Days are finally getting longer and after a tough winter, we are certainly seeing the temperatures rise. Is it time yet to sit on your patio and sip on a glass of local white wine?
In case you decide to get out your patio dining set, or maybe just a lounge chair for right now, here are my tips for a companion. Take a blanket with you. Just in case you like these so much and want to stay outside longer.
1. My personal favourite for an aperitif on the patio comes from Peninsula Ridge, the winery with the beautiful castle. Their Inox Chardonnay has been consistently delicious over the past couple of years. The good thing is, you can get it at the LCBO, no need to travel to Niagara.
2. Old Vines Chardonnay (2008), Daniel Lenko. With a long family tradition in making wine, Lenko is a small Niagara winery. This one is not available in liquor stores, barely known to the public, but the local connoisseur would applaude in agreement. A highly complex and refined Chardonnay.
3. If you are into Riesling, try 13th Street. A very nicely balanced wine. They also make a great Voignier.
4. Ontario also keeps surprising people with their nice Pinot Gris. The best I ever had was a Fielding (2006), which unfortunately is long sold out. But the 2012 comes close, so give it a try. Fielding also has a blend called Fireside White. Generally, I am not into blends, but this one is great, predominantly Riesling and just perfect for a cool spring evening. Both are available at the LCBO.
5. The other fine Pinot Gris come from Hillebrand and from Pillitteri. They are a bit heavier bodied, but pair well with appetizers. Perfect for when you have a few guests over on a Saturday night.
