Today on CTV Your Morning (and later on CFRA News Talk 580), Sommelier Matt Steeves was presenting some of his top-rated Canadian wines from across the country with special focus on regions such as Prince Edward County, Niagara, and British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley, where wineries are producing wines with freshness, balance, elegance, complexity, and a true sense of place. These are the qualities that define many of the world’s greatest wines, and they are increasingly the qualities wine enthusiasts associate with Canadian wine. These wines highlight why Canada is now recognized as one of the most exciting cool-climate wine-producing countries in the world. The story of Canadian wine in 2026 is no longer about potential. It is about achievement. Ontario and British Columbia have become Canada’s superpowers for world-class wine, but the broader message extends across the country. Canadian wineries are producing wines that are refreshing, balanced, complex, food-friendly, age-worthy, and increasingly sought after by wine enthusiasts across Canada and around the world. From traditional method sparkling wine and elegant Chardonnay to expressive Pinot Noir, distinctive whites, and powerful red blends, Canadian wine has never been better. This Canada Day, support local. Drink Canadian. Explore the wines being produced in our own backyard. And discover why the world is paying more attention to what Canada is putting in the glass.
The Okanagan Valley: A Sommelier’s Look at a Region on the Rise
Returning to British Columbia wine country for the first time since 2022, Matt Steeves finds an Okanagan Valley defined by resilience, refined hospitality, and the promise of a standout 2025 vintage.
Sommelier Matt Steeves’ Top Rated Wines of 2025
Each year, a small handful of wines rise unmistakably above the rest—bottles that don’t simply impress, but define what greatness looks like in their place of origin. The top-rated wines I tasted this year from Canada, Champagne, and across Italy represent the absolute pinnacle of craftsmanship, terroir expression, and ambition. These are wines made without compromise, where precision meets emotion, and regional identity is expressed with clarity and confidence. From cool-climate Canadian vineyards delivering finesse and mineral tension, to the timeless brilliance of Champagne, and the profound depth and heritage found throughout Italy’s greatest appellations, these selections stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the world’s finest. Together, they tell a compelling story of what is possible when vision, site, and skill align—wines that proudly showcase the extraordinary heights their regions can achieve on the global stage.
World-Class Canadian Wines for Canada Day – As aired on CTV – June 30, 2025
Today on CTV Morning Live (and later on CFRA News Talk 580), Sommelier Matt Steeves was presenting some of his top-rated Canadian wines from all across Canada. These are wines which sommeliers across Canada and around the world are raving about the high quality and world-class nature that these wines have, similar to some of the finest wines from more storied wine regions in the world. But nowadays you don’t need to look far in Canada to find exceptional quality wines that are both locally produced and absolutely delicious! As we prepare to celebrate Canada Day this is one of the best times to explore and enjoy Canadian wine as we’ve come a long way over the past half century and we’ve firmly secured our spot as a great wine-making nation!
wine review: Burrowing Owl Cabernet Sauvignon 2022, Okanagan Valley, BC
Burrowing Owl’s 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon is a wonderful example of the beautifully textured Cabernet Sauvignon the Okanagan Valley is capable of producing.
Celebrate International Chardonnay Day with Stunning Canadian Wines from Coast to Coast – As aired on CFRA News Talk Radio – May 22, 2025
On this special edition of Ottawa at Work with Patricia Boal on CFRA News Talk Radio, I had the pleasure of chatting with Patricia about why Chardonnay is the #1 planted white grape globally, why it’s a favourite for both winemakers and wine drinkers, and why Canada’s cool-climate Chardonnay deserves your full attention.
wine review: Checkmate 2021 Little Pawn Chardonnay
Ottawa, ON December 2024 Matt’s review: Checkmate 2021 Little Pawn Chardonnay With each vintage CheckMate further demonstrates their exceptional winemaking artistry highlighting the great potential of the impressive vineyards they work with to craft their world-class wines. While 2021 brought unprecedented challenges during the growing season, the team at CheckMate delivered the consistent high-quality standard... Continue Reading →
World-Class Canadian Wines for Canada Day as seen on CTV Morning Live
Today on CTV Morning Live (and later on CFRA News Talk 580), Sommelier Matt Steeves showcased an impressive line-up of world-class wines from all across Canada that highlight how vibrant the Canadian wine scene has become.
wine review: Mission Hill Quatrain 2018 – Okanagan Valley, BC, Canada
Mission Hill's Quatrain brings together four popular varietals from the south of the Okanagan in Osoyoos and along the Black Sage Bench to produce an Okanagan version of a Bordeaux blend but with Syrah playing the lead role.
wine review: Burrowing Owl Athene 2015 – available @LCBO Nov 24th!
Ottawa, ON November 2018 Matt's review: This beautiful Okanagan blend showcases the strength, elegance, and harmony of Burrowing Owl's premium wines. A blend of 58% Cabernet Sauvignon and 42% Syrah, from Burrowing Owl's estate vineyards on the Black Sage Bench, it's deep and concentrated with layers of dark fruits, sweet spices, and an elegant yet... Continue Reading →
