Canadian Sommelier, On-Air (TV, radio) Wine & Spirits Somm, Valpolicella Wine Specialist
Renowned Valpolicella producer, Tommasi, launched an ultra-premium label after two decades in the making. It's called De Buris (shown as DE BVRIS on the label), and they produce one single vineyard riserva Amarone from the La Groletta vineyard in Sant'Ambrogio di Valpolicella.
This family run winery is situated minutes north of Verona in the heart of Valpolicella's Valpantena Valley. It's here where the winemaking team of Mauro (father) and Sofia (daughter) produce their impressive Brolo (wall) del Figaretto Amarone della Valpolicella DOCG Valpantena. This wine caught my attention a few years ago with its super approachable, ripe, balanced, and complex profile. Each vintage I've tasted since has impressed so when I visited Verona this winter it was first winery I visited, and as expected, it impressed.
2019 Secondo Marco Amarone della Valpolicella DOCG (barrel sample) – While winemaker Marco Speri plans to let this wine rest for another three years in barrel before bottling, it is already showing beautifully and is expected to gain further integration and complexity leading up to its release in 2027. This is a wine worthy of investment, one that will show beautifully upon release and over the next three decades. Anticipated optimal drinking window: 2027-2050. Score: 96+ points.
This is an outstanding Cru-quality wine that showcases the the pedigree of the terroir and vision of the winemaker in crafting such well integrated and elegant age-worthy wines. Highly recommend acquiring and cellaring wines from Rubinelli Vajol, as they showcase the greatness in premium Valpolicella wines. Tasted February 2024. 97+ points.
La Fabriseria Amarone della Valpolicella Classico Riserva (and the associated single vineyard Valpolicella Classico Superiore) is a fantastic example of the world-class wines being produced in Valpolicella and the potential its wines have for decades of cellaring. Highly recommend La Fabriseria vineyard wines and enjoying them over decades.
Today on CTV Morning Live, Sommelier Matt Steeves showcased some of his top recommended Scotch Whiskies and Scotch cocktails to celebrate Robbie Burns on January 25.
After tasting hundreds of wines, here's my short list of most memorable wines tasted in 2023. Put these on your must-try list for 2024!
Ottawa, ON January 2024 Matt’s review: Situated high up on Golden Mile Bench in the heart of the Okanagan Valley, Hester Creek’s vineyards, including 50+ year old vines, produce expressive wines showcasing the greatness achievable in the Okanagan. Garland 2020 is a blend of 81% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Petit Verdot, and 4% Malbec, hand harvested... Continue Reading →
Today on CTV Morning Live, CTVs Melissa Lamb and Sommelier Matt Steeves showcased some great wines and spirits for ringing in the New Year.
Today on CFRA News Talk Radio, CFRA Patricia Boal and Sommelier Matt Steeves showcased some great wines and spirits for gifting this season as well as enjoying with family and friends over the holidays. These options will suit every palate and budget, including white, red, and sparkling wines too.
Quercus Vino 