Peller Estates ‘Signature Series’ Cabernet Franc Ice Wine 2007
VQA Niagara Peninsula $90.10 (375 ml) 11.5% alcohol
Go ahead, treat yourself, as it’s a rare occasion when Cabernet Franc grapes can be left to hang to produce ice wine. This is a fine wine for lovers of that incredible balance of rich luscious sweet fruit and moderating tangy freshness. A pale salmon color, the wine displays intense aromas of sweet red fruits, mint and spice and tangy flavours of dried cranberry and strawberry-rhubarb pie. It’s full bodied and opulent with a satin-like texture. Beautifully balanced, it exhibits a persistent and hedonic finish. Definitely intended to be savoured on its own! Available for daily home or office delivery from Peller Estates. (Susan Desjardins)


Peller Estates ‘Private Reserve’ Rosé 2008
VQA Niagara Peninsula $17.15 13.0% alcohol
Composed primarily of Merlot supported by the two Cabs, this rosé was produced by the traditional saignée method. The grapes spent 48-72 hours on the skins, creating a rosy pink shade just now displaying a slight salmon note. With spicy red fruit aromatics, it’s juicy with sweet cherry, berry fruit and notes of spice and pepper. Dry and light-medium bodied, it displays refreshing acidity on the mid-length finish. A great summer sipper to pair with light appetizers or salads. Available for daily home or office delivery from Peller Estates. (Susan Desjardins)


Thirty Bench Red 2007
VQA Beamsville Bench $24.00 13.4% alcohol
With an opaque purple robe, this is an award-winning blend of Cabernet Franc (55%), Cabernet Sauvignon (40%) and Merlot—all aged 12 months in French and American oak. The nose has layered aromas of rich fruit, earthiness, toast and cedar, with a spicy floral nuance. Medium-full bodied, the wine is structured with silky tannin and fine acidity. The flavours are complex—a core of dark fruits and berries over notes of spice, pepper and mint, which linger on the persistent finish. Serve it now with beef or lamb with a mushroom sauce, or cellar for 2-3 more years. Available for daily home or office delivery from Thirty Bench. (Susan Desjardins)