When it comes to home-grown wine this century has been very, very good to Canada. Ontario and British Columbia have made some major strides internationally; while upstarts like Nova Scotia have proven that with forward-thinking investment everything is possible (especially sparkling wine).
But not everything is sunshine and lollipops.
The controversy over the term “Cellared in Canada” (given to those wines made from a combination of fruit grown in and outside of Canada) has some in the industry fuming.
The concern is that they are often shelved at liquor stores along with wines not blended with foreign juice which could be confusing to consumers.
If you can see past the labelling issue some of these wines are well worth a try. The Wild Horse Canyon 2007 Shiraz ($11.95 – $13.97) combines liquid from B.C., Washington and California.
Even with all that North American influence it tastes more like an Australian with a lightly sweet flow of earthy wild berries, plums and subtle spice.
The Painted Turtle Sauvignon Blanc ($9.95 – $11.99) isn’t as regionally specific but offers a fresh, juicy mix of citrus and tropical fruits that would make a good match with light creamier sauces and fresh shellfish.
Prices reflect the range across the country. Some products may not be available in all provinces.
– Peter Rockwell is the everyman’s wine writer, working in the liquor industry for more than 25 years and travelling the globe looking for something to fill his glass and put into words.
