C289-QC

Our Rosé of the Year

DELIVERY SPRING 2022

JUST IN TIME FOR ROSÉ SEASON!

LOT 2847

Giovanna Tantini Rosé Bardolino Chiaretto, DOC, 2020

CORVINA, RONDINELLA & MOLINARA

“Hello, I'm Giovanna Tantini. I started working in the vineyards left by my father in the village of Bardolino on the eastern shore of Lake Garda 20 years ago, after I quit my law career to pursue my dream of making wine. My goal is to make typical wines with a strong identity, that show character with every vintage. Every decision is made only after asking the question “Will this make a better wine?” All the vineyard work is done by hand, according to the company philosophy. The Corvina grape is typical of the Lake Garda region and needs to be cultivated with attention, passion and determination. We believe that Bardolino Chiaretto is fully deserving of a place on the finest tables in the world.”

The Bardolino Appellation produces an increasing amount of rosé – or Chiaretto. The Tantini estate comprises 11.5 hectares of vineyards. Corvina Veronese, Rondinella and Molinara, the same grape varieties used for Amarone production, are used to make Chiaretto. This lightly coloured pink has lots of delicious fruit aromas with Turkish delight, strawberries and cream and a crisp dry finish. The palate is enhanced by tangy redcurrant and lemon astringency.

This wine was awarded 90 points by Decanter and deemed one of the top Italian rosés worth seeking out. When Giovanna's rosé arrives on our shores next spring, it will be the perfect wine to sip. This is the rosé to order!

Respect the Past, Embrace the Future

Michael Lutzmann and Greg Rinehart, Opimian Co-Managing Directors

DIRECTORS’ CUT P5

JANE’S COUPS DE COEUR P7

TENUTA BORGO LA CACCIA P8

ITALY P10

Villa Giustiniani-Recanati P11

Rocca Bernarda P12

Castello di Magione P13

Sa Raja P14

PIEMONTE, ITALY P16

Cabutto P17

Noi Vignaioli Piemontesi P18

Cantina Clavesana P21

Malvirà P22

VENETO, ITALY P26

Menegolli P27

Antichello P28

Maso Maroni P31

TOP VALUE WINES P32

PEARL MORISSETTE P34

KARLO ESTATES WINERY P40

GIALDI VINI P44

CELLAR UP! P44

FRANCE P48

Vins Million Rousseau P48

Régis Descotes P51

Domaine la Combe Grande P52

Château Jouclary P54

Domaine la Voûte du Verdus P56

BORDEAUX P58

Château du Clos du Prévôt P59

Château la Freynelle P60

Château Haut Peyrat P61

COLLECTOR’S CORNER P62

This commitment from Opimian has never been more evident than in the Cellar that you are reading right now. Welcome to the official home of Opimian’s new tenth Cellar of the season. In this Cellar alone, we will introduce you to over 50 new wines, twelve new producers and even a few wine regions that have never before been offered by Opimian, or anybody else in Canada.

We have highlighted regions of Italy that you have come to know and love, as well as brand new wines from Umbria, Lombardia, Sardegna, Lake Garda, and Collio. France is well represented with wines that you may not have seen before but caught our eye (and palate). A well-kept global secret is that Swiss wines are excellent. Few people know that because most are consumed locally and never reach the shores of North America. We've changed that! What excites us the most is bringing back Canadian wines to our Canadian Members. Enjoy learning about, and drinking, these exceptional wines from Niagara and the up-and-coming region of Prince Edward County.

You'll notice that we're making a pretty big deal about one particular wine. The rosé on the page 2-3 spread is worth the commotion. Giovanna Tantini has taken the Bardolino region near Lake Garda by storm! Her 2018 Bardonino Chiaretto is one of the best rosés in the world. You don't have to take our word for it. This wine is winning international awards wherever it goes. Thanks to Michael Palij MW, Opimian is the only place you can get your hands on it in Canada.

Not to be outdone, new Opimian producer Malvirà represents Piemonte with equal vigor. The Damonte family has a singular passion for expressing the terroir of Roero, a small DOCG in northwestern Italy. Their rich, remarkable reds will delight your palate, and the hand-painted magnums bottles are a feast for the eyes.

So join us in celebrating a year of rebirth at Opimian. It is a joy and a privilege to preserve the relationships and wines that make Opimian great and to bring new and exciting partners into the family.

Here's to the joy of wine!

Greg & Michael

GREG’S PICKS

TERRA ROERO ARNEIS, DOCG, 2020, LOT 2850, P21

KARLO ESTATES ESTATE PINOT NOIR, VQA PRINCE EDWARD COUNTY, 2018 PART OF THE KARLO ESTATES MIXED CASE, LOT 2904, P41

GREG & MICHAEL’S PICKS FOR THIS CELLAR OFFERING

PEARL MORISSETTE NIAGARA VINEYARDS PRIMESAUTIER, VQA FOUR MILE CREEK, 2020, PART OF THE PEARL MORISSETTE NIAGARA VINEYARDS CASE, LOT 2898, P37

MICHAEL’S PICKS

LE RIVAL, AOC LUSSAC-SAINTÉMILION, 2015, LOT 2928, P62

CABUTTO TENUTA LA VOLTA BAROLO, DOCG, 2017, LOT 2848, P17

MALVIRÀ ROERO, DOCG, RISERVA VIGNA TRINITÀ, 2016 (HAND PAINTED MAGNUM), LOT 2877, P23

MASTER PIECE

Oh Canada!

Jane Masters MW is Opimian’s Master of Wine

It has been thirty years since Inniskillin was awarded the Grand Prix d’Honneur at Vinexpo in Bordeaux for its 1989 Vidal Icewine from Niagara. Over three decades since that award, Canadian wine production has grown and its international reputation expanded beyond Icewine.

It is difficult to quantify how much the Canadian wine industry has grown, as no consistent data is published and statistics are complicated by the fact that less than half the wine commonly referred to as Canadian wine is made from grapes grown in Canada. These are the international domestic blends (IDBs) produced from bulk wines imported from countries such as Australia, Chile and South Africa blended with Canadian wine (at times as little as 10%).

True Canadian wine is made from 100% grapes grown in Canada with the Vintners Quality Alliance (VQA), a guarantee of provenance. It is an exciting time for these wines and I am fortunate to have been able to follow progress over the years, taking advantage during Opimian trips to Canada for winery visits in Ontario and British Columbia. Together these two provinces represent over 95% of certified Canadian wine production and both have seen increases in vineyard acreage and the number of licensed wineries. Similar trends are seen in Quebec and Nova Scotia.

Ontario has three principal regional Appellations and was the first to establish the Vintners Quality Alliance. A wide range of grape varieties are planted on diverse soils, often boasting a high concentration of limestone. Winter is hard and long in Ontario. Were it not for the tempering effect of Lakes Ontario, Erie and

Huron, the cultivation of Vitis vinifera would be near impossible. As it is, after harvest, each vine must be protected from the cold as temperatures below -20˚C kill this European vine (Native American Labrusca and hybrid varieties are more resistant but generally lower in potential quality). This is done by “hilling” up, whereby soil mounds, which act as insulation, are built up around the base of the vines. The long winter means that the growing season is shorter than most other viticultural areas. Warm summer temperatures and sunshine allow vines to make up for a late start, but late spring or early autumn frosts can lead to quite a bit of variation between the years reflected in wines produced.

The largest region, the Niagara Peninsula, represents approximately 90% of Ontario’s production, followed by Lake Erie North Shore and the most recently recognized VQA Prince Edward County. Niagara Peninsula is a strip of land between Lake Ontario and the ridge that is the Niagara Escarpment, which rises up to 100 metres. Westerly breezes from the lake warm the air in winter and create convection currents as they hit the escarpment, preventing freezing. As one would suppose, terroir, which includes site location, plays a huge role and Niagara Peninsula is made up of two regional Appellations: Niagara Escarpment and Niagara-on-the Lake, with a further ten sub Appellations each with its own unique geographical conditions. Pearl Morissette winery, located in the Creek Shores Appellation, also has vineyards in the Twenty Mile Bench VQA. French

CHÂTEAU DU MOULIN NEUF, AOC MÉDOC, 2018 , LOT 2929, WEB EXCLUSIVE

JANE’S COUPS DE COEUR

EVERYDAY DRINKING

DOMAINE LA VOÛTE DU VERDUS, CUVÉE LE GRAND SAUT, AOP LANGUEDOC, 2018, LOT 2922, WEB EXCLUSIVE

NEW – BORGO LA CACCIA NERONE CABERNET, DOC GARDA, 2019, LOT 2854, WEB EXCLUSIVE

Canadian François Morissette makes wines from organically grown grapes with minimal intervention, no fining or filtration, little use of sulphur and matures them in old oak, giving many of his wines a savoury edge. The impact of vintage conditions on style can be marked with the 2018 Dix-Neuvième Chardonnay, a whole 1.5% lower in alcohol at 12% than previous vintages at 13.5%.

