Henry of Pelham ‘Estate’ Chardonnay 2014

VQA Short Hills Bench $19.95 (268342) 13.5% alcohol

Opening with tropical fruit, buttery, toasty notes and spice, this dry, mid-weight gem freshens the palate with finely-honed acidity paired with ripe orchard fruit, juicy pineapple and tangy citrus. Oak presents in the sweet spicy notes and a touch of nuttiness and underlying freshness shines through on the clean, tasty finish. Enjoy with veal chops or herbed grilled pork loin. (Susan Desjardins)

   
Quinta de Curvos ‘Prova Cega’ 2013
DOC Douro $13.95 (446054) 14.0% alcohol
The price-quality balance here tips well in your favour. This is a gorgeous red blend that includes four of the über-premium grapes used in Port wine. Aromas of cedar, tar and dark berry fruit waft from this mid-full bodied, generously textured beauty. A broad swath of flavour coats the palate with ripe mulberry and black currant to the fore. It has a bit of an edge on the back palate reflecting tannin and good balancing acidity. Pour now with burgers or grilled gourmet sausage. (Vic Harradine)