Canadian Sommelier, On-Air (TV, radio) Wine & Spirits Somm, Valpolicella Wine Specialist
Ottawa, ON April 2017 Matt's review: Since it's inception in the iconic 2000 vintage, Essence de Dourthe has been produced only in the most exceptional years, taking the best grapes from the best vineyards in the best appellations throughout Bordeaux. Their motto to produce Essence is using the best of the best of the best at... Continue Reading →
Ottawa, ON April 2017 Matt's review: Corte Sant'Alda's Valmezzane Amarone (2011) is an absolutely stunning wine from this proudly biodynamic winery located high in the hills east of Verona, Italy. At ~16% it's remarkably elegant and fresh, indicative of the delicate approach the winemaking team takes in every aspect of their operation. Superbly balanced with lifted... Continue Reading →
Ottawa, ON April 2017 Matt's review: A gold medal winner at the 2016 Ontario Wine Awards, this value-priced rosé was produced with 100% estate grown Pinot Noir from one of Canada's famous wine regions, Niagara-on-the-Lake. Deeply coloured for a rosé thanks to a cold-soak the winemaker employed to extract the right amount of colour... Continue Reading →
Ottawa, ON April 2017 Matt's review: Benjamin Bridge has been making a real fizz in the sparkling wine scene over the past decade. This Nova Scotia (Canada) based winery is producing sparkling wines that rival those from Champagne and other storied wine regions around the world. A combination of ideal terroir for producing crisp &... Continue Reading →
Ottawa, ON March 2017 Matt's review: Deep ruby red with dark core, the sun-drenched Sonoma County fruit in this red blend has produced a big, opulent, yet fresh style of wine that's perfectly suited for enjoying at the table or fireside with good company. A unique blend of Zinfandel, Malbec, and Cabernet, that showcases not only... Continue Reading →
Ottawa, ON March 2017 Matt's review: Featherstone's limited production (140 cases) 2013 Pinot Noir has an intriguing rustic profile that showcases the complexity of wines from one of Canada's premiere sub appelations, the Twenty Mile Bench. The expressive nose shows cherry, pepper, dried leaves, cured meat, and leather notes that highlight the savoury characteristics... Continue Reading →
Ottawa, ON March 2017 Matt's review (2002 vintage): Aged 13 years, 10 years in Bourbon Casks in Jamaica (tropical aging), 3 years in France at Chateau de Bonbonnet in 350L Pierre Ferrand casks (continental aging), which produces such unique and inviting aromas, flavour, and texture. Nutty with yellow raisins, resin, banana chips, vanilla, and... Continue Reading →
Ottawa, ON March 2017 Matt's review: Gin was invented in Italy during the 11th century by brilliant monks whom we should all be thankful to! Since their invention way back when, Italy has been producing wonderful gin for which Malfy is a terrific example. Malfy Italian gin uses coastal grown lemons from Amalfi and Sicily, along... Continue Reading →
Ottawa, ON March 2017 Matt's review: This young Brunello is on its journey of evolution, with the colour becoming increasingly garnet indicating its gaining further complexity with every year of age. The nose confirms the visuals, it's rustic and initially slightly closed, opening after 20 minutes to reveal its full bouquet. Smoky bacon, plum,... Continue Reading →
Ottawa, ON March 2017 by Matt Steeves Ottawa is without a doubt a place to visit in 2017! With Canada 150 events happening throughout the year, leading up to Canada's 150th anniversary on July 1st, the city is booming with world-class entertainment, festivities, wine, food, and cultural experiences that are capturing the attention of many within Canada... Continue Reading →
Quercus Vino 