LCBO Food and Drink Autumn 2016

WINE ONTARIO WINE STARS

Closson Chase Vineyard Chardonnay VQA VINTAGES 148866, $29.00 A star was born in Prince Edward County when Deborah Paskus produced her first Chardonnay from Closson Chase’s vineyards. Inspired by Burgundy, ripe and judiciously oaked, it set a new benchmark and won rave reviews wherever it was tasted. The 2014 vin- tage was Paskus’s last, and was fostered by Closson Chase’s new winemaker, Keith Tyers. I like the way he describes it: “The nose opens with salted caramel, lemon custard, flint and brioche. The mouth is full with cream and nectarine zest, mineral, buttered toast and a long, round finish.”

Featherstone Cabernet Franc VQA VINTAGES ESSENTIALS 64618, $19.20 Here’s a fan favourite, as smooth and beautifully turned out as Cary Grant. Nothing green, nothing crude, just an urbane braid of lush flavours—black cherry and cranberry with a trace of leather and cigars from months in American oak. Savour each sip and admire the long, debonair finish.

Henry of Pelham Cuvée Catharine Brut VQA LCBO 217521, $29.95

Are those corks or paparazzi flashbulbs popping as this classic Niagara bubbly makes its appearance? Always so assured, so sophisticated, it’s a blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir made in the classic champenoise way—but this sparkling beauty knows how to party. Fresh as a bite from a juicy green apple with just a touch of toast.

FOOD & DRI NK AUTUMN