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.
wine review: Noble Ridge “The One” 2019 traditional method sparkling wine, OK Falls, BC Canada.
Okanagan Falls continues to prove it can deliver world-class sparkling, and The One is a benchmark example: restrained, mineral-driven, and built on patience rather than flash. Elegant, focused, and beautifully aged—this is Canadian sparkling for Champagne lovers who value finesse over excess. Enjoy now and over the next 5 years. Tasted February 2026. 93+ points. Matt Steeves - http://www.quercusvino.ca
Wine review: 2024 Noble Ridge Vineyard & Winery “Vilicus” Pinot Grigio from Horse Heaven Hills
Straw-gold colour, the nose offers ripe stone fruit, orchard fruits, spring blossoms, and a hint of wildflower honey, accompanied by a subtle mineral note. On the palate, it's generous, with vibrant flavors of stone fruit, pear, and a touch of citrus zest that lingers on the finish. A delightful wine to enjoy this spring and summer. Tasted May 2025. 90 points. Matt Steeves - http://www.QuercusVino.ca
wine review: Noble Ridge Vineyard & Winery The One Grand Reserve 2017 Traditional Method Sparkling Wine from OK Falls, BC
OK Falls produces some of the best Chardonnay and Pinot in the Okanagan so naturally their traditional method sparkling wines are impressive and The One Grand Reserve 2017 is a fantastic effort from the team at Noble Ridge. Enjoy over the next 5+ years. Tasted June 2024. 94 points.
Wine review: Noble Ridge Stony Knoll Vineyard Chardonnay 2022
Ottawa, ON February 2024 Matt’s review: Situated in breathtaking Okanagan Falls, Noble Ridge Vineyard and Winery offers unparalleled views of the iconic McIntyre Bluff, which define the southern edge of the Okanagan Valley Sub-GI. The terroir of this region is truly exceptional, shaped by the remnants of the glacial era and dotted with pristine vineyards... Continue Reading →
wine review: Noble Ridge Vineyard and Winery Rosé 2022, Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, Canada
Noble Ridge's 2022 Rosé shows ripe orchard fruits, sweet stone fruit, tropical fruit and candied apple with a hint of Okanagan desert herbs. The palate is fresh and lively with a nice weight. Layers of ripe fruit persist on the long finish making this an absolute stunner for patio sipping as well as enjoying with hors d'oeuvres, salads with goat cheese and fresh strawberries, grilled salmon, and roasted chicken with cherry-thyme compote. Enjoy now and over the next two years. Tasted November 2023. 92 points. Matt Steeves - http://www.quercusvino.ca
wine review: Noble Ridge Vineyard and Winery Reserve Pinot Noir 2019 and Reserve Meritage 2020, Okanagan Falls, British Columbia, Canada
Noble Ridge Vineyard and Winery made their debut in 2003, initially producing a modest 40 cases of Pinot Noir and 500 cases of Meritage. Now, after two decades of unwavering dedication, Leslie & Jim D'Andrea, the proprietors, continue to thrive and earn numerous accolades. This year marks their 20th anniversary of crafting premium wines at their enchanting winery in Okanagan Falls.
Noble Ridge King’s Ransom Cabernet Sauvignon 2015
Noble Ridge produced King's Ransom Cabernet Sauvignon once, being the 2015 vintage. For a winery in Okanagan Falls where Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and traditional method sparking wine seem ideally suited for their terroir, what a surprise to see they deliver such a spectacular expression of Okanagan Cabernet.
