019 Legacy Pinot Blanc Pét-Nat, $21.00 W O “ I have chosen this Pét-Nat because it was a new challenge for me in 2017 that turned out to be a success! 2018, and now 2019, keep inspiring me to continue to make a natural style effervescent wine without the use of sulphur. This is a personal favourite of mine to introduce and share with friends at the start of an evening to freshen the palate!”

FAVOURITE WINE: 2017 Lowrey Pinot Noir Wild Ferment, $65.00 W O “ This small batch, Wild Ferment, Pinot Noir from Lowrey Vineyard expresses itself so uniquely from the other Pinots that we have made from Lowrey Vineyard. The natural yeast (wild yeast) has created complex aromas and, with supporting oak for structure, a concentrated palate of flavours and tannins alike. A two-barrel blend, this Pinot Noir stole my heart with all its complexity and concentration.”

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NOTE: If a winery partner does not show that the wine is available online please contact the winery directly.

Alvento Winery 3048 SECOND AVE., VINELAND STATION, 905-562-1212 alvento.ca WINEMAKER: Marc Pistor FAVOURITE WINE: 2017 Boreas, $48.15 W O “ I continue to be excited and impressed by the growing quality and expression of Appassimento wines in Ontario. The technique offers so much opportunity for the winemaker. This is exemplified in this traditional/appassimento blend.”

FAVOURITE WINE: 2018 Sparkling Rosé, $25.15 W O “ I love the balance and aromatic expression of our Sparkling Rosé. The Pinot Noir brings richness and great fruit, while Riesling lends vibrant acidity and citrus aromas and the Muscat pops the tropical fruit and floral elements.”

Arterra 2145 NIAGARA STONE RD., NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE, 905-468-4637 arterracanada.com WINEMAKER: Marco Piccoli FAVOURITE WINE: 2017 Arterra Chardonnay, $29.95 V “ I selected this wine because it represents a very elegant expression of our terroir. In an old world style, with lustrous minerality and floral notes, this wine was made by limiting the addition of SO2 after malolactic fermentation, resulting in an exquisite and refined wine.”

FAVOURITE WINE: 2017 Arterra Pinot Noir, $29.95 W O “ I consider this a very distinctive interpretation of this varietal, in that it combines a traditional winemaking process with the Appassimento style of wine. This Pinot Noir was partially dried on racks for 10 weeks and then fermented on skins for seven to 10 days. The blend represents an elegant and sophisticated amalgamation of traditional winemaking techniques.”

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Cuvée winery program listings Bachelder Niagara OPEN BY APPOINTMENT ONLY. Email wine@bachelderniagara.com to book a tasting. bachelderniagara.com WINEMAKER: Thomas Bachelder FAVOURITE WINE: 2017 Bachelder Wismer-Parke “Ouest” Single-Vineyard Pinot Noir, $47.00 V W O “ Wismer-Parke is on the first rise up the bench from Highway 8, on the eastern end of the Town of Vineland (at the same latitude as the Le Clos Jordanne vineyard, but west of Twenty Mile Creek). The magnesium-oxide influenced soils have a definite reddish cast to them, which we see in the finished wine, as a sanguine, iodine, virile inky— almost raw— quality in what is a otherwise a perfumed, expressive, medium-bodied wine. This character is exaggerated in the western part of the vineyard, from whence are chosen the barrels that dovetail together to form the Wismer-Parke singlevineyard. (The “finer-but-less-characterful” eastern block goes into our “Villages” blend). For the first two vintages, we declassified all of the wine from this vineyard into our Niagara Pinot blend because we found it a bit shocking on the palate; so “wild,” which is a quality we now understand and celebrate. And that, for me, is what defining terroir is all about: Turning the rock over to see what’s underneath! It is interesting to compare this Grand Vin from the “Vineland Bench” side of Twenty Mile Creek to the “Jordan Bench” Grand Clos Pinot Noir from the same year.”

FAVOURITE WINE: 2017 Bachelder Wismer-Wingfield “Ouest” Single-Vineyard Chardonnay, $47.95 V W O “ The Wingfield parcel is a simply incredible terroir, on a perfectly exposed, well-drained slope on the east side of Victoria Street in Vineland. Both the highest elevation and furthest from the lake of all our parcels (50 metres in altitude, and 1,000 metres further from the Lake than other Wismer parcels), we pick Wingfield a full 10-15 days after our other Chardonnay vineyards, and usually at lower brix! Surely destined to become a ‘Grand Cru’ if Canada ever classifies. Now older vines, planted in 1993 on lighter silty/clay and Dolomitic limestone soil, it shows the classic Vineland (as distinct from Jordan) combination of plush richness and tight minerality. From the start, whether we have indicated it or not on the label, the Wismer-Wingfield has been from the western side of the vineyard. 2017, a classically tight, balanced year of great precision and focus for Chardonnay, has produced this taut marvel of silky texture, broad, deep flavour, and intense minerality. A restrained, glassy, ‘grand vin’ nose of great intensity, this silky-textured—yet taut—Chardonnay is one that will age, and one to meditate on. Fermented, as always, in neutral barrels with indigenous yeasts (with barely 15% new oak) and given a long 20-month élévage without bâtonnage. It is interesting to compare this Grand Vin from the “Vineland Bench” side of Twenty Mile Creek to the “Jordan Bench” Grand Clos Chardonnay from the same year.”

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Broken Stone Winery 524 CLOSSON RD., HILLIER, 343-600-3993 brokenstonewinery.com WINEMAKER: Tim Kuepfer FAVOURITE WINE: 2018 County Grown Chardonnay, $29.95 W “ This chardonnay has just the right balance of oak and fruit. It tastes clean and pristine and has enough acidity to open your taste buds to enjoy a cascade of flavours with a mineral finish. I planted our chardonnay in 2010 on shallow, well-drained limestoneand-clay soil at our home vineyard and nurtured them to maturity. They are now showing their promise and the result of all those years of work.”

FAVOURITE WINE: 2017 Pinot Noir, Estate Grown, $34.95 W “ We came to the “County” to grow Pinot Noir. Our 2017 Pinot is bone dry, deeply coloured, and aged for a year in French Oak. We have a warm site about nine kilometres from Lake Ontario, and do extensive leaf pulling and crop thinning to only 1.5 tonnes per acre. As a result, we get intensity of flavours and tannins that make our Pinots sturdy and ageable. The vines grow on a small gravel hill and were planted in 2008.”

Calamus Estate Winery 3100 GLEN RD., JORDAN STATION, 905-562-9303 calamuswines.com WINEMAKER: Kevin Panagapka FAVOURITE WINE: 2016 Williams Double Barrel Cabernet Sauvignon, $49.95 W O “ My passion was always to make a Double Barrel Wine, named after my father William.

