Henry of Pelham has been one of the leading lights in Ontario's emergence onto the global fine-wine stage. It's a master of the uniquely Ontarian delicacy called Baco Noir. This one, with its dark fruit, chocolate, oak and leather notes, is sourced from vines dating back to 1984.[The National Wine Awards of Canada did not include a tasting note.] Score - 90. (National Wine Awards of Canada, 2024)

Lost Boys Bin 106 is like the most interesting man in the world, which could describe any of the three Speck brothers, the Baco Boys as David Lawrason once coined them. It's also a wine akin to a last waltz or rooftop appearance, unannounced, no fanfare, just a few tunes in performance for performance sake. This is truly a very good wine, a great wine even, for the boys, the grape and the place. That being Short Hills Bench (though as a hybrid can't be labeled as such) and home to the the most hallowed baco grounds for sure. You can feel the Billy Preston finger rolls and George Harrison Rosewood Telecaster slides, this being baco, more so than Lennon's rhythm and McCartney's voice. In some sense as if to get Baco to where you once belong. In the end one of the boys might stand up and say 'thank you on behalf of the group and ourselves, I hope we passed the audition.' Yup. Drink 2021-2027. Tasted November 2021. Score - 92. (Michael Godel, winealign.com)

Expertly crafted, this stunning Icewine is a study in elegance, with notes of flowers, candied citrus fruit, nuts, poached pear and honeydew melon balanced by refreshing acidity. Charming with a plate of artisanal cheeses or freshly baked apple pie.

This gift pack contains Henry of Pelham's 2017 Vidal Icewine and the 2018 Vidal/Cabernet Franc Icewine; two exciting expressions of this Ontario specialty. The 2017 Vidal is rich, complex and tropical, while the 2018 Vidal/Cabernet Franc showcases vibrant raspberry and strawberry tones.

Aromas of honey-drizzled mango and caramel abound on the nose of this nicely balanced vidal blanc, Special Select Late Harvest gem. A succulent river of pure ambrosia blankets the palate on entry with sweet honey and ripe fruit flavours of apricot and peaches in syrup that is balanced by lemon citrussy notes on the back palate, finish and aftertaste. Pour with fruit flan dessert or on its own, as dessert. This is close to Icewine in enjoyment, without the usual price tag. Drink or cellar. Score - 93. (Vic Harradine, winecurrent.com, March 27, 2022)

Gamey notes, tobacco, vanillin and mixed field berry fruit aromas introduce this fabulous baco noir. It envelops the palate with a gusher of palate flavours - lip-smacking crunchy red fruit melding beautifully with sweet-tinged black Bing cherry and wisps of Kirsch liqueur. It's medium-plus bodied, generously textured and presents with good complexity and plenty of pizzazz. Give this a go with osso buco, cassoulet or lamb tagine. Drink or cellar. Score - 92. (Vic Harradine, winecurrent.com, Nov. 22, 2020)

This triple threat from a Niagara giant brings a trio of takes on Ontario's original signature style together in one package. The Cabernet Icewine will offer up red fruit and herbs; the Riesling will have ripe pear, melon and honeyed notes; and the Vidal will have tropical aromas and flavours. All three will display great complexity and grace, with fine acidity balancing the sweetness and providing lift.

Baco Noir is grown virtually exclusively in Canada, and Henry of Pelham is home to some of the very best expressions. This example is concentrated and generously flavoured, with dancing floral and smoky dark fruit supported by fresh rye bread, and black olive richness. This wants big meaty meals; think barbecued flank steak, bison burgers or lamb kebabs.

Henry of Pelham have been making exceptional Baco Noir for decades. The Old Vines Baco Noir is sourced from vines dating as far back as 1984. This is a premium expression of the grape, showing smoke, toasty oak, coffee and plum, with pleasing tannins and a robust structure. This wine pairs naturally with beefy barbecue.