C298-NL: USA, Canada, Germany and Portugal

CELLAR

NL 298

ORDER AUG 16 – SEPT 19, 2022

USA, CANADA, GERMANY & PORTUGAL Jason DeLoach, head winemaker at Hook & Ladder, California.

OPIMIAN.CA

OLD WORLD, NEW WORLD — WHAT A WORLD!

THE PRINCE OF PINOT

$114 / 750ML

$342 / CASE OF 3

DELIVERY SPRING 2023

NEW FROM HOOK & LADDER LOT 3604 HOOK & LADDER STEGMAN RANCH PINOT NOIR, ESTATE BOTTLED, RUSSIAN RIVER VALLEY, 2020 PINOT NOIR The nine acres of the Stegman Ranch Vineyard, located in the premium Russian River Valley appellation, are dedicated exclusively to Pinot Noir.

Encouraged by the proximity to the Laguna de Santa Rosa wetlands, morning and evening fog moderates the area’s temperature allowing the grapes to gain optimal complexity as they mature slowly over an extended growing season.

The nose of the 2020 Hook & Ladder Stegman Ranch Pinot Noir is expressive, perfumed with aromas of cherry and strawberry interwoven with a hint of baking spice from time in oak. While this wine is light in body, it is anything but light in flavour. On the palate, it is packed with Bing cherry, strawberry and red licorice notes. The fruit is framed by ethereal tannins and refreshing acidity, all in perfect harmony. The finish is long and memorable making this a wonderful food wine. Cedar plank salmon served with mushroom risotto would be a fantastic match. –lw

Strawberry, cherry, baking spice

Bing cherry, strawberry, red licorice

2022-2029, M8 D9

18°C

14.5%

Cedar plank salmon with mushroom risotto

We worked hard to source different California wines for Members, but mother nature did not play her part as we had to contend with drought and wildfires, resulting in higher prices. As a result, Blue Rock, Zinfandelic, and Stone Valley will be paused this year due to low estate inventories.

EDITORIAL

You’ll find one of our most diverse Portuguese selection of wines in this Cellar. Nuno Ramilo and his trendy indigenous Portuguese grape varieties are returning for their sophomore year. For the first time, we will visit the Portuguese island of Madeira, which sits off the northwest coast of Africa, as Justino’s joins us with several of their award-winning fortified wines!

These are ready to drink and will remain enjoyable for a long time, hence the new evolution icon.

Finally, word has gotten out that some of the world’s best-made wines are coming from Germany, as this country has become a net benefiter of global warming in wine production.

And, as last year’s Founders Choice subscribers know – Alex Pflüger and his bio-organic wines should be in everyone’s cellar!

Evolution | In the Barrel, in the Bottle, in the Glass … and in Your Club Michael Lutzmann and Greg Rinehart, Opimian Managing Directors

The evolution of your Opimian Wine Club continues. All you have to do is flip through these pages to see one of Canada’s trendiest Canadian wines wine regions with Prince Edward Country’s Karlo Estates wines available again this year.

OPIMIAN SUGGESTS....................................................................................P5 COUPS DE COEUR....................................................................................... P7 MOUNTAIN VIEW.......................................................................................... P8 HOOK & LADDER.........................................................................................P12 KAUTZ FAMILY VINEYARDS................................................................ P18 HOLLORAN VINEYARD WINES.........................................................P22 CELLAR UP!.................................................................................................... P24 KARLO ESTATES WINERY.....................................................................P26 TOP VALUE WINES.................................................................................... P28 WEINGUT PFLÜGER..................................................................................P32 RAMILO WINES.............................................................................................P36 Encosta do Sobral........................................................................................P41 Cabeço da Pedra.........................................................................................P42 Adega de Carvoeira.................................................................................. P43 Adega do Cadaval...................................................................................... P43 Gesprove...........................................................................................................P44 JUSTINO’S MADEIRA............................................................................... P46 PORT....................................................................................................................P48 Porto Réccua Vinhos............................................................................... P49 Craufurd............................................................................................................ P50

The wines submitted for this Cellar were tasted in Canada for the first time in Opimian history. Submissions were shipped to our new tasting room at our Head Office in Montreal rather than London, UK, and Louise Wilson MW (one of several new Canadian MWs at Opimian) spent several days scoring and selecting the best of the best. To you, the Member, you can expect the same guaranteed Master of Wine quality that is the essence of Opimian. You'll find the initials of the Master of Wine who made the selection at the end of each tasting note.

You will have even more perspectives to help you make your choices. Our iconic subscription programs are the largest of their kind in the Canadian wine world. The Founders Choice wine subscription is a premium red wine that is only available via the subscription program and is considered by many Members to be the pinnacle wine experience of the club. We also have the ever-popular Masters Case subscription.

The Masters Case is a mixed, six-bottle case of hand-selected and sourced wines that takes the guesswork out of choosing. Opimian Suggests (p 5) will provide you with the favourites of the staff and Board; Coups de Coeur (p 7) shows you the four top-scoring wines from the MW tasting, Cellar Up! (p 24) helps you to develop your cellar with iconic wines from these wine regions.

From an educational perspective, you have lots to choose from too. The Masterpiece speaks to global sustainability, there is an article that helps you get to know Hook & Ladder, and we’ve got yet another Master of Wine explaining the finer points about fortified wines from Portugal. This is the first time that we have added Madeira to the many fine Ports that you know and love. Get to know them. You’ll be glad you did.

Hook & Ladder deserves another mention here. Both on the cover and providers of our Featured Wine, Jason DeLoach, following in his grandparents' footsteps in the Russian River Valley, brings a passion to winemaking that we expect from all Opimian partners.

COLLECTOR’S CORNER SPIRITS......................................................P53 COLLECTOR’S CORNER WINE......................................................... P54

Michael & Greg

4

CELLAR 298 — EDITORIAL

OPIMIAN SUGGESTS

SUPERVISOR – MEMBER SERVICE AND LOGISTICS

OUR PICKS FOR THIS CELLAR

JOAO BARROTE

Being of Portuguese origin, Joao has a soft spot for wines from his native homeland.

According to him, the diversity and range that they offer are unparalleled. From aperitive or digestive to Madeira wines, not to mention round whites from the Lisboa Region and woody and complex Douro, Portugal has a gorgeous wine diversity.

Saúde Opimian!

RAMILO GALEGO DOURADO, VINHO REGIONAL LISBOA, 2021, LOT 3651, P37

BIODYNAMITE, PFALZ, 2021, LOT 3646, P34

BOARD MEMBER

TWYLA LAAKSO

Twyla is an avid gardener and loves to cook, and is one of the few oenophiles whose consumption runs equally between reds and whites. Her preference leans toward cool crisp whites with floral notes, light acidity, a well-balanced body, minimal oak and a lingering finish, preferably with a hint of apricot or mild tropical fruit and a perimeter of crispness, so Viognier and Sauvignon Blanc are always on hand.

Though a well-balanced Chardonnay for cheese and charcuterie is usually available too.

JUSTINO'S MADEIRA, VERDELHO, 10 YEARS OLD, PART OF JUSTINO'S MADEIRA CASE, LOT 3666, P47

MANAGING DIRECTOR

MICHAEL LUTZMANN

Michael has level 3 training from WSET. Before discovering more about wine through training, he only drank heavy reds. While those are still favourites, his palate pleasers now include the full spectrum with dessert/ fortified wines edging toward the top of his list. The expanded selection of Beaujolais has him looking to add fantastic lighter reds to his collection.

— CELLAR 298 OPIMIAN SUGGESTS

5

MASTER PIECE

Making a Difference

PICA PEIXE, VINHO REGIONAL PENÍNSULA DE SETÚBAL, 2019, LOT 3675 , WEB EXCLUSIVE

Louise Wilson MW is one of Opimian’s Masters of Wine

The enjoyment of wine and spirits has always been about so much more than just how they taste. The most delightful of these sips engage us with their story.

They reflect the dedication and ingenuity of the winemakers and distillers that poured themselves into each bottle.

Another important consideration for today’s wine or spirits lover is something that Wine Intelligence calls “ethical consumerism”. We expect the beverages we purchase to make a difference and to be contributing to the bigger picture.

Across our Cellars, Opimian’s producer partners are committed to making the world a better place for us all. In Portugal, Boas Quintas has been a supporter of Portugal’s Institute for The Conservation of Nature and Forests since 2014. They are committed to monitoring and measuring their impact on nature and sharing their knowledge with consumers and partners. The winery has reduced the use of pesticides by encouraging insect-eating bats with roosting boxes positioned across the property. Thanks to the winery’s commitment to protecting endangered species, several rare birds including the Spoonbill, the Black Ibis and the Red Heron are found in the Boas Quintas vineyards and neighbouring wetlands.

In California, Hook & Ladder proprietors Christine and Cecil De Loach have long had a focus on sustainability. In 1999, Christine contributed to the establishment of the California Code of Sustainable Winegrowing. Their farming practices include the use of cover crops between the vineyard rows to invigorate the soil with nutrients while populations of beneficial insects and birds are encouraged to increase biodiversity in the vineyard. Supporting the community is also an integral part of the Hook & Ladder philosophy. Every month they work with a local charitable organization, creating events and campaigns as a way to give back.

Mountain View Vintners has addressed environmental concerns by making mindful packaging choices. Leaders in the space, this conscientious producer sources water-based, bio-degradable labels from the first Certified Green Printer in Northern California, Galaxy Press. In addition, the bottles that

6

CELLAR 298 — MASTER PIECE

LOUISE WILSON MW lives in the Niagara region and is one of ten Masters of Wine based in Canada. She has over 20 years of experience in the wine and spirits industry and is Opimian's Senior Procurement & Category Manager.

COUPS DE COEUR THIS CELLAR'S HIGHEST SCORING WINES

EVERYDAY DRINKING ESPUMANTE CONFRARIA, SUPER RESERVA BRUTO, ARINTO E CHARDONNAY, 2016, LOT 3663, P43

CELLARING POTENTIAL RAMILO VINHAS VELHAS TINTO, VINHO REGIONAL LISBOA, 2020, LOT 3655, P39

DUXINARO CABERNET SAUVIGNON, NAPA VALLEY, 2019, LOT 3618, P10

DEVIL'S FOG PINOT NOIR, LODI, 2020, LOT 3626, P19

hold Mountain View wines are made from 75% recycled glass while the case cartons are produced from 85% post-consumer recycled paper.

roots that can access more of the varied mineral layers of the soil.

In the glass, the wines reflect an increased complexity and more concentrated mid-palate flavours.

At Kautz Family Vineyards, the family has been practising sustainability for over 35 years. Stephen Kautz describes it as “looking at the trees and the forest at the same time,” and considers future generations by taking a long-term view in the decisions that they make. They have been instrumental in rescuing the wood duck from extinction by placing nesting boxes on their estate. Deer are permitted in the vineyard too.

Even though they eat some of the Kautz’s prized grapes, the family knows that they are part of a healthy and diverse ecosystem. Additional strategies include irrigation with grey water to conserve energy and reduce the strain on the water supply. Energy is further conserved by heating the property’s buildings with solar-powered heated floors.

In Prince Edward County, Ontario, vintner Sherry Karlo and partner Saxe Brickenden are responsible for producing the first certified vegan wine in the world. Not only do Karlo Estates wines appeal to the growing number of consumers interested in plant-based consumption, forgoing the use of any animalbased products reduces the winery’s carbon footprint. If you are wondering why all wine is not vegan, it is often due to the use of animal-based fining materials. If you are interested in learning more on this topic, you might wish to read my research paper “An Investigation into Consumer Attitudes Toward Vegan and Vegetarian wine in Canada” which can be found on the Master of Wine Website at Mastersofwine.org/rp.

