CTV Ottawa Morning Live
June 29th, 2023
Theme: World-Class Canadian Wines to Celebrate Canada Day
Overview: Today on CTV Morning Live, Sommelier Matt Steeves is showing a line-up of his top rated wines from across Canada. The selection of high-quality Canadian wines represents the pinnacle of premium wine production in Canada and exemplifies the remarkable progress and success that Canadian wineries have achieved. Check out the segment here.
The Canadian wine scene is thriving!
Canadian wineries have undoubtedly established themselves as producers of some of the finest wines in the world.
Year after year, international tastings and competitions validate this fact, with Canadian wines consistently earning accolades and gaining recognition globally.
The growing international sales further attest to the increasing demand and appreciation for Canadian wines.
Over the past two decades, the continuous improvement and refinement of Canadian wines has been evident. Winemakers across the country have been dedicated to pushing the boundaries, experimenting with different grape varieties and honing in on what works best with the unique terroirs of their respective regions. This commitment to quality has resulted in delicious wines that not only win awards but also captivate wine enthusiasts with their remarkable quality and unique characteristics.
With hundreds of wineries spanning from coast to coast, Canada offers a diverse and thriving wine scene.
Many of the wineries showcased today have been instrumental in putting Canada on the map as a premier wine-producing nation. Their passion, expertise, and innovation have helped elevate Canadian wines to the global stage.
As Canada celebrates its national day, it is an opportune moment to raise a glass and toast to the achievements of the Canadian wine industry.
The selection of high-quality Canadian wines being showcased represents the pinnacle of premium wine production in Canada and exemplifies the remarkable progress and success that Canadian wineries have achieved.
While it is impossible to encompass the entirety of Canada’s several hundred wineries in this short list, I have carefully chosen these wines as a mere sample of the incredible quality available. Each bottle is a testament to the talent, dedication, and innovation of Canadian winemakers who have been instrumental in elevating the country’s reputation in the world of wine.
I encourage you to savor and appreciate these wines, as they embody the pinnacle of Canadian winemaking and their quest for excellence.
Celebrate Canada Day by raising a glass of these extraordinary wines, and toast to the continued success and growth of the Canadian wine scene.
Nova Scotia:
Nova Scotia’s wine region is a hidden gem on Canada’s eastern coast. With a cool climate and maritime influence, it offers unique terroir for grape growing unlike anywhere in the world. The region is becoming increasingly renowned for its vibrant traditional method sparkling wines, which happens to be the style of wine I’m most drawn to and excited about in Nova Scotia.
Nova Scotia’s winemakers, such as those at Benjamin Bridge, embrace the challenges posed by the maritime weather/climate and produce wines with crisp acidity, delicate fruit flavors, and a distinct sense of place. The vineyards, often located near the coast, benefit from the moderating influence of the Atlantic Ocean and Bay of Fundy, resulting in wines that are refreshing and expressive.
Nova Scotia’s wine scene is exciting, growing, and catching on across Canada and internationally! A testament to the world-class wines they’re producing and how well placed they are to become a great wine region of the world.
- Benjamin Bridge NV Brut, Nova Scotia
Benjamin Bridge NV Brut is a sparkling wine produced by Benjamin Bridge Winery in Nova Scotia’s Gaspereau Valley. This wine exemplifies the exceptional quality of sparkling wines that Nova Scotia has become renowned for. Benjamin Bridge has been at the forefront of sparkling wine production in the region, utilizing the traditional method and carefully selected grape varieties that work well in the maritime-influenced terroir with its short growing season, crisp temperatures, and significant diurnal temperature variations.
NV Brut is a non-vintage wine, crafted from a blend of l’Acadie and Chardonnay. It showcases the cool-climate characteristics of Nova Scotia, with vibrant acidity and bright fruit flavors. This sparkling wine undergoes secondary fermentation in the bottle, resulting in delicate and persistent bubbles.
Benjamin Bridge NV Brut is known for its bright acidity, delicate mousse, and a vibrant palate filled with flavors of citrus, green apple, and subtle brioche notes. It offers a crisp and refreshing profile, balanced by a refined structure.
