C303 - NS: THE RHÔNE VALLEY, WHITE BURGUNDY AND CHAMPAGNE

TEXTBOOK CROZES-HERMITAGE

DOMAINE DES REMIZIÈRES, AOP CROZES-HERMITAGE, CUVÉE 50ÈME ANNIVERSAIRE OPIMIAN, 2021

A full-bodied, glossy-textured style of Syrah in a very fresh, tangy style. The grapes hail from a mature, 20- to 25-year-old vineyard with clay limestone soils. After fermentation in stainless steel and concrete tanks, the wine remains on its skins to macerate for several weeks. This deepens flavours and helps integrate tannins further. Aging takes place over a 10-to-12-month duration in large, seasoned oak casks. The result is textbook Crozes-Hermitage, with its bright red and dark fruit notes, over hints of violet and white pepper. Moderately concentrated on the palate, with brisk acidity, and velvety tannins. This is a youthful, thirst-quenching style of Northern Rhône Syrah that is already drinking well and should hold nicely for five years or so. Try decanting an hour before serving and pairing with similarly flavoured dishes, like roast pork in a cranberry-pepper sauce. 2023-2028–jb

Vive la France!

Michael Lutzmann and Greg Rinehart, Opimian Managing Directors

Last May, thirty-one excited Opimian Members started on a wine journey through France. Starting at Doyard-Mahé in Champagne, we made our way south and stopped several times in the Rhône. Without exception, our winemaking partners along the route welcomed us with open arms, served us incredible food and wine, and treated us as friends. It exemplified the magic of Opimian.

Whether you were on the trip, or travel to the wine regions around the world vicariously through this Cellar and other Opimian perks, you can enjoy a relationship with the winemakers not available anywhere else in Canada. Opimian's subscription programs, virtual tastings, events, biographies, recipes, and special Opimian bottlings provide connections that are so much richer than choosing a bottle from a shelf.

For the first time ever, four Masters of Wine tasted the wines and spirits submitted for this offer. Each made their own, personal notes and the four

of them compared their opinions. In this way, an array of viewpoints resulted in the selection you see in these pages. As far as we know, this is a first in the wine world!

There is so much to tell you about in these pages. It starts on the cover with Domaine des Remizières, a winemaking family in the Northern Rhône, and ends in Collector's Corner with champagne that has been aged at the bottom of the sea. In between, your favourite Chablis wines from the Lamblins, thirty new wines and a myriad of mixed cases to help diversify your own cellar.

Our Web Pop-ups have become a big hit and for good reason. The staff and MWs continue to find highly soughtafter wines and convince their amazing winemakers to put some aside for you. This time, it is Markus Molitor. His Mosel wines from Germany have been topping the charts the world over. Known as the '300 points man', Markus Molitor has received a perfect 100-point score for three of his Rieslings Ausleses from the prestigious Wine Advocate. They are in such high demand around the world, it was a coup for us to secure a small number of bottles for you. Don't miss the short, two-week window to order them online only starting February 27.

Please enjoy everything we have to offer from these popular regions. As we continue to celebrate 50 years of Opimian, we are always thinking of the next 50. Cheers to you all.

Michael & Greg

Ordering Made Easy

1. SELECT YOUR WINES

Let yourself be inspired by Opimian’s Masters of Wine. Our custom chart features a list of symbols to help guide your selection. Still unsure which wines to order? Contact us!

2. PLACE YOUR ORDER

There are three ways to order. The last day to order for each Cellar Offering can be found listed on the cover. No orders will be processed after this time.

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.

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.

Legend

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

Body Light - Medium - Full

Bottle size Oak Light - MediumHeavy

Number of bottles in case Organic2

Aroma Vegetarian2

Taste Vegan2

Serving temperature Top 10 Members' Choice

Percent of alcohol1 Medal winner

Ideal with Residual Sugar Dry = 0-10g/l Semi dry = 11-30g/l Semi sweet = 3150g/l Sweet = 51+g/l

1 The alcohol percentage value is subject to change before delivery.

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

Louise Wilson MW : LW Jacky Blisson MW: JB

Michael Palij MW: MP Igor Ryjenkov MW: IR

Getting to Know Champagne

By Jacky Blisson, MW

Champagne hails from the region of the same name in Northeastern France, about 140km from Paris. It is, without question, the world’s most revered bubbly. Racy, mineral-driven, and ultra-refined, many regions have tried, but none rival Champagne’s sparkling supremacy.

