Canadian Sommelier, On-Air (TV, radio) Wine & Spirits Somm, Valpolicella Wine Specialist
Ottawa, ON July 2021 Matt's review: Rich and expressive with that hallmark Marlborough freshness, Oyster Bay's Pinot shows dark cherries, plums, raspberry, sweet spices, dark chocolate, herbs, and a hint of earthiness on the nose. Dry, medium bodied, this Pinot is remarkably smooth with refreshing dark cherries and sweet spices persisting on the finish. A... Continue Reading →
Ottawa, ON July 2021 Matt's review: Winemaker's Cut Syrah is sourced from Deadman Lake Vineyard in the heart of Canada's wine capital, Oliver, BC. Savoury over sweet, stainless steel and neutral oak preserves the pure expression of the vineyard's terroir. The nose shows spicy dark fruits, black pepper, hint of dried flowers, cacao, and subtle... Continue Reading →
CheckMate continues to showcase Canada's ability to produce world-class wines worthy of great acclaim, wines that shine alongside peers from Napa, Tuscany, and Bordeaux.
Winemaker's Cut Bohemian Rouge is their flagship red where only the finest wine from the best barrels make this Winemaker's Cut! 2019 Bohemian Rouge is a blend of 40% Merlot, 30% Cab Sauv, 20% Cab Franc, and 10% Petit Verdot, all co-fermented and aged in neutral barrels to preserve the complex fruit characteristics, showcasing the delicious fruit sourced from Deadman Lake Vineyard & Chahal Vineyard.
Ottawa, ON June 2021 Matt's review: Velvety smooth, The Barossan Shiraz is packed full of plum, fig, chocolate, spice, menthol, and graphite, showing the complexity this wine and region are known for. An absolute crowd pleaser, The Barossan is a great choice all year with braised dishes, BBQ, and flavorful cheese, such as Guinness Irish... Continue Reading →
Sommelier selected wine and spirits for Father's Day!
Ottawa, ON June 2021 Matt's review: Niche Wine Co.'s (from West Kelowna, Okanagan Valley, BC) Pinot Noir Blanc is a unique and delicious twist on a Blanc de Noir. Produced from 100% Pinot Noir, without an extended maceration, the result is a fresh and lively faint coral-copper coloured wine that's best described as Summer in... Continue Reading →
Ottawa, ON May 2021 Matt's review: Each Spring when Featherstone's new vintage of their super popular Rosé is released, it's also a sign that patio season has arrived! Their Rosé has become a go-to for many each year given its fresh and fruity characteristics and terrific price. The 2020 vintage blends some of the Niagara... Continue Reading →
Ottawa, ON May 2021 Matt's review: A very well balanced Riesling that showcases the food friendly pairing characteristics of this noble varietal that make it a Sommelier's best friend! Orchard fruit, fresh lemon and lime peel with hints of wildflower honey and minerality on the nose and palate. Racy acidity balances the sweet orchard fruit... Continue Reading →
Ottawa, ON May 2021 Matt's review: A wonderful extra dry Rosé from the Cotes-du-Rhone, France. Crisp and textured, this wine is ideally suited to enjoy all year round with small plates, charcuterie, salads with goat cheese and tangy vinaigrette, and is outstanding when enjoyed with those dishes in the summer sun. Serve chilled and enjoy... Continue Reading →
Quercus Vino 