In Oregon’s Willamette Valley, the Holloran vineyards are farmed organically or biodynamically. All key vineyard tasks such as shoot-thinning and positioning, leaf removal, crop reduction and hedging are performed by hand. As a result of their viticultural effort, the Holloran vines produce riper fruit and develop deeper

These are just a few examples of our many Opimian wine and spirit making partners who are not only dedicated to exceptional craftsmanship and providing great value but who also strive to make a difference. We hope you enjoy hearing their stories and getting to know all the quality-minded producers that have contributed to this Cellar.

— CELLAR 298 COUPS DE COEUR

7

CALIFORNIA

Mountain View SANTA CLARA VALLEY Mountain View Winery was established in 1978 at Morgan Hill, nestled in the Santa Clara Valley wine region. Proprietor and co-winemaker Angelo Pera is committed to offering exceptional value and quality throughout his portfolio which not only includes Mountain View, but also Duxinaro and Backstage. He actualizes this philosophy by sourcing fruit from several premium growing regions across California including the Russian River Valley, Napa Valley, Dry Creek Valley, Monterey and Paso Robles. Angelo’s daughter Olivia shares her father’s passion for wine. In 2021 she joined the winery full time as the sales and marketing manager; however, she also pitches in with winemaking and vineyard management.

8

CELLAR 298 — NEWFOUNDLAND

photo — Winemaker Angelo Pera, enjoying some golf while being surrounded by Chardonnay grapes in Napa Valley.

NEW

3615

MOUNTAIN VIEW ROSÉ, CENTRAL COAST, 2021

MOUNTAIN VIEW RED WINE BLEND, CENTRAL COAST, 2020

Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot

Pinot Noir

$ 42

3616

$ 252

$ 42

$ 252

Don’t be misled by the delicate pink hue of the 2021 Mountain View Rosé. This Pinot Noirbased wine stands out due to its perfumed aromatics and depth of flavour. Aromas of rose, strawberry and talc are followed by mouthwatering flavours of pink grapefruit, raspberry and strawberry. –lw

A unique blend of Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot that offers a full body with a kiss of oak from barrel age. This wine is open and expressive with aromas of black cherry, black raspberry and mint. Moderate, wellintegrated tannins and fresh acidity support the fruit core with its notes of ripe blackberry, a hint of mint and light oak spice. –lw

2022-2024, M9 D9

2022-2027, M9 D9

Rose, strawberry, talc

6°C

Black cherry, black raspberry, mint

18°C

Pink grapefruit, raspberry, strawberry, [0.85]

12%

Ripe blackberry, mint, oak spice

14%

Salmon carpaccio, spinach and ricotta quiche

3617

MOUNTAIN VIEW CABERNET SAUVIGNON, PASO ROBLES, EPSOM VINEYARD, 2020

Cabernet Sauvignon

$ 264

$ 44

A classic Cabernet Sauvignon with expressive blackcurrant, mint and oak spice aromas. The concentrated black fruit core is also lifted by a touch of mint. The tannins are firm but well integrated providing an elegant mouthfeel. While this wine is enjoyable now, it has the concentration and balance to continue to evolve for another ten years or more. –lw

Rotini with sun-dried tomato pesto

2022-2032, M8 D9 Blackcurrant, mint, oak spice

18°C

Blackberry, blackcurrant, mint

14%

Slow-braised venison with blackberry reduction

photo — Beautiful Napa Valley Vineyard, Cabernet Sauvignon vines, clone 7.

— CALIFORNIA MOUNTAIN VIEW

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3619

DUXINARO CHARDONNAY, RUSSIAN RIVER VALLEY, 2020

DUXINARO CABERNET SAUVIGNON, NAPA VALLEY, 2019

Cabernet Sauvignon

$ 116

$ 348

A very impressive wine with bright menthol aromas underpinned by plum, blackberry and blackcurrant notes. The generous intensity of the nose transitions to concentrated flavours of juicy blackberry and “After Eight” mint chocolate on the palate. The ripe rich tannin structure and refreshing acidity are in perfect balance with the fruit indicating this wine has the structure and depth to evolve for many years. –lw

$ 55

$ 51

$ 306

Duxinaro Zinfandel offers a balance of fruity and savoury aromas with notes of plum, cherry, hay and balsamic. On the palate, plush tannins frame flavours of black cherry and plum pudding. A year of aging in French oak barrels adds texture, along with a kiss of vanilla. –lw

2022-2028, M8 D9

2022-2025, M9 D9

Menthol, blackberry, blackcurrant

18°C

Citrus, apple, toast

6°C

Plum, cherry, hay

18°C

Blackberry, mint, chocolate

15%

Red apple, lemon, oak, [0.30]

13.5%

Black cherry, plum, vanilla

14.5%

Grilled butterflied leg of lamb with rosemary

10

$ 330

The 2021 Duxinaro Chardonnay from Russian River Valley is delicious today but has the potential to continue to mature in cellar for several more years. With time, you can expect the prominent fresh apple and citrus notes to evolve into baked apple and honey-lemon flavours while they make room for savoury layers of roasted nut, baking spice and Parmesan. –lw

2022-2032, M7 D9

DUXINARO ZINFANDEL, DRY CREEK VALLEY, 2020

Zinfandel

Chardonnay

3618

3620

CELLAR 298 — NEWFOUNDLAND

Fresh-shucked oysters with mignonette sauce

Oven-roasted eggplant with harissa

photo — Duxinaro Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon vines, located in Rutherford, Napa Valley.

NEW

3621

BACKSTAGE CHARDONNAY, NAPA VALLEY, PROSCENIUM VINEYARD, 2021

Chardonnay

$ 384

$ 64

With a deep core of flavour and layers of complexity, the 2021 Backstage Chardonnay over-delivers on value. A marriage of old and new world in style with a bouquet of pineapple, baked apple and yogurt. On the palate, the ripe fruit core is supported by luxurious oak spice which tapers off into a long toasty finish. This wine has a long life ahead if you are disciplined enough to tuck away a few bottles. –lw 2022-2030, M8 D9 Pineapple, baked apple, yogurt, oak spice

6°C

Apple, lemon, pineapple, toast, [0.40]

14%

Lemon-poached salmon with a butter sauce

NEW

3622

BACKSTAGE ZINFANDEL, DRY CREEK VALLEY, A CAPPELLA VINEYARD, 2019

Zinfandel

$ 86

$ 258

A classic Zinfandel from California’s renowned Dry Creek Valley, with a deep, ruby/purple hue and aromas of rich dark fruit, freshly turned earth and a hint of vanilla. Velvety black fruit and plush tannin fill the palate with notes of warm blackberry pie, black raspberry and plum. –lw 2022-2027, M9 D9 Blackberry, boysenberry, vanilla

18°C

Blackberry, black raspberry, plum

14.5%

Beef-pork ravioli with a Bolognese sauce

photo — Olivia Pera sorting Cabernet Sauvignon grapes at harvest.

— CALIFORNIA MOUNTAIN VIEW

11

CALIFORNIA

Hook & Ladder RUSSIAN RIVER VALLEY

12

CELLAR 298 — NEWFOUNDLAND

Prior to 1970, Cecil and Christine De Loach had earned advanced degrees in anthropology but had no experience in viticulture. This did not stop them from following their dreams, and they purchased their first vineyard in what they would help to establish as the Russian River Valley wine region. In 2003, they opened the doors of the Hook and Ladder Winery, named after Cecil’s career as a San Francisco firefighter. The sustainably farmed 148-acre estate is now managed by Cecil and Christine’s grandson, winemaker Jason De Loach, who specializes in top-quality Pinot Noir, Zinfandel, Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon among other varieties.

photo — Guests visiting the beautiful grounds at Hook & Ladder Vineyards and Winery enjoy a beautiful day underneath the shade cloth.

3605

HOOK & LADDER SAUVIGNON BLANC, ESTATE BOTTLED, OLIVET RANCH, RUSSIAN RIVER VALLEY, 2021 Sauvignon Blanc

$ 76

$ 456

Made from 20-year-old vines on the Hook & Ladder estate, this aromatic wine sings with a perfume of honeydew melon and honeysuckle. The palate is refreshing and packed with flavours of ripe melon, lime and grapefruit. Time spent in neutral barrel adds a satisfying texture and weight without the impression of oak. A classically sunny Sauvignon Blanc. –lw

3606

HOOK & LADDER CHARDONNAY, ESTATE BOTTLED, RUSSIAN RIVER VALLEY, 2021

Chardonnay

$ 76

$ 456

This rich and flavourful Chardonnay opens with inviting notes of toast, lees, vanilla and baked apple on the nose followed by flavours of ripe red apple, lemon curd and oak spice. It has a satisfying weight and a creamy texture; a well-balanced and concentrated wine. –lw 2022-2025, M9 D9

2023-2028, M9 D9 Honeydew melon, honeysuckle

6°C

Toast, lees, baked apple

6°C

Melon, lime, grapefruit, [0.17]

14%

Ripe apple, lemon curd, [0.13]

14.5%

Thai fish cakes

photo — Jason De Loach does his best Spiderman impression as he samples barrels destined for his famous “The Tillerman” Red Blend.

Linguine with pesto

— CALIFORNIA HOOK & LADDER

13

Q&A

Jason De Loach | A Pioneering Wine Family Hook & Ladder

As a child, Jason De Loach grew up in the vineyards, trailing his grandfather Cecil and helping out at the winery. Today, Jason is the head winemaker at Hook & Ladder Winery, in California’s Russian River Valley, located in Sonoma County.

HOOK AND LADDER WAS FOUNDED ALMOST 20 YEARS AGO, IN 2003. CAN YOU TELL US YOUR STORY?

Our founder is my grandpa Cecil De Loach who spent 17 years as a San Francisco firefighter. Cecil was the original founder of De Loach Vineyards in the early 70s and sold the De Loach brand in 2003. For the first wines for Hook and Ladder Winery, we utilized select fruit from our 148 acres which focused primarily on small bottlings of Pinot Noir, “Old Vine” Zinfandel, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Gewürztraminer (early and late harvest), Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Bordeaux style blends and Port. Since 2003, we’ve expanded our wines to single-vineyard bottlings of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, reserve wines called Third Alarm and our limited production wines called Four Rows. The main driving influence was focusing more on our tasting room experience and wine club.

WHEN AND HOW DID YOU BECOME INVOLVED IN THE FAMILY BUSINESS?

I was fortunate to grow up in and around the wine industry; wine production was always exciting and energetic, especially during harvest. Right after high school, my grandpa offered me a job in production and a place to live. At the time that was my best option so I accepted his offer and started working full-time in production at De Loach Vineyards.

WHAT MAKES YOUR VINEYARD SUSTAINABLE?

All of our vineyards are currently considered Sonoma County sustainable and certified; we adhere to strict farming practices and use only certified products in our vineyards in addition to discing our vineyards only as needed. All of the required farming certificates and technical blending information accounting for all our wines are formally submitted to the Sonoma County Wine Growers to be verified for being sustainable. Being stewards of the land helps protect our vineyards for now and in the future. This is the way my family has always farmed, long before actually being recognized as sustainable.

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CELLAR 298 — Q&A

HOW DO YOU DEAL WITH THE THREAT OF WILDFIRES IN CALIFORNIA?

When it comes to our ranches, we keep all of the grass cut low, disc and mow our vineyards as necessary and remove dead brush and trees; for winemaking, we are always exploring the best products and protocols available to mitigate the possibility of smoke damage.

WHAT ARE THE PARTICULARITIES OF MAKING WINE IN THE RUSSIAN RIVER VALLEY?

The Russian River Valley is typically cooler in the morning from the coastal influence, often providing a nice layer of fog that dissipates in the early afternoon. Because of the cool mornings and warmer

HOOK & LADDER AQUARIUS RANCH CHARDONNAY, ESTATE BOTTLED, RUSSIAN RIVER VALLEY, 2020, LOT 3607, P16

afternoons, we have a very nice extended growing season for the fruit to obtain the best balance of rich flavours, acid retention and sugar which allows us to make the best possible wines.

focusing primarily on the Aquarius Ranch Chardonnay and our Four Rows program.

TELL US ABOUT YOUR STEGMAN RANCH AND AQUARIUS RANCH VINEYARDS.