Champagne Grape Varieties

Champagne is generally a blend of two or three of the region’s major grape varieties: Pinot Noir, Meunier, and Chardonnay. According to the Comité Champagne, Pinot Noir brings structure and body, Meunier gives a supple, fruity, rounded quality, and Chardonnay adds a delicate floral, citrus fragrance, finesse, and ageability.

Alongside their blended wines, many Champagne houses also choose to highlight varietal characteristics by producing Blanc de Blancs Champagne (made exclusively from Chardonnay and, occasionally, other permitted white varieties) and Blanc de Noirs Champagne (produced solely from black-skinned grapes; namely Pinot Noir and Meunier).

Champagne Winemaking & Sweetness

Champagne is initially vinified to produce a dry white wine. This base wine is then bottled with a measure of yeast, sugar, and wine. This liqueur de tirage provokes a second fermentation in the bottle, releasing carbon dioxide as a by-product. As the bottle is sealed, the carbon dioxide cannot escape and thus dissolves into the liquid as bubbles.

Once the yeast cells have fermented all the sugar, they begin to break down. This complex process called autolysis gives Champagne its fine bubbles, brioche-type aromas, and creamy texture. The longer the wine is left in contact with its spent yeast cells (or lees), the more intense its autolytic character.

Once sufficiently aged, the lees sediment is disgorged, and the bottle is topped up with wine and sugar. This dosage is essential to temper Champagne’s piercingly high acidity. While a Brut dosage (6 – 12 grams/ litre of sugar) is most common, Champagne producers are increasingly lowering dosage to Extra-Brut (0 – 6 grams/litre) or even forgoing sugar additions all together; a style called Zéro Dosage or Brut Nature.

These very dry styles of Champagne can be thrilling if sourced from top terroirs where the grapes ripen fully, yielding concentrated, full-bodied wines. Otherwise, they can prove somewhat austere.

Champagne Terroirs

Champagne lies at the northern limit for vineyard cultivation. This cool oceanic and continental climate counts 34 300 hectares of vineyards planted at 90 to 300 metres’ altitude on gentle, chalky slopes. The area is divided into five sub-regions, each with distinctive attributes. The best parcels are further singled out by Grand Cru or Premier Cru designations.

JACKY BLISSON MW is an independent wine educator, writer, and consultant with over two decades of experience in all facets of the global wine trade. She is the first Master of Wine in Québec and one of only ten across Canada.

The Montagne de Reims is a vast promontory between Reims and Epernay. Pinot Noir is the star grape here, with no less than ten Grand Cru vineyards. To the east of Epernay lies the Vallée de la Marne. It is territory rich in marl stone that flanks the two sides of the Marne River. Pinot Noir and Meunier thrive here.

The most reputed terroir for Chardonnay is the Côte des Blancs. These limestone slopes stretch southward from Epernay, yielding chiselled, elegant white wines. Six top Chardonnay Grand Crus can be found here. The Côte de Sézanne, due south of the Côtes des Blancs, is also a Chardonnay stronghold, with slightly wetter weather and richer soils, making softer wines.

Finally, the Côte des Bar, located in the southern limits of Champagne, boasts a warmer micro-climate. Once less well regarded, the Côte des Bar is now a hot spot for up-and-coming Champagne producers and is mainly planted to Pinot Noir.

Champagne Wine Styles

There are two major styles of Champagne: Non-Vintage, which is most common, and Vintage. Non-vintage simply means that wines from several vintages are blended together. Still wines are kept back in tank or barrel each year to be used as “reserve wine” for future blends.

The amount of reserve wine used, the number of different vintages, and so forth is a decision taken by the cellar master. These proprietary blends are integral to creating consistent flavour profiles and defining each Champagne house’s signature style. Non-Vintage Champagnes must age on their lees for a minimum of 15 months, although many age for two years or more.

Vintage Champagne are produced exclusively from one harvest and are generally only made in the best growing seasons. They must be aged on lees for a minimum of three years – often much longer. You will see the vintage written on the label.

