Vintages Release: 2016

  
Tawse ‘Spark –Limestone Vineyard’ Riesling Sparkling Wine 2014

VQA Twenty Mile Bench $19.95 (370361) 11.5% alcohol
This punches well above the price—it’s newly certified organic/biodynamic, single-vineyard sourced, made in the traditional method of Champagne, vintage dated, simply delicious. Lighter styled and lip-smacking good, it’s the perfect welcoming wine or aperitif. Aromas and flavours of crisp green apple and racy lemon abound. It starts and finishes clean, crisp and refreshing. Pick up a few to have on hand. Versatile, serve on its own or with freshly shucked oysters, ceviche or sushi. (Vic Harradine)

  
Tawse Gamay 2014
VQA Niagara Peninsula $18.95 (322545) 12.5% alcohol 
Gamay vines held up well during the frigidly cruel winter of 2013-14 while others were wiped out. There’s a notion of violet on the nose intermingling with aromas of ripe red fruit, light spice and cedar. Dry and delightfully well balanced, it offers a wealth of tasty fruit on the palate. This single-vineyard, mid-weight red shows juicy, bright flavours of cherry, currant and red berry lifted by a finely-honed backbone of lively acidity. Delicate notes of spice, pepper and toast linger on the savoury finish—it’s well crafted and good value. (Susan Desjardins)