Canadian Sommelier, On-Air (TV, radio) Wine & Spirits Somm, Valpolicella Wine Specialist
Ottawa, ON July 2021 Matt's review: After the return of Le Grand Clos a few years back, it's great to see Le Clos Jordanne introducing their value-priced Jordan Village Chardonnay starting with the outstanding 2019 vintage. A blend of select parcels from Le Clos Estate, Claystone Estate, and Talon Ridge Estate vineyards, the result is... Continue Reading →
Ottawa, ON July 2021 Matt's review: Quinta da Aveleda Vinho Verde 2019 is a blend of Loureiro & Alvarinho produced in a crisp and dry style that showcases the great tropical and citrus fruits, floral notes, and zippy acidity Vinho Verde wines are loved for. If you like Sauvignon Blanc, without the grassy notes, give... Continue Reading →
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 →
Quercus Vino 