Double Barrel has been aged in French Oak for three years, and then four months in true Kentucky Whiskey Barrels; small batch, only two barrels at a time. A full-bodied Cab with aromas of current, cassis and finely integrated tanning, with a flavor of cedar and spice.”

FAVOURITE WINE: 2017 Barrel Kissed Chardonnay, $16.95 W O “ A medium body, non-traditional Chardonnay with sweetness that provides crisp acidity and aromas of lemon, peach and vanilla. Became a favourite overnight on our patio overlooking the vineyard, that pairs well with buttery and creamy dishes.”

Cave Spring Cellars 3836 MAIN ST., JORDAN STATION, 905-562-3581 cavespring.ca WINEMAKER: Gabriel Demarco FAVOURITE WINE: 2017 Riesling CSV, $29.95 V W “ In a recent article in Decanter Magazine, internationally renowned wine writer Ian d’Agata paid homage to this wine: “There’s probably no better estate than this in all of Canada, given its long track record for excellence, the large number of wines made and its willingness to innovate. The CSV is a benchmark Canadian Riesling which embodies the richer, riper but very mineral, peachy style typical of the Beamsville Bench.”

FAVOURITE WINE: 2017 Cabernet Franc Estate, 750 ml, $39.95 W “ In winemaker Angelo Pavan’s words: “There is absolutely no doubt in my mind that Cabernet Franc is the Bordeaux variety best suited to Niagara’s terroir. With the right work in the vineyard and cellar, Niagara Cabernet Franc as a mono-varietal can reach the highest level of vineyard expression when compared with the other Bordeaux varieties.”

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Cuvée winery program listings Château des Charmes 1025 YORK RD., NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE, 905-262-4219 chateaudescharmes.com WINEMAKER: Amélie Boury FAVOURITE WINE: N/V Brut Sparkling, Mèthode Traditionnelle, $25.95 V W O “ Our Brut is a classic blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir made in the traditional method. I bottle age this wine on the lees (yeast) for a minimum of one year and disgorge each bottle just before it leaves my hands, the practice of “RD,” or, recently disgorged; a sign of quality and attention to detail on the part of the producer. On the nose it should remind you of lemon, lime and toasted bread. The creamy texture is punctuated by the fine, persistent bubbles.”

FAVOURITE WINE: 2015 Chardonnay, St. David’s Bench Vineyard, $24.95 V W O “ This wine is barrel fermented and aged “sur lie” for up to 12 months in French oak barrels. The resulting wine is full-bodied, combining flavours of tropical fruit and melon in a concentrated, buttery style. There are also nuances of smokiness and soft, warm spice to make things interesting. This is an age-worthy Chardonnay that will continue to develop for a few years in the bottle.”

Colaneri Estate Winery 348 CONCESSION 6 RD., NIAGARA-ON-LAKE, 905-682-2100 colaneriwines.com FAVOURITE WINE: 2017 “Cavallone” Pinot Grigio, $21.95 W O “ This beautiful peach-coloured wine has always been a winery and friend favourite as it presents unusual full flavor and a label that is dear to our hearts. Done with 40% Appassimento, it is sure to wow all the senses.”

FAVOURITE WINE: 2017 “Insieme” Red Blend, 750 ml, $49.95 W O “ Something magical happens when you blend such beautiful Appassimento style wines together. Incredible richness, to undeniable complexity, this full-bodied wine is a joy to share with everyone, year after year, and the 2017 is no exception.”

Fielding Estate Winery 4020 LOCUST LN., BEAMSVILLE, 905-563-0668 fieldingwines.com WINEMAKER: Richie Roberts FAVOURITE WINE: NV Traditional Method Sparkling Brut, $39.95 W O “ Based on the 2014 vintage (with 20% older cuvées dating back to 2009), this nonvintage sparkling was disgorged in the fall of 2019 after spending over four years on lees. Comprised of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir from our two Estate vineyards, I chose this wine because It is both refreshing and vibrant while maintaining layers of complexity.”

FAVOURITE WINE: 2016 Lowrey Vineyard Syrah, $54.95 W O “ Hand-harvested from two select parcels of low-yielding vines in the Lowrey Vineyard, this Syrah is my favourite red wine at the moment. After an extended maceration, the barrels selected for the final blend were aged 18 months in French oak. Racked from barrel and bottled unfined and unfiltered, I think this Syrah is expressive, complex, has great texture, and has the ability to age very well.”

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Flat Rock Cellars 2727 SEVENTH AVE., JORDAN STATION, 905-562-8994 flatrockcellars.com WINEMAKER: David Sheppard FAVOURITE WINE: 2018 Nadja’s Vineyard Riesling, $24.95 V W O “ The 2018 vintage was selected from a one hectare, single-parcel of Riesling that was part of our original plantings in 2004. The limestone rich, sloped elevation of Nadja’s Vineyard exemplifies the terroir that has made this one of Canada’s most awarded Rieslings over the last 16 years.”

FAVOURITE WINE: 2017 Gravity Pinot Noir, $34.95, Cuvee Exclusive - Limited availability at winery W “ The Gravity bottling of Pinot Noir is designed to showcase the Best of the Best in our vineyard and cellar. Previous vintages of Gravity have been recognized among Canada’s upper echelon of Pinot Noirs, so we’re excited to pre-release the amazing 2017 vintage exclusively to attendees of Cuvée and en Route.”

G. Marquis 4520 ONTARIO ST., BEAMSVILLE, 1-800-461-9463 gmarquis.com WINEMAKER: Peter Rotar FAVOURITE WINE: 2018 Silver Line Chardonnay, $17.75 GP W O “ G. Marquis is a collection of tribute wines that honours our winery founder, Gabe Magnotta, and personifies, for me, Gabe and Rossana Magnotta’s bold and daring story. They are both omnipresent when I make these exceptional wines. Our absolute top grapes from our own Stone Road Vineyard in Niagara-on-the-Lake are used to make every vintage and achieve the high-quality worthy of the G. Marquis name and the legacy behind it. Our Chardonnay Silver Line is no exception. Hand harvested grapes have been partly barrel-fermented to produce the right balance of full-bodied richness and freshness. This award-winning wine boasts unmistakable flavours of honeydew melon, Anjou pear and golden delicious apple, accompanied by slight herb, butter and oak spice notes. One of our most outstanding and requested white wines.”

FAVOURITE WINE: 2018 Silver Line Pinot Noir, $19.95 V W “ This is one of my favourites because it comes from our G. Marquis vineyard in Niagara-on-the-Lake. The grapes come from carefully tended 25-year old Pinot vines, and the complex notes of red cherry, mineral, and smoke make it an elegant and structured wine.”