The cool climate and unique terroir of the Gaspereau Valley impart distinctive characteristics to Benjamin Bridge NV Brut, setting it apart as a fine example of Nova Scotia’s sparkling wine production. It has received numerous accolades and has contributed to the winery’s reputation as a leading producer of top-quality sparkling wine in Canada.
NV Brut available winery-direct
Prince Edward County:
Nestled on the northern shore of Lake Ontario, Prince Edward County wine region is a charming and rapidly emerging wine destination in Canada. Known for its picturesque landscapes and limestone-rich soils, this cool-climate region is gaining recognition for its exceptional wines, with references to France’s renowned Burgundy region when it’s described by some . Prince Edward County is becoming renowned for producing elegant and vibrant cool-climate whites, including Chardonnay and Pinot Gris, as well as expressive Pinot Noir. The region’s winemakers employ sustainable practices and a focus on terroir-driven winemaking, resulting in wines that reflect the unique characteristics of the area. With a growing number of boutique wineries, breathtaking vineyard views, and a convenient 2-3 hour drive from Ontario’s largest cities, Prince Edward County offers a delightful and distinct wine experience for enthusiasts and visitors alike.
- Rosehall Run Ceremony Blanc de Blancs 2017, Prince Edward County
Rosehall Run Ceremony Blanc de Blancs 2017 is a Blanc de Blancs, meaning it’s a traditional method sparkling wine made exclusively from Chardonnay grapes. Ceremony Blanc de Blancs showcases the elegance and finesse that Prince Edward County is known for in its sparkling wines. The cool climate and limestone-rich soils of the region contribute to the wine’s distinct character.
The 2017 vintage offers a harmonious blend of delicate flavors and vibrant acidity. It displays aromas of citrus, green apple, and pear, along with subtle floral notes. On the palate, the wine reveals a creamy mousse, crisp acidity, and a fine mineral backbone. The extended aging on the lees contributes to its complexity and adds layers of brioche and pastry nuances.
This Blanc de Blancs is a testament to Rosehall Run’s commitment to producing high-quality sparkling wines. It is a sophisticated and refined offering that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a variety of dishes, making it a versatile choice for celebratory occasions or special moments.
Rosehall Run Ceremony Blanc de Blancs 2017 exemplifies the exceptional craftsmanship and the potential of Prince Edward County as a producer of world-class sparkling wines.
- Rosehall Run St. Cindy Chardonnay 2020, Prince Edward County
Rosehall Run’s top tier Chardonnay which was reintroduced after 15 years for the incredible 2020 vintage and highlights how the vineyard has come of age producing exceptionally high quality and expressive fruit, representative of the greatness achievable in Rosehall Run’s estate vineyards.
Very low production and highly collectible, this is a PEC gem you’ll want to taste and cellar.
Niagara:
The Twenty Mile Bench wine region, nestled within Ontario’s Niagara Peninsula, is a renowned destination for cool-climate winemaking. Stretching approximately 20 miles along the southern edge of the Niagara Escarpment, this region benefits from a unique microclimate influenced by Lake Ontario. Limestone-rich soils, combined with the moderating effects of the lake, create an ideal environment for grape cultivation. The Twenty Mile Bench is celebrated for producing exceptional Chardonnay and Pinot Noir wines known for their vibrant acidity, distinct mineral character, and expressive fruit flavors. With picturesque vineyards and a commitment to quality, the Twenty Mile Bench is a testament to the Niagara Peninsula’s winemaking prowess.
- Cloudsley Cellars Chardonnay 2020, Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara, ON
Cloudsley Cellars is a boutique winery located in the prestigious Twenty Mile Bench sub-appellation of the Niagara Peninsula in Ontario, Canada. This family-owned winery is known for its exceptional small-lot Chardonnay and Pinot Noir wines, which highlight the unique characteristics of the region.
Cloudsley Cellars takes a hands-on approach to winemaking, focusing on quality over quantity. Their small-lot production allows for meticulous attention to detail and the ability to showcase the distinct expression of each vineyard block.
Their Chardonnay wines from the Twenty Mile Bench exhibit a harmonious balance of ripe fruit, vibrant acidity, and subtle oak integration. These wines display the classic characteristics of cool-climate Chardonnay, with elegant flavors and a refreshing, crisp finish.
