Henry of Pelham Baco Noir ‘Reserve’ 2007
VQA Ontario $24.95 (461699) 13.5% alcohol
This delivers an expressive array of intense aromas with toasty oak, black currant jam and exotic spice predominant. Fruit-forward—dark berry and pomegranate—and laced with racy spice-infused tang, this medium-full bodied, nicely textured gem coats the palate in generous waves. Ripe supple tannin provides carpentry while the lingering finish is deftly balanced and lip-smacking good. Drink now to 2016 poured with smoked and grilled back or side ribs. It’s a Vintages Essentials product always available in select stores. (Vic Harradine)
Henry of Pelham Sauvignon Blanc 2009
VQA Short Hills Bench $14.95 (430546) 12.5% alcohol
Look for this Vintages Essentials product to be always available in select stores. Tropical fruit, yellow peach and nectarine on the nose, this delivers a lovely wash of crisp, refreshing flavour with gooseberry and citrus mingling with nuances of sweet orchard fruit. Mid weight and well textured, it sports a well-defined aftertaste of white peach and racy lemon zest. Paired perfectly with goat cheese crumbled over mesclun salad drizzled with verjus or pan-seared prawns or fish. (Vic Harradine)