The most confusing topic in wine has to be sugar in wine versus the term “dry” when describing white wine and even red-believe it or not. When I ask people what kind of wine they drink and they respond “a dry white” and then I follow up with the question of “oh really, what’s your go-to bottle?” because the “dry white” really gives me no actual clue what they like. Other times, I will get the “ I don’t like chardonnay because it’s too sweet”. Sugar and sweet versus dry and ar

After visiting a few wineries this weekend, and then attending the Somewhereness wine tasting hosted by Wine Align, I felt inspired to write about why our Ontario winemakers deserve some love and credit for the fabulous wines being produced in our own backyard. About 10 years ago, I would have not given you this advice, it seemed as though the wine industry in Ontario was trying to be everything to everyone- growing grape varietals that just didn’t thrive in our climate, and

I just had the pleasure of taking a 10-day trip to Oregon and Seattle- what a treat! The food and drinking was absolute gluttony and included much Pinot Noir and Chardonnay from the area. And while, I would love to think my opinion alone urging you to try wine from Oregon should be enough to have you running to the LCBO or liquor store to buy some, the region was recently noted as a world-class food and wine destination to visit. And, it doesn’t disappoint. So here are some h

If you are like most people, you tend to run into the LCBO (Liquor Store for all those out of Province readers) and grab your go to bottle of wine. It’s a safe bet, you know you like it, and you know what shelf it will be on. Furthermore, you have probably cast a wide net on a number of grape varieties that you “just don’t like”. Everyone is entitled to his or her preferences, but are you willing to step out of your wine comfort zone and try something new? Here are a few tips

Understanding wine tasting notes can be daunting.... I know that for most people, you just "like what you like" when it comes to wine, and don't give too much thought on what it is that you actually really like about your favourite wine. I once asked my brother to smell a glass of Chianti Classico and tell me what he smelled, and his smart-@ss remark was "I smell wine". But without really knowing those characteristics about your wine preferences, you might never get to try so

2013 Tawse Chardonnay: A Cool Climate Masterpiece If you are a Chardonnay drinker who typically reaches for a California Chard, I urge you to give this one a try, if you normally don't choose Chardonnay, you should still try this! Amazing complexity and balance. Tasting Notes: Rich and lush on the pallet, this is a medium bodied white wine, citrus and peach with notes of toasted almond, and a slight minerality. The oak is noticeable but in a tastefully restrained manor. What

1. I will always be completely honest In the nicest way possible- now who sounds like a Nonna? What does this mean? If I don’t think something is as good as it should be or lacks in some capacity, I am going to be honest about it. It may sound odd to some (most of whom are being paid copious amounts of money to grin and bare it) but; I can’t put my stamp of approval on something that I don’t truly believe in. Honesty is number one; let me be clear, it doesn’t mean I have to b

Why New Age Nonna? For as far as I can remember food and wine were the culmination of togetherness, it brings a sense of nostalgia, and a feeling of peace and belonging. There is something visceral about hosting friends and family and sharing a great meal and wine. I should be honest, I am in fact not a Nonna in the traditional sense of the word (about 25 years too young!), but if you ask my friends and family, I am an old soul who might as well be a Nonna today. I grew up w