Canadian Sommelier, On-Air (TV, radio) Wine & Spirits Somm, Valpolicella Wine Specialist
In the realm of traditional method sparkling wines, few bottles can evoke a sense of place as vividly as Blomidon Estate Winery's NV Brut Réserve. Crafted amidst the dramatic landscape of Nova Scotia's Annapolis Valley, where the world's highest tides and oceanic breezes shape the vineyards, this sparkling wine showcases distinct maritime terroir at its finest.
May 2024 Matt's review: 1 Mill Road's second vintage of their single vineyard 100% Pinot Noir Rosé from the recently minted East Kelowna Slopes Sub-GI. This impressive Rosé boasts an elegant copper color, exuding sophistication even before you take your first sip. The nose reveals delightful notes of tiny wild field strawberries, cherry, Black Sage... Continue Reading →
May 2024 Ottawa, ON Matt’s review: Finding value-priced Pinot Noir these days is a reason to celebrate in itself! Pinot Noir can be some of the most expensive wines in the world, especially those from Cru vineyards throughout Burgundy, France, so it's particularly nice to discover a quality Pinot at a bargain price and that's... Continue Reading →
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.
Ilatium Morini's 2019 Amarone della Valpolicella DOCG "Campo Leon" pre-release sample tasted during Anteprima Amarone in Verona. The wine is anticipated to be released in January 2025 when the winemaker deems it ready for commercial release. Ruby red colour, the nose shows dried dark fruit, plum, fig, tobacco, and incense. Super refreshing, with cherry, tart dark fruits, black tea, salted dark chocolate, and youthful fine grained tannins persisting on the long textured finish. A complex and well structured Amarone which will pair beautifully with braised dishes, creamy risotto, and aged cheese. Enjoy 2026-2036+. Tasted February 2024. 94+ points. Matt Steeves - http://www.quercusvino.ca
Torre di Terzolan's Amarone della Valpolicella DOCG 2019 caught my attention at Anteprima Amarone this year. In a flight of 72 Amarones from 2019, Torre di Terzolan's was a star. While the 2019 vintage is anticipated to be released to market only in 2026, it was showing beautifully already and merits top accolades. This is a wine you should seek out and stock up on.
Coming to LCBO on April 13th, Staete Landt State of Grace Pinot Noir from the Rapaura & Brancott sub appellations of Marlborough, NZ. Light ruby, the nose shows cherry, plum, herbs, rose petals, earthy notes, and minerality. The palate reveals the refreshing tart fruit, fine grained tannins, and harmonious balance. A serious Pinot with its impressive structure and complexity, a fantastic expression of this top of the line State of Grace label Pinot. Enjoy over the next five years with grilled lamb or pork tenderloin. Tasted April 2024. 93 points. Matt Steeves - www.quercusvino.ca
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 →
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