Like many of the more historical wineries of Canada's Okanagan Valley, more attention is being made to "terroir" - the idea that certain plots are better suited for specific grape varieties. Pinot Noir likes cooler climates and it thrives in the North Okanagan climate with its glacial soils. 'Aspect' refers to the direction that the vineyards face, giving those extra hours of sunlight the grapevines need. This serves to set apart these single block wines: dynamic, aromatic and vibrant. This Pinot comes from 22 year old vines, and spends 14 months in French oak barriques (of which 23% are new). The wine is dense and structured yet with a great typicity of red plums, blueberries, and nuances of mushroom and forest floor. A Canadian wine designed for ageing.

The Shinobu Distillery, located in Niigata on Japan’s western coast, is renowned for its “Three White Treasures”: snow, rice, and sake. Master blender Mr. Usami Ken crafts Shinobu Pure Malt whiskies, blending malts aged in sherry and bourbon hogshead casks before finishing them in Japanese Mizunara Oak, known for its rich flavors of apples, pears, cloves, and nutmeg. The Shinobu Lightly Peated Pure Malt Whisky offers a robust body with smoky, toasty oak flavors. Unchill-filtered and free from added color, it preserves its complex character. The nose is minty and creamy with light peat and lemon hints, while the palate features moderate peat, toasted oak, and a hint of saltiness. The finish lingers with toasted wood sweetness and roasted malt.

Established as a fully functioning monastery as early as 1199, Prieuré de Montézargues spans 84 acres sheltered from the Mistral winds by the Montagne Noire mountain range. The original stone monastery buildings blend seamlessly into the landscape, forming a unique micro-terroir that imparts a distinct personality to the Montézargues estate vineyards. This appealing rosé boasts a brilliant pink color and a rich nose with red berry tones like strawberry and gooseberry. On the palate, it is fresh with persistent citrus notes, a well-rounded body, and a long, structured finish.

Glenfarclas 28 Year Old 1994 Family Casks Release S23 #2958 is a distinguished expression from one of Scotland’s most revered distilleries. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail and a commitment to quality, this single malt whisky epitomizes the rich heritage and tradition of the Glenfarclas distillery, proudly bearing the hallmark of the Grant family’s expertise. Distilled in 1994 and aged for 28 years in a sherry butt, this exceptional release showcases the depth and complexity that can only be achieved through time-honoured maturation processes. Each sip offers a journey through decades of craftsmanship, with every nuance carefully preserved and refined. Limited to 472 bottles.

Glenfarclas 2007 Family Casks Release S23 #2669 is a distinguished single malt whisky that embodies the rich heritage and exceptional craftsmanship of the Glenfarclas distillery. Crafted with precision and aged to perfection, this expression represents a harmonious balance of time, expertise, and tradition. Distilled in 2007 and aged for 15 years in carefully selected refill sherry butt, this release is a testament to the distillery’s commitment to quality and excellence. Each bottle reflects the Grant family’s legacy, showcasing their passion for producing exceptional whisky. Limited to 634 bottles.

Glenfarclas 15 Year Old 2008 Family Casks Release S23 #262 is a distinguished single malt whisky that embodies the tradition and craftsmanship of the renowned Glenfarclas distillery. With precision and dedication, this expression represents the culmination of expertise and the family's legacy. Distilled in 2008 and aged for 15 years in carefully selected sherry butt, it showcases the distillery's commitment to quality and excellence. Each bottle is a testament to the Grant family's passion for crafting exceptional whisky.

Critic tasting note: "The third in the Chronicles series offers a slightly closed nose that soon shows high esters, cinnamon, and eggnog, while hints of mint hide among old dry barn boards in a gorgeous, creamy palate. Mild caramels fade into peppery heat, restrained grassy herbs, and pulling tannins. Burley tobacco leaves replace Canadian Club’s signature dark fruits. Finishes long, hot, and vaguely dry." - 95/100, Whisky Advocate

Dense impenetrable core. Elegant nose, layered with tobacco, spice box, fine wood, dark berries and violet, young but with an approaching complexity. The palate is dense and concentrated with moderate extraction, grainy tannin, layers of spice, elegant dark fruit and some meaty notes. Long and fleshy finish, digest and rounded yet with power and persistence, good!