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Cuvée winery program listings Georgian Hills Vineyards 496350 GREY RD. 2, BLUE MOUNTAINS, 519-599-2255 georgianhillsvineyards.ca WINEMAKER: Vanessa McKean FAVOURITE WINE: 2017 Wild & Inspired Chardonnay, $30.00 W O “ 2017 was the first year we added a Chardonnay into our Wild & Inspired project. It was important to source fruit that would reflect the Niagara terrior without straying too far from our own Georgian Bay grown cool climate portfolio, so we took care to source from cooler, higher-elevation vineyards in Niagara. I also think the Thomas Bachelder influence is especially evident in this wine. His expertise as the consulting winemaker for our Wild & Inspired project was instrumental in creating elegance and balance in the wine.”

FAVOURITE WINE: 2016 Wild & Inspired Pinot Noir Cuvée Wismer Vyd, $30.00 GP W O “ 2016 was the start of a journey from concept to glass. We wanted to create a series of wines using premium grown Niagara Fruit & low intervention winemaking by letting the wines ferment without the addition of cultured yeasts to gain the greatest expression from the combination of Niagara & Georgian Bay terrior. Thomas Bachelder joined the project at the onset, and we sourced fruit from two different Wismer vineyards. Together, through barrel selection, we developed this Cuvée and our first Wild & Inspired wine was created.”

Henry of Pelham Family Estate Winery 1469 PELHAM RD., ST. CATHARINES, 905-684-8423 henryofpelham.com WINEMAKER: Lawrence Buhler FAVOURITE WINE: 2018 Speck Family Reserve Riesling, $24.95 V W O “ The 2018 Speck Family Reserve is my top choice when selecting from our Rieslings.

It originates from the oldest planted block of Mosel clones on our Short Hills Bench estate. This traditional German clone is grown in our Burgundian climate on heavy clay instead of slate and enjoys notable southern exposure; a combination of growing conditions that create a wine of outstanding complexity. We decided to age a portion of the wine from this vintage in neutral oak foudres with wonderful results. This coolclimate Riesling exhibits exceptional freshness, ripeness, and fruit purity and lingers on the palate with a light, creamy finish.”

FAVOURITE WINE: 2018 Speck Family Reserve Baco Noir, $24.95 V W O “ 2018 was a great year for all red wines produced. However, the Speck Family Reserve Baco Noir was my personal favourite. The character of the older vines on the single block where this fruit is grown is perfectly expressed in its big, jammy, dark fruit character and balanced, smoky minerality. The care we take with this wine makes me savour every velvety sip. I look forward to seeing how this wine will develop with further aging.”

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Cuvée winery program listings ICELLARS Estate Winery 615 CONCESSION 5 RD., NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE, 289-479-5969 icellars.ca WINEMAKER: Adnan Icel FAVOURITE WINE: 2018 Sauvignon Blanc, $40.00 W “ It is a single vineyard white that is aged in French oak barrels.”

FAVOURITE WINE: 2016 Wiyana Wanda Blend, $85.00 W O “ This is our top wine made from the best vineyard blocs and best barrels. This big bold red is a blend of 63% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% Merlot, 11% Cabernet Franc and 6% Malbec all from our estate vineyard. It is aged 24 months in all-new French oak barrels and bottled unfined and unfiltered.”

Inniskillin Niagara Estate 1499 LINE 3, NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE, 905-468-2187 inniskillin.com WINEMAKER: Bruce Nicholson FAVOURITE WINE: 2018 Sparkling Vidal Icewine, $79.95 V “ The Sparkling Vidal is one of my favourite wines to showcase. Often a celebratory wine, and possibly one of the most versatile Icewines available. I believe this unique Inniskillin product brings the “wow factor” with its abundance of tropical flavours, balanced with a crisp acidity and fine mousse. This is the perfect wine for a Cuvée celebration.”

FAVOURITE WINE: 2017 Montague Vyd Pinot Noir, $30.95 V “ The 2017 Montague Pinot Noir comes from one of Niagara’s premier vineyards in Four Mile Creek. I believe this wine expresses the terroir very well with its plum and dark cherry notes with hints of spice underneath. You can appreciate the approachable tannins in this complex wine now, or, if you prefer, it can be aged and enjoyed at a later date.”

Jackson-Triggs Niagara Estate 2145 NIAGARA STONE RD., NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE, 905-468-4637 jacksontriggswinery.com WINEMAKER: Levi de Loryn FAVOURITE WINE: 2018 Grand Reserve Pinot Grigio, $20.95 W O “ This wine shines as an excellent example of what Niagara can produce when it comes to Pinot Grigio. From the moment we received the grapes at the winery the fruit showed its elegance, and this remained throughout the entire vinification process. With beautiful chalky acidity, and incredible balance on the palate, the varietal aromatics are abundant: white peaches, apricots, floral notes and tropical undertones.”

FAVOURITE WINE: 2017 Grand Reserve Pinot Noir, $25.95 W O “ Niagara can hold its own in the Pinot Noir arena and the 2017 Grand Reserve Pinot Noir is doing just that. With elegant retention of fruit, restrained oak, silky tannins and balanced palate, this wine is ready to drink now or cellar for up to five years. I consider it a fine achievement.”

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Kacaba Vineyards Winery 3550 KING ST., VINELAND, 905-562-5625 kacaba.com WINEMAKER: Vadim Chelekhov FAVOURITE WINE: 2017 Terraced Vineyard Syrah, $33.15 W “ The Kacaba Terraced Vineyard is a unique and highly prized area of land quickly becoming recognized for producing world class Syrah here in Niagara. The freedraining soils, warm daytime temperatures and cool nights, combined with a long cool growing season, encourage low yields and slow ripening. These factors, along with well-timed vineyard management techniques, ensure the resulting wines are deeply coloured and well structured, with pure aromatics and flavours classic to the variety.”

FAVOURITE WINE: 2019 Reserve Riesling, $20.15 W “ The Kacaba Vineyards Reserve Riesling is produced from deep rooted Escarpment vines showcasing fruit forward character with ample complexity and minerality. This noble variety is the perfect pairing wine for a variety of foods, from tapas to seasonal salads and spicy main dishes, or social sipping. True Riesling lovers will appreciate this wine now for its vibrant youth but will also love it in years to come. Classic aged Riesling characteristics will develop in the bottle over a two to three-year period, but for those not faint of heart, careful cellaring of seven to nine years can showcase a truly exceptional Riesling wine.”

Karlo Estates 561 DANFORTH RD., WELLINGTON, 613-438-4150 karloestates.com WINEMAKERS: Derek Barnett and Spencer Mayer FAVOURITE WINE: 2017 Estate Malbec, $39.00 W O “ This is the only Malbec in Prince Edward County and is delicious. It has gotten multiple gold medal scores already so it’s not just us that thinks so. It’s a beautiful wine.”