I really enjoy working on all of our singlevineyard Chardonnay and Pinot Noir wines because they offer the greatest amount of creativity with single barrel selection. My favourite grape to work with is Pinot Noir because it is one of the most physically demanding wines, being fermented in small open-top style tanks. Also, calling a pick for Pinot Noir can be very challenging while trying to dial in the perfect flavour profiles.

The Stegman Ranch Pinot Noir comes from a 6-acre Vineyard specifically planted and designed for high-end wines. The Stegman Ranch vineyards is by far our favourite source for Pinot Noir and creates wines with big extended flavour profiles and a rich full body mouth feel. We use this fruit for all of our upper-tier Pinot Noir blends, with the biggest focus being on the Stegman Ranch Pinot Noir and our Four Rows program. My family has been working with the Aquarius Ranch Chardonnay for decades, since before Hook and Ladder Winery, for creating higher-end Chardonnay. The vineyard is located right along the Russian River and has a very nice slow extended growing season leading to rich flavours of apple, pear and melon along with a dense full body mouth feel while retaining the perfect amount of acidity. We use this fruit for all of our upper-tier Chardonnay blends

WHICH WINE(S) ARE YOU MOST PROUD OF? WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE GRAPE VARIETY TO WORK WITH?

WHAT WINE DO YOU LIKE TO OPEN AT FAMILY GATHERINGS?

Typically, at family gatherings we will open a nice bottle of Chardonnay, Aquarius Ranch, Four Rows or Third Alarm.

WHAT DOES YOUR COLLABORATION WITH OPIMIAN AND ITS CANADIAN MEMBERS MEAN TO YOU?

It’s wonderful to be able to share the wines we make at Hook and Ladder Winery with an exclusive offering such as Opimian, it has been a great partnership.

— CELLAR 298 Q&A

15

NEW

3607

HOOK & LADDER AQUARIUS RANCH CHARDONNAY, ESTATE BOTTLED, RUSSIAN RIVER VALLEY, 2020 Chardonnay

$ 104

$ 312

A moreish wine with a bouquet of orchard fruit, citrus and toast. The palate is packed with flavours of apple, peach and tropical fruits such as pineapple. Time in oak barrels adds complexity with notes of toast and baking spice.

A well-balanced wine with refreshing acidity that is in harmony with the fruit. –lw 2022-2026, M9 D9 Apple, citrus, toast

6°C

Apple, peach, pineapple, [0.13]

14.5%

Mango-macadamia chicken salad

3608

HOOK & LADDER PINOT NOIR, ESTATE BOTTLED, RUSSIAN RIVER VALLEY, 2020

Pinot Noir

$ 89

$ 534

This charming wine is made from the first Pinot Noir vines planted on Olivet Road, a vineyard that the pioneering De Loach family established in 1973. A pale, ruby hue cloaks an expressive bouquet of plum, blackcurrant, earth, violet and fallen leaves. Flavours of red and black fruit are knit together with the baking spice notes of French oak barrels and supported by well-structured, polished tannins and refreshing acidity. –lw 2022-2029, M9 D9 Expressive plum, violet, autumn leaves

6°C

Red and blackcurrant, raspberry

14%

Pan-seared duck confit with dried cherry compote

16

CELLAR 298 — NEWFOUNDLAND

photo — A hot air balloon is set to land at Hook & Ladder's Los Amigos Ranch in the beautiful Sub Appellation of Chalk Hill.

3609

HOOK & LADDER ZINFANDEL, ESTATE BOTTLED, RUSSIAN RIVER VALLEY, 2019

Zinfandel

$ 89

3610

HOOK & LADDER CABERNET SAUVIGNON, ESTATE BOTTLED, LOS AMIGOS RANCH, CHALK HILL, 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon

$ 534

$ 113

$ 678

An inky, ruby, purple hue foreshadows the rich, concentrated profile of this Russian River Zinfandel.

Reminiscent of a LBV port with flavours of juicy black fruits such as blackberry, black cherry and black raspberry with highlights of black licorice and mint. With refined tannins and fresh acid, this wine has the balance and structure to develop over time. Total production 361 cases. –lw

An engaging example of Cabernet Sauvignon loaded with warm black fruit and luxurious oak nuances. A touch of Merlot adds body and mouthfeel to the wine. This single-vineyard wine is wellstructured with refreshing acidity and the ideal amount of tannic grip. –lw

2022-2029, M8 D9

2022-2029, M9 D9

Ripe blackberry, black pepper

18°C

Dark berry, coconut, earth

18°C

Rich blackberry, licorice, mint

15%

Blackberry, blackcurrant, coconut

14.5%

Grilled sirloin with blackberry sauce

Chopped-steak burger with smoky Gouda and caramelized onions

3611

HOOK & LADDER THE TILLERMAN RED BLEND, ESTATE BOTTLED, LOS AMIGOS RANCH, CHALK HILL, SONOMA COUNTY, 2019 Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Sangiovese

$ 85

$ 510

Named after proprietor Cecil De Loach, who as a “tillerman,” was responsible for steering the back of the hook-and-ladder firetruck. This 2019 red blend draws you in with inviting aromas of raspberry, blueberry, plum and vanilla. The pure, ripe fruit profile carries forward to the palate with concentrated notes of plum, raspberry, strawberry, and coconut. –lw 2022-2026, M9 D9 Raspberry, blueberry, plum

18°C

Plum, raspberry, strawberry, coconut

14.5%

Spaghetti with a fresh tomato sauce

photo — A line up of colorful glasses await a party at the Hook & Ladder Winery Tasting Room.

— CALIFORNIA HOOK & LADDER

17

CALIFORNIA

Kautz Family Vineyards LODI

18

CELLAR 298 — NEWFOUNDLAND

John Kautz’s parents, originally from Germany, were drawn to California in search of the “American Dream.” They purchased a farm in Lodi where John was raised. Gail Kramer, the daughter of a successful lawyer and English professor, grew up in the San Francisco Bay area. After meeting in college, John and Gail married in 1958 and have been crafting award-winning wines from their Lodi Estate for over 30 years. Their wines are their labour of love: in fact, the Sentimental Journey Chardonnay is named after the song they chose for their first dance at their wedding. Winemaker Steve Millier crafts several wines within the portfolio including Kautz and Kramer, Devil’s Fog and Ranahan Ranch.

photo — Winemaker Steve Millier drawing samples from the barrels for tasting.

NEW

3625

NEW

RANAHAN RANCH ZINFANDEL, CALIFORNIA, 2019

Zinfandel

$ 36

3626

DEVIL'S FOG PINOT NOIR, LODI, 2020

Pinot Noir, Petite Sirah

$ 216

Ripe blackberry aromas are offset by savoury balsamic notes on the nose, while the palate offers flavours of blackberry jam, blueberry and plum. Seamless tannins and balanced acidity support the concentrated fruit core. An approachable wine that would make a great match for BBQ burgers with sautéed mushrooms. –lw 2022-2024, M9 D9 Blackberry, savoury, balsamic

18°C

Blackberry jam, blueberry, plum

14.5%

BBQ Wagyu burgers with sautéed cremini mushrooms

$ 68

$ 408

An engaging blend of 86% Pinot Noir and 14% Petite Sirah with an expressive bouquet of violet, plum and strawberry aromas. Juicy raspberry and blueberry flavours follow on the palate, complemented by notes of strawberries and cream. The fresh acidity and moderate fine-grained tannins are perfectly well integrated creating a velvety mouthfeel.

This wine is enjoyable now and will continue to evolve for several years to come. –lw 2022-2029, M8 D9 Violet, plum, strawberry

18°C

Strawberries and cream, raspberry

14.5%

Salmon burger with avocado and cilantro

photo — Fog rolling through the vineyards in Lodi, California.

— CALIFORNIA KAUTZ FAMILY VINEYARDS

19

J O IN O PIMIA N’S MA ST ER S O F W INE W ITH

THE MASTERS CASE SU BSCRIPTIO N

THE BEST IN A BOX EASY to order EXPERTLY curated EFFORTLESSLY enjoyable Overwhelmed by choosing wines in the Cellar?

Subscribe to The Masters Case, a mixed, six-bottle case curated by Opimian’s own Masters of Wine for Members like you.

Even better, you get to taste the wines along with your MW once you receive them! Two bottles each of three outstanding wines from a featured region to take the guesswork out of choosing! You will discover three styles

$169

of wine that will challenge your palate and cultivate your

PER CELLAR

curiosity. Rely on world-class expertise!

The Masters Case wines from this Cellar come from three boutique wineries in Portugal.

SIGN UP NOW via your dashboard at Opimian.ca

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NEW

3628

NEW

3627

KAUTZ & KRAMER CHARDONNAY, SENTIMENTAL JOURNEY, LODI, 2020

$ 330

With fruit harvested from two vineyards, the complexity and balance achieved in this wine symbolizes the harmonious joining of two individuals becoming more than they could individually. The cooler vineyard, located in Mokelumne River (a sub-AVA in Lodi), contributes to the wine’s refreshing profile, while the warmer Alta Mesa vineyard delivers fruit with ripe tropical flavours. This fullbodied Chardonnay displays aromas of apple, lemon and toast. On the palate, flavours of apple and pineapple are wrapped in luxurious oak and taper off into a notable length. –lw

3629

KAUTZ & KRAMER CABERNET SAUVIGNON, BLOCK 50, LODI, 2018

Cabernet Sauvignon

Cabernet Franc

$ 68

Chardonnay

$ 55

KAUTZ & KRAMER CABERNET FRANC, SHELDON RANCH BLOCK 72, LODI, 2018

$ 408

$ 68

$ 408

The warm climate of the Sheldon Ranch Vineyard allows Cabernet Franc grapes to thoroughly ripen resulting in juicy red fruit flavours with an inviting herbal twist. The tannic grip that frames the fruity mid palate indicates this wine's potential for continued evolution, while the refreshing acidity makes it an ideal dinner companion. –lw

Decanting released a bouquet of blackcurrant and plum aromas with hints of spearmint and vanilla.

Mouthwatering flavours of ripe black fruits are complemented by oak spice from barrel aging. This award-winning wine offers a full body, generous intensity and a satisfying length. –lw

2022-2028, M7 D8

2022-2029, M9 D9

2022-2027, M9 D9 Apple, lemon, toast

6°C

Floral, vanilla redcurrant, fresh herbs

18°C

Blackcurrant, plum, spearmint, vanilla

18°C

Pineapple, oak spice, apple, [3.00]

13.5%

Cherry, redcurrant, raspberry, herb

14.5%

Blackberry pie, oak spice

14.5%

Roast butternut squash and chickpea stew

photo — Gail and John Kautz enjoying a glass of their namesake wine.

Slow-roast shoulder of lamb with cherry tomato confit

Gorgonzola-stuffed cremini mushroom caps

— CALIFORNIA KAUTZ FAMILY VINEYARDS

21

OREGON

Holloran Vineyard Wines WILLAMETTE VALLEY In 1999, Eve and Bill Holloran were drawn to Oregon’s oldest wine region, the Willamette Valley, where they purchased vineyards in Dundee and Eola-Amity Hills. From their inaugural harvest, they produced 500 cases from their converted horse barn earning Bill the recognition of launching the “garagiste” movement in Oregon.

Since 2005 Holloran, wine has been made by winemaker Mark La Gasse.

Vicente Mora has managed the estate’s vineyards, which have all been farmed organically or biodynamically since 2013. The Holloran philosophy is to craft wines that express the personality of the vineyard and vintage – pure and refreshing wines which are perfect for enjoying with food.

22

CELLAR 298 — NEWFOUNDLAND

photo — Holloran's ANA vineyard Pinot Noir just before harvest.

