If you find that this wine tastes a lot like Cotes du Rhone – you’re absolutely right. The Syrah grape originated in the Rhone, and there is a strong resemblance here.

This is one of the best wine buys of the year.

Trapiche 09 Syrah, Mendoza, Argentina 26898 $8.95

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The Folonari winery is on a roll and expect to see lots of their wines in my 2011 guide book….coming early NOVEMBER! The 21st edition.

wine style: lively red
FOLONARI 09 Valpolicella, Veneto, Italy 828 $12.95

Pelee’s Blanc de Blanc has the invigorating quality of Riesling along with a trace of peachy Vidal flavour. Lots of pucker-power for the big thirst, the big bash, or a hot afternoon on the beach. Pelee is really good at cheapo local.

You’ll find the same low on flavour but big on refreshment quality in Colio’s Moonlight. Shades of a good Italian café wine – at an Italian price. Stick a bottle in the fridge for everyday sloshing. And it’s low alcohol to boot.

Pelee Island 09 ‘Blanc de Blanc’ Vidal/Riesling, VQA Ontario 276170 $9.95 (308585 $16.95/1500ml)

Colio 09 Lake & River ‘Moonlight White’, VQA Ontario 42100 $10.95

Cheers.

Saturday, September 18th from 4 to 7 pm.

I’m delighted to participate in Hillebrand Winery’s Artsy Event – CORKS, CANAPÉS & CANVASES – and hope you will come!

I’ll be leading two lively and interactive wine seminars at 5 pm and 6 pm.

Tickets are available for only $25 per person, exclusive of taxes. Each ticket includes wine and locally-inspired canapés prepared by Chef Frank Dodd, as well as a complimentary Govino glass, branded with the event logo.

To purchase, call 1.800.582.8412 ext. 2 or email info@hillebrand.com.

The event will be hosted by: Billy Munnelly, Canada’s most creative wine writer!
Craig McDonald, Hillebrand Winery’s new Winemaker
Chef Frank Dodd, Chef of Hillebrand Winery Restaurant

12  artists are confirmed.  All of the artists have been featured on past or present Artist Series or Artist Series Limited Edition wine labels.  They are all from Ontario and are all winners of the annual Artist Series Label Call for Art Contest.  Each piece selected to be label art had to embody the ‘Spirit of Ontario’ theme.

‘Wine is one of the few products that we buy without the opportunity to experience it. Hillebrand’s Artist Series labels really help the wine shopper by giving a sense of the feeling or mood of the wine in the bottle. A picture is worth a thousand words.’ – Munnelly, Wine Writer & Event Host

‘Since 2006 we have been showcasing artists from our own backyard on our Artist Series labels.  Whether they are past or present artists, each has developed a strong attachment to the Artist Series brand and Hillebrand as a supporter of the arts in Ontario.  They are all so pleased to be involved in an event that showcases them alongside these wines.’ – Adine Fabiani, Brand Manager, Hillebrand Winery

Hillebrand Winery and Hillebrand Winery Restaurant capture the very essence of Niagara wine country; with single barrel and single vineyard wines that reflect our local terroir, 100 Mile Tasting Menu’s sourced from nearby farmers and interactive wine experiences such as Trius Art of Red – Blending Experience.  With more than 200,000 visitors each year, Hillebrand Winery has become one of the premier destinations for visitors to one of Canada’s most beautiful regions.

wine style: rich red
LA FERME DU MONT 07 Cotes du Rhone ‘Le Ponnant’, France
171371 $17.95
I grew up drinking Cotes du Rhonme and have never stopped drinking it and encouraging others to do likewise. If you’re not yet converted this bottle should do the trick. Peppery and spicy flavours combine with great vitaltiy for a feeling that is both warmhearted and lively. Rich wine that seduces with charm rather than heft. Equally good with red or white meats. A lovely treat.

wine style: rich red
LAMMERSHOEK 07 Pinotage, South Africa
954594 $18.95
Lammershoek does for Pinotage what Henry of Pelham does for Baco. It puts a charming spin on a rustic grape variety. This combine the lush richness of a Rhone with the earthy feeling of a Portuguese red. Sexy with a light roughness. Wine to flatter any homecooked meal – as it’s more hearty than fancy.

I saw a funny thing happen at a smart downtown TO café where the all female staff wore black dresses. Customers in smart black dresses were mistaken for staff. Women entering, leaving, or headed to the washroom were flagged down for drink orders. Not all of them thought it funny. I certainly did.