FAVOURITE WINE: 2018 Estate Chardonnay, $45.00 W O “ This wine is stunningly beautiful and is perfect in our terroir. Our Estate Chardonnay has quickly become one of our signature wines.”

Konzelmann Estate Winery 1096 LAKESHORE RD., NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE, 905-935-2866 konzelmann.ca WINEMAKER: Herbert Konzelmann FAVOURITE WINE: 2016 Merlot Family Reserve, $49.95 W O “ Our Family Reserve Series represents generations of winemaking excellence, and this Merlot embodies just that. It was aged in four different varieties of oak barrels, giving it a depth of flavour and layers of complexity.”

FAVOURITE WINE: 2018 Gewurztraminer Late Harvest, $15.95 W O “ Gewurztraminer is one of Herbert Konzelmann’s favourite wines to produce.

This aromatic German-style wine has a complex and enduring nose and palate with flavours of lychee, honey and candied lemon. Full-bodied on the palate with a delicate sweetness and a balanced hint of acidity on the finish.”

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Cuvée winery program listings Lakeview Wine Co. 1067 NIAGARA STONE RD., NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE, 905-685-5673 lakeviewwineco.com WINEMAKER: Scott McGregor & Jessica Wallace FAVOURITE WINE: 2017 Lakeview Cellars Fumé Blanc, $22.95 W O “ Crafted from the premium Sauvignon Blanc vines grown in the Niagara Peninsula, this unique Fumé Blanc showcases fresh aromas of tropical and citrus fruit while expressing subtle, toasty notes. The palate bursts with flavours of pineapple and melon, complemented by a soft, smooth finish.”

FAVOURITE WINE: 2016 Lakeview Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon, $34.95 W O “ This Niagara red wine displays a rich garnet colour that boasts cassis, plum, vanilla and oak aromas on the nose, leading to array of flavours on the palate including dark cherries, anise, and well-integrated oak tones. This Cabernet Sauvignon is a very wellbalanced red that can cellar five to seven years.”

Le Clos Jordanne 2540 SOUTH SERVICE RD., JORDAN STATION, 905-562-9404 leclosjordanne.com WINEMAKER: Thomas Bachelder FAVOURITE WINE: 2017 Le Grand Clos Chardonnay, $44.95 GP O “ Le Grand Clos” is not a project, but a “terroir” and coming back to this project is a real thrill! Now, with greater vine age, I sense even greater delicacy, and yet confoundingly, a greater weight that will certainly grow up around the wine in bottle.

Stone-fruit, lanolin-textured complexity, with length, breadth and a finely textured elegance give way to a complex marzipan and limestone mineral-inflected “calcaire” finish. Incredibly rich and long, yet somehow still lacey and restrained, this is the enigma of Le Grand Clos Chardonnay, one of the great “Grand Crus” of Niagara.”

FAVOURITE WINE: 2017 Le Grand Clos Pinot Noir, $44.95 GP O “ Seeing these young vines, now all grown up, coming back to this project is one of the high points of my life since going to school in Burgundy in 1992/1993. Now, with greater vine age, I sense a great brooding tension of fruit and longevity under the mantle of rich, dense fruit on the nose of the Grand Clos Pinot Noir 2017. One senses a certain aristocratic reticence in this wine. However, the pure, kirsch-flavoured, suave, stony red and black raspberry fruit is the terroir clue that always dominates the ensemble. Never immediately expressive young, this wine has a real sense of place.”

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Leaning Post Wines 1491 HWY 8, STONEY CREEK, 905-643-9795 leaningpostwines.com WINEMAKER: Ilya Senchuk FAVOURITE WINE: 2018 The Fifty Chardonnay, $23.00 V “ This Chardonnay is a particular favorite as it typically turns heads of people who have turned away from Chardonnay. Chardonnay is one of my favorite varieties and I love surprising people when they find that they truly do love this amazing grape. This wine is the epitome of Chablis-meets-Ontario. The nose bursts with lemon zest, anise seed, green apple and toasty lees. Fresh lemon, lemon curd, licorice, and brighter green apple is all tied together with crisp acidity and a strong mineral note. This wine will age well for the next five to eight years. Try with creamy cheeses, sole meuniere, and roasted chicken.”

FAVOURITE WINE: 2017 Merlot, 750 ml, $45.00 W O “ This Merlot is a favorite of mine as I feel it shows the intensity of what Niagara wines are capable of. The 2017 vintage was very strange, with cold and rainy weather until late August. Then the clouds parted, and the sun began shining, allowing us to hang grapes and ripen them fully late into the season. As a result, the intensity and concentration on this wine is unparalleled with strawberry, blackcurrant, mulberry and blackberry aromas exploding from the glass. The lifted palate frames intense flavours of blueberry, plum, cocoa and coffee, backed-up by savoury tobacco leaf, anise and oregano notes. Exceptional weight and substance combine with powerful yet soft tannins creating a wonderful texture that brings you to an unbelievable, lingering finish.”

Magnotta Winery 4701 ONTARIO ST., BEAMSVILLE, 905-563-5313 magnotta.com WINEMAKER: Peter Rotar FAVOURITE WINE: 2017 Enotrium Grand Riserva, $59.95 W O “ Niagara wineries are finally being recognized for our unexpected expertise in making full-bodied red wines inspired by the Amarone reds of Italy. Magnotta was the first Ontario winery to produce an Amarone-inspired VQA wine when we released Enotrium in 2001. It continues to be recognized today at wine competitions as an opulent Appassimento-style wine made using the exact methods employed in Italy. I am extremely proud of the full throttle effort that goes into producing each bottle. The finest Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes are hand-harvested by our winemakers, air dried and then generously barrel aged. This wine is very robust with full body, sweet tannins and very ripe fruit. It is well balanced with one year of aging in French-American oak barrels and then finished for one more year in brand new French oak barrels. It is without question the best red wine we make at Magnotta.”

FAVOURITE WINE: Pinot Rosé 1925 Series Sparkling, $13.50 W “ This new product has been in the works for some time. I wanted to create a premium and lively Pinot Blend that was clean, dry, and versatile. It is increasingly rare to find a good sparkling Rosé.”

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Cuvée winery program listings Malivoire Wine Company 4260 KING ST. E., BEAMSVILLE, 905-563-9253 malivoire.com WINEMAKER: Shiraz Mottiar FAVOURITE WINE: 2017 Mottiar Chardonnay, $34.95 W “ The Chardonnay that grows on the soil I call home is obviously special to me. But the fresh, lime, electric wine that consistently grows in this soil is beyond my wildest expectations. I love a Chardonnay with verve that glitters with brightness, not weighed down with too much wood. Only nine months in our oldest French oak puncheons, I do my best to preserve the character of this site, one of the highest elevation sites on the Beamsville Bench.”