NEW

3612

HOLLORAN STAFFORD HILL TEMPRANILLO, EOLA-AMITY HILLS, 2020

Tempranillo

$ 84

$ 252

What a joy to taste the Holloran Stafford Hill Tempranillo. This unique wine has a ruby/purple hue and aromas of cranberry, strawberry and leather. Firm but plush tannins support on the palate with flavours of strawberry fruit leather, tart cherry and an intriguing herbal note on the finish. The perfect wine to bring to a wine tasting. –lw 2022-2027, M9 D9 Cranberry, strawberry, leather

18°C

Strawberry, cherry, herb

13.5%

Garlic-crusted rack of lamb with blueberry sauce

3613

HOLLORAN PINOT NOIR, DUNDEE HILLS, 2018

Pinot Noir

$ 92

$ 276

A pale ruby hue reveals aromas of raspberry, cranberry, a hint of freshly turned earth and oak spice. The palate follows with mouthwatering pure fruit flavours of strawberry, cherry and pomegranate that harmonize with fine, well-integrated tannins and finish with a generous length. While it is delightful now, this wine will continue to mature in cellar over the next seven years or more. –lw 2022-2029, M8 D9 Raspberry, cranberry, oak spice

18°C

Strawberry, cherry, pomegranate

13.5%

Pan-caramelized bone-in chicken thighs with red wine sauce

— OREGON HOLLORAN VINEYARD WINES

23

CELLAR UP! WINES TO SHAPE YOUR CELLAR

The largest wine cellar in the world, in Moldova, is over 200 km long and holds over 2 million bottles of wine.

Yours is likely quite a bit smaller than that but can be as diverse.

Here you have the opportunity to add wines from no fewer than four countries, with over a dozen wine regions. Sparkling, white, rosé, red and even fortified wines are ready for your cellar. There is even a spirit for your bar.

There are so many drinking occasions that can benefit from a good wine choice. A glass with a weekday dinner, a special weekend meal at home, entertaining your friends or taking a bottle as a gift when invited out for the evening. It's also becoming more popular in Canada to take your own wine when dining at a restaurant. Many restaurants will welcome your bottle for a reasonable corkage fee.

Be sure to have something on hand for each of these. It's a wonderful way of celebrating and enhancing the joy of wine.

SPARKLING Pairs with anything, celebrations, romance ESPUMANTE CONFRARIA, SUPER RESERVA BRUTO, ARINTO E CHARDONNAY, 2016, LOT 3663, P43

Can you ever have too much sparkling? The traditional method of making sparkling wine is now used around the world. The method and the variety (Chardonnay) for this wine are traditional but the result is anything but. A truly unique winner.

MEDIUM-BODIED WHITE Seafood such as oysters, scallops, sashimi, or salads with mild vinaigrettes SPIELBERG RIESLING, PFALZ, 2020, LOT 3645, P34

It is often said that Riesling is the sommeliers' varietal. For good reason. The nuance and elegance of this Pfalz favourite are unmatched. The hand-picking and additional care in the process shine through.

FULL- BODIED RED Heavy stews, many game meats, lamb, strong cheeses, even dessert KAUTZ & KRAMER CABERNET SAUVIGNON, BLOCK 50, LODI 2018 , LOT 3629, P21

So often overshadowed by its famous neighbour, Napa, the Lodi region of California has so much to offer. This Cab-Sauv, already four years old, will not disappoint - and it is simply an excellent value.

FORTIFIED Works well at the beginning and end of almost every meal CRAUFURD PORTO, 30 YEARS OLD TAWNY, DOC PORTO, AGED IN WOOD (WOOD CASE), LOT 3671, P50

Does one need a reason to have a 30 year old Tawny port in their cellar? We think not. If you're looking for one (or two), think layers of taste, years of enjoyment ahead, and the wood case adds yet even more class to this class act.

...AND FOR YOUR BAR Rum BEAULIEU, RHUM EPICÉ, LOT 3640, WEB EXCLUSIVE

24

CELLAR 298 — CELLAR UP!

If you're a lover of r(h)um, then you just have to have this one. There is so much going on here that you'll be sipping through it to the bottom of the bottle. It's a good thing it comes in threes. There will be some left for the eggnog.

MIXED CASE 3614

HOLLORAN PINOT NOIR LA CHENAIE/LE PAVILLON CASE

$ 111

$ 666

HOLLORAN PINOT NOIR, LE PAVILLON VINEYARD, DUNDEE HILLS, 2018

Pinot Noir

LE PAVILLON & LA CHENAIE

Pinot Noir

This wine has begun to evolve with savoury shiitake mushroom notes intermingled with aromas of cherry, plum and violet. The palate sings with flavours of strawberry, cranberry and cherry supported by a hint of vanilla and framed by fine-grained tannins.

This showstopping wine finishes with a memorable length. –lw

THREE BOTTLES EACH

A wonderful expression of Eola-Amity Hills' La Chenaie Vineyard with a mouthwatering red-fruit profile. Aromas of violet, strawberry, vanilla and a hint of tomato leaf proceed firm but refined tannins and notes of juicy cranberry, cherry, plum and vanilla.

Proprietor Bill Holloran recommends pairing with roasted pork tenderloin rubbed with cumin, garlic, and onion. –lw

2022-2029, M8 D9 Cherry, plum, shiitake mushroom

18°C

Strawberry, cranberry, cherry, vanilla

13.5%

Roast pork loin with cherry-orange compote

photo — Mark LaGasse, winemaker for Holloran Vineyard Wines, has been making wine there since 2005.

HOLLORAN PINOT NOIR, LA CHENAIE VINEYARD, EOLA-AMITY HILLS, 2018

2022-2027, M8 D8 Violet, strawberry, vanilla, a hint of tomato leaf

18°C

Juicy, cranberry, cherry, plum

13.5%

Roasted pork tenderloin rubbed with cumin, garlic and onion

— OREGON HOLLORAN VINEYARD WINES

25

CANADA

Karlo Estates Winery PRINCE EDWARD COUNTY Located in Prince Edward County, Ontario, the idyllic Ontario Karlo Estates Winery was established in 2006 by Sherry Karlo and her late husband Richard. Today Sherry and partner Saxe Brickenden oversee the estate which is credited for producing the first certified vegan wine in the world. Saxe, a longtime wine lover, is proud to have been a charter member of the Opimian Society. Hand-harvested grapes are grown on the region’s 400-million-year-old limestone soil and crafted into award-winning wines by Derek Barnett. Derek has been named both “Winemaker of the Year” at the Ontario Wine Awards and “Wine Person of the Year” by the National Capital Sommelier Guild.

26

CELLAR 298 — NEWFOUNDLAND

photo — Star winemaker Derek Barnett's mission is to craft gold medal wines.

NEW

3630

KARLO ESTATES PATIO RESERVE ROSÉ, VQA ONTARIO, 2021

Sauvignon Blanc, Gewürztraminer, Pinot Gris, Malbec

$ 228

$ 38

3631

KARLO ESTATES THREE WITCHES, VQA ONTARIO, 2021

Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris, Gewürztraminer

$ 44

$ 264

These “three witches” must be the good kind based on this fresh and fruity white blend from Karlo Estates. The experience opens with aromas of lychee, white grapefruit and lemon which transition into flavours of lychee, melon and white grapefruit and taper off in a lemony finish. I recommend tucking a bottle in your picnic basket to accompany your ploughman’s lunch. –lw

A unique blend of grape varieties, including the only Malbec grown in Prince Edward County, gives the Karlo Estates Patio Reserve Rosé lots of personality. Rose petal perfume and aromas of pink grapefruit carry through to the palate where a refreshing twist of lime appears on the finish. –lw

2022-2023, M9 D9

2022-2024, M9 D9

Lychee, white grapefruit, lemon

6°C

Rose, pink grapefruit

6°C

Lychee, melon, white grapefruit, lemon, [3.00]

13%

Rose, pink grapefruit, lime, ,[6.00]

13%

Ploughman’s lunch with pickled-vegetable relish and fruit

photo — Karlo Estates's dry stone bridge is the largest of its kind in North America.

Mussaman Thai curry with galangal, basil and lime leaf

— CANADA KARLO ESTATES WINERY

27

NEW LOOK, SAME WINE!

3623

OPIMIAN CALIFORNIA WHITE, CALIFORNIA, 2021

Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay, Riesling

$ 30

$ 360

CELLAR 298 — NEWFOUNDLAND

OPIMIAN CALIFORNIA RED, CALIFORNIA, 2020 Zinfandel, Petite Sirah, Pinot Noir, Ruby Cabernet, Cabernet Sauvignon

$ 30

$ 360

Pinot Grigio leads the aroma profile of this fresh white blend with notes of red apple and lemon. Chardonnay and Riesling come through more on the palate bringing flavours of peach and apricot fruit salad to the mix. An ideal patio sipper. –lw

A delicate strawberry aroma with a slight herbal note transitions into ripe strawberry, plum and confected cherry flavours. An easydrinking wine with light tannins and moderate acid to be enjoyed with or without food. –lw

2022-2023, M9 D9

2022-2024, M9 D9

Red apple, lemon

6°C

Strawberry, herb

18°C

Peach, apricot, apple, lemon, [1.00]

13%

Strawberry, plum, cherry

13.5%

Rotisserie chicken salad with pecans and dates

28

3624

Grilled Margherita pizza

TOP VALUE WINES FOR YOUR EVERYDAY DRINKING

NEW

3635

770 MILES CHARDONNAY, CALIFORNIA, 2021 NEW

Chardonnay

$ 24

3636

770 MILES ZINFANDEL, CALIFORNIA, 2021

$ 288 Zinfandel

$ 24

$ 288

Zinfandel is a generous variety, with its ample body, velvety tannins and rich flavours. The 770 Miles Zinfandel displays a bright ruby hue, aromas of poached plum and flavours of juicy blueberry and plum. –lw

NEW

3637

770 MILES ZINFANDEL ROSÉ, CALIFORNIA, 2021

Zinfandel

$ 24 A cheerful Californian Chardonnay with aromas of baked apple and toasted coconut.

Full-bodied with flavours of coconut cream pie, apple and white pepper. Enjoy with or without food. –lw

$ 288

A classic white Zinfandel with a charming pink hue and expressive strawberry, raspberry and watermelon flavours. Fresh and fruity with a sweet finish. –lw

2022-2023, M9 D9

2022-2024, M9 D9

2022-2024, M9 D9

Baked apple, toasted coconut

6°C

Poached plums

18°C

Strawberry, cotton candy, watermelon

6°C

Coconut cream pie, apple, [4.00]

12.5%

Blueberry, plum

14%

Strawberry, raspberry, watermelon, [23.00]

10.5%

Whipped ricotta with roasted cherry tomatoes on lentils

Sweet and sour grilled chicken with grilled stone fruit

Fresh prawn linguine

— CALIFORNIA TOP VALUE WINES

29

LEADING THE CHARGE AS THE PRINCE EDWARD COUNTY REGION ADVANCES.

3632

KARLO ESTATES BUBBLE, VQA ONTARIO, 2021

Sémillon, Sauvignon Blanc

$ 51

$ 306

Cheers to Karlo Bubble! With a medium lemon hue and frothy mousse, this sparkler pops with aromas of green apple and lemon.

The fresh palate is packed with flavours of lemon, lime, green apple and honeydew melon. A perfect brunch wine. –lw

3633

KARLO ESTATES TRIUMVIRATE, VQA ONTARIO, 2020

Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Malbec

$ 58

$ 348

A classic Meritage blend with a deep ruby/ purple hue, a bouquet of smoky plum, earth and oak followed by flavours of plum, black cherry and herb wrapped in rich oak. This wine has the structure and concentration to continue to evolve for several years. –lw

2022-2025, M9 D9 Green apple, lemon

6°C

Lemon, lime, green apple, honeydew melon, [10.00]

12.5%

Chick’n-fried tofu with lemon aioli

2022-2028, M8 D9 Plum, earth, oak

18°C

Plum, oak spice, black cherry, herb

12.5%

Roasted beets and cauliflower steak with wild rice

30

CELLAR 298 — NEWFOUNDLAND

photo — Sherry Karlo has built an award-winning winery that has earned international accolades and widespread recognition.

