Within a short period of time, this St. David's based winery has become a favourite amongst critics, wine lovers and foodies that are looking for complete winery experience. Today's wines are from Ravine Vineyard Estate Winery.
When Ravine Vineyard Estate Winery opened a few years ago, it captured a quick audience with its premium quality wines and attached deli. Back in 2009, I clearly remember my first tasting experience at the winery.In a small room at the back of the Woodruff house, I fell quickly in love with the botrytis affected 2007 Riesling and cherry rich 2007 Redcoat (a bordeaux blend). A few minutes later, we were in the deli next door, eating on the patio, enjoying the warmth of the early summer sun.
Things look a little different at Ravine today. The tasting room is now at the front of the Woodruff house, and the deli itself has undergone a noticeable transformation. The restaurant is bigger, to accomodate the popularity of the bistro-style cuisine, overseen by chefs Paul Harber and Colin Goodine. An oyster and pizza bar was built outside in front of the vineyard, an area that is bustling with activity every friday night for various events. Also, a completely new menu was launched a few months ago and has quickly become the talk of the town.
The menu focuses on seasonal ingredients but isn't limited to it. It's a fun and versatile menu with one of the best wine lists in the region. Very rarely are you able to visit a winery's restaurant and try other wines from the region by the glass. Such is the case at Ravine's bistro.
Recently while at Ravine, I had the opportunity to try two new wines.
2009 Gewurztraminer
A fruit forward gewurtz that has some tropical fruit and herb characteristics on the nose. The palate is slightly sweet and juicy. This is a wine that can go pair very well with spicy food.
$22, winery only
2009 Redcoat
The redcoat is a blend of Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Cabernet Sauvignon. Although the wine is still young and has some tannic punch, it exhibits a lot of spice characteristics and some cherry and plum. Great with some fatty cuts of pork and beef, maybe even some duck. Buy now and drink in a few years.
$18.95
Ravine Vineyard
1366 York Road
St. David's, Ontario
www.ravinevineyard.com
The post 30DaysONwine, Day 17 – Ravine Vineyard Wines appeared first on Spotlight Toronto.