The Prince Edward County Appellation on the north shore of Lake Ontario is Ontario’s most northern Appellation with vineyards on stony soils over limestone bedrock. In 2000, the region had no commercial wineries; today it is home to 29. One such winery is Karlo Estate at Hillier, set up by Sherry Karlo and her late husband Richard. Wines are made by Derek Barnett, previously at Lailey in Niagara and whom I met there back in 2014. Karlo Estate produces a broad range of 25 wines including some fortified wines. My particular favourites of those recently tasted are the 2018 Pinot Noir, Quintus 2018, a blend of five Bordeaux varietals, the white Three Witches 2018 made up of Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and Gewurztraminer, and Bubble – a sparkling wine made from Sauvignon and Semillon. Sherry Karlo is a diehard vegan, and all the wines are suitable for vegans, down to the vegetable inks used on wine labels and the glue used to stick them onto the bottles. But you certainly don’t have to be vegan to enjoy Karlo Estate's offerings!

British Columbia is more diverse than Ontario and has its own set of difficulties to overcome. In particular the Okanagan Valley

CELLARING POTENTIAL

couldn’t be more different than conditions in Ontario. The south of the valley is arid desert due to the Coastal Mountain range to the west that acts as a rain shield. I was horrified to learn on a visit that there are rattlesnake nests in the vineyards. Lakes once again play a role with the glacial Okanagan Lake acting as a warming influence in winter to vineyards planted close by.

Climate change, drought, water restrictions and wildfires are a reality as witnessed by particularly high temperatures recorded Western Canada this year. Yet British Columbia has seen a fivefold increase in its wineries from about 60 in 2000 to around 300 now, and there are some impressive wines.

Canadian winemakers, like winemakers all around the world, have to contend with the issues that Mother Nature throws at them, but here, these issues are more extreme than in many other regions. There are also man-made issues. Legislation, taxes and restrictions on selling of wines across provinces are barriers to getting wines to end consumers and a report published by VQA Ontario and Deloitte in 2020 found that 36% of small wineries in Ontario were not profitable. Canadian winemakers are on a learning curve, requiring not only resilience but ingenuity, determination and pioneering spirit.

PEARL MORISSETTE NIAGARA VINEYARDS PRIMESAUTIER,

LOMBARDY

NEW PRODUCER

Tenuta Borgo la Caccia

PROVINCE OF BRESCIA

Borgo la Caccia winery is in Lombardy in the central-north of Italy. It is located at Pozzolengo, with 30 hectares of vineyards at the southern end of Lake Garda. Garda is the largest lake in Italy known for its crystal clear water and its cooling influence on vineyards. Wines are made under the direction of Stefano Chioccioli (Opimian works with Stefano for wines from his estate in Tuscany and other regions). Lake Garda gives its name to DOC Garda, but around its shores are a number of other DOCs including Lugana and Bardolino (in the Veneto) with Valpolicella just a hop, skip and a jump away to the east.

$ 31.00 $ 186.00

White peaches, lemon and passion fruit aromas combine in this fragrant wine. On the palate it is supple and smooth initially followed by a persistent tangy, zesty acidity. Produced from Trebbiano di Lugana grapes harvested by hand at the end of October. Vineyards are at 150-200 metres on fluvial terroir with gravel and clay.

2853 BORGO LA CACCIA CARMENOIRE, IGT ALTO MINCIO, 2018

A concentrated wine brimming with dark fruits made from Carmènere. Black cherry aromas lead to a supple round palate with more dark fruits, spices and a touch of smoke. It has nice mid-palate weight and is well balanced. Nowadays, we think of Carmènere as being from Chile; however, it has been widely planted in Italy for years. Grown at 150-200 metres, the terroir south of Lake Garda has produced a great result.

New Products from Italy

New producers Villa Giustiniani-Recanati, Rocca Bernarda, Castello di Magione and Sa Raja introduce their wines to Opimian.

VILLA GIUSTINIANI-RECANATI

The world’s thirst for Prosecco seems insatiable. Hence, the production area for DOC Prosecco has been extended, with the bulk of production on low-lying plains. Villa Giustiniani-Recanati is a single estate at Spresiano. Its 20-hectare vineyards are in the Montello hills in the heart of the Colli Asolani DOCG, situated on a hillside. These are on iron-rich red soils and enjoy a southwestern exposure to produce a more concentrated and mineral style. 2855

VILLA GIUSTINIANI, PROSECCO SUPERIORE EXTRA DRY, ASOLO PROSECCO DOCG Glera

Intense ripe fruit aromas with pears and other white fruits lead to similar flavours on the palate. It has nice weight with a touch of residual sweetness but overall dry style.

2021-2022, M8 D9

Pears, white fruit 6°C

Supple, fresh fruit, [SD] 11.5%

Parma ham and Fontina cheese

Pale in colour, it has appealing strawberryleaf aromas. Pinot Nero confers not only colour but a more vinous serious style with good depth and a crisp acidity.

2021-2022, M8 D9

leaf

Vinous, crisp acidity, [D] 11.5%

chicken korma

VILLA GIUSTINIANI PROSECCO CASE

28.00 $ 168.00

DRY &

BRUT ROSÉ

2859

ROCCA BERNARDA REFOSCO DAL PEDUNCOLO ROSSO, DOC FRIULI COLLI ORIENTALI, 2018

Refosco dal Peduncolo Rosso

$ 28.00 $ 168.00

The 2018 Refosco dal Peduncolo Rosso has sweet cooked-fruit aromas with a savoury edge. It is light on the palate with red fruits and herbs leading to a bitter finish. The grape variety, named after its red-coloured stalk, is planted mainly in this northeastern corner of Italy.

2021-2022, M8 D9

Sweet cooked fruits, candy floss 18°C

Herbs, savoury notes 13%

Lasagna with porcini

2860 ROCCA BERNARDA PIGNOLO, DOC FRIULI COLLI ORIENTALI, 2016

Pignolo

$ 51.00 $ 306.00

At the turn of the millennium, just 20 hectares in the whole of Italy were planted to grow Pignolo grapes. It is a difficult grape to cultivate, producing low and uneven yields. It has seen something of a renaissance in recent years. The 2016 has floral aromas with rose, raspberry and vanilla pod all in the mix. It is medium-bodied, with a grainy texture, and lingering elegant finish. It was matured in French oak barrels for 18 months.

2021-2028, M6 D8

rose, raspberry, vanilla pod 18°C

fruits 13%

ROCCA

Friuli, in the northeast of Italy, is bordered by the Veneto to the west and Slovenia to the east. The Colli Orientali hills are home to some of Friuli’s best vineyards on complex stratified mineral-rich soils resulting from millions of years of tectonic and geomorphic activity. Rocca Bernarda estate has been producing wines since 1559 and is one of the oldest in Friuli. Its 38.5 hectares of terraced vineyards sit on a mixture of sandstone and marl soils formed over 40 million years ago. The Julian Alps protect the vines from cold winds.

CASTELLO DI MAGIONE

The Umbria region in central Italy lies between Florence and Rome. The only region in Italy not to have any coastline, it is made up of a series of rolling hills and hilltop villages. The Castello at Magione was a hostel for pilgrims in the 12th century. Its vineyards are in the hills around Lake Trasimeno.

IGT

2019 Sangiovese $ 25.00 $ 150.00

Castello di Magione Sangiovese has roasted hazelnut aromas with nice cherry fruits in the background. It is a supple, easy-drinking red with fresh and bitter red fruits and is medium-bodied.

Merlot, Sangiovese, Pinot Nero

29.00 $ 174.00

A light- to medium-bodied wine with appealing red cherry and sweet tobacco aromas. Produced from an unusual blend of 65% Merlot, 20% Sangiovese and 15% Pinot Noir. Sangiovese was grown in the nearby Torgiano area with Pinot Noir and Merlot grown on the hills overlooking Lake Trasimeno.

CASTELLO DI MAGIONE NERO CAVALIERI, PINOT NERO, IGT UMBRIA, 2017

Perfect for drinking – it exudes a mellow bouquet with woody fruits, liquorice root and cola. It is medium-bodied with a grainy texture and some nice bitter chocolate flavours on the finish. Pinot Noir was grown at 300 metres with a southeastern exposure. The wine was transferred to French oak barrels for malolactic fermentation and matured a further six months.

2883 SA RAJA CASE

$ 40.00 $ 240.00

SA RAJA Sardegna

The Italian island of Sardinia lies in the Mediterranean Sea, 150 miles from mainland Italy and directly south of Corsica. The majority of Sardinian vineyards are on the western side of the island with the exception of Vermentino, which is grown in the northeastern corner. Sa Raja is a new project founded in 2019 with wines made by Federico Curtaz.

SA RAJA VERMENTINO DI SARDEGNA, DOC, 2020

Vermentino

The Vermentino is cultivated in the northeast of Sardinia in the region of Gallura, a region of wide gentle hills with this vineyard planted 10 years ago. A wine with lots of fruity aromas, melons and pears. It is dry with a refreshingly crisp acidity and nice white fruit flavours.

SA RAJA CANNONAU DI SARDEGNA, DOC, 2020 Cannonau

Sa Raja Cannonau vineyards are in the northwest of the island in Romagnia, which means “place of gold” in local Sardinian language. The 2020 has ripe jammy fruit aromas with cooked raspberries and sponge cake. It is smooth with dark fruit flavours and is rich and medium-full bodied with a supple finish and fresh acidity. Cannonau is the local name for Garnacha, which was probably introduced to the island under Spanish rule. This wine compares in style to a Priorato. Members who enjoy Château Canet’s La Chapelle should also enjoy this wine.

