While many know Champagne through famous houses like Taittinger, Krug, Lanson, Moët & Chandon and Dom Pérignon, there is a growing movement of Récoltants-Manipulants (grower-producers) who farm their own vineyards and craft wines that express their unique terroir. Among the elite is Le Club Trésors de Champagne, a group (currently of) 25 exceptional growers (including the three featured producers below) united by a commitment to quality, authenticity, and terroir expression. Within Le Club, the pinnacle of achievement is the Special Club — a bottle shape and designation reserved only for the very best cuvée(s) each grower produces in outstanding vintages. To be chosen as a Special Club Champagne, a wine must pass multiple blind tastings by a jury of fellow Le Club members and external oenologists, both as a still base wine and also post-second fermentation, generally 3+ years later before the wine is considered for commercial release. If the jury all agree that the wine merits the honour of carrying the Special Club label then it is permitted to be sold as a Special Club Champagne, in the distinctive, slightly antique-shaped bottle first used in 1971, signaling to collectors and connoisseurs that they are holding something rare and something that represents the height of Champagne craftsmanship.
Taittinger Uncorked: From Roman Stone to Michelin Stars
My visit to Taittinger was not only a walk through centuries of winemaking excellence, but also a celebration of Champagne’s future, where tradition and innovation unite in perfect harmony. A visit to Reims, France, would be incomplete without a stop at Maison Taittinger. From the awe-inspiring chalk cellars and historic Abbey remnants to the refined gastronomic experiences at Polychrome, it’s an immersion into the soul of Champagne.
wine review: York Vineyards 2018 Brut, Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON
York Vineyards, Canada’s first dedicated sparkling wine house, delivers an exceptional traditional method cuvée with their 2018 Brut — a masterclass in precision, patience, and expressive winemaking. Crafted entirely from 100% Pinot Gris, it was aged an impressive 60 months on the lees, with one-third raised in 500L amphora and the remaining two-thirds in French oak, offering a layered and complex aromatic and flavour profile. This is a serious and thrilling Canadian sparkling wine, crafted with uncompromising attention to detail. A standout bottle that confirms York Vineyards’ bold vision for Canadian sparkling wine at the highest level. Tasted June 2025. 94 points. Matt Steeves
Cheers to the New Year! Sommelier Matt Steeves’ Wine Selections for NYE as seen on CTV Morning Live and CFRA News Talk Radio
Today on CFRA News Talk Radio with Patricia Boal, and later on CTV Morning Live, Sommelier Matt Steeves showcased a few of his top rated drinks for the occasion including how to jazz up some delicious sparkling wines by making ‘Champagne Cocktails’ to enjoy this New Year’s Eve.
Sommelier Matt Steeves’ wine picks for holiday entertaining – CFRA News Talk Radio
Today on CFRA News Talk Radio, CFRAs Patricia Boal and Sommelier Matt Steeves showcased some of their top recommended wines for entertaining and gifting this holiday season.
Why your wine glass matters, as seen on CTV Morning Live
Today on CTV Morning Live we discussed the intriguing world of wine glasses...the different shapes, sizes, and functions and what you may want to consider when you're looking to get some for your home. We touched on a few basic concepts to help you pick the right glass(es) for your needs. More details at: http://www.topwines.ca
Sommelier recommendations for Mother’s Day as with Patricia Boal on CFRA News Talk Radio
Today on CFRA News Talk Radio, CFRA Patricia Boal and Sommelier Matt Steeves showcased some great wines and spirits for gifting this season as well as enjoying with family and friends over the holidays. These options will suit every palate and budget, including white, red, and sparkling wines too.
Cheers to the New Year – Sommelier Matt Steeves’ NYE Wine and Spirits Recommendations as seen on CTV Morning Live
Today on CTV Morning Live, CTVs Melissa Lamb and Sommelier Matt Steeves showcased some great wines and spirits for ringing in the New Year.
Festive Wine Selections to Gift and Enjoy with Family and Friends – CFRA News Talk Radio
Today on CFRA News Talk Radio, CFRA Patricia Boal and Sommelier Matt Steeves showcased some great wines and spirits for gifting this season as well as enjoying with family and friends over the holidays. These options will suit every palate and budget, including white, red, and sparkling wines too.
wine review: Winemaker’s Cut Fidelia Sparkling Brut 2020
Ottawa, ON July 2021 Matt's review: Winemaker's Cut Fidelia blends 95% Sauvignon Blanc and 5% Muscat Canelli from Deadman Lake Vineyard in the heart of the Okanagan, to produce an easy to love style of sparkling wine that will shine in any setting. Fidelia 2020 shows delicious orchard and tropical fruit, floral notes, and a... Continue Reading →