Winemaker Steve Doerner, renowned for his work at Calera and Cristom, introduces Luke Jefferson, a new wine project named in homage to his son and Thomas Jefferson. Produced in minuscule quantities, it reflects Steve's personal vision apart from Cristom's style, with his spouse Irene also involved. This Pinot offers intoxicating notes of ripe raspberry, bright cherries, and fragrant spices, promising further development with five years of aging.

This wine exudes freshness both on the nose and palate, with an abundance of crisp apple and pear flavors taking the spotlight. While it may not exhibit a wide range of complexities, its balance, intensity, and immediate drinkability more than compensate for this.

Nose: Padrecito Premium Organic Blanco Tequila offers a vibrant and inviting aroma with notes of freshly cut agave, citrus zest, and a hint of black pepper.

Taste: On the palate, this tequila delivers a smooth and clean experience. The flavors of sweet agave nectar, ripe tropical fruits, and a touch of vanilla intertwine harmoniously, creating a delightful balance.

Palate: The mouthfeel is silky and well-rounded, showcasing the tequila's exceptional quality. A subtle spiciness emerges, adding depth to the overall profile. The finish is long and satisfying, leaving a lingering impression of agave sweetness and a touch of earthiness.

Glengoyne 10 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky is a classic expression from the renowned Glengoyne distillery, located at the foot of Dumgoyne Hill in the Southern Highlands of Scotland. This whisky is celebrated for its unique production process, which includes air-drying malted barley without the use of peat smoke, resulting in a remarkably smooth and gentle spirit. Expect a golden amber color and an inviting aroma of green apples, toffee, and hints of vanilla, with subtle floral and nutty undertones. On the palate, it offers a smooth and creamy texture, with flavors of honey, dried fruits, and a touch of oak spice, all delicately balanced by a soft, malty sweetness. The finish is long and satisfying, with lingering notes of fruit and spice. Glengoyne 10 Year Old is a perfect introduction to the distillery's range, showcasing its commitment to quality and tradition, and is best enjoyed neat or with a splash of water to unlock its full depth of flavor.

Nose: The Shetland Reel Blended Malt Scotch Whisky offers a delightful aroma of rich honey, vanilla, and caramel, with hints of dried fruits and a subtle touch of oak.

Taste: On the palate, this whisky reveals a smooth and creamy texture, accompanied by flavors of toffee, butterscotch, and a gentle spiciness. There are also notes of ripe apples and pears, complemented by a delicate smokiness.

Palate: The finish is long and warming, leaving a lingering sweetness of honey and vanilla, with a touch of oak and a hint of peat smoke. Overall, the Shetland Reel Blended Malt Scotch Whisky is a well-balanced and flavorful expression, showcasing the best of Shetland's whisky-making tradition.

This selection (above reserve) from the estate vineyard has the sort of raisin and prune aromas that suggest super-ripe fruit. It's tannic and chewy, a style more reminiscent of Shiraz than most Pinot Noirs, and the finish brings the heat.

Nose: Rich and inviting with notes of caramel, vanilla, and toasted oak.
Taste: Smooth and full-bodied, with flavors of butterscotch, toffee, and a hint of spice.
Palate: A long, warm finish with a touch of sweetness and a lingering oakiness.

This nut-brown liqueur, known best as a college shooter, has a sophisticated side, too. Look for a root-like nose that hints at sarsaparilla and a spiced, warming palate that suggests cinnamon, gingerbread, molasses and clove.

Black Dog Triple Gold Reserve Blended Scotch Whisky represents the epitome of blending craftsmanship, embodying a legacy of Scotch whisky making that spans generations. Distinguished as the sole blend in the Black Dog range to undergo a triple maturation process, this whisky boasts an unmatched smoothness and complexity. Meticulously crafted from a blend of grain and malt whiskies sourced from various regions of Scotland, each imparting its distinctive character, it culminates in a harmonious and opulent whisky journey. With its refined blend of flavors and luxurious texture, Black Dog Triple Gold Reserve promises a whisky experience of unparalleled sophistication and depth.

This reposado offers a refreshing twist on traditional expressions of its kind. With a fresh and tart green apple aroma, it captivates the senses from the outset. The palate delights with a vibrant interplay of peppery spice and oak-derived vanilla sweetness, creating a dynamic flavor profile that evolves on the tongue. A subtle alcohol bite adds a refreshing zing, contributing to the overall crispness and vitality of the spirit.