THREE BOTTLES EACH VERMENTINO & CANNONAU

FOCUS ON Cabutto Barolo | Tradition Over Dogma

by Michael Palij MW

Barolo is a wine that has perhaps endured more injurious innovation than any other; its aesthetic pendulum swings desperately from rotary fermenters through new French oak to botte and back again.

In the 1990s, ‘tradition’ was a dirty word in Piemonte. Producers used to chainsaw their parents’ large oak barrels and plant flowers in them to signal their Bolshevik modernism. Styles vacillated wildly. Families split. Critics called foul and 100 points in the same breath.

Who in their right mind would drink effete, garnet wines redolent of hay, wild strawberries and liquorice? No one, it seems, apart from Osvaldo and Bruno Cabutto, the brothers behind what must count as the most exciting viticultural discovery since Pompei. Theirs is a cellar devoid of fashion yet brimming with more than a century of history ever since the founder, Domenico Cabutto, purchased the cellar and 20 hectares of the most prestigious vineyards in the DOCG directly from the Marquis Gastone di Mirafiori, nephew of the King of Italy, Vittorio Emanuele II.

Authenticity is in this cellar’s DNA and each activity is driven by a single aim: to meticulously vinify grapes from a collection of carefully studied vineyards that, together,

combine to make something unique: Cabutto Barolo. There is only one Cabutto Barolo. It’s a reflection of grape, vineyard, lengthy maceration and even longer ageing in large old oak allied to the deep understanding of the precise characteristics of each vineyard. Imagine having 100 years to get to know your garden.

Nothing at Cabutto shouts a desire to either embrace fashion or maintain the status quo. This is not feel-good wine for those needing simple answers to complex questions. It’s a synthesis of endless technical fettling underpinned by a profound understanding of what constitutes this family’s ambition. Tradition here is about duty and obligation rather than a set of formulae handed down through intransigent generations.

The colour is unapologetic pale garnet. The nose is haunting, complex and enveloping, with dried roses and violets, raspberries and wild strawberries, blackberry jam, marmalade and nutmeg, black pepper, liquorice, tobacco, leather and smoke. In the mouth it is distinctly

READ MORE OF MICHAEL'S ARTICLE ONLINE ON OUR BLOG.

tannic with a vein of dusty truculence alongside the velvety fruit. It’s complete, unapologetic, aloof and yet welcoming. It needs to be partnered with Fassone beef, roasts, well-hung game, and hard, well-ripened cheeses. Open it when you need the wine to play second fiddle to food and to friendship and be no less diminished by that role.

PIEMONTE

From Nebbiolo to Cortese

Piemonte in the northwest of Italy produces some of the world’s finest and most sought-after wines. It is a hilly region with the Alps bordering to the north and west ( piedmont or piemonte means “foot of the mountain” in Italian). The region is also a gastronomic paradise; the Slow Food movement, now a global organisation dedicated to local food cultures, was born in the heart of the region in Bra, and in nearby Alba the streets reek of white truffles in the late autumn and winter months.

CABUTTO

Just five percent of Piemonte vineyards are flat with vines planted in plots on slopes pointing in every possible direction and altitude. Climate conditions are harsher than Tuscany with hot summers, misty autumns and cold foggy winters. The region is dissected by the sinewy Tanaro River. The Langhe hills on the right bank of the Tanaro, south of Alba, are home to Piemonte’s most famous Barolo and Barbaresco vineyards and also produces other varietal wines on clay marl soils. On the left bank, the Roero hills northwest of Alba grow fine Nebbiolo on more sandy soils. The key to producing good wines is matching grape variety to location and conditions: Nebbiolo, a late-ripening variety, needs the warmest sunniest spots.

2848 CABUTTO TENUTA LA VOLTA BAROLO, DOCG, 2017

Nebbiolo $ 75.00 $ 450.00

Tenuta La Volta has 20 hectares of vineyards in the Barolo region on a ridge that runs from La Morra to Novello with vines perched on a variety of hillsides and expositions. Farmed by Osvaldo and Bruno Cabutto, the estate was founded by their grandfather in 1920. The 2017 has aromas of old wood, bitter cherry, marzipan with some wet earth. More raisined fruit characters show on the palate, a reflection of the dry summer which saw four months with virtually no rain (irrigation is not permitted). It has a grainy texture with some chewiness on the finish and was aged for three years in large Slavonian oak casks.

Raisins and dried fruits 14%

Risotto with porcini

A light-bodied wine with cherry and herbal aromas and red fruit flavours. Dolcetto grapes were grown in the Langhe hills on clay marl soils.

Smoke, red cherries and tar aromas precede a rich supple palate. This is a wine with structure: it remains youthful with good potential for aging. Flavours of bitter cherries and chocolate are enhanced by its mellow tannins. It is smooth with a slight graininess.

OUR NEWEST WINE COOPERATIVE. FROM THE ROLLING HILLS OF PIEMONTE TO YOUR GLASS.

2867

VIGNAIOLI PIEMONTESI

Deep in colour, with black cherries and other dark fruit aromas, this is a concentrated wine with some potential for aging. It is supple and round with good mid palate. A touch of smoke complements dark fruit flavours on the palate and good acidity gives balance. Part-aged in large oak casks, part in French oak barrels.

Considered Piemonte’s king of grapes, in particular in the Langhe hills, Nebbiolo is ethereal in nature and often difficult to describe. Translucent ruby in colour, this wine has an overall savoury nose with undergrowth and woodlands over a berry fruit and orange peel background. This is a medium-bodied wine with a relatively light mid palate. The acidity gives structure with persistent red berry flavours.

A medium-bodied, structured Dolcetto with mineral wet-slate aromas, fresh grass and marzipan. More fruits emerge on the palate with red apples and cherry.

pork chops

2871 NOI VIGNAIOLI PIEMONTESI CORTESE, DOC PIEMONTE, 2020

2870 NOI VIGNAIOLI PIEMONTESI BARBARESCO, DOCG, 2018

Subtle white peach and citrus aromas give lots of appeal with a refreshingly crisp acidity. 2021-2022, M8 D9 White

Dried floral notes, herbs, spice, woodlands, and red fruits create an elegant bouquet. It is supple with more spice, pot-pourri and red berry flavours.

2021-2025, M6 D8

Woodlands, dried flowers, red fruits, spices 18°C

Berry fruits, pot-pourri 14.5%

Braised lamb with dried fruit

CANTINA CLAVESANA

Cantina Clavesana cooperative is in the Langhe hills at Madonna della Neve. It has 200 growers with 500 hectares of vineyards situated on both sides of the Tanaro River.

The 2016 has aromas of cola, old oak, smoke and creosote. Some red fruits come out on the palate to complement earthy woodland flavours. It is relatively light in structure with a sour acidity on the finish and was matured for 24 months in large Slavonian oak vats and small barrels.

Arneis is the local white grape associated with Roero on the left bank of the Tanaro River. The 2020 has lemony citrus aromas with apples and pears on the palate. It is light in body, smooth with a crisp finish.

Aromas of fresh lime, fennel and herbs lead to peach and passion fruit flavours on the palate. This is a really flavoursome glass of fizz with nice depth and good intensity. Produced from Chardonnay and Pinot Noir according to the traditional method with a second fermentation in bottle, it has a sour apple and fresh lime finish.

MALVIRÀ

Province of Cuneo

The Roero hills, northwest of the town on Alba, are on the left bank of the Tanaro River. This land was once covered by sea leading to a high proportion of sand in the soils, and marine fossils are frequently found. The wine region is known for its whites and increasingly for the quality of its Nebbiolo. Malvirà, a 42-hectare estate at Canale, in the north of the Roero DOCG, is owned and run by the Damonte family. The estate has been organically certified since 2017.

Grappa is Italy’s national spirit produced in regions around Italy from local grapes. It is crystal clear with fruity aromas. Produced from the Brachetto skins used to produce Birbet (see Lot 2874), it has a sweet impression on the palate with blueberry and parma violet flavours. After pressing, the grape skins – known as pomace – were transported in airtight containers to the local Fratelli Marolo distillery some 10 kilometres away.

A sweet sparking red with intense floral and fruit flavours: it may not be to everyone’s taste, but I love it and am pretty sure it could be addictive. It is brimming with berry fruits, redcurrants and cherries with rose and a long fresh finish. The aromatic Brachetto Lungo del Roero grape is very different to the more widespread Brachetto d’Acqui and has only recently been recognized by the Italian authorities. A specialty to Roero – each bunch of grapes can reach 35-40 centimetres in length. Low in alcohol at around 6.5%.

This is a youthful Barbera, brimming with ripe dark fruit aromas of damsons, plums and raspberries. On the palate it is supple and smooth leading to a firm sour fruit acidity and long bitter cherry finish. It should continue to mature nicely. Roberto Damonte’s secret for making this wine was to use 8-10% of overripe Barbera grapes. It was matured 20 months in oak.