FAVOURITE WINE: 2017 Courtney Gamay, $61.95 W “ Gamay is my personal favourite variety to work with, and Courtney is our most exceptional block. This was the first (and to date, only) time Courtney was fermented in concrete. Along with 10% whole cluster— a tool I find a must in making great Gamay— this is as exciting as it gets for me. Semi-maceration carbonique, in cement, aged in older French oak barrels for 18 months, creates layers upon layers of joyful depth. And from a Magnum, it is so alluring.”

Marynissen Estates Winery 1208 CONCESSION 1 RD., NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE, 905-468-7270 marynissen.com WINEMAKER: Mitchell McCurdy FAVOURITE WINE: 2017 Nanny’s Blend, $29.95 W O “ I made this Meritage blend to pay homage to Marynissen’s great past. This wine instills nostalgia of the luxurious reds that were produced in the early years of the Marynissen legacy. Of the reds that were produced by John Marynissen, the blend he made for his wife, Nanny, stood out from the others. We chose two barrels of Cabernet Sauvignon, one-barrel Cabernet Franc, and one-barrel Merlot with one word in mind: elegance.

This is one of my favourites because it is the perfect expression of our vineyard; a wine of balance, complexity and of course elegance.”

FAVOURITE WINE: 2018 Heritage Riesling, $25.95 W O “ This wine holds a special place in my heart as it’s one of my first award-winning bottles.

This Riesling from the Heritage Collection is created by stopping fermentation before reaching 10% alcohol. This leaves the wine with a tantalizing texture that is viscous and rich due to the balance of high acid, high residual sugar and low alcohol. The arrested fermentation captures and seals in beautiful aromas that otherwise would leave as fermentation finishes. I am bringing this Riesling to Cuveé as a unique, interesting, and delectable take on Niagara’s favourite white.”

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Megalomaniac 3930 CHERRY AVE., VINELAND, 905-562-5155 megalomaniacwine.com WINEMAKER: Chris Frey FAVOURITE WINE: 2017 Reserve Cabernet Franc, $49.95 W O “ The Bench is an ideal location for growing ultra premium Cabernet Franc, and this wine perfectly reflects the quality of our terroir. In 2017, after meticulously selecting grapes from our best parcels and carefully handling the fruit, we crafted an elegant and refined Cabernet Franc that embodies the ideal combination of power and balance.”

FAVOURITE WINE: 2018 Reserve Chardonnay, $34.95 W O “ I believe strongly that Chardonnay is one of the most suitable white vinifera varieties for our climate. A result of judicious selection of our best blocks and careful handling, this Chardonnay balances a cool climate fruit core with elegant minimalism. We use different vessels during ferment and ageing (traditional oak, punch-down and stainless-steel barrels) which allows us to preserve the balance between freshness and oak, and to express the best qualities of our fruit.”

Niagara College Teaching Winery 135 TAYLOR RD., NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE, 905-641-2252 niagaracollegewine.ca WINEMAKER: Gavin Robertson FAVOURITE WINE: 2014 Blanc de Blanc, $27.15 W O “ This traditional method, bottle-fermented sparkling is made from high quality, hand-picked, bunch-sorted Chardonnay grapes, fermented in stainless steel tanks and neutral oak barrels. It was aged for 36 months on yeast lees before disgorging.

It celebrates the balance of knowledge, passion and creativity of the winemakers, professors and students who all pursue excellence in the field of winemaking and viticulture at Niagara College.”

FAVOURITE WINE: 2018 Dean’s List Pinot Noir, $27.15 W O “ This delicious red wine uses grapes from one of the best Pinot Noir vineyards in the region. This dry and fruity wine packs flavours of berries and sweet tobacco and displays fresh acidity with a firm tannic finish. It celebrates the balance of knowledge, passion and creativity of the winemakers, professors and students who all pursue excellence in the field of winemaking and viticulture at Niagara College.”

Pelee Island Winery 455 SEACLIFF DR., COUNTY RD. 20, KINGSVILLE, 519-733-6551 peleeisland.com WINEMAKER: Walter Schmoranz FAVOURITE WINE: 2017 Thaddeus Smith Red, $25.95 W “ In 1866 Thaddeus Smith planted 25 acres of vines on Pelee Island. He became the first winemaker on Pelee Island. To honor him and those that followed his footsteps, we present this limited-run premium wine series, made from the best grapes of the vintage harvest.”

FAVOURITE WINE: 2018 BELLA - Sparkling Wine, $18.95 W “ Newest release for Pelee Island Winery. BELLA, the Italian word for beautiful, is a perfect and simple description for this wine (50% Auxerrois/ 50% Pinot Noir). She is a sparkling beauty with a lovely cherry and lemon bouquet. This pink bubbly wine makes a refreshing addition to any meal, especially a romantic one!”

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Cuvée winery program listings Peller Estates 290 JOHN ST. E., NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE, 905-468-4678 peller.com WINEMAKER: Katie Dickieson FAVOURITE WINE: 2017 Andrew Peller Signature Series Riesling, $29.75 W “ The details of this wine are classic cool climate Riesling! From our 30-year-old vines in NOTL and fermented in stainless, the wine is fresh and vibrant. After ferment, the wine balanced with a suss reserve to achieve an added richness and fruit purity that we feel shows the great intensity of Niagara Riesling.”

FAVOURITE WINE: 2017 Andrew Peller Signature Series Cabernet Franc, 750 ml, $48.75 W “ I know you shouldn’t have favourites, but it is so hard not to choose Four Mile Creek Cabernet Franc. The fruit is intense with both blue fruit character and hints of tobacco leaf. 2017 was a late vintage and we were well into November before harvesting the Cab Franc. Fermented in oak and aged in barrel for 19 months.”

Peninsula Ridge Estate Winery 5600 KING ST. W., BEAMSVILLE, 905-563-0900 peninsularidge.com WINEMAKER: Jamie Evans FAVOURITE WINE: 2017 Beal Vyd Reserve Chardonnay, $24.95 W “ This has become one of our most sought-after Chardonnays with a great balance of oak from both new French and American barrels while maintaining the varietal and fruit from a good vintage.”

FAVOURITE WINE: 2016 Syrah Reserve, $29.95 W “ With selected new and older French and American oak, this Syrah has come together to be quite lovely. It has allowed the vintage to come through with a great balance of fruit and structure.”

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Cuvée winery program listings Pillitteri Estates Winery 1696 NIAGARA STONE RD., NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE, 905-468-3147 pillitteri.com WINEMAKER: Alex Kolundzic FAVOURITE WINE: 2015 Pillitteri Reserva Famiglia Fruttaio, $98.00 W “ This is Pillitteri’s first release of a true Amarone style Appassimento wine, using the grape varietals of the Verona region of Italy which were planted in our Niagara-onthe-Lake vineyards in 2009 and spent six years maturing before we harvested this fruit.