MIXED CASE 3634

KARLO ESTATES VAN ALSTINE CASE

$ 60

$ 360

THREE BOTTLES EACH RED & WHITE

KARLO ESTATES VAN ALSTINE RED, PROPERTY GROWN, PRINCE EDWARD COUNTY, 2019

KARLO ESTATES VAN ALSTINE WHITE, PROPERTY GROWN, PRINCE EDWARD COUNTY, 2019

Frontenac Blanc Frontenac Noir

The opaque ruby core of this unique fortified wine foreshadows the depth of flavour to come. The generous bouquet is reminiscent of black cherry jubilee and dark chocolate, both of which would be ideal pairings.

Rich and satisfying notes of blackberry jam and fruitcake crowd the palate before trailing into a long finish with a slight herbal essence. –lw

Hidden gem alert! Looking to elevate a special dinner or searching for the perfect gift? Consider Karlo Estate’s fortified wines.

The Van Alstine White is made from the extremely rare Frontenac Blanc grape whose existence is the result of a spontaneous evolution of a Frontenac Noir vine in the Karlo Estate vineyards. A delicious and unique wine with layers of lime, honey, peach and celery aromas and stone fruit, honey and crème brûlée flavours. –lw

2022-2029, M9 D9

2022-2025, M9 D9

Dark chocolate, black cherry jubilee

18°C

Lime, honey, peach, celery

6°C

Blackberry jam, plum, fruitcake

17.5%

Peach, apricot, honey, crème brûlée, [95.00]

17.5%

German dark-chocolate molten lava cake with raspberry coulis

photo — Little Bug the cat welcomes visitors at Karlo Estates.

Almond crème brûlée

— CANADA KARLO ESTATES WINERY

31

GERMANY

Weingut Pflüger PFALZ The man with horse and plow found on Pflüger’s wine labels represents winemaker Alex Pflüger’s deep connection to the vineyard. His family has been making wine since the 1800s and has been committed to the pursuit full time for over 100 years. To hone his craft, Alex studied winemaking at Geisenheim and completed vintages across France and in South Africa. Today Alex owns 20 hectares of biodynamic vineyards in Pfalz that have been Demeter-certified since 2008. From hand-harvested, meticulously handled grapes, Alex produces a range of terroir-driven natural wines – wines that delight with a sense of place.

32

CELLAR 298 — NEWFOUNDLAND

photo — Winemaker Alexander Pfluger is dedicated to organic viticulture.

3641

RIESLING BUNTSANDSTEIN, PFALZ, 2021

Riesling

$ 40

3642

SAUVIGNON BLANC QUARZIT, PFALZ, 2021

Sauvignon Blanc

$ 240

Named after the light sandstone soils on which Riesling grapes were grown in vineyards around Bad Dürkheim. The 2021 has lime and mineral aromas with a touch of caraway seed. It is broad in structure developing a firm acidity with flavours of nectarines, passion fruit, cassis and white peach which linger on the finish. –jm

$ 41

$ 246

An elegant Sauvignon with delicate elderflower, spring blossoms and white peach aromas. More subtle white fruits emerge on the palate leading to a lemony acidity.

Sauvignon Blanc was grown on quartzite soils, fermented and matured in tank with a touch of residual sweetness. –jm

2022-2025, M8 D9

2022-2023, M8 D9

Lime, caraway seed

6°C

Elderflower, spring blossom

6°C

Passion fruit, nectarine, white peach, [4.40]

12%

White peach, lemon, [7.30]

12%

Hahnchenkeulen crispy baked chicken drumsticks with sauerkraut

Yuzu-glazed seared tuna

3643

PINOT NOIR BUNTSANDSTEIN, PFALZ, 2020

Pinot Noir

$ 42

$ 252

An easy-drinking Pinot Noir, it is plum in colour with earthy aromas, balsamic and sour cherry. It was matured in large oak barrels adding a hint of toast and is ready for drinking. –jm 2022-2025, M8 D9 Sour cherries, balsamic

18°C

Earthy fruits

13%

Medley of grilled vegetables with white balsamic glaze

photo — The harvest in Bad Durkheim.

— GERMANY WEINGUT PFLÜGER

33

3644

ROSÉ SAIGNÉE, PFALZ, 2021

Pinot Noir, Dornfelder

$ 37

SPIELBERG RIESLING, PFALZ, 2020

Riesling

$ 222

$ 59

3646

BIODYNAMITE, PFALZ, 2021

Riesling, Gewürztraminer

$ 354

$ 49

$ 294

A deep, vibrantly coloured rosé produced from a blend of Pinot Noir and Dornfelder. Grapes were grown on a mixture of quartzite and red sandstone soils and left on skins for some time. Aromas of rosehip, caramel and toffee precede a broad palate with yogurt, sour cream and cherry flavours emerging. –jm

An intense aroma with spicy Riesling character with honey, petrol, smoke and fresh limes.

It is smooth and round with a long, elegant finish. Spielberg is a single vineyard which was planted in by Alex’s father in the 1970s. Vines are cultivated on limestone soils with a thin layer of red sandstone.

Grapes were picked by hand and underwent a six-hour maceration prior to pressing and fermentation with wild yeast. –jm

A deliciously tropical wine with floral aromas of orange blossom and citrus – tangerine with a hint of smoke. It is elegant on the palate with some sweetness and the same floral and tropical fruits shining through. It is a blend of 70% Riesling with 30% Gewürztraminer. –jm

2022-2023, M8 D9

2022-2028, M7 D9

2022-2023, M8 D9

Rosehip, caramel

6°C

Spicy, honey, mineral

6°C

Orange blossom, tangerine

6°C

Cranberry, yogurt, [7.30]

12.5%

Smooth, round, [7.40]

12.5%

Tropical fruits, floral, [11.50]

12.5%

Rosé-poached berries with honey and vanilla

34

3645

CELLAR 298 — NEWFOUNDLAND

Grilled trout with mild habanero-lime vinaigrette

Pâté en croûte

photo — The Spielberg Riesling vineyard was planted

by Alexander's father in the seventies.

NEW

3647

FUNKY RABBIT, PFALZ

Sauvignon Blanc, Gewürztraminer, Riesling, Pinot Blanc

$ 234

$ 39

NEW

3648

NEW

RIESLING TROCKEN, PFALZ, 2021

Riesling

$ 34

3649

DORNFELDER TROCKEN, PFALZ, 2020

Dornfelder

$ 204

$ 34

$ 204

A savoury cheese-rind aroma masks some of the fruit, which comes through on the palate with pears and melon flavours. It was produced from Riesling grapes coming from younger vineyards around Bad Dürkheim. This wine comes in a 1-Litre bottle. –jm

Intense purple in colour, the 2020 Dornfelder has smoky aromas of burnt toast with a touch of leather over a red cherry background. It is supple on the palate with more fresh cherry fruits. It is mellow with a nice mid palate and firm acidity leading to a long smoky finish. It was matured for 12 months in large oak casks made from local Palantine oak. This wine comes in a 1-Litre bottle. –jm

2022-2023, M8 D9

2022-2025, M7 D9

A carbonated wine made from a blend of aromatic grapes including Sauvignon Blanc, Gewürztraminer, Riesling and Pinot Blanc.

It is pale in colour, with white blossom aromas. Light in alcohol at 11.5%, the spritz is complemented by tangy sour lemon flavours. –jm 2022-2023, M8 D9

Savoury fruit

6°C

Smoky, toast, leather, red cherry

18°C

White blossom

6°C

Pears, melon, [5.50]

12%

Fresh cherries

13.5%

Sour lemon, [15.70]

11.5%

Grilled salmon with a caramelized fruit salsa

photo — Alexander Pfluger and his family live among the vines in the Pfalz.

Venison steaks with cherry-port sauce

As an aperitif

— GERMANY WEINGUT PFLÜGER

35

PORTUGAL

Ramilo Wines LIZANDRO RIVER VALLEY

36

CELLAR 298 — NEWFOUNDLAND

DON'T MISS RAMILO WINES' PREMIUM WHITE, PAGE 54.

In 2013, when Nuno and his brother Pedro took the helm as the fourth generation to lead the family wine business, they made the significant investment required to expand their vineyards. Knowing that quality winemaking always begins in the vineyard, they decided that their wine would be made exclusively from grapes they grew themselves.

According to Nuno, “You don’t need a lot of technology to make good wine. What is needed are the right varieties planted in the right location.” By using time-proven traditional winemaking techniques and unique indigenous grapes, Nuno and his team craft wines that reflect the synergy between the vineyard, the vine and the vintage.

photo — Nuno and Manuel Caroco (vineyard worker) walking the Vinhas Velhas vineyards.

NEW

NEW LOWER PRICE

3650

RAMILO COLHEITA BRANCO, VINHO REGIONAL LISBOA, 2021

3651

NEW

RAMILO GALEGO DOURADO, VINHO REGIONAL LISBOA, 2021

Galego Dourado

3652

RAMILO VITAL BRANCO, VINHO REGIONAL LISBOA, 2020

Vital

Arinto, Viosinho, Alvarinho, Vital

$ 35

$ 210

Striving for a pure expression of terroir, organic techniques are practiced in both the Ramilo vineyards and in the winery.

This refreshing light-bodied white offers expressive floral, peach and citrus aromas followed by an abundance of white grapefruit, lemon and white peach flavours.

Made from the indigenous varieties Arinto, Vital, Viosinho and Alvarinho and fermented in stainless steel for a fresh, fruit-driven wine. The perfect summer sipper. –lw

$ 75

$ 225

$ 53

$ 318

A memorable wine with a deep gold hue and a fragrant bouquet of apple, cantaloupe and orange blossom. The fresh acidity is well balanced and in harmony with the other elements of the wine.

Complex flavours of quince, honey, melon, hazelnut and pear advance toward a finish of nutmeg and white pepper.

–lw

Looking for a new white wine experience? Made from the indigenous and unique Vital variety, this medium-bodied, unoaked wine has aromas of peach, verbena and a kiss of minerality. Lemon, lime and white grapefruit flavours follow on the palate.

Ramilo’s Vital Branco could be considered an interesting alternative to Old World Sauvignon Blanc. –lw

2022-2027, M9 D9

2022-2025, M9 D9

Apple, cantaloupe, orange blossom

6°C

Peach, verbena, mineral

6°C

Quince, honey, hazelnut, nutmeg, [0.00]

12.5%

Lemon, lime, white grapefruit, [0.00]

12%

Grilled mackerel with lemon and thyme

Arroz de bacalhau

2022-2026, M9 D9 Floral, peach, citrus

6°C

White grapefruit, white peach, [0.00]

13%

Salada de polvo

photo — Sampling wine before bottling.

— PORTUGAL RAMILO WINES

37

The BOTTLE SHOP WEB EXCLUSIVES

Download the PDF on the Website for the Full Tasting Notes

3674 Campelo Alvarinho, DOC Vinho Verde, 2021

3675 Pica Peixe, Vinho Regional Península de Setúbal, 2019

3640 Beaulieu, Rhum Epicé

ALVARINHO

TOURIGA NACIONAL

RUM

$ 41

$ 53

$ 33

$ 246

$ 159

$ 198

NEW

GO TO OPIMIAN.CA memberservice@opimian.ca

1-800-361-9421

NEW LOWER PRICE

3653

NEW LOWER PRICE

RAMILO VALE LIZANDRO, VINHO REGIONAL LISBOA, 2020

Aragonez,Touriga Nacional

$ 24

$ 144

3654

RAMILO COLHEITA TINTO, VINHO REGIONAL LISBOA, 2020

Castelão, Aragonez, Touriga Nacional

$ 35

NEW

$ 210 3655

Crafted from a blend of Aragonez and Touriga Nacional, the 2020 Ramilo Vale Lizandro offers a smooth and silky mouthfeel.