Trinità is a single vineyard close to Canale and is where the Malvirà winery is located. The original plot belonging to maternal grandfather Bartolomeo has been added to and now accounts for 17 hectares. Amphitheatre in shape, it sits at between 210-320 metres on soils with layers of sand and clay. The vineyard is named after the small chapel that sits amidst the vines and is consecrated to the Holy Trinity. The 2016 Vigna Trinità Riserva has restrained youthful aromas with red berries, cherry, menthol, vanilla, peony and pine. Drinking nicely now, it is well balanced and will continue to mature. Vines are organically farmed on sandy soils and face south and east.

Two Brothers, One Passion

Malvirà

Azienda Agricola Malvirà was established in 1950 by Giuseppe Damonte, a man with a passion for farming and wine. To the Damontes, Roero is home: the last name was already in use in the 1300s in the region.

The Roero DOCG, in the hills of Piedmont, is known for its Nebbiolo, producing oak aged, bold reds. The area’s winemakers understood early on that the Nebbiolo produced here had distinct aromatic characteristics than those of the neighbouring Langhe.

Giuseppe’s intent was to bottle the soul of the land he loved. Malvirà, named so after the old 19th century headquarters of the winery, refers to the exposure of the courtyard, which faces north instead of the traditional south-facing courtyard found in rural tradition (translated literally, Malvirà means “badly turned”). Giuseppe’s sons, Massimo and Roberto, inherited the winery from their father, and with it a winemaking philosophy that puts the Roero region at its core: Malvirà creates expressive and refined wines, with the family's passion obvious in every glass.

Today, the third generation carries on the family tradition using the experience of their fathers and grandfather. Roberto is now the self-appointed “old man” of the family, having been making wine since 1977. His son Giacomo became an oenologist in 2012 and his nephew Pietro graduated just a few months ago. Together,

the growing family of winemakers aim to produce wines that reflect the Roero DOCG in its purest and noblest form.

Different vineyard exposures and peculiarities of the soil allow them to produce wines with a well-defined personality. The Nebbiolos produced in the Roero DOCG show a great harmony with intense aromas yet softer and sweeter tannins than those of Barolo or Barbaresco, while maintaining the same excellent aging potential.

Family tradition, experience and deep respect for the land are the guiding principles at Malvirà. Roberto explains: “I think that the less you intervene in the transformation processes, the more you can get in terms of complexity and evolution potential of the wines in the bottle. In the cellar, we just shepherd the natural processes by controlling the temperatures and the times and conditions of the contact with the pomace and the lees. With this method, excellent wines can be obtained by avoiding the use of most chemicals. The health of the grapes, all hand-picked, and the hygiene in the cellar allow us to obtain exceptional products with minimal intervention. “

On top of being expert winemakers, the Damontes have been running Villa Tiboldi since 2003. The Villa is a resort with rooms and a restaurant. Roberto’s approach in the restaurant is similar to his approach to wine: starting from the land and personally following the entire process, all the way up to the table. “We always wanted to play all these roles in the vineyard, cellar, and in hospitality, in order to make people better understand what we believe wine is. Commitment and labour in the vineyard, care in the cellar and freshness of the products on the market are key elements to what we do, and even more so at the table where a serving temperature or a wrong glass can compromise the result of years of hard work.”

An elegant mature wine with smoke, woodlands and incense laid over a red fruit and rose background. It is supple with rich mid-palate fruit, lingering cherry menthol flavours and some grip.

Perfectly mature for drinking now and over the coming years, it has an intense bouquet with pot pourri, spices, woodlands and spruce. The 6.5-hectare Renesio vineyard, north of Canale, has vines facing south and east on calcareous clay soils: this is where Malvirà’s oldest Nebbiolo vines are planted. On the palate, warm dark fruits and a grippy tannic structure emerge with incense and bitter fruits on the finish. Produced from a grape selection from the single vineyard Renesio, fermentation lasted six weeks with the wine then matured for 30 months in 450-litre French oak casks.

VENETO

Generations of Italian Know-how

The Veneto region in northeast Italy stretches from Lake Garda eastwards to cover DOCs such as Bardolino, Valpolicella and Soave. Red wines are generally light in style and low in tannins, matching perfectly with light meat dishes. The grand exception is Amarone, made from grapes left to dry and concentrate before fermentation, producing high-alcohol wines rich in flavour and complexity.

MENEGOLLI

Based in the highly regarded Valpantena region to the east of the original Classico area, Menegolli is a family estate. Luigi, now in his 80s, works with his son Dario , the latter representing the fifth generation.

MENEGOLLI VALLE DEGLI DEI AMARONE DELLA VALPOLICELLA, DOCG, 2015 (WOOD CASE) Corvina, Corvinone, Rondinella

Woody and vanilla aromas characterize the bouquet with fresh dark fruits, raisins, treacle and raspberry. It is smooth on the palate with dark fruit and some raisin. Rich and elegant, it already has lots of appeal.

VALLE DEGLI DEI VALPOLICELLA, DOC, 2016

Corvinone, Rondinella

A succulent wine with aging potential. On the nose, dark fruit, musk, floral and graphite notes are all present. The mid palate is complemented by a juicy acidity with sour fruit flavours and lots of concentration.

ANTICHELLO

Produced by brothers Giancarlo and Luciano Begnoni at their Santa Sofia winery in Pedemonte in the heart of the Valpolicella Classico Region, Antichello wines are modern in style with oaky flavours.

2886

Corvina, Corvinone, Rondinella, Molinara

$ 76.00 $ 456.00

Mellow pâtisserie aromas of vanilla and cooked red fruits are complemented by a savoury edge and dusty oak. A lighter style than many Amarone, it is supple with nice mid palate and long bitter cherry and menthol flavours. 70% Corvina and Corvinone, 25% Rondinella and 5% Molinara grapes from vineyards in the hills around Fumane were dried for three months. After a long slow fermentation, it was matured in Slavonian oak barrels for 24 months.

2887

VALPOLICELLA RIPASSO, DOC SUPERIORE, 2018

Corvina, Rondinella, Corvinone

$ 40.00 $ 240.00

Sweet ripe fruits, strawberries, red cherries, wood with a touch of rose petal create a mellow and intense bouquet. This is a smooth wine with good mid-palate fruit. It is medium-bodied with red and bitter cherry flavours which persist in the mouth. Produced from a blend of 70% Corvina, 20% Rondinella and 10% Corvinone. After an initial fermentation, the wine was fermented again on Amarone skins for five days creating Ripasso.

and medium-aged cheeses

Red fruit aromas combine with savoury game and musky notes. It is medium-bodied with redcurrant flavours. 70% Corvina, 20% Rondinella,10% Corvinone.

The vineyards of Valpolicella overlap with those of Soave which continue eastwards. Made from 80% Garganega and 20% Trebbiano di Soave, this is a subtle wine with aromas of ripe white fruits, fresh apples, melons and pears. It is easy drinking with a refreshing acidity and green apple finish.

FOOD

Risotto all'Amarone

Courtesy of Menegolli, this typical Veronese dish uses "Vialone nano" rice, grown in the lower Veronese area. This rice can absorb twice is weight in liquid and makes for a very creamy risotto. The dish tastes wonderful and contains some of the most popular flavours of Venetian cuisine.

Ingredients

1 1/3 c. (320g) Vialone nano rice (Arborio rice will also work if Vialone nano is unavailable)

1 1/2 c. (350ml) Amarone della Valpolicella red wine

1/4 c. (60g) grated Monte Veronese cheese (or other ripened cow's milk cheese such as Parmesan)

1/4 c. (50g) minced shallot

• 1/4 c. (60g) butter

1/4 c. (60g) ox marrow (or 1/4 c. butter if vegetarian)

4 1/4 c. (1 l) beef broth (or vegetable broth if vegetarian) Salt to taste

SERVE WITH MENEGOLLI VALLE DEGLI DEI AMARONE DELLA VALPOLICELLA, DOCG, 2015 (WOOD CASE), LOT 2890, P27

Directions

1. In saucepan, melt 1/8 c. butter together with ox marrow.

2. Add shallot and sauté with broth ladle.

3. Add rice and toast well.

4. Slowly add 1/4 c. wine at a time, stirring mixture with wooden spoon until wine is absorbed before adding rest of wine in 1/4 c. increments.

5. Continue cooking risotto over low heat, adding broth one ladle at a time.

6. When rice is al dente, turn off heat and, using wooden spoon, stir risotto with remaining butter and grated Monte Veronese cheese.

7. Top with extra cheese and serve warm.

2884 MASO MARONI VALPOLICELLA, DOC, 2020

Corvina, Corvinone, Rondinella

$ 36.00 $ 216.00

Earthy fruits, redcurrants with a touch of leaf precede a medium-bodied palate. This has more weight mid palate than Antichello Valpolicella with nice sour red cherry, cranberry and bitter fruit flavours.

2021-2024, M8 D9

Redcurrant, green leaf 16°C

Cranberry, cherries 13%

Lightly chilled as an aperitivo

2885 MASO MARONI VALPOLICELLA RIPASSO, DOC SUPERIORE, 2019

Corvina, Corvinone, Rondinella

$ 48.00 $ 288.00

A fuller wine with aromas of dark fruits and peonies, it has a rich palate with warm sweet and cooked forest fruits, compote flavours. It is smooth with lots of flavour leading to a tangy acidity and finishing with jammy raspberry character.