The wine is a blend of Corvina, Rondinella, Molinara and Merlot and is a one-of-a-kind wine in Canada. This wine provides a unique tasting experience and was an absolute joy to blend, marrying our unique Niagara terroir and new world winemaking style with one of the most popular old-world grape varietals in history. Fruttaio, this wines name, is derived from the Italian term for the drying rooms in Verona, Italy, where they dry their grapes on racks before pressing. Our grapes were dried in the same manner for a period of 30 days before pressing.”

FAVOURITE WINE: 2017 Team Canada White, $15.00 GP W O “ This white blend is one of the Official Wines of the Canadian Olympic Team. It is an aromatic blend of Riesling, Gewurztraminer and Pinot Grigio, and well suited to showcase what Canadian cool climate winemaking is built on. As part of the Team Canada Wine Collection, $1 from the sale of each bottle of this wine will be donated to the Canadian Olympic Foundation to support Canadian athletes in their pursuit of sport.”

PondView Estate Winery 925 LINE 2 RD., NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE, 905-468-0777 pondviewwinery.com WINEMAKER: Fred Di Profio FAVOURITE WINE: 2017 Bella Terra Meritage, $49.95 W “ Think of the film Casablanca: fedoras and trench coats and La Marseillaise. That’s where this wine takes me, and I believe it will be a classic. Two years in French oak encouraged a full-bodied sensuousness. The palate evokes the flavours of Morocco— hints of clove, allspice, figs and dates—and the image of Bogart, all subtle and smoky.

The finish is definitely Bacall—long and graceful—wrapped in velvet, and somewhere, she found dark chocolates. And this wine will only get better with time, in fact “I think this is the beginning of a beautiful friendship.”

FAVOURITE WINE: 2017 Fumé Blanc, $34.95 W “ Why? Because it’s unbridled and wild, like a majestic, untamed stallion. This Sauvignon Blanc is a thoroughbred that delights the nose yet confounds the palate with its complexity. There’s nothing docile about it. Passionfruit. Grapefruit. Sweet vanilla. It’s full-bodied and fresh with citrus. It’s in your face. But then the spice takes the reins and the pace relaxes to a slow, leisurely walk to the finish. It makes me wonder if Secretariat knew anything about wild fermentations?”

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Queenston Mile Vineyard 963 QUEENSTON RD., NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE, 905-684-6453 queenstonmilevineyard.com WINEMAKER: Rob Power FAVOURITE WINE: 2016 Blanc de noirs Brut Nature, $50.00 W “ Vintage to vintage, my favourite traditional method bubbly from the estate vineyard in St. David’s is blanc de noirs. Pinot noir’s silky, rounded mouthfeel adds great mid-palate weight to the elegance of sparkling wine. We’ve left the 2016 Brut nature with zero dosage to highlight the acid-mousse tension. 36 months on lees before disgorgement.”

FAVOURITE WINE: 2017 Pinot Noir, $40.00 W “ Pinot noir is the winemaker’s “Mount Everest,” but we all love to dance with the heartbreak grape. Our estate vineyard in St. David’s is one of the warmer sites in Niagara during the autumn, so Pinot wines from there lean towards a bigger, more full-bodied style. 2017 vintage was a bit cooler, lending some acid elegance onto the ripe, earthy flavour profile.”

Ravine Vineyard Estate Winery 1366 YORK RD., ST. DAVIDS, 905-262-8463 ravinevineyard.com WINEMAKER: Lydia Tomek FAVOURITE WINE: 2018 Merlot, $38.00 W “ Merlot is one of my favourite varietals to make and I believe the warm vineyard site at Ravine is ideal for growing this elegant red. The barrel selections for this wine was a rewarding task. The wines were all nicely structured with a great spine of tannin and acidity, and the enjoyment came when we searched to find that balance between fruit, ripeness, and earthy elegance. For a young 2018 red, this wine shows a lot of promise.”

FAVOURITE WINE: 2018 Chardonnay, 750 ml, $35.00 W “ Impressive Chardonnays have always been part of the Ravine portfolio. Having the opportunity to make barrel selections and work on this blend was a fun, exciting challenge. The intention was to create something that represented the rich fruit that Ravine traditionally showcases in their whites, but also a wine that reminds us how lively cool climate fruit can be with a touch of spice, freshness and elegance.”

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Cuvée winery program listings Reif Estate Winery 15608 NIAGARA PKWY, NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE, 905-468-7738 reifwinery.com WINEMAKER: Roberto DiDomenico FAVOURITE WINE: 2017 Sauvignon Blanc Reserve, $24.95 W O “ This is our first Sauvignon Blanc Reserve. Fruit was harvested exclusively from our oldest Sauvignon Blanc vineyard block planted in 1993. The vines were thinned down to 2.5 tonnes per acre on this half acre block to ensure high-quality, premium-ripe fruit. After harvesting, only the free-run juice was used to produce this wine. After fermentation, the wine was aged in French and Hungarian oak barrels for eight months resulting in a “fumé blanc” style wine.”

FAVOURITE WINE: 2017 Meritage, $39.95 W O “ Reif Estate Vineyards is home to some of the oldest vinifera vineyard blocks in Ontario.

The farm is located in the Niagara River Sub-Appellation, one of the hottest growing areas in the region, which allows for full ripening of fruit. It is also ideal for tender varietals like Merlot and late-ripening varieties like Cabernet. This classic blend is always a favourite of mine.”

Riverview Cellars Estate Winery 15376 NIAGARA PKWY, NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE, 905-262-0636 riverviewcellars.com WINEMAKER: Alyssa Bator FAVOURITE WINE: 2016 Salvatore’s Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, $35.15 W O “ I have chosen this wine as it has consistently been one of our best reds. It is a wine that has won numerous awards over the years and the best representative wine from our vineyard. The benefit comes from the soil and the growing degree days we can achieve in our vineyard to give us a stellar Cabernet Sauvignon year after year.”

FAVOURITE WINE: 2019 Riesling, $16.15 W O “ This wine is the first from assistant Winemaker Nick Salvatore. A great wine with tropical citrus and stone fruit notes. The best new wine from his collection of wines that show his talent as a Winemaker and the characteristics of our unique terroir.”

Rockway Vineyards 3290 NINTH ST., ST. CATHARINES, 905-641-1030 rockway.net WINEMAKER: Ben Minaker FAVOURITE WINE: 2017 Small Lot Syrah, $29.80 W O “ Syrah isn’t very common in Niagara, so I thought this would be a good opportunity to show off what I think is a good example.”