Red and black fruit notes with a hint of freshly turned earth carry from the nose to the palate where they are supported by the grip of moderately intense tannins and refreshing acidity. –lw

Crafted from a blend of Castelão, Aragonez and Touriga Nacional, Ramilo’s Colheita Tinto offers an opaque ruby purple hue and fragrant aromas of violet, plum and blackcurrant. Intense plum, blackcurrant and black cherry notes shine through on the palate and are well balanced by fresh acidity and moderate silky tannins. –lw

2022-2026, M9 D9

2022-2026, M9 D9

RAMILO VINHAS VELHAS TINTO, VINHO REGIONAL LISBOA, 2020

Castelão

$ 53

$ 318

Made from the Castelão variety, Ramilo Vinhas Velhas Tinto delivers great value. A perfume of violet and plum greets the nose while the palate is energized with cranberry, raspberry and plum flavours. The fruit core is perfectly balanced by fine, polished tannins and fresh, well-integrated acid. Very enjoyable. –lw 2022-2029, M8 D9

Plum, cherry, earth

18°C

Violet, plum, blackcurrant

18°C

Violet, plum

18°C

Cranberry, cherry, plum

13%

Plum, blackcurrant, black cherry

13%

Cranberry, raspberry, plum

12.5%

Grilled pork bitoque with fried egg

photo — Vineyard worker Manuel Padeiro holding a bunch of Castelão.

São Jorge and linguica sausage appetizer

Chouriço pasta bake

— PORTUGAL RAMILO WINES

39

PORTUGAL

Portuguese Adegas These small Portuguese wineries showcase the country’s indigenous grape varieties. These terrific wines offer great value and a range of styles.

PRODUCERS FOR THIS CELLAR

NEW

3657

ENCOSTA DO SOBRAL SELECTION ROSÉ, VINHO REGIONAL TEJO, 2021

PRODUCER FOR THIS CELLAR

Aragonez, Touriga Nacional

$ 37

$ 222

Made from a blend of 50% Aragonez and 50% Touriga Nacional, this cheerful rosé was fermented at cooler temperatures to keep it fresh and fruity. The bouquet delivers aromas of rose, pepper, plum, mineral and apple while flavours of plum, rose and strawberry linger on the palate. –lw

2022-2024, M9 D9 Rose, pepper, plum, mineral

6°C

Plum, rose, strawberry, [0.70]

13%

Milk chocolate and berry cake with fresh strawberries

40

CELLAR 298 — NEWFOUNDLAND

photo — Wine tasting at Encosta do Sobral.

ENCOSTA DO SOBRAL Less than two hours’ drive northeast of Lisbon, the 60-hectare Encosta do Sobral Estate is found in the Tejo subregion of Tomar.

Here the vines are grown in shale soils and influenced by the proximity to one of Portugal’s largest dams, the Castelo de Bode Barrage. This unique terroir allows the grapes to retain their natural acidity while slowly maturing, resulting in refreshing wines with optimal complexity.

MIXED CASE 3658

THREE BOTTLES EACH

ENCOSTA DO SOBRAL SELECTION / LIMITED EDITION CASE

$ 38

LIMITED & SELECTION

$ 228

NEW

ENCOSTA DO SOBRAL LIMITED EDITION, VINHO REGIONAL TEJO, 2020

ENCOSTA DO SOBRAL SELECTION, VINHO REGIONAL TEJO, 2020

Syrah, Aragonez, Touriga Nacional

This Limited Edition wine is a blend of 40% Syrah, 40% Aragonez and 20% Touriga Nacional. The nose expresses delicate aromas of violet, plum, blackcurrant with a hint of black earth. In the mouth, the wine is both silky and mouthwatering with flavours of blackberry, blackcurrant and plum. As an alternative to Cabernet Sauvignon, pair with roast meats or stew. –lw

Touriga Nacional, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon Another notable example of the terrific value coming from Portugal. While the bouquet is generous with aromas of plum, violet, blackcurrant and earth, this wine is all about its velvety mouthfeel. Flavours of plum, cranberry and oak spice wrapped in plush tannins slip over the palate. –lw 2022-2026, M9 D9

2022-2027, M9 D9 Violet, plum, blackcurrant

18°C

Plum, violet, blackcurrant, earth

18°C

Blackberry, blackcurrant, plum.

13.5%

Plum, cranberry, oak

13.5%

Chanfana lamb stew with red wine sauce

photo — Tradition is alive and harvesting is always done manually; it takes place at the end of August until September every year.

Smoked blood sausage cozido

— PORTUGAL ENCOSTA DO SOBRAL

41

CABEÇO DA PEDRA

NEW LOWER PRICE

3659

CABEÇO DA PEDRA, VINHO REGIONAL TEJO, 2020

Castelão, Aragonez, Trincadeira

$ 27

$ 162

Winemaker Marco Crespo produces the Cabeço da Pedra wines from a range of varieties grown on limestone, clay and shale soils in the Tomar subregion of Tejo. The vineyards of Tejo, known as Ribatejo until 2009 when the name was shortened, flank the Tejo (Tagus in English) River. In addition to wine, the region also produces cork and olives and is known for breeding beautiful Lusitano horses.

A well-structured blend with firm tannin and refreshing acidity. The nose is a combination of black cherry and cured meat aromas with floral highlights while the flavours are centered on black cherry, blackcurrant and blackberry. Four months in French oak barrels gives this wine an extra layer of flavour and texture. –lw 2022-2023, M9 D9 Black cherry, cured meat, floral

18°C

Black cherry, blackcurrant, blackberry

13.5%

Caçoila stewed beef with tomatoes and red peppers

NEW LOWER PRICE

3660

CABEÇO DA PEDRA RESERVA, VINHO REGIONAL TEJO, 2020

Syrah, Aragonez, Touriga Nacional

$ 38

$ 228

This Syrah-led blend offers a full-bodied and firm but well-integrated structure. Aromatics of plum, black olive and violet transition into a smooth palate with flavours of blackcurrant.

Nine months of maturation in French oak barrels adds mouthfeel and complexity.

Balanced with a satisfying length.–lw 2022-2024, M9 D9 Plum, black olive, violet, oak

18°C

Plum, blackcurrant, oak

13.5%

Grilled lamb chops with plum compote

42

CELLAR 298 — NEWFOUNDLAND

photo — Blending experiments with the oenologists.

ADEGA DE CARVOEIRA

ADEGA DO CADAVAL NEW

3661

MIRANTE, BRANCO, VINHO REGIONAL LISBOA, 2021

Fernão Pires, Seara Nova, Vital

$ 25

$ 150

3662

ADEGA DA CONFRARIA, VINHO REGIONAL LISBOA, TINTO, ADEGA COOPERATIVA DO CADAVAL, 2020

Aragonez, Castelão, Trincadeira

$ 24

$ 144

If you enjoy aromatic wines such as Gewürztraminer, Riesling or Torrontés, try this unique refreshing white from the Vinho Regional Lisboa, produced by Adega Cooperativa Carvoeira. It is medium bodied and unoaked with refreshing aromas and flavours of peach, apricot and cantaloupe. –lw

Great value. Made from a blend of Aragonez (which is also known as Tempranillo in Spain), Castelão and Trincadeira.

Aromas of plum and black cherry jubilee transition into juicy blackberry flavours with a hint of spice and herb on the finish. Located on the west coast of Portugal in the Vinho Regional Lisboa, the Adega Cooperativa Cadaval has been making wine since 1963.

With a focus on quality, this winemaking collective crafts a wide range of white, red, rosé and sparkling wines. –lw

2022-2024, M9 D9

2022-2024, M9 D9

Peach, cantaloupe

6°C

Plum, black cherry jubilee

18°C

Peach, apricot, cantaloupe, [1.20]

13%

Blackberry, herb, spice

13%

Baked eggs with ricotta and basil

3663

ESPUMANTE CONFRARIA, SUPER RESERVA BRUTO, ARINTO E CHARDONNAY, 2016

Arinto, Chardonnay

$ 47

$ 141

If you are a sparkling wine lover, this is one to try. From the 2016 vintage, this traditional-method sparkling wine has had time to evolve in bottle and offers a mature bouquet of baked apple and brioche aromas.

These scents are echoed on the palate where they are complemented by notes of honey and baked pear. Try as an alternative to Champagne or Cava. –lw

Chicken casserole with red peppers, shallots and smoked paprika

2022-2025 M9 D9 Baked apple, brioche

6°C

Brioche, apple, honey, pear, [1.50]

13%

Crab bolinhos

photo — It is in the midst of this calm and serene green that the Confraria sparkling wine is born.

— PORTUGAL ADEGA DE CARVOEIRA, ADEGA DO CADAVAL

43

WORLD-CLASS WINEMAKING EXPERIENCE, BOTTLED FOR YOU.

GESPROVE Gesprove is a family winery led by winemaker José Pinheiro who has a degree in agro-industry engineering and was previously the winemaker at the well-known Port house Sandeman. Since 2003, José has used his knowledge and experience to produce his own still and fortified wines in the Douro. In this cellar, you will find his table wines – Estopa Reserva and Abastado Grande Reserva -- but also his delicious range of Soneto Port.

3665 3664

ESTOPA RESERVA, DOC DOURO, 2020

Tinta Roriz, Touriga Franca

$ 36

$ 216

ABASTADO GRANDE RESERVA, DOC DOURO, GESPROVE, 2020

Touriga Nacional, Sousão, Touriga Franca

$ 57

$ 342

A well-structured wine with the framework and concentration to evolve in cellar. Decant to open a bouquet of ripe blackberry layered with oak spice. Plum violet and oak notes follow on the palate. Drink now or cellar for up to six years. Great value. –lw

Made from a blend of 80% Touriga Nacional, 19% Souzão and 1% Touriga Franca harvested from terraced vineyards that are over 20 years old. This wine’s inky purple hue foreshadows the concentration and complexity to be discovered. The bouquet is reminiscent of plum, brown sugar, black raspberry and blackcurrant, while the palate reveals layers of black cherry, plum and oak. –lw

2022-2028, M7 D9

2022-2032, M7 D8

Blackberry, oak spice

18°C

Plum, brown sugar, black raspberry, blackcurrant

18°C

Plum, violet, oak

13.5%

Black cherry, plum, oak

14%

Arroz de pato

44

CELLAR 298 — NEWFOUNDLAND

Grilled lamb kebabs on mushroom risotto

photo — The Douro Valley wine region is the oldest demarcated wine region in the world, carved by the river.

DID YOU KNOW?

Port and Madeira | The Essentials

By Igor Ryjenkov MW

Madeira and Port wines have a lot in common: both are benchmark, fortified wines.

Both are from Portugal – one is from a lovely drop of an island in the Atlantic and the other from the beautiful, rugged landscapes in the mainland’s north. Both have long historic roots and associations: one with the nascent United States, and the other with the British Isles. But each one has as many distinctive characteristics that make them very unique from each other and in the world of wine.

Madeira is famous for the acidity that its five main grape varieties amply provide, four white – Sercial, Verdelho, Boal and Malvasia/Malmsey, and the red Tinta Negra. The whites’ names represent a style –dry, medium-dry, medium-sweet or sweet respectively– and if the name of the grape is on the label, the wine is made with at least 85%, and often 100% that grape. So, for example, Sercial on the label not only means that it is made with it, but also that it is the dry style. If the label doesn’t indicate a grape variety, the wine is likely made with the very versatile Tinta Negra in a respective style, such as Fine Medium Dry, to replicate Verdelho’s sweetness, or Fine Rich, matching Malvasia.

Port is a blend, often a field blend of dozens of red and white varieties, with five key reds, two Tourigas – Nacional and Francesa, and three Tintas – Roriz, Cão and Barroca.

The fortification, or the addition of high-strength grape alcohol during or after fermentation happens earlier for sweet styles of Madeira and later for drier ones. The fortification, done with minimum 77% AbV for Port and usually 95% for Madeira, stops the fermentation and raises the wine’s alcohol to around 20%. The earlier the alcohol is added, the more sugar remains in the resulting wine.

Hence, Port is always sweet, fortified about halfway through the fermentation.

All Madeira goes through a unique process of “estufagem”, or baking, either in warehouses’ attics or in vats, from months to years, creating its unmistakable caramelized note. Then the wine is aged from three to 20 plus years before bottling and ready upon release.

