• The following wine is the first Ontario 2015 Rosé tasted and it’s a dandy—full of fresh, tangy, fruit flavour, great acidity and balanced on a pin.

   
Henry of Pelham Rosé 2015
VQA Niagara Peninsula $13.95 (613471) 11.5% alcohol
This blend of five premium red grapes is fresh, juicy and alive with aromas of strawberry and floral notes. It bathes the palate with racy flavours—red currant, cranberry and pie cherry—supported by sharp spice and a boatload of tang. This is medium-bodied with excellent mouth feel and a lingering, balanced, lip-smacking finish. Pour with pan-seared fish, grilled seafood, roast chicken or chèvre with dressed greens. (Vic Harradine)

   
Les Trois Couronnes Crozes-Hermitage 2011

AOC Crozes-Hermitage, France $17.95 (421065) 12.5% alcohol 

This punches well above the price—quite elegant and charming. This 100% Syrah jumps from the glass with smoke, oak and toast aromas. Black currant, sweet vanilla and black juicy Bing cherry mingle with spice and mocha on the palate infusing the long aftertaste. It’s medium-full weight with good texture and great structure from a solid tannin underpinning and framed with delectable red berry tang. Aerate/decant two hours before serving with grilled strip loin. (Vic Harradine)

Sparkling Wine

  
Henry of Pelham ‘Cuvée Catharine’ Rosé Brut Non-Vintage

VQA Niagara Peninsula $29.95 (217505) 12.0% alcohol 

Here’s a stylish, traditional-method, value-laden gem that’s hitting the shelves in time for Valentine’s and, of course, beyond. Mousse froths in the glass adorned by aromas of red berry fruit, baking bread and spice. The fine-bead bubbles deliver a delectable, mouth-watering experience of strawberry and red currant flavour, balanced and charming. The lip-smacking finish layers on good acidity via wisps of blood orange. Keep a few bottles on hand. (Vic Harradine)