Canadian Sommelier, On-Air (TV, radio) Wine & Spirits Somm, Valpolicella Wine Specialist
Ottawa, ON November 2021 Matt's review: CheckMate Artisanal Winery produces some of the finest Chardonnay and Merlot from their Golden Mile Bench winery situated in the heart of the Okanagan Valley. CheckMate's 2016 Black Rook Merlot is an outstanding expression of ultra premium Okanagan Merlot. Sourced from their estate vineyards on the Black Sage Bench,... Continue Reading →
Ottawa, ON November 2021 Matt's review; Fresh and fragrant, this Okanagan Sauvignon Blanc shows crisp citrus, freshly squeezed lime, sweet lemon grass, and great minerality. A beautiful expression of fine Okanagan Sauvignon Blanc. Enjoy with aged cheddar, creamy herb chicken, and spicy Asian cuisine. Tasted November 2020. 90 points. Matt Steeves - http://www.quercusvino.ca Available winery... Continue Reading →
Back up the truck and stock up on this value-priced gem!
Ottawa, ON July 2021 Matt's review: Winemaker's Cut Fidelia blends 95% Sauvignon Blanc and 5% Muscat Canelli from Deadman Lake Vineyard in the heart of the Okanagan, to produce an easy to love style of sparkling wine that will shine in any setting. Fidelia 2020 shows delicious orchard and tropical fruit, floral notes, and 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.
Sommelier selected wine and spirits for Father's Day!
Ottawa, ON May 2021 Matt's review: A wonderful extra dry Rosé from the Cotes-du-Rhone, France. Crisp and textured, this wine is ideally suited to enjoy all year round with small plates, charcuterie, salads with goat cheese and tangy vinaigrette, and is outstanding when enjoyed with those dishes in the summer sun. Serve chilled and enjoy... Continue Reading →
Ottawa, ON May 2021 Matt's review: Prisoner Wine Co makes some seriously bold and delicious wines, and Unshackled Cabernet Sauvignon is guilty of exactly that! A blend of 80% Cab, 10% Petite Sirah, 5% Syrah, and 5% Merlot, sourced from several regions in California's Central and North Coasts, including Monterey, Lodi, Paso, Sonoma, and Mendocino... Continue Reading →
Ottawa, ON May 2021 Matt's review: This limited production (169 cases) Gewurztraminer from the Glen Elgin Vineyard (Niagara Peninsula VQA), shows fragrant spring blossoms, ripe stone fruit, and sweet lychee notes on the nose. Luscious and refreshing, its creamy texture and subtle spicy and fruity finish makes it a wonderful pairing with spicy Asian cuisine,... Continue Reading →