2021-2026, M7 D9

fruits, peony 18°C

forest fruit compote, raspberry jam 14%

MASO MARONI Verona

Maso Maroni is a vineyard plot owned by the Bustaggi family at Maroni in Valopolicella. The terraced vineyard is on a south-facing slope at 300 metres supported by traditional dry stone walls called Marogne locally. Grapes are picked by hand into small crates then using gravity dropped into small fermentation tanks.

FRENCH WINES FROM PAUL SAPIN

A smooth Pinot with red apple and cherry flavours.

2021-2023, M8 D9

Red apple, grass 16°C Cherry 13%

Quite light for a Cabernet Sauvignon with sweet jammy flavours and a sour cherry finish.

ADD A LITTLE FRANCE & ITALY TO YOUR WEEKNIGHT DINNERS WITH THESE 12-PACKS.

Lime and gooseberry fruits, with good body and a firm lime citrus finish.

Deep bright colour, plums, spice, supple, medium-bodied, some appley fruits, tangy acidity.

FOR

Appealing fresh apple aromas with nice intensity. It is a soft, light and easy-drinking wine with a pithy finish and flavours of grapefruit and pears.

CANADA

Ontario is the largest wine producer in Canada with the Niagara Peninsula the province's largest viticultural area. Pearl Morissette was established in 2007 by French Canadian winemaker François Morissette, who trained alongside some of Burgundy’s most prized winemakers, and property developer Mel Pearl. The winery is in the Creek Shores VQA with the 15-acre Home vineyard next to the winery planted in 2010. Their 19th Street Vineyard on the Niagara escarpment consists of 50 acres in the Twenty Mile Bench VQA planted in 1999-2000. Both are farmed organically. François practices minimal-intervention winemaking with little use of sulphur and bottling without fining or filtration. As a result, there can be some variation between bottles with some of his wines cloudy and with a funky animal character.

PEARL MORISSETTE NIAGARA VINEYARDS DIX-NEUVIÈME, VQA TWENTY MILE BENCH, 2016

Chardonnay

Dried hops, hay and oatmeal aromas are complemented by a flinty edge. Quite rich on the palate with sweet fruits, it is round and smooth with a fine texture and crisp finish.

2021-2023, M8 D9

Dried flowers, oatmeal, flint 6°C

Mellow fruits, [D] 13.5%

Steamed mussels with toast points

PEARL MORISSETTE NIAGARA VINEYARDS DIX-NEUVIÈME, VQA TWENTY MILE BENCH, 2017

Chardonnay

Floral notes with dried hops and hay. It is supple and smooth on the palate with good weight and depth. It has a long tangy, lemony finish and was my favourite of the three vintages at the time of tasting.

2021-2025, M7 D9

Dried hops, hay, floral 6°C

Lemon, [D] 13.5%

Vegetable mousse terrine

2899

PEARL MORISSETTE NIAGARA VINEYARDS DIX-NEUVIÈME VERTICAL TASTING CASE

$ 69.00 $ 207.00

Chardonnay for Cuvée Dix-Neuvième is grown on the 19th Street Vineyard in Twenty Mile Bench VQA. The vineyard is set back from the lake on the middle section of the Niagara Escarpment and is protected from cold southwesterly winds. The region is known for its complex topography with deep soils. As with all François’ wines, winemaking is done with minimal intervention and fermentation occurs by indigenous yeasts. Dix-Neuvième wines are matured in old foudres and oak demi-muids for 20 months then bottled unfiltered and unfined.

PEARL MORISSETTE NIAGARA VINEYARDS DIX-NEUVIÈME, VQA TWENTY MILE BENCH, 2018

Chardonnay

Lime aromas combined with savoury earthy notes. The 2018 is lighter mid palate than the 2016 and 2017 with a lower alcohol at 12%. It is supple with a zesty lemon acidity.

2021-2025, M7 D9

Savoury, lime 6°C

Zesty lemon, [D] 12%

Sashimi

ONE BOTTLE EACH 2016, 2017 & 2018

Vibrant in colour, this wine exudes floral violets, blueberries, mulberries and peppery notes. The palate is marked by a prominent acidity, remaining supple with lots of sour berry fruit flavours. Produced from Lemberger grapes (known as Blaufränkisch in Austria, or Kekfrankos in Hungary). Grapes came from the Knizat vineyard in Niagaraon-the-Lake.

FOUR BOTTLES EACH PRIMESAUTIER, FOUGUE & RESSAC

PEARL MORISSETTE NIAGARA VINEYARDS PRIMESAUTIER, VQA FOUR MILE CREEK, 2020

Vibrant in colour, this wine exudes floral violets, blueberries, mulberries and peppery notes. The palate is marked by a prominent acidity, remaining supple with lots of sour berry fruit flavours. Produced from Lemberger grapes (known as Blaufränkisch in Austria, or Kekfrankos in Hungary). Grapes came from the Knizat vineyard in Niagara-on-the-Lake.

chicken black currant glaze

PEARL MORISSETTE NIAGARA VINEYARDS FOUGUE, VQA CREEK SHORES, 2018

Chardonnay

A smooth medium-bodied Chardonnay, it has a rich palate with flavours of passion fruit and mango and mellow aromas of lime and custard. Grapes, grown on the high-density Home Farm Vineyard in Creek Shores, were hand harvested in 2018 on September 18, 20, 21. After whole-bunch pressing, the juice was fermented in a combination of old foudres and concrete tanks. The wine remained in-tank on fine lees until it was bottled September, 9 2020, unfiltered and unfined.

PEARL MORISSETTE NIAGARA VINEYARDS RESSAC, VQA LINCOLN LAKESHORE, 2019

Cabernet Franc is planted in the Lincoln Lakeshore VQA at the Redfoot vineyard with a dominant influence of Lake Ontario. Harvested in November, grapes fermented through to mid-December. The wine was matured in old oak demi-muids for 17 months then bottled on May 20, 2021. It is supple, light to medium-bodied with gamey flavours and a bitter fruit finish.

Coast-to-Coast Canadian Wine

How does the Canadian version of 'This Land is Your Land' go? From Bonavista to Vancouver Island ... It may surprise you, but there are wine grapes growing in Newfoundland and the wine industry is expanding quickly on Vancouver Island.

Canada may be small in the grand scheme of things in terms of wine production, but it is growing. The climate with its long, cold winters and short summers has been a limiting factor. In winter when Vitis vinifera vines are dormant, very low temperatures can impact the viability of the vine, and after bud break in spring the vines are particularly sensitive to cold temperature affecting the crop. The use of hybrid varieties and adapted techniques help to overcome some of these issues. As Canadian wine production has increased, the Vintners Quality Alliance system, similar to France’s AOC, has been established in recognition of the unique terroirs and origin of wines produced and to differentiate from the still large number of wines sold that are blends of imported and domestic wines.

From coast to coast, Canadians are making wine. That means that we wine lovers can visit wineries and sample their wares without crossing an international border.

Almost without exception, you will be welcome at the farm gate or the cellar door. In many cases, be prepared for a very casual visit and, shall we say, rustic experience. The more developed wine regions, such as the Okanagan Valley in BC, are more experienced hosts. That brings us to Ontario and our two Opimian partners at the vanguard of our reintroduction of domestic wines: Pearl Morissette in the established and well-known Niagara region and Karlo Estates in the up-and-coming Prince Edward County VQA.

address | 561 Danforth Road Wellington, ON K0K 3L0 613-399-3000

website | Karloestates.com

hours | Friday & Saturday: 12 - 6 PM, Sunday through Thursday: 12 - 5 PM

PEARL MORISSETTE

Pearl Morissette is another experience altogether. It's almost as though maverick winemaker Francois Morissette doesn't want to be found. You'll find no sign other than a giant cardinal mounted to a fencepost. After a four-year absence, tastings have returned but must be reserved on their website beforehand. They are very popular so make sure to book well in advance. Better still, experience the acclaimed restaurant on the property. The Restaurant at Pearl Morissette (RPM for short) is a gem not to be missed. Dishes crafted from local produce and meat (some right on the property) are designed to specifically pair with Pearl Morissette's ethereally dry Rieslings and lush Cabernet Francs. If you're lucky enough to score a reservation, it will be a memory of a lifetime!

address | 561 3953 Jordan Road Jordan Station, ON L0R 1S0 905-562-4376

website | Pearlmorissette.com

hours | Go online for tasting schedule & booking

restaurant | Lunch & dinner: Friday, Saturday & Sunday

KARLO ESTATES

Karlo Estates, in Wellington, Ontario, is growing grapes on 400-million-year-old limestone soil. Star winemaker Derek Barnett is making gold medal wines. A visit to Karlo will begin at the tasting room in a barn dating back to 1805 (don't worryit's been renovated). Choose a flight of your favourite varietals from a wide selection. Cheese and nut snacks for pairing are also available. As with most established wineries, reservations are always appreciated so that they can better plan staffing. As is always the case with our producers, make sure you mention that you are an Opimian Member. It often results in some royal treatment.