Building upon the triumphs of Teremana Blanco and Reposado, and championed by the global icon Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson, their Añejo steps into the tequila arena. With notes of apple, pear, oak, vanilla, agave, caramel, and baking spice, the rich palate leads to a long and intricate finish. Pair it with samosas adorned with green chutney for an exquisite experience.

Bold and distinctive, this Straight Bourbon Whiskey offers a harmonious interplay of flavors, combining balanced layers of smoke, spicy rye, and creamy fruit notes. Crafted from a mash bill featuring 80% Texas Corn and 20% Oklahoma Rye, this whiskey undergoes a unique aging process. Initially matured in new American oak barrels for 3-6 years, it then undergoes a cask finishing period in Napa Valley French Oak wine barrels, enhancing its smoothness and complexity. The result is a non-chill filtered whiskey that boasts outstanding depth and character.

Aged for a minimum of four and a half years within the historic cellars of France's renowned Château de Cognac, where centuries of craftsmanship have honed some of the world's most exquisite Cognacs, this expression emerges as a bold and robust blend. With its full-bodied character and uniquely powerful profile, it offers a pleasantly smooth and impeccably balanced finish that speaks to the expertise and tradition embodied by its storied lineage.

Hanging out in Caribbean rum casks infuses this Smokehead with an intense burst of smoke and fiery peat, complemented by refreshing citrus and tropical fruit notes. Delve deeper, and you'll discover hints of marshmallow and bacon, adding layers of complexity to the experience. The palate delivers a fearless onslaught of rich, peaty flavors, accompanied by thick oils, bracing sea spray, and a touch of dried spices, banana, and dark wood. As the journey concludes, notes of caramel, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla emerge, providing a delicate contrast to the lingering smokiness, akin to the comforting embrace of dry land after a wild adventure at sea.

At Bruichladdich distillery, they prioritize the creation of whiskies that authentically represent their origins. When they revived their distillery in 2001, they were struck by the industry's oversight of the importance of terroir—the unique environmental factors influencing whisky's raw ingredients. Determined to change this, they have since embraced terroir as essential to their single malt's flavor profile. Their latest release, PMC:01, part of the Port Charlotte cask exploration series, highlights this commitment by spending the latter part of its maturation in Pomerol casks from Bordeaux's Right Bank. Pomerol, renowned for its exceptional red wines, embodies a distinct sense of place, reflected in its grapes' flavor. PMC:01 embodies this story of place, marrying the rich fruitiness of Pomerol oak with Islay's maritime influences, resulting in a whisky that elegantly balances peat smoke with floral and fruit notes. Conceived, distilled, matured, and bottled solely on Islay, PMC:01 proudly celebrates its complex lineage and the unique flavors of its homeland.

The nose of this whisky evokes a maritime atmosphere, reminiscent of a beach bonfire with dry seaweed, followed by deeper notes of saltiness and marine elements, all underpinned by the scent of fresh linen. On the palate, it offers a smooth and oily texture, with a delightful sweetness accompanied by smoky and spicy notes, reminiscent of a fruit orchard enveloped in smoke and sea mist. The taste culminates in a fine balance of saltiness and spiciness, leading to a powerful chili pepper sensation upon swallowing. When diluted, the sweetness and saltiness become more pronounced. The finish is long-lasting and lightly smoky, with a lingering warmth from the spices.

The Clynelish Distillery, situated in Brora, Highlands, Scotland, has a rich history dating back to 1819, with the current facility established in 1967 alongside the original Brora distillery. Initially struggling, it gained prominence in 1896 when acquired by Ainslie & Heilbron, later owned by John Risk. Despite closure in the 1930s, it operated during World War II. Clynelish is renowned as a premium Single Malt, notably used in Johnnie Walker blends. This 10-year-old edition, part of Diageo Special Releases 2023, is exclusively aged in American oak ex-Bourbon barrels.

Recently, a new “oldest Canadian whisky ever,” appears every year. In 2018, the honour goes to Canadian Club. Cedar lumber, fresh apricots, hints of bonfire, and sweet applewood on the nose. On the palate it’s butter tarts with vanilla, waves of pepper, pears, peaches, bonfire notes, and hints of pipe tobacco. Crisp, clean, and slightly bigger than Canadian Club 40 year old, the 41 is woodsy, silky, and mouth filling.