FAVOURITE WINE: 2016 Block Blend Riesling, $16.80 W O “ The Twenty Mile Bench is home to some great Rieslings. We are hoping to show off what a great match the terroir of TMB and Riesling are. If grape varieties are a conduit to highlight a place and time, then I think this bottle of Riesling really does that.”

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Southbrook Vineyards 581 NIAGARA STONE RD, NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE, 905-641-2548 southbrook.com WINEMAKER: Ann Sperling FAVOURITE WINE: 2017 Chardonnay Laundry Vineyard Organic, $35.00 W O “ An exciting part of our new Single Vineyard series. Heather Laundry has been growing high quality organic grapes for 20 years, including Pinot Noir, Gamay, Cabernet Franc and this gorgeous, silky Chardonnay. Southbrook’s philosophy is about supporting healthy soils, air, water and wildlife habitats; and we do this on our 150-acre farm by working with conscientious growers.”

FAVOURITE WINE: 2017 Estate Winemaker’s Red, $45.00 W O “ The 2017 Estate Winemaker’s Red is a Cabernet Sauvignon: Merlot 50:50 blend, all from our biodynamic Estate. This is our winemaker’s favorite because she overcame the challenges of a cool vintage and young vines while producing a very expressive wine. There is 50% new wood, but it’s a bit more complicated since the grapes were fermented in new barrels but then also aged for 14 months in those same barrels after pressing. The result is a smooth and delicious age-worthy wine.”

Stratus Vineyards 2059 NIAGARA STONE RD., NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE, 905-468-1806 stratuswines.com WINEMAKER: J-L Groux FAVOURITE WINE: 2017 Stratus White, $39.20 V W O “ I love to share the “white spirit” of our vineyard and my passion for assemblage. The diversity of the blend creates outstanding complexity. As I have been making Stratus White since we opened the winery, I thrive on discovering the resemblances alongside the distinctive personalities of each vintage. Aromatic and textured, this wine is playful yet contemplative.”

FAVOURITE WINE: 2015 Stratus Syrah, $49.20 W O “ It has been a decade since Stratus launched its first bottling of Syrah. Since that time, the three blocs on the farm continue to yield exciting expressions of this rare variety for Ontario. This wine is reflective of classic cool climate Syrah merging bright blue fruits and dark cherry with violets and black pepper. Only 115 cases produced.”

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Cuvée winery program listings Strewn 1339 LAKESHORE RD., NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE, 905-468-1229 strewnwinery.com WINEMAKER: Marc Bradshaw FAVOURITE WINE: 2018 Distinctive Small Lot Sauvignon Blanc Fumé, $25.00 W O “ I believe Sauvignon Blanc is one of Niagara’s top white varietals and the 2018 vintage once again proved its worth. I find this Fumé Blanc to be absolutely gorgeous and certainly one of the best I’ve had the pleasure of crafting. It shows a luscious, stone fruit side which intertwines delicately with the elegant, oaky traits lent by the fermentation in seasoned French oak barrels with occasional bâttonage. I can enjoy this wine anywhere, anytime; with anything, or even on its own.”

FAVOURITE WINE: 2016 Terroir Cabernet Franc, $46.00 W O “ Another stellar red from an exemplary Niagara red vintage, this 2016 Cabernet Franc is top-shelf and deservedly attains our Terroir designation. It is definitely one of my favs, exuding opulent bramble and spice traits offered by the bold vintage while showing alluring purple violet nuances. Although I have enjoyed this wine solo, it tastes even better with a nice cut of red meat.”

Sue-Ann Staff Estate Winery 3210 STAFF AVE., JORDAN, 905-562-1719 sue-annstaff.com WINEMAKER: Sue-Ann Staff FAVOURITE WINE: 2018 Windsock Rosé Cabernet Sauvignon, $35.95 W “ Creating a full bodied, rich, oak tannin-filled Rosé has always been a desire, however finding the right fruit and vintage was a challenge. Assistant Winemaker Chris Protonentis identified a specific block in a Cabernet Sauvignon vineyard that fit the bill. The grapes were harvested early to retain focused red berry notes. After limited skin contact (five days), cool fermentation and eight months in French and American barriques, the wine was bottled in a stunning keepsake bottle. Enjoy at room temperature. It is memorable!”

FAVOURITE WINE: 2017 Howard’s Icewine Vidal, 375 ml, $24.95 V W “ As “The Ice Queen,” it is only appropriate that our Cuvée selection includes Icewine!

We are so proud of this 2017 that medaled at every international competition where it was entered. Plus, it was awarded Gold at Ontario Wine Awards and was the only Icewine to receive the Lieutenant Governor’s Excellence in Wine Award in 2019.

Luscious. Seductive. Opulent. And with just the right balance of acidity, alcohol and sweetness.”

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The Hare Wine Co. 769 NIAGARA STONE RD., NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE, 905-684-4994 theharewineco.com WINEMAKER: Aleksandar Kolundzic FAVOURITE WINE: 2018 Crown Land Sparkling, $28.00 W “ This is our first-ever sparkling wine, and I believe it embodies exactly what I was going for! It is rich in fruit character making it my go-to celebratory bottle, while being an excellent wine to accompany spicy and salty dishes.”

FAVOURITE WINE: 2015 Frontier Cabernet Franc, $50.00 W “ I feel that Cabernet Franc is an exceptional varietal to express the Niagara region. This red in particular is a fantastic expression of what Cabernet Franc can do. By offering a substantial time in new French oak, this wine has intensified in body, depth of flavor, complexity and ability to age. I look forward to what a few years in bottle will bring to this rich red.”

Thirty Bench Winemakers 4281 MOUNTAINVIEW RD., BEAMSVILLE, 905-563-0352 thirtybench.com WINEMAKER: Emma Garner FAVOURITE WINE: NV Sparkling Riesling, $38.95 W O “ This sparkling wine is from our Thirty Bench vineyard. I have always loved sparkling wine and was excited to create this traditional method sparkler! It has fresh, focused acidity which livens up any celebration.”

FAVOURITE WINE: 2017 Winemakers Red, $24.95 V W O “ 2017 was a cooler vintage which required us to be extra diligent in the vineyards. The crop level on our vines is very low and as a result, we were able to create a classic Bordeaux blend. 12 months in barrel adds an extra layer of complexity and structure.

Enjoy this wine with hearty dishes and good company.”

Trius Winery 1249 NIAGARA STONE RD., NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE, 905-468-7123 triuswines.com WINEMAKER: Craig McDonald FAVOURITE WINE: NV Showcase Brut Nature, $55.00 W “ This wine is another offering from our Showcase Sparkling line-up. It demonstrates a minimalistic approach to dosage and the final touches of creating sparkling wine. The base wine was so impressive after it finished secondary fermentation and extended lees aging, we decided to not add any dosage. The perfect wine for the perfect occasion!”

