Are you stuck in a wine rut, buying the same bottle over and over?
Well, it’s time to shake things up and explore the wonderful world of wine alternatives.
Joining us today is Natalie MacLean who offers Canada’s most popular online wine classes at nataliemaclean.com.
Welcome, Natalie.
Thanks for having me! I’m excited to play the wine edition game of “If This, Then That,” similar to how bookstore websites recommend a new novel based on what you’ve purchased previously, but always with a twist. I like to call it Wine Tinder, less ghosting, more toasting ;)
Sounds like fun! Let’s start with a summer favorite. If someone enjoys a refreshing rosé, what would you recommend?
Well, for rosé lovers, I’d suggest the Pelee Island Winery Lola Light Rosé from southwestern Ontario, the warmest wine region in the province.
Pelee Island Winery Lola Light Rosé
Pelee Island, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada
It’s a delightful pale pink, like a blushing sunset spreading over Lake Erie. But here’s the twist: it has only 9% alcohol, but it’s still packed with flavour.
It’s like biting into a fresh strawberry while strolling through a sun-dappled orange grove. With its crisp finish, it’s perfect for those looking to keep things light and breezy, just like a summer romance novel.
I’d pair this with a grilled peach and prosciutto salad atop a bed of peppery arugula.
Perfect for patio sipping, too! Now, what about white wine enthusiasts who typically reach for a Chardonnay?
For Chardonnay fans looking to branch out, I’d recommend the Cave Spring Vineyard Riesling CSV from Niagara. This wine is like Chardonnay’s more adventurous cousin who decided to backpack through Europe and came back with a whole new depth and layered personality.
Cave Spring CSV Estate Grown Riesling
Beamsville Bench, Niagara Escarpment, Ontario V.Q.A., Canada
It has a seductive bouquet of lime, green apple, and wet stone – like walking through that orchard after a spring rain.
I’d pair this Riesling with plump seared scallops topped with a vibrant salsa of ripe mango, red onion, and a squeeze of lime.
The sweetness of the mango and the brininess of the scallops are perfect for the wine’s mineral notes.
By the way, you can order both Cave Spring and Pelee Island wines online and the wineries will ship directly to your door.
Even better though, visit them this summer or fall as both offer spectacular tasting experiences and other fun things to do in the regions.
Delicious! Let’s move on to red wines. What would you suggest for someone who usually goes for a bold Shiraz?
For Shiraz lovers, I’d recommend they try the Pure Vision Shiraz from Australia. It’s like Shiraz decided to go on a yoga retreat and came back both organic and alcohol free.
This wine is loaded with flavour, but has no alcohol so it’s a great alternative for those who don’t drink or those who want to pace themselves.
Pure Vision Wines Zero Shiraz
Adelaide Plains, South Australia, Australia
Tasting this wine like diving into a basket of ripe blackberries and plums with a dusting of black pepper on top.
Pair it with a creamy, slow-cooked risotto flecked with wild mushrooms and finished with a drizzle of truffle oil.
These earthy, umami-rich flavours will pair beautifully with the Shiraz’s feral, full-bodied character.
You can order this wine online from psalcoholfree.com who will ship anywhere in Canada.
Lovely! Lastly, what about Cabernet Sauvignon drinkers looking to expand their horizons?
For Cabernet fans, I’d suggest trying the Les Jamelles Cabernet Sauvignon from southern France in the Pays d’Oc region.
It’s a fraction of the price of it’s northern neighbour Bordeaux at just $16.95.
Les Jamelles Cabernet Sauvignon
Vin de Pays d’Oc, France
Feel free to take a sniff or sip.
It offers a dark, brooding medley of black currant, cherry, and a whisper of vanilla spice – it’s like walking through that orchard at dusk.
Pair it with a roasted rack of lamb encrusted with fresh herbs, garlic, and breadcrumbs.
The crispy crust will complement the wine’s dark fruit flavours and hint of herbs.
Natalie, these suggestions are fantastic! Any final words of wisdom for our viewers looking to broaden their wine horizons?
Remember, exploring wine is like traveling the world through your glass. So be brave, be curious, and most importantly, be thirsty!
Thank you, Natalie! Where can we find you and these wines online?
Natalie: On Instagram, I’m at @NatalieMacLeanWine and online, my website is nataliemaclean.com.
Posted with permission of CHCH Morning Live.