This new permanent addition to the Redbreast range is partially matured in ruby port casks, which have helped the vitality and the complexity of the finished whiskey while still delivering a remarkable intensity of red berry fruit. Orange peel, pine cone, vanilla, and walnut on the nose. Raspberry, cherry, plums, and active spices like a wildfire across the tongue, with pepper and chile heightened by the strength and menthol late on the finish.

Dr. Zenzen Queen of Grapes Riesling is a German wine featuring crisp, light, and fruity characteristics. It showcases a balance of acidity with notes of apple, peach, and citrus, offering an aromatic, refreshing, and often off-dry experience. It pairs well with light dishes, fish, and salads. 

Dr. Zenzen Queen Of Grapes Pink Riesling is a German Mosel wine, often a blend of Riesling and Pinot Noir, offering a light, crisp profile with fruity aromas. It is characterized by an elegant balance of fruit and acidity, usually featuring a residual sugar content that makes it an easy-drinking, slightly sweet, or off-dry option. 

 Dr. Zenzen Nullnummer Chardonnay is a 0.0% alcohol-free white wine from Germany's Rheinpfalz region. It offers a full-bodied, authentic Chardonnay experience with notes of yellow apple, gooseberry, melon, banana, and a hint of vanilla. It is gluten-free, low-calorie, and best served chilled, making it an excellent pairing for spicy dishes.

Colour: Cherry. Nose: sweet spices, scrubland, ripe fruit. Palate: spicy, balsamic, good acidity, fresh.

There's a faint coppery tinge to this wine's rosy pink hue, and the fruit is somewhat muted, but this remains an enjoyable drink. Leather and scorched cherry flavors are carried by a supple, rounded mouthfeel, finishing with moderate length and intensity. Easy to drink, but not one to hold more than another few months. Certified biodynamic.

Some attractive citrus elements are present, but bruised-apple notes suggest a certain level of oxidation, and the flavors fall away quickly on the finish.

This biodynamic producer has hit in two consecutive vintages. The 2011 is a bit funky at first, so you may want to decant it before serving, but once some cabbage-like aromas dissipate, the wine delivers plenty of blackberry fruit, some garrigue notes and a touch of licorice. It's full bodied and creamy in texture, with a long, silky finish.

Color: Brilliant ruby Aromatic: Fully ripe wild berries with a spicy undertone, slightly roasted from the ageing which also brings out a complex bouquet of red flower floral notes. Palate: Fruit forward at the beginning with a balanced tannic structure showing later. Fresh and consistently aromatic finish.

Color: Bright, clear, gold Aromatic: White flesh fruits, lychees and white flowers Palate: Full, round and generous with a good weight and a smooth ripe structure. The fresh aromas carry through to the finish.

The Aloxe-Corton 1er Cru La Toppe au Vert presents vivid red cherries and black plums on the nose, displaying focus alongside refinement and poise. With time in the glass, blue fruits emerge, adding depth to the aroma profile. On the palate, it is medium-bodied with fine tannins, initially displaying a subtle ferrous character. There's a fine grip in the mouth, with chalky tannins on the finish that provide a long and satisfying conclusion.

The Legacy Collection epitomizes the apex of excellence in the Okanagan Valley, representing our unyielding pursuit of quality. Each vintage, we meticulously hand-select the finest fruit from our estate vineyards to craft these small-lot wines, revered as our most esteemed and cellar-worthy offerings. Back in 1981, the Okanagan Valley was largely unexplored as a wine region, yet its potential was recognized amidst the region's stonefruit orchards. As grape growers dared to plant vines in uncharted terrain, the valley's glacier-formed landscape revealed varying soil profiles, basking in long, sun-drenched days and diverse microclimates, offering an opportunity for wines of unmistakable terroir. Fast forward to today, where Mission Hill Family Estate stands as Canada's sole five-time winner of Winery of the Year, with multiple international accolades for our varietals. Anchored in our profound connection to the valley and the meticulous care of our vineyards, we continue to embark on this enduring journey of winemaking excellence. In our winemaking philosophy, akin to a quatrain's harmony in verse, four harmonious grapes converge. Fermented in small French oak fermenters and aged in French oak barrels, each component contributes to the wine's elegance and purpose, with Syrah lending depth and character to the blend.

Named after the Roman emperor who restored vine planting in France, this wine has structure and a dense texture. It is balanced with a good freshness to it and a poise in its step.