Casal Thaulero Pinot Grigio 2010 

IGP Osco, Italy $7.95 (073163) 13.0%

An astounding value-packed Pinot Grigio that over-delivers on all counts—hard to believe you get all this well-balanced flavour for so little. It caresses the palate with a medium-bodied wash of honeydew melon, apple and white peach flavour mingling with good moderating citrus acidity. Terrific sipped on its own, it also struts it stuff with seafood, fish or lemon veal. (Vic Harradine)


Henry of Pelham Baco Noir 2010
VQA Ontario $13.95 (270926) 13.0% alcohol ($1.00 off until February 25)
For many—and for many years—the benchmark Baco Noir in Ontario hails from Henry of Pelham. Aromas of dark briary berry mingling with wisps of oak segue a balanced and fruity palate-coating wash of black raspberry and mixed field berry adorned with spice, espresso roast and racy, lively acidity. It’s medium bodied with a generous mouth feel and a lip-smacking aftertaste. Give it a go with smoked, grilled ribs slathered in BBQ sauce, meat-laden pizza or stews. (Vic Harradine)


Henry of Pelham Cuvée Catherine Rosé Brut Non-vintage
VQA Niagara Peninsula $29.95 (217 505) 12.0% alcohol ($3.00 off until February 25)
A traditional blend of hand-harvested Chardonnay and Pinot Noir was whole-bunch pressed coalescing in this gorgeously hued bubbly. It’s ideal as an impressive welcoming wine or paired with pan-seared scallops, steamed mussels or freshly shucked oysters. Brioche and floral on the nose, the enthusiastic mousse bursts on the palate with strawberry-rhubarb pie mingling with racy red cherry. It’s mid weight, crisp and refreshing with a lip-smacking delectable finish. (Vic Harradine)


Konzelmann Sparkling Rosé ‘Méthode Cuve Close’ Non-vintage
VQA Ontario $16.20 (184176) 12.5% alcohol
Produced from Merlot grapes with the second fermentation in tank, this deep rose-pink sparkler tumbles into the glass in a great frothy mousse. It offers lovely aromas of red fruit—cherry, raspberry, pomegranate—and an earthy herbal note Dry and medium bodied, it’s crisp and fresh in texture, replaying bright red fruits on the palate and offering good length on the nicely balanced finish. Charm your Valentine! (Susan Desjardins)


Konzelmann Pinot Blanc 2010
VQA Niagara Peninsula $12.15 (219279) 13.0% alcohol
Yellow-green, this juicy wine offers subtle aromas of citrus, white peach, green apple and wet stone. Dry, light-medium bodied, the vibrant acidity underpins vivid green apple, lemon-lime and delicate pear notes. Underlying minerality carries through the refreshing tangy finish. Good value that will pair well with chicken roasted with tarragon and lemon zest garnish. (Susan Desjardins)


Konzelmann Merlot ‘Reserve’ 2009
VQA Niagara Peninsula $12.95 (439281) 13.5% alcohol
Semi-transparent ruby, this quaffable wine offers attractive aromas of vanilla, cherry, black raspberry and spice. It’s dry and on the light side of mid-weight with engaging lively acidity and supple tannin framing attractive berry/cherry fruit and spiced vanilla. Tangy pepper and toasty oak notes emerge on the savoury finish. Serve with stuffed roast peppers. (Susan Desjardins)