Canadian Sommelier, On-Air (TV, radio) Wine & Spirits Somm, Valpolicella Wine Specialist
Ottawa, ON April 2025 Matt’s review: 2024 was the vintage without a vintage in the Okanagan Valley due to a virtually complete loss of crop from a devastating winter freeze. Given this unique predicament, Noble Ridge's winemaker looked to his neighbours to the south for some help. Sourcing fruit from Horse Heaven Hills AVA and... Continue Reading →
Straw-gold colour, the nose offers ripe stone fruit, orchard fruits, spring blossoms, and a hint of wildflower honey, accompanied by a subtle mineral note. On the palate, it's generous, with vibrant flavors of stone fruit, pear, and a touch of citrus zest that lingers on the finish. A delightful wine to enjoy this spring and summer. Tasted May 2025. 90 points. Matt Steeves - http://www.QuercusVino.ca
April 2025 Matt’s review: Hester Creek Viognier 2024, part of their Columbia Valley Collection, showcases grapes sourced from the Goose Gap AVA in the Columbia Valley, with vinification taking place at their Golden Mile Bench winery in southern Okanagan Valley. I’m The 2024 vintage grapes were sourced just south of the border, where the harsh... Continue Reading →
Ottawa, ON April 2025 Matt’s review: In a year marked by challenges for wineries in the Okanagan Valley due to complete crop loss from winter freeze, Hester Creek successfully pivoted by sourcing fruit from the neighboring Columbia Valley AVA. This 2024 vintage showcases the winery's commitment to quality and adaptability, resulting in an impressive expression... Continue Reading →
Ottawa, ON March 2025 Matt's review: Thomas Bachelder’s Les Villages Niagara Pinot Noir 2022 is an impressive expression of Niagara’s cool-climate terroir where this noble grape can excel, especially when sourced from the finest single vineyards in the region. After a brief decant the nose reveals aromas of dusty cherry, earthy undertones, and sweet baking... Continue Reading →
Today on CTV, CTVs Stefan Keys, Melissa Lamb, and Sommelier Matt Steeves were tasting an all-Ontario line-up of local wines and spirits which are delicious, crafted right here in Ontario, and are easily accessible winery-direct or at LCBO. With everything going on these days, having some delicious local Canadian wines and spirits is the perfect way to show your national pride and stay refreshed this spring.
Today on CFRA, CFRAs Patricia Boal and Sommelier Matt Steeves were tasting an all-Ontario line-up of local wines and spirits which are delicious, crafted right here in Ontario, and are easily accessible winery-direct or at LCBO. With everything going on these days, having some delicious local Canadian wines and spirits is the perfect way to show your national pride and stay refreshed this spring.
While its bold character makes it a fantastic pairing with hearty BBQ fare, particularly grilled meats and vegetables on a smoker, its spicy character and rich dark fruit makes it a perfect option for enjoying with braised dishes throughout the year. Tasted in March 2025. 92 points - Matt Steeves - http://www.quercusvino.ca
February 2025 Matt’s review: Tedeschi Maternigo Amarone della Valpolicella Riserva 2016, sourced from the Barila vineyard on the Maternigo estate in eastern Valpolicella. 2016, a five star vintage, also marks the inaugural vintage of Riserva Amarone for Tedeschi from the Barila single vineyard. This beautiful cru vineyard, although early in its tenure under Tedeschi’s care,... Continue Reading →
Founded in 1985, Rizzini is a small, family-owned winery in the heart of Franciacorta, Italy, dedicated exclusively to crafting vintage Blanc de Blancs sparkling wines from their 'single cru' vineyard. Nestled at the base of the Monticelli Brusati hills, their two-hectare estate was replanted in 1995 and 2000, focusing entirely on Chardonnay — where they have been focused on producing the finest expressions of traditional method sparkling wine from their unique terroir each year.
Quercus Vino 