Port becomes either bottle- or wood-aged style. The former spends a relatively short time in vats. Ruby, Reserve and most LBVs

JUSTINO'S MADEIRA CASE, LOT 3666, P47

are ready to enjoy upon release, but Vintage, made only in the best years, will develop in the bottle, and requires decanting. Beyond entry-level, Tawny ports are aged in wood from around seven years for Tawny and Reserve, to 10-40+ years for age-indicated bottlings. The Tawnies are ready upon release and need no decanting. The older they are, the more elegant and complex they get.

To close the loop, here are a few more things these wines have in common – they are well worth getting to know, smart values, and they’re great at the table. With the sweetness range of Madeira and styles of Port, there is a wine for any course – some go with many. And do try chilled Tawny, as locals do - you just might discover your next go-to weekend afternoon’s repast.

Toronto-based Igor Ryjenkov MW was the first in Canada to earn the prestigious Master of Wine credential in 2003. His wine business expertise has been informed by 24 years with the LCBO, first in retail, then in key buying positions, and lastly, in projects, most notably, developing the new 5-dot wine style matrix.

— CELLAR 298 DID YOU KNOW?

45

PORTUGAL

Justino’s Madeira MADEIRA The philosophy at Justino’s Madeira is “To do one thing only, but to do it well” – and from my experience in tasting their wines, I would say they are hitting it out of the park.

The company history can be traced to 1870, making Justino’s one of the oldest Madeira houses. While the island of Madeira belongs to Portugal, it is situated more closely to the West Coast of Africa. The climate is temperate with a range from 15º C in February, the coldest month, to 22º C in August, the warmest. Vines are grown on terraced slopes called “poios” on fertile volcanic soils.

46

CELLAR 298 — NEWFOUNDLAND

photo — Placement of the barrel for the beginning of ageing using the Canteiro process.

NEW

NEW

JUSTINO'S MADEIRA FINE MEDIUM DRY (3 YEARS OLD)

JUSTINO'S MADEIRA RESERVE, FINE RICH, 5 YEARS OLD

Tinta Negra

NEW

JUSTINO'S MADEIRA, VERDELHO, 10 YEARS OLD

Tinta Negra

Made from the indigenous red grape variety Tinta Negra, this three-year-old Maderia obtains its unique character through the Estufagem process where the wine is heated to 40-50°C for three months before it is aged in oak casks for a minimum of three years. This is a delicious, fortified wine with aromas of sultana raisin, caramelized brown sugar and molasses. The palate is rich with flavours of roasted nuts, figs, honey and brown sugar. –lw 2022 +, M10 D10 Sultana raisin, caramelized brown sugar, molasses

18°C

Roasted nuts, figs, honey, brown sugar

19%

Verdelho

With a minimum of five years of barrel age after the completion of the Estufagem process, this rich and complex fortified wine expresses a bouquet of dates, yellow plum, baking spice and orange peel. The palate is rich with an abundance of raisin, plum, black tea and baking spice flavours. Due to the special way in which Madeira is made, it is ready to drink upon bottling and will remain enjoyable for a very long time. –lw

The key to a brilliant sweet wine is balance.

The acidity must offset the sugar perfectly so that the impression is about flavour not about residual sugar. Justino’s 10 YO Verdelho Madeira is a wonderful example of this harmony and allows for this wine to work well with both savoury and sweet pairings. With flavours reminiscent of dried apricot, Bengal Spice tea and honey, try it paired with bacon-wrapped dates stuffed with Quebec’s Bleu Bénédictin. –lw

2022 +, M10 D10 Dates, yellow plum, baking spice, orange peel

18°C

Raisin, plum, black tea, baking spice

19%

2022 +, M10 D10

Gruyère with spiced toasted nuts

18°C

Dried apricot, sultana raisin, Bengal Spice tea, honey

19%

“Devils on horseback” bacon-wrapped, blue cheese-stuffed dates

Fig tarts with honey and cinnamon

ONE BOTTLE EACH FINE MEDIUM DRY, FINE RICH & VERDELHO

Dried fruit, tea, herb, spice, mocha

MIXED CASE 3666

JUSTINO'S MADEIRA CASE

$ 97

photo — Flavia Rosario is the winemaker at Justino's Madeira.

$ 291

— PORTUGAL JUSTINO’S MADEIRA

47

PORTUGAL

Port The Douro Valley has produced fortified Ports for centuries – rich with high alcohol and natural sweetness.

The vines have been cultivated on man-made terraces held in place by traditional stone walls for centuries.

Within plots, a mix of grape varieties is found, known as a field blend.

48

CELLAR 298 — NEWFOUNDLAND

PORTO RÉCCUA VINHOS Maria Antonia Gomes produces outstanding Port from premium indigenous grapes that have been hand harvested. The winery combines modern technology with the ancestral art of winemaking to deliver exceptional wines with strong territorial character.

CHECK OUT RÉCCUA VINHOS' PREMIUM PORT, PAGE 55 .

NEW

3667

PORTO RÉCCUA LBV, 2014, DOC PORTO Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz, Tinta Barroca, and Other Indigenous Grape Varieties

$ 165

$ 330

3669

RÉCCUA PORTO, 10 ANOS, DOC PORTO (WOOD CASE) Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz, Tinta Barroca, and Other Indigenous Grape Varieties

$ 122

$ 244

Vintage and Late Bottled Vintage (LBV) Port grapes are both harvested in a single year; however, LBV Port evolves during extended barrel aging, making it ready to drink upon release. In comparison, Vintage Port requires years of bottle aging to reach its peak drinking window. The 2014 Réccua LBV Port delivers an expressive bouquet of dates, blackcurrant, plum and violet while flavours of plum, blackcurrant, spice and blackberry are layered on the palate. –lw

The pale ruby/garnet hue of this wine speaks to its extended maturation in barrel.

The large 550L pipas used to age the Réccua Porto 10 Anos allow for the wine’s exposure to oxygen creating a bouquet of dried fruit, leather, rose and baking spice and flavours of dried cranberry, brown sugar, raisin and plum. –lw

2022-2029, M9 D10

2022-2027, M10 D10

3668

PORTO RÉCCUA TAWNY, DOC PORTO (MAGNUM WOOD CASE) Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz, Tinta Barroca, and Other Indigenous Grape Varieties

$ 144

$ 144

A bottle worthy of celebration! Wine bottled in magnums ages more slowly than standard 750 ml bottles due to the higher ratio of wine to cork surface area (where the wine interacts with oxygen). The Réccua Porto Tawny is perfectly ready to drink – and also has a long life ahead. A complex wine with a bouquet of maple sugar, molasses and dried cranberry followed by a palate of date, brown sugar, nutmeg, clove and tea. –lw 2022-2028, M10 D10

Dates, blackcurrant, plum, violet

18°C

Dried fruit, leather, rose, baking spice

18°C

Maple sugar, molasses, dried cranberry

18°C

Plum, blackcurrant, spice, blackberry

19%

Dried cranberry, brown sugar, raisin, plum

19%

Date, brown sugar, nutmeg, clove, tea

19%

German chocolate cake

photo — Portuguese tradition at its best.

Roquefort cheese and mixed spiced nuts

Crème caramel

— PORTUGAL PORT

49

3670

CRAUFURD PORTO, 10 YEARS OLD TAWNY, DOC PORTO, AGED IN WOOD (WOOD CASE) Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz, Tinta Barroca, Tinto Cão, Other Indigenous Grape Varieties

$ 142

2022-2027, M10 D10 Dried cranberry, sultana raisin, tea, date, orange peel

18°C

Caramel, raisin, baking spice, date

19.5%

Pecan butter tarts

CRAUFURD PORTO, 30 YEARS OLD TAWNY, DOC PORTO, AGED IN WOOD (WOOD CASE) Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz, Tinta Barroca, Tinto Cão, Other Indigenous Grape Varieties

$ 266

$ 266

A showstopping wine with an elegant and complex bouquet of raisin, date, brown sugar and caramel. The palate does not disappoint with layers of fruit cake, dried apricot, plum, raisin and a touch of herb.

This classic fortified wine remains vibrant and alive – and built to provide many years of enjoyment ahead. –lw 2022-2026, M10 D10 Raisin, date, brown sugar, caramel

18°C

Fruit cake, dried apricot, plum, raisin, herb

20%

Pairing

50

CELLAR 298 — NEWFOUNDLAND

The Craufurd Ports are made by fourthgeneration winemaker Nuno Cancela de Abreu of Boas Quintas. These Vintage Ports, aged in wood, will be shipped in beautiful wood cases.

$ 142

The Craufurd Ports are made by fourthgeneration winemaker Nuno Cancela de Abreu of Boas Quintas. The Craufurd 10 Years Old Tawny Port shines with complex aromas of dried cranberry, sultana raisin, tea, date and orange peel. The palate is layered with flavours of caramel, raisin, baking spice and date, which taper off into a satisfying finish.

Serve alongside duck confit during the meal or pair with butter tarts for dessert. –lw

3671

CRAUFURD

DISCOVER MORE WINES FROM PORTUGAL ONLINE, LOTS 3674- 3675.

MIXED CASE 3672

SONETO PORTO, DOC PORTO CASE

$ 50

$ 300

TWO BOTTLES EACH LBV 2018, RESERVA ESPECIAL & RESERVA TAWNY

NEW

SONETO PORTO, DOC PORTO, RESERVA ESPECIAL

Blend of traditional Douro grape varieties

SONETO PORTO, DOC PORTO, RESERVA TAWNY

Blend of traditional Douro grape varieties

SONETO PORTO, DOC PORTO, LBV 2018

Blend of traditional Douro grape varieties

The Soneto Ports are made by José Pinheiro who was previously the winemaker at Sandeman, the well-known Port house. A classic Reserve Ruby Port with an opaque ruby/black hue. Fragrant aromas of rich ripe blackberry and earthy cassis transition to a concentrated balanced palate with flavours of plum pudding, fig and blackcurrant. Enjoy immediately alongside dark chocolate or allow to continue to evolve in cellar. –lw

A wonderful pairing to elevate your next charcuterie board. Match with roasted almonds, figs, mango/ginger Stilton and prosciutto. A complex and elegant fortified wine with a ruby/garnet hue and a fragrant bouquet of date, dried cranberry and gingerbread. Brown sugar, gingerbread and sultana raisin are layered on the palate and trail into a memorable finish. –lw

2018 was the fourth of a series of very good vintages for Port and the Soneto Porto LBV is a great example. Ruby red in colour with aromas of black cherry jubilee, spice and mint. The first sip reveals a concentrated palate of juicy blackberry and burnt sugar lifted by a hint of mint. Notes of baking spice trail on the finish. LBV style Ports are bottled ready to drink and but also will last for many years in the cellar. –lw

2022-2028, M9 D10

2022-2027, M10 D10

2022-2032, M9 D10

Blackberry, cassis

18°C

Date, dried cranberry, gingerbread

18°C

Black cherry jubilee, spice, mint

18°C

Plum pudding, fig, blackcurrant

20%

Brown sugar, gingerbread, sultana raisin

20%

Blackberry, burnt sugar, mint, spice

20%

“Salame de chocolate” dessert

photo — Portuguese vineyards in the fall.

Portuguese antipasti with presunto, queijo fresco, dried figs and nuts

Brazilian bolo nega maluca cake

— PORTUGAL PORT

51

REVEAL THE REMARKABLE A CONNOISSEUR’S DREAM. Exclusive to this program, Founders Choice wines are not available elsewhere in the Cellar Offering. Dedicated to the spirit of our Founders, this program presents only the finest wines.

This wine, carefully chosen by our Master of Wine, is made from Portuguese indigenous old vines.

As vines age, they tend to become less vigorous and, as a result, produce more concentrated fruit. This wine opens with aromas of violet, plum and cured meat. Its firm tannins and refreshing acidity provide a solid structure for its black fruit core. Enjoy now or mature in cellar for several years.

