Canadian Sommelier, On-Air (TV, radio) Wine & Spirits Somm, Valpolicella Wine Specialist
November 2019 Ottawa, ON Matt's review: This new value-priced Niagara Merlot-Cabernet Sauvignon blend spent part of it's barrel aging in Whisky barrels which enhances its flavour, texture, and crowd pleasing appeal. Look for rich dark fruit, black cherry, clove, chocolate and sweet vanilla on the finish. Enjoy with BBQ fare, spare ribs, chili, and spicy... Continue Reading →
Ottawa, ON October 2019 Matt's review: Another unique small production hand crafted wine from the talented Niagara-based winemaker, Marco Piccoli, of Jackson-Triggs. Winemakers have many tools to help them produce expressive and different styles of wines each year. Ideally the winemaker is handed perfect grapes with great structure, ripeness, and varietal characteristics to transform into... Continue Reading →
Ottawa, ON January 25, 2019 Today on CTV Morning Live, CTVs Annette Goerner, Trisha Owens, and Sommelier Matt Steeves were celebrating Robbie Burns Day by showcasing (and enjoying) some of our favourite drinks from Robbie Burns' native land...Scotch whisky and delicious whisky cocktails! These are all must try drinks if you're celebrating Robbie Burns Day. Check... Continue Reading →
Ottawa, ON June 2018 Buying something for someone that has it all can be challenging and even a bit stressful. Fortunately gifting a special bottle of wine or Whisky never disappoints so it's often my go-to recommendation. This Father's Day I'm recommending a premium limited edition Scotch for that special dad in your life that... Continue Reading →
Ottawa, ON May 2018 Matt's review: May 26, 2018, via Vintages throughout Ontario, Glenmorangie released their first single malt Whisky that was fully matured in American ex-Rye Whiskey casks. Labelled "Spios", which is Gaelic for 'spice', and pronounced 'spee-oss', it's the ninth release in their Private Edition Series which over the years have become collectors... Continue Reading →
Ottawa, ON March 2018 Matt's review: Wow, such a well balanced and surprisingly soft and integrated Single Malt Irish Whiskey esp at 46%... Amber with a redish hue, with notes of Oloroso Sherry, Manhattan cocktail with fresh orange peel, and spicy plum. The subtle smoky single malt characteristics show up on the finish which contributes handsomely... Continue Reading →
Ottawa, ON December 29, 2017 In addition to the delicious sparkling wines we showed earlier today on CTV Morning Live, CTV's Sarah Freemark and Sommelier Matt Steeves showed that pouring a fine cocktail for your guests is a terrific way to enhance your New Year’s Eve celebrations. These cocktails are not only super special and... Continue Reading →
Ottawa, ON December 29, 2017 Today on CTV Morning Live, CTV's Henry Burris and Sommelier Matt Steeves showed some great sparkling wines, how to open those bottles without incident (and with confidence!), and some ways to jazz them up by making ‘Champagne Cocktails’. Check out the CTV video here! There’s no better drink than sparkling... Continue Reading →
Ottawa, ON December 2017 'Ardbeg Ten Years Old is revered around the world as the peatiest, smokiest, most complex single malt of them all. Yet it does not flaunt the peat; rather it gives way to the natural sweetness of the malt to produce a whisky of perfect balance. Named World Whisky of the Year in... Continue Reading →
Ottawa, ON December 2017 With the holiday entertaining season in full swing, it's great to have some easy to make, super delicious, and awe-inspiring cocktail recipes on hand to treat your guests this holiday season. With a few simple ingredients you can easily wow your guest with these delicious and easy to make premium cocktails. ... Continue Reading →
Quercus Vino 