CANADA

NEW PRODUCER

Karlo Estates Winery

PRINCE EDWARD COUNTY

Prince Edward County Designated Viticultural Area is Ontario’s most northerly appellation and, since 2007, its most recently established. On the northern shore of Lake Ontario, it is surrounded by water and the Bay of Quinte and benefits from cooling breezes during the summer months. Karlo Estates at Hillier, one of the driest areas, was set up by Sherry Karlo and her late husband. Innovation and a drive for quality have led the estate to experiment with new wine styles from a range of grapes including Vitis vinifera varieties as well as the more cold-hardy hybrids. Wines are made by Derek Barnett and Spencer Mayer using traditional methods and an artisanal approach. To reduce their carbon footprint, Karlo Estates produced the first certified vegan wine in the world including the glue on the labels and the vegetable inks to print them.

$ 62.00 $ 744.00

KARLO ESTATES TRIUMVIRATE, VQA ONTARIO, 2018

Rogan josh lamb curry 2904 KARLO

Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon

A concentrated dense wine with a firm structure, this has the potential to cellar nicely. Made from three varieties – Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon – each was harvested, fermented and matured for ten months separately before creating the final perfect blend. Grainy in texture, with some tart acidity, and coconut flavours on the finish.

2021-2026, M6 D7

Coconut, dark fruit 18°C

Dense 12%

Beef Wellington

KARLO ESTATES ESTATE PINOT NOIR, VQA PRINCE EDWARD COUNTY, 2018

Noir

Typical Pinot aromas shine through with wild strawberries and other red fruits. Pale in colour, it has intense aromas and a palate showing great poise and balance. Grapes were handpicked under perfect harvest conditions and fermented in small bins with punching down of the grape skins 3-4 times a day. It was matured for 11 months in old French oak barrels. The oak is perfectly integrated, and the wine has a long lingering finish.

2021-2025, M8 D9

Wild strawberry 18°C

Red fruits, supple 12%

Grilled salmon steaks with teriyaki sauce

KARLO ESTATES ESTATE MALBEC, VQA PRINCE EDWARD COUNTY, 2018

Malbec NEW

A light- to medium-bodied Malbec with intense spices, cooked and raisined fruit aromas with a touch of leather and tobacco. On the palate, a sour cherry character is prominent giving freshness followed by a bitter menthol and leather finish. There are only two acres of Malbec in Ontario, and these are all to be found at Karlo. It was matured for 19 months in a blend of American and French oak.

2021-2024, M8 D9

Cooked and raisined fruits, leather, spices 18°C

Sour cherry, menthol 12%

FOUR BOTTLES EACH TRIUMVIRATE, PINOT NOIR & MALBEC

Noir

Van Alstine was the first-ever fortified wine to be made in Prince Edward County, produced from Frontenac Noir. Herbal leafy aromas combine with blackberries and cumin and lead to a ripe, rich palate. Brimming with sweet fruits, blackberries and cherries, it is well balanced with a deliciously more-ish cherry menthol finish.

Pâté, nuts and dried fruit

KARLO ESTATES VAN ALSTINE WHITE, PROPERTY GROWN, PRINCE EDWARD COUNTY, 2018

Frontenac Blanc

Burnt sugar, caramelized orange, vanilla and barley sugar complete the bouquet and follow onto the palate. This is a fortified wine which is relatively light with good depth of flavour and a nice bitter almond and marzipan finish. This wine, which would put most white ports from Portugal to shame, is produced from the American-French hybrid Frontenac grape. After a vine was noticed on the Karlo estate which had mutated from Frontenac Noir to Gris and then to Frontenac White, clippings were taken, propagated and grafted onto American rootstock. A one-acre site was planted becoming the first commercial Frontenac Blanc vineyard in Ontario.

Malbec, Petit Verdot, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon

98.00 $ 588.00

A full-bodied wine made from five Bordeaux grapes, it is deep in colour with aromas of chocolate, spices, dark and bitter fruits with a touch of smoke. This is a wine which will continue to develop. Made in only four previous vintages, it is a blend of Malbec, Petit Verdot, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon.

A deliciously, immediately attractive and interesting wine with aromas of white peach, pink grapefruit and limes. It is medium-bodied with more sour citrus characters emerging on the palate. The majority of the blend is Sauvignon Blanc with 25% Sémillon and 25% Gewurztraminer. A small amount of oak was used on the Sémillon component to add complexity but is not apparent.

Easy drinking flavoursome fizz with fresh white fruits, cassis, peaches, lemon and pear flavours.

SWITZERLAND

NEW PRODUCER

Gialdi Vini

TICINO

Ticino is a small Italian-speaking region in southern Switzerland which specializes in Merlot. The grape was introduced to the region in the early twentieth century from Bordeaux becoming so popular that it now accounts for over 80% of plantings in the region. Gialdi in Mendrisio was at the forefront of producing white wine from black Merlot grapes.

BRIVIO CONTRADA BIANCO DI MERLOT, DOC TICINO, 2020

THREE BOTTLES EACH CONTRADA BIANCO DI MERLOT & TOUCHÉ MERLOT

Elegant aromas of white fruits, white peach with spring blossom are intense and lead to a smooth, round palate. This white made from black Merlot grapes is relatively low in acidity creating a sweet impression.

This wine has aromas of dark fruits, vanilla oak with dried flowers. It is supple on the palate, quite light in body and was matured for 12 months in two-year-old barrels.

Swiss Wines 101

If you know a lot about Swiss wine, you are free to turn the page. There is nothing to see here. If you are one of the 99.99% of the world's population that know little or nothing about the elegant wines of Switzerland, then read on.

The reason that there is so little known about Swiss Wines is that fully 98% of the close to one million hectolitres produced annually is consumed by the locals. In addition, most of the 2% that is exported goes to Germany. Production is almost equal parts red and white. Four grape varieties, Pinot Noir (Blauburgunder), Chasselas (Gutedel), Gamay and Merlot, represent over half of the area under vine. There are six defined wine regions. Geneva, Three Lakes, Ticino, Vaud, Valais and the aptly named 'German Speaking Switzerland'. We'll focus on Merlot from Ticino representing the wines featured in this Cellar.

Ticino DOC is geographically, linguistically, and viticulturally unique. It is isolated from other wine growing regions by mountains, its official language is Italian, and 90% of its wine production is from Merlot (both red and white wines). This obsession with Merlot has resulted in an exceptional expression of this varietal. The climate and terroir of Ticino can be separated into north and south. The northern vineyards receive less rain than the south and there is a noticeable difference between the day and night-time (diurnal) temperatures. The northern soils tend to be granite and gneiss-based and are therefore more acidic than the richer and heavier soils of the south.

While comparisons can be dangerous, they can also be helpful. The differences described above result in more Bordeaux style wines in the north, and more Burgundian style wines in the south. The Brivio wines that you will find on page 47 are from the south and, as a result, have soft and round tannins and mouthfeel.

If you find yourself at the southern tip of Switzerland, be sure to visit Gialdi Vini in Mendrisio. A highlight of your trip will be to see the cantine mendrisiensi. These are dramatic, naturally ventilated cellars with vaulted ceilings that have been carved out of the Monte Generoso mountain. They are filled with French oak barrels where the wine gently ages before bottling.

Floral lavender notes combine with blackcurrants and coffee. This is a smooth, elegant wine with more vanilla and fresh blackcurrant coming through on the palate. Similar flavours to Bordeaux yet lighter bodied.

Mellow aromas with griotte cherries and vanilla oak. This is youthful with nice mid palate weight, smooth with a fine texture and nice savoury flavours to complement the black fruits. It was matured for 13 months in French oak barrels with frequent racking.

Grilled quail with black currant sauce 2022-2028,

Aged Gouda

FRANCE

French Family Estates

These family-owned estates from different French regions showcase new regions and Member favourites.

PRODUCER FOR THIS CELLAR

PRODUCERS FOR THIS CELLAR

The Savoie is an alpine region in eastern France, to the east of Lyon and south of Lake Geneva and the border with Switzerland. The vineyards are disparately set amongst the mountains with mostly small holdings producing small amounts of wine that are sold in the ski stations. Its wines are distinctive and made from unusual grape varieties. Domaine Million Rousseau has 10 hectares of vines with an average of 45 years.

2909 MONDEUSE, AOP SAVOIE, 2020

Mondeuse $ 33.00 $

This is a light- to mediumbodied red with lots of white pepper and fresh hay aromas. It is tight with a mineral structure and red cherry flavours. Mondeuse is an ancient red grape native to this region: vigorous in nature, it requires robust pruning to ensure full ripening.

THREE BOTTLES EACH ROUSSETTE DE MONTHOUX & JONGIEUX JACQUÈRE MIXED CASE

ROUSSETTE DE MONTHOUX, AOP SAVOIE, 2019

Altesse

$ 33.00 $ 198.00

A rich-textured white, made from Altesse. It is pale yellow in colour with elderflower, white fruit and a touch of bacon fat. It is round and smooth with similar flavour on the palate and a sweet-honeyed character. It has a touch of residual sweetness fermented by indigenous yeast and left to mature on lees. Monthoux is a cru within the Roussette de Savoie Appellation. The five-hectare cru sits on a steep south-facing hillside on the western slopes of the Mont du Chat and is shared by five growers. Million Rousseau has 2 hectares in the southern part of the Cru.