The Founders Choice producer is from the region of Tejo, Portugal.

SUBSCRIBE NOW

$227

Via your Dashboard at Opimian.ca

Email MemberService@Opimian.ca

Call 1-800-361-9421

per Cellar Offering

3638

LOTHAIRE WHISKY, LE TOURBÉ

Whisky

$ 107

44%

$ 107

This elegant single malt French whisky was aged in Fino sherry casks, French oak and bourbon barrels which give it generous complexity and flavour. A peaty bouquet is complemented by notes of smoky bonfire and seashell which carry through to the palate. Here they are met with highlights of cereal flavours. The finish is long, smoky and satisfying. Enjoy neat or with a single large cube. –lw

3639

LOTHAIRE WHISKY, LE FRUITÉ

Whisky

$ 102

40%

COLLECTOR’S CORNER

RARE SPIRITS TO ENHANCE YOUR BAR

$ 102

Le Fruité is a wonderful counterpoint to its Le Tourbé companion; it is also a French single malt whisky which has been aged in Fino sherry casks, French oak and bourbon barrels. On the nose, it opens with layers of cereal, apple, citrus, vanilla and floral aromas. The palate reveals flavours of grilled orange, wood spice and cereal which transition into a finish of baked apple and wood spice. –lw

NEW FROM ROZELIEURES

— CELLAR 298 COLLECTOR’S CORNER

53

NEW FROM RAMILO

3656

RAMILO MALVASIA DE COLARES BRANCO, DOC COLARES, 2020

Malvasia de Colares

$ 124

54

CELLAR 298 — COLLECTOR’S CORNER

$ 248

2023-2029, M8 D9 Vanilla, baked apple, honey

6°C

Peach, honey, beeswax, baking spice, [0.00]

12%

Bean “burger” with ginger and mango chutney

With a rich golden hue and an expressive bouquet of vanilla, baked apple and honey, the 2020 Ramilo Malvasia de Colares is reminiscent of white Burgundy. Flavours of peach honey, beeswax, vanilla, lemon, baked apple and baking spice layer the palate and taper off in an elegant finish. –lw

COLLECTOR’S CORNER

RARE WINES TO ENHANCE YOUR CELLAR

NEW FROM RÉCCUA

3673

RÉCCUA PORTO, VINTAGE 2003, DOC PORTO (WOOD CASE) Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tinta Roriz, Tinta Barroca, Other Indigenous Grape Varieties

$ 142

$ 284

Evolved and polished aromas of blackcurrant, mint and a hint of black earth. The palate reveals a long life ahead with a concentrated mid palate of spiced blackberry, plum and a hint of mint. An excellent vintage, the 2003 Réccua Port has the depth and structure to continue to evolve in cellar for 20 years or more. –lw 2022-2042, M8 D10 Blackcurrant, mint, earth

18°C

Blackberry, plum, mint, spice

19%

Chocolate-cinnamon pasteis de nata

— CELLAR 298 294 COLLECTOR’S CORNER

55

Web Exclusives Please visit Opimian.ca for your province's pricing on these wines.

56

CELLAR 292 298 — WEB EXCLUSIVES NEWFOUNDLAND

NEW

3674

NEW

CAMPELO ALVARINHO, DOC VINHO VERDE, 2021

Alvarinho

$ WEB

3675

PICA PEIXE, VINHO REGIONAL PENÍNSULA DE SETÚBAL, 2019

Touriga Nacional Syrah, Aragonez

$ WEB

$ WEB

$ WEB

Caves Campelo was established in 1951 in the Atlantic-influenced Vinho Verde region. With a lemon hue and tiny pearl-like bubbles, the 2020 Campelo Alvarinho offers delicate aromas of lemon, peach and mineral. The palate is fruit driven with flavours of peach, apricot and cantaloupe.

Refreshing with a light body, this wine can be enjoyed with food or on its own. –lw

A blend of Touriga Nacional, Syrah and Aragonez made by fourth-generation winemaker Nuno Cancela de Abreu at Boas Quintas in Portugal’s Dão region. This medium-bodied wine has a firm structure from elegant tannins and refreshing acidity. Aromas and flavours are a combination of savoury leather, plum fruit and a hint of floral, while a note of black cherry persists on the long finish. Try as an alternative for Southern Rhône reds.

Decanting is recommended. –lw

2022-2023, M9 D9

2022-2026, M8 D9

Lemon, peach, mineral

6°C

Leather, plum, floral

18°C

Peach, apricot, cantaloupe, [6.00]

12.5%

Leather, plum, black cherry

13.5%

As a summer sipper on the patio

3640

BEAULIEU, RHUM EPICÉ

Rhum

$ WEB

35%

$ WEB

The Beaulieu Caribbean Spiced Rhum dazzles the senses with a profusion of aromas and flavours. The nose opens with notes of cherry, nutmeg, brown sugar and honey. On the palate are flavours of grilled orange, nutmeg, clove and cinnamon which trail into a finish of baking spice and vanilla notes. Completely enjoyable straight or mix with its soulmate eggnog. –lw

Grilled fennel-spiced pork sausages

— CELLAR 298 WEB EXCLUSIVES

57

2022 Cellar Schedule C290: Burgundy, Australia & New Zealand Opens November 9, 2021 Last day to order: December 13, 2021 Mail form by: November 30, 2021 Expected release: Spring 2022

Legend

C291: South Africa & Tuscany Opens December 14, 2021 Last day to order: January 17, 2022 Mail form by: January 3, 2022 Expected release: Summer 2022

Red - White - Rosé - Sparkling - Port/Dessert - Spirit

Bottle size

C292: Argentina, Chile & Alsace Opens January 18, 2022 Last day to order: February 21, 2022 Mail form by: February 7, 2022 Expected release: Summer 2022

Number of bottles in case

Aroma

C293: Rhône, Chablis, Champagne & Scotland Opens February 22, 2022 Last day to order: March 28, 2022 Mail form by: March 14, 2022 Expected release: Summer 2022

Taste

Serving temperature

C294: Spain & Austria Opens March 29, 2022 Last day to order: May 2, 2022 Mail form by: April 18, 2022 Expected release: Fall 2022

Percent of alcohol1

Ideal with Evolution Drink this year Will develop, drink within 2 years Meant for cellaring

C295: Bordeaux, Bergerac, Beaujolais & Cognac/Armagnac Opens May 3, 2022 Last day to order: June 6, 2022 Mail form by: May 20, 2022 Expected release: Fall 2022

Body Light - Medium - Great

C296: Veneto, Puglia & Northern Italy, Germany & Corsica Opens June 7, 2022 Last day to order: July 11, 2022 Mail form by: June 27, 2022 Expected release: Winter 2023

Oak Light - Medium - Heavy

C297: Languedoc-Roussillon, Loire & Provence Opens July 12, 2022 Last day to order: August 15, 2022 Mail form by: July 29, 2022 Expected release: Winter 2023

Organic2

Limited quantity

Vegetarian2

Overall top 10 from last year

C298: The United States, Portugal and the Port Bottle Shop Opens August 16, 2022 Last day to order: September 19, 2022 Mail form by: September 2, 2022 Expected release: Winter 2023

Medal winner

C299: Piedmont, Sicily, Le Marche, Abruzzo & Canada Opens September 20, 2022 Last day to order: November 7, 2022 Mail form by: October 25, 2022 Expected release: Spring 2023 1 2

If you have any questions or want to order, contact us: MemberService@Opimian.ca or 1 800 361-9421

M—Degree of Maturity (1-10) M1 = lay down M10 = fully mature

D—Degree of Drinkability (1-10) D1 = needs time D10 = ready to drink

Residual Sugar Dry = 0-10g/l Semi dry = 11-30g/l

Semi sweet = 31-50g/l Sweet = 51+g/l

The alcohol percentage value is subject to change before delivery.

This information is provided by our producers and may not reflect Canadian norms.

Ordering Made Easy 1. SELECT YOUR WINES Let yourself be inspired by Opimian’s Master of Wine, Jane Masters MW, and her detailed descriptions included in the Cellar Offering.

Our custom chart on the reverse side features a list of symbols to help guide your selection.

Still unsure which wines to order? Contact us!

2. PLACE YOUR ORDER There are four ways to order. The last day to order for each Cellar Offering can be found listed on the reverse. No orders will be processed after this time.

Full name _________________________________________________ Telephone ________________________________________________ Member no. ________________________________________________ Payment Methods

l Cheque Opimian.ca

1 800 361-9421

MemberService@Opimian.ca

Mail this form 14 days before end of the Cellar to Opimian Wine Club de Vin 300 - 2170 René-Lévesque West Montreal, QC H3H 2T8

l Use of wine credits

l Use credit card on file. Please go to your dashboard at Opimian.ca to update your credit card on file or contact Member Service.

Cellar Number Lot

Description

Date Number of cases

Cost/case

Total

3. LET US HANDLE THE REST The wines featured on this Cellar Offering are still at the producers’ wineries when you order them, so it is normal that the process takes a bit of time and effort on our side.

Release dates are dependent upon actual arrival dates, distance from port of entry to liquor board and processing time required by each liquor board. For this Cellar Offering, the expected release date is listed on the reverse.

Once the wine arrives at your local liquor store or distribution centre, you will receive a Pick-up Notice with the specified date (the Release Date) and your pick-up location.

Conditions of Purchase • Accepted payment methods: Credit Card (Visa, MasterCard, American Express), wine credits or cheque payable to Opimian.

• Prices include all applicable federal and provincial markups and taxes.

• A valid membership card is required to order.

• Bottle prices are for reference only. In the case of any price discrepancy between printed materials and the website, the price published on the website prevails.

• All orders are by the case, with no minimum required.

Notes, as required by the law in the Province of Quebec • A member ordering from this Cellar Offering requests that Opimian acts as the member’s agent in ordering the wines from the Société des Alcools du Québec (SAQ) and requests that Opimian remits the funds enclosed (minus any administration fees) to the SAQ to pay for the wines ordered.

• The prices as shown are the estimated costs to be charged by the SAQ plus an administration fee and consolidation charges.

Notes, as required by the law in the Province of Alberta • All purchase transactions are completed pursuant to the laws in the Province of Alberta and are between you as the customer and Rocky Mountain Wine, Spirits & Beer (“Rocky Mountain”), an independent third party of Opimian Society (“Opimian”). All charges will appear on your credit card statement as Rocky Mountain.

• You hereby acknowledge and agree that your dealings with Rocky Mountain which are not related to an Opimian purchase, including payment and all other terms, conditions, representations and warranties related to such transaction, whether implied by law or by expressed agreement between you and Rocky Mountain, are solely between you and Rocky Mountain and not Opimian. You hereby acknowledge that Opimian is not responsible or liable for any loss or damage of any kind incurred as a result of, or in connection with, or a resulting transaction, and you hereby release and waive any claims you may have against Opimian in connection thereof.

TOTAL

Notes to Member Service ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________

FOR INTERNAL USE ONLY Processed on ________________________ (date)

Initials __________________

! p u Pop WEB

LIMITED TIME LIMITED QUANTITIES WEB ONLY

A true wine legend Meet Walter Massa. He saved Timorasso from Extinction.

Walter Massa is a living legend in the Italian wine industry and known as the Mad Master of Timorasso! Massa single-handedly resurrected and revived the local white Timorasso grape from extinction. Timorasso is known as a richly textured white wine of elegance with long aging potential – like a really good unoaked Chardonnay! We are also featuring several indigenous varieties, both red and white.

Only a couple of thousand cases are produced yearly, and all of these cases are snapped up by a cult-like following of collectors and Michelin-starred restaurants around the world. We are pleased to announce that Opimian has secured a small allocation of these rare wines and exclusive rights to the Canadian market!

Don’t miss this opportunity to experience history in a glass.

Only at Opimian.ca beginning August 22.

LIMITED TIME - WEB ONLY!

300-2170 RENÉ-LÉVESQUE WEST MONTREAL QC H3H 2T8 OPIMIAN.CA