Cloudsley Cellars’ commitment to producing limited quantities of high-quality Chardonnay and Pinot Noir wines reflects their passion for showcasing the best of the Twenty Mile Bench. The combination of meticulous vineyard management, skilled winemaking techniques, and the distinctive terroir of the region results in wines that are both elegant and expressive, capturing the essence of this renowned winegrowing area.
- Cloudsley Cellars Pinot Noir 2020, Twenty Mile Bench, Niagara, ON
The Cloudsley Cellars Pinot Noir 2020 hails from the Twenty Mile Bench sub-appellation within the larger Niagara region. The wine is crafted from carefully selected vineyard sites, including Cuesta, Glen Elgin, Parke, Hanck, Homestead, and End of the Road. The use of wild yeast fermentation and aging in French oak barrels for 18 months (20% new oak) contributes to the wine’s development and complexity. With only 490 cases produced, this limited-production Pinot Noir showcases the elegance and classic characteristics that make the Twenty Mile Bench sub-appellation so distinctive and respected for premium Pinot production.
Cloudsley Cellars Twenty Mile Bench Pinot Noir 2020 available winery-direct and the 2019 will be released at LCBO and SAQ this fall.
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia
The Okanagan Valley stands as a beacon of exceptional winemaking in Canada. Located in British Columbia, this picturesque region is renowned for its world-class wines. The valley’s diverse microclimates, ranging from hot and arid to cooler mountainous areas, create ideal conditions for the production of a wide range of grape varieties. From luscious reds to crisp whites and exquisite Icewines, the Okanagan Valley showcases the incredible potential of Canadian winemaking. Wineries in this region combine their passion for the craft with the breathtaking beauty of the landscape, resulting in wines that are expressive, balanced, and truly reflect the spirit of the Okanagan Valley.
The Naramata Bench wine region is a breathtaking gem situated in British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley. This picturesque wine-growing sub appellation is perched above the eastern shore of Lake Okanagan, boasting stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and water. Naramata Bench is celebrated for its production of premium wines, with a particular focus on exceptional cool-climate varietals like Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc. Wineries on the Naramata Bench are known for their commitment to sustainable practices, crafting wines that reflect the unique terroir of the area. With its scenic beauty, world-class wineries, and a reputation for producing outstanding wines, Naramata Bench is a must to visit and taste the exceptional wines being produced from a growing list of top quality producers.
- 1 Mill Road Home Block Pinot Noir 2020, Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, BC
This is Naramata Bench personified. Perched on glacier lake-formed bluffs above Okanagan Lake, the crescent shaped site tilts Southwest, maximizing heat units and allowing air flow. Set into an amphitheater of old growth sage, soils are silt and loam with calcareous elements similar to some of the best vineyards in the world. A balanced wine with ripe raspberry, dried cranberry and cocoa flavours with notes of clove combined with fresh vibrancy from the natural acidity. Decidedly elegant with lovely complexity, fine tannins and lingering finish. When the wine hits your palate, it engages all your senses like a solid handshake from a good friend.
1 Mill Road Pinot Noir available winery-direct
- Martin’s Lane Naramata Ranch Vineyard Pinot Noir 2019, Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, BC
Martin’s Lane Winery, located in the Okanagan Valley of British Columbia, Canada, is widely regarded as one of the most exciting Pinot Noir projects in the world. This winery has gained significant attention and acclaim for its relentless pursuit of crafting exceptional, terroir-driven Pinot Noir wines.
What sets Martin’s Lane Winery apart is its unwavering focus on Pinot Noir as the primary grape variety. The winery’s commitment to this grape allows them to fully explore and understand its potential within their unique vineyard sites. They meticulously source and cultivate their grapes from specific vineyard blocks, each with its own distinct microclimate and soil composition, to capture the true expression of the terroir.
Martin’s Lane Winery employs a minimal intervention approach in the winemaking process, allowing the grapes to speak for themselves. They utilize traditional winemaking techniques and innovative technologies to create wines that are both elegant and powerful, showcasing the delicate nuances and depth of flavor that Pinot Noir can achieve in the Okanagan Valley.
The combination of their exceptional vineyard sites, meticulous viticultural practices, and the expertise of their winemaking team has resulted in wines that consistently receive critical acclaim and impress wine enthusiasts worldwide.