JONGIEUX JACQUÈRE, AOP SAVOIE, 2020

Jacquère is the most typical white grape in Savoie, planted in the Jongieux cru, one of the sunniest of the region. White fruit aromas with a slight earthy resinous edge adding interest. It is medium-bodied with a smooth round structure and fresh lemon finish.

CELLAR UP!

WINES TO SHAPE YOUR CELLAR

This edition of Cellar Up! marks an entire cellar season of travelling around the world of wine. We've visited every major wine region near and far.

As those suggested wines have begun to arrive, your wine cellar has developed with new wine styles and grape varieties. What follows is a diversification of your palate as well as of your family and friends'. Many of us have started to reintroduce social occasions slowly and safely and thus create more opportunities to share our love and knowledge of wine.

This Cellar features a country, Switzerland, whose wines rarely find their way to Canada. Not only are they rare, but they are also really good! The return of Canadian wines also gives you the benefit of adding exceptional and exclusive domestic wines to your cellar. Cheers!

SPARKLING

Pairs with anything, celebrations, romance

VILLA GIUSTINIANI, PROSECCO ROSÉ BRUT MILLESIMATO, PROSECCO DOC, LOTS 2856 & 2857, P11

LIGHT WHITE

White/light fish, sipping on its own

VILLA PIERI PINOT GRIGIO DI SICILIA, IGT, 2020, LOT 2896, P33

FULL BODY WHITE

Poultry, mild cheeses, pork

BRIVIO CONTRADA BIANCO DI MERLOT, DOC TICINO, 2020, LOT 2905, P45

AROMATIC OR SWEET WHITE

Dessert, rich foods like foie gras

KARLO ESTATES VAN ALSTINE WHITE, PROPERTY GROWN, PRINCE EDWARD COUNTY, 2018, LOT 2900, P42

ROSÉ

Most appetizers, sipping on its own, the back deck

GIOVANNA TANTINI ROSÉ BARDOLINO CHIARETTO, DOC, 2020, LOT 2847, P3

...AND FOR YOUR BAR

Grappa

MALVIRÀ GRAPPA DI BIRBET , LOT 2872, P22

LIGHT RED

Many pastas, pork, poultry, sipping on its own

ROCCA BERNARDA REFOSCO DAL PEDUNCOLO ROSSO, DOC FRIULI COLLI ORIENTALI, 2018, LOT 2859, P12

MEDIUM RED

Versatile; many meats without heavy sauces, casseroles

CHÂTEAU JOUCLARY TRADITION, AOC

CABARDÈS, FAMILLE GIANESINI, 2020, LOT 2918, P55

FULL BODY RED

Heavy stews, many game meats, lamb, strong cheeses, even dessert

NOI VIGNAIOLI PIEMONTESI BAROLO, DOCG, 2016, LOT 2865, P18

RÉGIS DESCOTES

Coteaux du Lyonnais

The Coteaux du Lyonnais is a small Appellation on the hillsides to the west of Lyon. Evidence indicates that vines were cultivated here as far back as 45 BCE. Régis

Descotes farms the estate at Millery which has been owned by his family since 1689. 2910

RD TOUTE UNE HISTOIRE…EN ROUGES, RÉGIS DESCOTES –VIGNERON, 2019

The Coteaux du Lyonnais Appellation is based on wines produced from Gamay, so the inclusion of Syrah as the major component in this wine means it is officially classified as Vin de France. It is pretty northern Rhone in style with Syrah character and earth and cut grass showing through. On the palate, it is rich with a succulent mid palate and medium-bodied.

DOMAINE LA COMBE GRANDE Languedoc

The Tibie family have 84 hectares at Montlaur and Camplong in the north of the Corbières Appellation in western Languedoc. Starting with 12 hectares, Jacques has slowly expanded the domaine to the current 75 hectares.

A supple wine with apple and red cherry aromas. It is medium-bodied with more cooked dark fruit and jammy flavours.

Ripe dark fruits, blackberries and blueberries are intensely appealing. It is supple with a fine texture and medium body with juicy fruit flavours. Some nice tannins give weight – all nicely integrated.

Fresh grass with red and sour cherry aromas and a cranberry astringency. It is quite light mid palate with firm acidity giving weight on the finish. Château Mirausse, in the Minervois, is a 13-hectare domaine run by Raymond Julien.

CLOS BAQUIÈRE L'ALTRUISTE, AOC CORBIÈRES, FRÉDÉRIC CORPEL, ARTISAN VIGNERON, 2020

Grenache, Syrah NEW

A rich concentrated Corbières with aromas of black fruits, black cherries and fresh undergrowth. It has a fine texture with rich mid palate and oodles of crushed berry flavours.

2022-2026, M7 D8

Black fruits, black cherry, undergrowth 18°C

Crushed berries 14%

Pan-seared venison with blackberry-juniper sauce

LOVA CLOS BAQUIÈRE, AOC CORBIÈRES, 2019

Syrah, Grenache

Plums, damsons, cherries and other fresh dark fruit aromas are complemented by spicy oak and woody aromas. It is mediumbodied with sour cherry and mulberry flavours. A firm acidity develops in the mouth with supple tannins producing a structured wine with potential for cellaring.

2022-2026, M6 D8

2915 CLOS BAQUIÈRE CASE $ 35.00 $ 210.00

Clos Baquière in Corbières, at Fontiès-d'Aude, was started from nothing by Fred Corpel in 1999. Initially eight hectares, Fred now farms 20 hectares – which he is in the process of converting to organic. Over the years he built a winery, invested in equipment and storage before finally building his home. The l'Altruiste label comes in different colours - order now and be surprised!

THREE BOTTLES EACH L'ALTRUISTE & LOVA

2916

DOMAINE JOUCLARY VIOGNIER, AOC CABARDÈS, FAMILLE GIANESINI, 2020

Viognier

Quintessential Viognier, it is bright in colour with aromas of peaches and cream and pears. Rich and viscous, it is smooth with sweet fruit flavours perfectly balanced by its fresh acidity.

2917

DOMAINE JOUCLARY GRENACHE GRIS, AOC CABARDÈS, FAMILLE GIANESINI, 2020

Grenache Gris $ 32.00 $ 192.00 NEW

Aromas of fresh apples, poached pears, spice and custard are subtle yet all present. It is more linear in structure than the Viognier with a crisp acidity finishing on lemon and other citrus flavours.

CHÂTEAU JOUCLARY

Cabardès is an Appellation where Mediterranean influences meet those of the Atlantic. Château Jouclary at Conques-sur-Orbiel is in the east of the Appellation close to the border with Minervois. The estate has a total of 60 hectares of vines surrounding the château with 30 hectares planted on hillside slopes.

A medium- to full-bodied wine with dark cherry flavours. It has good structure with ripe tannins and a nice bitter fruit finish. Cabardès Appellation is the only one in France to mandate the combination of Bordeaux varietals with Mediterranean grapes for its red wines – in this case, the principal grape is Syrah at 40% with 20% each of Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Grenache.

Aromas of green leaves with dark fruits and a touch of soot, lead to a rich, smooth round palate. More ripe and cooked fruits emerge on the palate, alongside a touch of mellow vanilla. This is quite an opulent wine on the palate with a layered texture and grainy tannins. Made from the best grapes on the property, it was matured in French oak for 12 months.

Grilled veal chops with balsamic sauce

2921

2920

DOMAINE LA VOÛTE DU VERDUS

LA VALISE POURPRE, CARIGNAN NOIR, IGP SAINT GUILHEM LE DÉSERT, 2020

Carignan

Each of Domaine La Voûte du Verdus’ wines has its own personality, but there is a common thread which is the complexity and richness of all of them. The Terrasses du Larzac Appellation is one of the most prestigious in the Languedoc, and the class of the terroir in Aniane and Saint-Jean-de-Fos shines through in these wines.

Vegetable-mushroom stew

DOMAINE LA VOÛTE DU VERDUS, AOP LANGUEDOC, 2019

Carignan, Syrah, Grenache, Mourvèdre

35.00 $ 210.00

Floral notes of peonies with ripe blackberries, raspberries, dried oregano and other Provence herbs all combine on the nose. This is an expressive wine, which is succulent on the palate with fresh ripe dark fruit, herbal notes and a black liquorice finish.

Intense red and black forest fruits, blackberries and blueberries waft from the glass. It is medium-bodied and smooth with absolutely no edges. A nice bitter blackberry finish stays in the mouth. 2021-2026,

Wines from the Right Bank

Four Châteaux showcasing Bordeaux’s classic grape varieties.

CHÂTEAU DU CLOS DU PRÉVÔT FOUR BOTTLES EACH RED, WHITE & ROSÉ 2926

CHÂTEAU DU CLOS DU PRÉVÔT CASE

$ 23.00 $ 276.00

CHÂTEAU DU CLOS DU PRÉVÔT, MERLOTCABERNET SAUVIGNON, AOC BORDEAUX, FAMILLE GADRAS, 2019

Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon

Vineyards at Naujan-et-Postiac owned by the Gadras family. It has quite a dominant oaky character with incense and resin aromas which are complemented by the succulent fruits mid palate. It is mediumbodied with a bitter cherry finish.

