Henry of Pelham was one of the first wineries to plant Mosel Riesling vines in Ontario. They did so with research and care, which is clearly reflected in the wines they produce. This fine example is crisp, balanced and aromatic, with grapefruit, lemon, peach, tangy lime and a long finish. Sip with glazed ham or coconut shrimp.
The Vidal in this electric two-pack was sourced primarily from vineyards planted in 1984. Bold and intense with a rich, complex character, the Vidal Icewine 2017 is very tropical, with notable mango and pineapple tones. The red Icewine 2018 is Vidal blended with Cabernet Franc and delivers resplendent notes of raspberry and strawberry atop the classic Vidal tones.
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.
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)
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)
Sourced from vines dating back to the Speck's original plantings in 1984, this classic expression of an Ontario specialty is always a bold, unforgettable wine. The dark fruit, oak spice and chocolate would pair beautifully with smoked beef and roast vegetables. Enjoy this Niagara standout through 2033+.
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)
It has a powerful nose of smoky dark fruits, plums, dried tobacco, cherry compote, toasty vanilla and spice with an interesting array of integrated herbs. It's thick in the glass and full-bodied on the palate with smoky/savoury cassis, currants, jammy red fruits, licorice, savoury spices and herbs all kept lively from the retention of bright acidity through a big finish. Cellar 5+ years. Score - 92. (Rick VanSickle, winesinniagara.com, Nov. 4, 2019)
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.
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.