Martin’s Lane Winery’s dedication to Pinot Noir, their pursuit of excellence, and their ability to capture the essence of their unique vineyard sites have firmly established them as a leading force in the world of Pinot Noir. Their wines have garnered international recognition, placing the winery on the global stage and making it an exciting and highly regarded project for lovers of this noble grape variety.
- Poplar Gove Legacy 2018, Naramata Bench, Okanagan Valley, BC
Poplar Grove’s The Legacy is a highly esteemed red blend that showcases the greatness achievable in Canada’s Okanagan Valley. A flagship for Poplar Grove and an icon in the Canadian wine scene, renowned as one of the best ‘big reds’ or Bordeaux blends available. A testament to the wineries focus on producing the highest quality grapes and their winemaking team’s expertise to produce top tier wines.
The Legacy 2018 is a blend of 48% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Cabernet Franc, 17% Merlot, 6% Malbec, and 4% Petit Verdot, representing the best assemblage for the vintage.
This wine is known for its elegance, complexity, and age-worthiness. It exhibits rich flavors, deep concentration, and a harmonious integration of fruit, tannins, and oak. With careful attention to detail throughout the winemaking process, Poplar Grove creates a wine that showcases the exceptional quality of the grapes and the terroir from their meticulously managed vineyards.
2018 vintage exhibits a captivating combination of elegance and refinement, skillfully balancing strength and finesse while showcasing remarkable density and grip. Drawing inspiration from the Grand Crus of Bordeaux and Napa Valley’s ultra premium wines, it maintains a distinctive suppleness and refreshing character that reflects the unique and undeniable terroir of the southern Okanagan Valley. Each component varietal was meticulously cultivated and hand-picked, selected for their individual qualities and subjected to thorough sorting prior to fermentation and extended maceration. Following this rigorous process, the lots were aged exclusively in French oak barriques for 21 months, culminating in the assembly of the final blend, which further matured in-bottle for two years before being released. Always vinified completely dry, with <1g/L RS, this is an absolutely delicious, beautifully crafted premium wine that’s showing wonderfully now and will only gain additional complexity over the next two decades. Enjoy 2024-2038. Tasted June 2023. 94+ points. Matt Steeves – http://www.quercusvino.ca
Available winery-direct in Canada
Back to the east cost for Canada’s favourite wine, Nova 7!
- Benjamin Bridge Nova 7 2022, Nova Scotia
Benjamin Bridge winery, based in Nova Scotia, has made a significant impact on the sparkling wine scene in recent years. Their sparkling wines are gaining recognition and are often compared to those from Champagne and other esteemed wine regions. The winery’s success can be attributed to the ideal terroir for cool climate grapes, combined with the creative expertise of their winemaking team.
One of their standout wines, Nova 7, has captured the hearts of many Canadians. While it may share some similarities with Italy’s Moscato d’Asti, Nova 7 stands on its own as a truly unique wine. It offers a crisper, perfectly balanced, and more complex profile, with refreshing minerality that sets it apart.
The 2022 vintage of Nova 7 displays a subtle rose gold hue and enticing aromas of sweet honeysuckle, marigold blossoms, Asian pear, and fresh stone fruit. Its gentle effervescence leads to a creamy and sweet mid-palate filled with orchard fruit and hints of fresh ginger. The wine concludes with a long refreshing finish that showcases its superb balance. Nova 7 pairs wonderfully with East Coast seafood appetizers, sushi, tart berry desserts, or can be savored on its own.
Benjamin Bridge’s Nova 7consistently impresses vintage after vintage. Winemaker Jean-Benoit Deslauriers continues to harness the terroir and produce world-class wines that exemplify the winery’s commitment to quality.
Celebrating Canada Day with a glass of Nova 7 is a quintessentially Canadian way to toast to our great country, the delicious wines we’re making here, and stay refreshed in the summer sun.
Available at LCBO or winery-direct
I encourage you to savor and appreciate these wines, as they embody the pinnacle of Canadian winemaking and their quest for excellence.
On the occasion of Canada Day, I invite you to raise a glass of some of these extraordinary wines, and toast to the continued success and growth of the Canadian wine scene.
Cheers!
Matt
Quercus Vino 
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