Canadian Sommelier, On-Air (TV, radio) Wine & Spirits Somm, Valpolicella Wine Specialist
Ottawa, ON July 2024 Matt’s review: From the warm 2023 vintage which saw the highest growing degree days on record from April to August, Hester Creek’s Pinot Bianco was sourced from their beautiful mountain-side estate vineyards along the Golden Mile Bench. The nose is clean with vibrant stone fruit, pear, exotic fruits and a hint... Continue Reading →
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.
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.
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.
Beautifully integrated fine grained tannins highlight both the vineyard characteristics but also the winemakers touch in capturing the best expression of this Pinot through mindful winemaking practices including delicate pressing and use of large oak vessels (2100 L Foudres) to appropriately frame without masking the wine.
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 →
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 →
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 →
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