FAVOURITE WINE: 2017 Showcase Pinot Noir, $36.75 W O “ This wine originates from our Clark Farm vineyard located in Four Mile Creek. The 2017 vintage is special because it is a blend of various Pinot Noir clones (not just our typical 115) to increase complexity and ageability. We utilized natural fermentation and whole cluster fruit to further enhance the intensity of this wine.”

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Cuvée winery program listings Two Sisters Vineyards 240 JOHN ST. E., NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE, 905-468-0592 twosistersvineyards.com WINEMAKER: Adam Pearce FAVOURITE WINE: 2017 Blanc de Franc, $62.00 W O “ This is the second vintage of our unique 100% Cabernet Franc sparkling. It’s my favourite wine to make because it kicks off the estate vintage each year. This wine has the backbone and texture that Cabernet Franc lends to table wines as well as great fruit and freshness. To me, it drinks differently than that of a typical sparkling from Niagara. Cabernet Franc is my favourite varietal in general out of Niagara, and any time I get to play with it, there is always something exciting about it!”

FAVOURITE WINE: 2013 Stone Eagle Estate Reserve, $78.00 V W O “ Our Stone Eagle wines are our ultra-premium estate-grown red blends. They are one of our top wines from the estate showcasing the best of each vintage. The 2013 Estate Reserve is a blend of 59% Merlot, 26% Cabernet Franc and 15% Cabernet Sauvignon.

This wine is a true reflection of our best barrels after many days of tasting trials. My favourite thing about this wine is it truly gets better each time I try it and will continue to do so for years.”

Wayne Gretzky Estates 1219 NIAGARA STONE RD., NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE, 905-468-0099 gretzkyestateswines.com WINEMAKER: Craig McDonald FAVOURITE WINE: 2016 Shiraz Cabernet, $29.95 W “ This underrated grape variety is something worth celebrating! Its deep, intense colour and approachable mouthfeel makes it an amazing wine to share with friends.”

FAVOURITE WINE: 2017 Platinum series White, $24.95 W “ A true rarity in Niagara is our Viognier-dominated White blend. A unique blend which includes Pinot Gris, Riesling, Chardonnay and touch of Muscat, this wine intersects the Rhone Valley with Alsace! Partially barrel aged this wine shows a lovey rich texture balanced by freshness and acidity that only Niagara can offer.”

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Après Cuvée Party 2020 Craft brewing partners of Après Cuvée Breakwall Brewing Company 46 CLARENCE ST., PORT COLBORNE, 289-836-8181 breakwallbrewery.com

Brimstone Brewing Company 209 RIDGE RD. N., RIDGEWAY, 289-876-8657 brimstonebrewing.ca

Cold Break Brewing

193 ST. PAUL ST., ST. CATHARINES, 289-501-0638 coldbreakbrewing.ca

Dragan Brewing and Wine draganbrewingandwine.com

Silversmith Brewing Company 1523 NIAGARA STONE RD., VIRGIL, 905-468-8447 silversmithbrewing.com

Craft cider partners of Après Cuvée 26 Acre Craft Cider Company PELHAM

Ravine Estates Winery (Cider) 1366 YORK RD., ST. DAVIDS, 905-262-8463 ravinevineyard.com

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Cuvée 2020 Our gratitude to:

Thank you to everyone who has supported Cuvée this past year. Our gratitude to our partnering wineries, chefs, craft breweries, cider houses.

CUVÉE ADVISORY COUNCIL Tim Kenyon, Vice-President, Research, Brock University Debbie Inglis, CCOVI Director Barb Tatarnic, Manager, Cuvée, Continuing Education and Outreach, CCOVI Anil Rebello, Cuvée Co-ordinator, Rebello Marketing and Event Services CUVÉE STEERING COMMITTEE Chris Colaneri, Colaneri Estate Winery Jim Duncan, Chef Thomas Green, Lakeview Wine Co. Mark Hand, Chef Magdalena Kaiser, Wine Marketing Association of Ontario Nancy Kennedy, Creekside Estate Winery Ed Madronich, Flat Rock Cellars Erik Peacock, Chef Barb Tatarnic, Manager, Cuvée; Continuing Education and Outreach, CCOVI Anil Rebello, Cuvée Co-ordinator; Rebello Marketing and Event Services CUVÉE FOUNDING MEMBERS David Bergen, Cuvée Co-founder Debi Pratt CUVÉE AWARD OF EXCELLENCE IN VITICULTURE ADJUDICATORS Helen Fisher Kevin Ker Jim Willwerth CUVÉE WINEMAKER OF EXCELLENCE ADJUDICATORS Barb Tatarnic, Chair Debbie Inglis Belinda Kemp Steven Trussler Christopher Waters CUVÉE EXCELLENCE IN WINERY MANAGEMENT ADJUDICATORS Barb Tatarnic, Chair David Lawrason Tek Thongpapanl Steven Trussler CUVÉE MARKETING & DESIGN TEAM Sarah Ackles, Marketing and Communications Officer, CCOVI Natalie Castelli, Web Designer, Brock University Kev Greene, Graphic Designer, Brock University Maryann Marino, Marketing Production Coordinator, Brock University Sébastien Marchal, Manager, Web & Digital Strategy, Brock University Cynthia Quillman, Graphic Designer, Brock University Jenny Tilbrook, Brand Manager, Brock University

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When CCOVI took over stewardship of Cuvée in 2015, a legacy fund was created with the proceeds. This fund provides the next generation of wine industry professionals with student scholarships, which are pivotal in funding their journey, as well as supporting research priorities identified by the grape and wine industry.

The Cuvée wine weekend will continue to endow this legacy fund to further support student scholarships and research programs.

Why it matters The Ontario grape and wine industry employs more than 18,000 people and attracts 2.4 million visitors to the province each year. It is an important driver of the provincial economy and contributes $4.4 billion to the Ontario economy annually, according to research completed by the Canadian Vintners Association.

CCOVI is committed to helping the industry continue to grow by training the next generation of industry professionals and providing applied research solutions.

About CCOVI Located at Brock University in St. Catharines, an hour from the Toronto area, CCOVI is an internationally recognised research institute that advances the interests of the grape and wine industry by investing time and resources on its research priorities.

Established in 1996, CCOVI works in partnership with the Grape Growers of Ontario, the Wine Council of Ontario and the Winery and Grower Alliance of Ontario. Its network extends to external academic communities, federal and provincial research organizations, and regional grape and wine industry groups across Canada as well as cool climate wine regions around the world.

To learn more about CCOVI’s activities, visit brocku.ca/ccovi

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Sponsors for CuvĂŠe 2020 2019

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Sponsors for CuvĂŠe 2020

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TA S T E S U N TA M E D VQAWinesofOntario.ca