M8 D9

CHÂTEAU DU CLOS DU PRÉVÔT, SAUVIGNON-SÉMILLON, AOC BORDEAUX, FAMILLE GADRAS, 2020

Sauvignon Blanc, Sémillon

Deliciously fragrant with fresh gooseberries, lime and pears all present. It is smooth with similar fresh fruit flavours and a crisp fruity finish. Made from 60% Sauvignon with 40% Sémillon, grapes were harvested between August 31 and September 11, 2020.

CHÂTEAU DU CLOS DU PRÉVÔT, CABERNET FRANC-MERLOT, ROSÉ, AOC BORDEAUX, FAMILLE GADRAS, 2020

Cabernet Franc, Merlot

A pale rosé predominantly Cabernet Franc, grapes were left to macerate for a short time then the juice fermented at low temperature. It is smooth, easy drinking with nice red fruit flavours.

CHÂTEAU LA FREYNELLE CHÂTEAU TESSENDEY

CHÂTEAU

Cabernet Sauvignon

$ 30.00 $ 180.00

Fresh black cherries, violets and spice give lots of appeal. This is a full-bodied wine with plummy fruits mid palate which counter the spicy, grippy finish. Produced from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon, a rarity in the Bordeaux region. The five-hectare vineyard at Daignac, owned by Véronique Barthe, was planted 20 years ago.

2925

CHÂTEAU TESSENDEY, AOC FRONSAC, FAMILLE D’ARFEUILLE, 2018

Merlot, Cabernet Franc

$ 40.00 $ 240.00

Fronsac on the right bank, west of SaintÉmilion, produces quite tannic structured wines compared to the fleshy plumpness of Saint-Émilion and Pomerol. Yet these can offer great value and mature nicely. 2018 Tessendey has floral and damson aromas complemented with coconut oak, graphite and vanilla toffee. It is full boded with good mid palate and dark fruit flavours and grippy tannins on the finish. It will benefit from another couple of years before drinking.

Gorgonzola-stuffed Wagyu burgers crispy onions

CHÂTEAU HAUT PEYRAT PRÉLUDE, AOC BORDEAUX SUPÉRIEUR, ISABELLE & DIDIER GIL, 2016

Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon

Medium to full bodied, it has earthy black fruit aromas with concentrated black cherry flavour and a fine powdery texture. Not quite at its peak, it should continue to develop. Produced from a blend of 70% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Franc and 15% Cabernet Sauvignon.

CHÂTEAU HAUT PEYRAT, AOC CADILLAC CÔTES DE BORDEAUX, ISABELLE & DIDIER GIL, 2018 Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon

A savoury wine with soot, herbs and a touch of leather. It is medium to full bodied with a grainy texture and great structure made from a blend of 50% Merlot with 25% each of Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. Black cherries emerge on the palate with liquorice and treacle flavours. Château Haut-Peyrat is at Cambes in Cadillac-Cotes de Bordeaux Appellation.

THREE BOTTLES EACH CHÂTEAU HAUT

PEYRAT PRÉLUDE & CHÂTEAU HAUT PEYRAT

From the exceptional 2015 vintage, this is drinking nicely now and has plenty of potential for cellaring. Mellow ripe fruit aromas with mulberries and vanilla. It is supple with red fruits, vanilla and toasty flavours. Medium in body with some grip on the finish. The vineyard is on the archaeological site of Villa Lucciacus where vines were cultivated by the Romans. The owners of Vintex are the owners of that beautiful plot of 60-years-old vines and the wines are made by Stephan Von Neipperg, the owner of famed Saint-Emilion First Growth Châteaux Canon-laGaffelière and La Mondotte. According to Stephan, the soils are similar to the Premier Grands Crus Classes soils in Saint-Émilion, and within the property he identified two exceptional plots producing Cuvée Le Rival in the best vintages.

RARE FINDS TO ENHANCE YOUR CELLAR

La Morra is a subregion in the west of the Barolo DOCG with vineyards planted between 200-500 metres on calcareous marl soils. Malvirà’s single vineyard, Boiolo, is a small plot of 0.89 hectare planted between 370-400 metres, which faces east. The rich soil is calcareous clay with good water-holding capacity. The 2016 is youthful with sweet red berries, vanilla and balsamic notes. It is smooth and round with a grainy chewy finish and cherry menthol flavours. It was matured for 24 months in oak barrels.

Bottles signed by Roberto and Massimo Damonte

Please visit Opimian.ca for your province's pricing on these wines.

2854

ALL FOUR OF JANE'S COUPS DE COEUR ARE WEB EXCLUSIVE FOR THIS CELLAR!

BORGO LA CACCIA NERONE CABERNET, DOC GARDA, 2019

Cabernet Sauvignon

2864 CASTELLO DI MAGIONE MORCINAIA, IGT UMBRIA, 2018

Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Sangiovese

WEB $ WEB

Dense purple in colour, the 2018 has musky aromas with black fruits in the background. This is a supple, smooth wine, fine in texture with lots of fruit flavours. It has good mid-palate weight and a slightly chewy finish giving structure and presence in the mouth. Not yet at its peak, it should mature nicely. It is a blend of 40% Merlot, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon with 20% Sangiovese. The name – Morcinaia – comes from Umbrian dialect and refers to a pile of stones recuperated from the ground in preparing and working vineyard soils.

DOMAINE LA VOÛTE DU VERDUS, CUVÉE LE GRAND SAUT, AOP LANGUEDOC, 2018

Carignan, Syrah, Grenache, Mourvèdre

Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon

Dense in colour, it has a complex combination of aromas with vanilla, ripe dark fruits, nutmeg and other spices melded with the fruit. It is rich and concentrated producing a full-bodied wine which is at the same time completely smooth.

A complex and flavoursome wine which was an immediate hit for me. It has aromas of vanilla, wood, liquorice root with cherry, mulberries and floral notes. It is medium bodied with the same flavours shining on the palate, complemented by a good tannin structure and grippy finish. 2929 CHÂTEAU DU MOULIN NEUF, AOC MÉDOC, 2018

Mellow oaky aromas of vanilla and nutmeg complement blueberry character. It is medium bodied, structured with a grainy texture and has some chewy tannins on the finish.

Gorgonzola-stuffed burger

2021 Cellar Schedule

C280: Burgundy Pinot Noir, Australia & New Zealand

Opens November 10, 2020

Last day to order: December 14, 2020

Mail form by: December 1, 2020

Expected release: Spring 2021

C281: Tuscany & South Africa

Opens December 15, 2020

Last day to order: January 18, 2021

Mail form by: January 4, 2021

Expected release: Early Summer 2021

C282: Alsace, Argentina & Chile

Opens January 19, 2021

Last day to order: February 22, 2021

Mail form by: February 8, 2021

Expected release: Summer 2021

C283: Rhône, Champagne & Burgundy White Wines

Opens February 23, 2021

Last day to order: March 29, 2021

Mail form by: March 15, 2021

Expected release: Late Summer 2021

C284: Spain

Opens March 30, 2021

Last day to order: May 3, 2021

Mail form by: April 19, 2021

Expected release: Early Fall 2021

C285: Bordeaux, Bergerac & Beaujolais

Opens May 4, 2021

Last day to order: June 7, 2021

Mail form by: May 21, 2021

Expected release: Fall 2021

C286: Piemonte, Veneto, Italy & Germany

Opens June 8, 2021

Last day to order: July 12, 2021

Mail form by: June 28, 2021

Expected release: Early Winter 2022

C287: Provence, Loire, Corsica & Languedoc-Roussillon

Opens July 13, 2021

Last day to order: August 16, 2021

Mail form by: July 30, 2021

Expected release: Early Winter 2022

C288: Portugal, California, Oregon & Austria

Opens August 17, 2021

Last day to order: September 20, 2021

Mail form by: September 3, 2021

Expected release: Winter 2022

C289: Italy, France, Switzerland & Canada

Opens September 21

Last day to order: November 8, 2021

Mail form by: October 30, 2021

Expected release: Spring 2022

If you have any questions or want to order, contact us: MemberService@opimian.ca or 1 800 361-9421

Red - White - Rosé - Sparkling - Port/Dessert - Spirit

Bottle size

Number of bottles in case

Aroma

Taste

Serving temperature

Percent of alcohol1

Ideal with

Evolution Drink this year Will develop, drink within 2 years Meant for cellaring

- Medium - Great

- Medium - Heavy

quantity

Ordering Made Easy

1. SELECT YOUR WINES

Let yourself be inspired by Opimian’s Master of Wine, Jane Masters MW, and her detailed descriptions included in the Cellar Offering. Our custom chart on the reverse side features a list of symbols to help guide your selection.

Still unsure which wines to order? Contact us!

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The wines featured on this Cellar Offering are still at the producers’ wineries when you order them, so it is normal that the process takes a bit of time and effort on our side.

Release dates are dependent upon actual arrival dates, distance from port of entry to liquor board and processing time required by each liquor board. For this Cellar Offering, the expected release date is listed on the reverse.

Once the wine arrives at your local liquor store or distribution centre, you will receive a Pick-up Notice with the specified date (the Release Date) and your pick-up location.

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Notes, as required by the law in the Province of Quebec

• A member ordering from this Cellar Offering requests that Opimian acts as the member’s agent in ordering the wines from the Société des Alcools du Québec (SAQ) and requests that Opimian remits the funds enclosed (minus any administration fees) to the SAQ to pay for the wines ordered.

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