While Vintage Champagne is often considered the more premium of the two styles, many Champagne producers create prestige Non-Vintage cuvées – with older reserve wines from the best vineyard sites, sometimes aged in oak barrels, with many years lees ageing.

Champagne can also be made into rosé. The pink hue is obtained by macerating black grapes on their skins for a short period of time or by blending still red base wines with still white wines before the second fermentation.

Champagne Celebrations

The overall elegance, finesse of its bubbles, racy acidity, and mineral tension of Champagne is unique. It is the ultimate wine for celebrations and, handily, comes in many sizes from half bottles (375mL) to double magnums (3 litres) so you always have enough to serve your guests!

COUPS DE COEUR

THIS CELLAR'S HIGHEST SCORING WINES BY OUR MASTERS OF WINE

EVERYDAY DRINKING

CELLARING POTENTIAL

SAINT-BRIS SAUVIGNON, AOC, 2021, LOT 4088, P43

DOMAINE MARTIN, AOP CÔTES DU RHÔNES VILLAGES SAINTECÉCILE, 2021, LOT 4045, P18

DOMAINE DES FONTNOBLES, AOP VACQUEYRAS, 2020, PART OF MIXED CASE 4081, P29

CHÂTEAU DE MONTMIRAIL, LE GRAMINIER, AOP GIGONDAS, 2021, LOT 4053, P23

CANADIAN CORNER

FIND AN EVEN BIGGER CANADIAN SELECTION ONLINE! WWW.OPIMIAN.CA

3631

$ 24

$ 144

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. Drink Now.–lw

13%

Lychee, white grapefruit, lemon

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

Ploughman’s lunch with pickled-vegetable relish and fruit

$ 60 $ 60

This rye-forward whisky is loaded with personality. The nose is packed with orange zest, vanilla, toasted coconut, mince pie and crème caramel aromas. The initial sip opens with layers of grilled orange, apricot, dates and caramel before it transitions into a long spicy finish. Refined and polished, Beach’s signature smooth mouthfeel makes it easy to enjoy Rye 51 straight; however, its versatile style makes it perfect for classic cocktails such as the Old Fashioned.– lw

45%

Orange zest, toasted coconut, mince pie

Finish Allspice

Grilled orange, apricot, date, caramel

Perfect for classic cocktails such as the Old Fashioned

JOIN THE HARRIS BEACH CASK CLUB TO TASTE YOUR WHISKY EVERY YEAR AS IT AGES! LOT 3690

KARLO ESTATES THREE WITCHES, VQA ONTARIO, 2021

Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Gris, Gewurztraminer

1013 HARRIS BEACH RYE 51 CANADIAN WHISKY Whisky

3678

Chardonnay

$ 45 $ 270

The 2021 Pearl Morissette Coup de Cœur captures the essence of the Niagara region in the glass. It is a notably aromatic example of Chardonnay made from vines grown in the red clay soils of the 24-hectare Redfoot vineyard. The property, located in the Lincoln Lakeshore viticultural area, is heavily influenced by the moderating effect of Lake Ontario. Here the mild climate and the long growing season allow the grapes time to slowly ripen while they develop maximum flavour. Elegant from the first aromas through to the extended finish, this wine offers an expressive bouquet of honeydew melon, peach, apple and lemon scents that are reinforced on the palate. Elevage in 10% new oak demi-muid and 90% foudre, in addition to eight months spent on lees, adds depth and to the wine. Fresh acidity perfectly supports the fruit creating a seamless balance. This wine is immediately delightful but also has the capacity to evolve in cellar. The best part? Opimian Members now have exclusive access to this small-lot Canadian gem. It is not even available at the winery! 2023-2028–lw

11.5%

Honeydew melon, peach, apple, lemon

Honeydew melon, peach, apple, lemon, [2.00]

Salmon cakes with lemon aioli and a fresh greens salad

Syrah

$ 27 $ 162

Syrah or Shiraz? What’s the difference? Fruit led versions of this variety, such as many from Australia, are usually called Shiraz while the more savory bottlings, typical of those of the Northern Rhone, tend to be referred to as Syrah. In Ontario, both grape names are used, customarily indicating to which style camp the wine belongs. Meldville’s expression, from the outstanding 2020 vintage, sings “Syrah” with a meaty, peppery profile complementing its dark berry fruit. A backbone of mouthwatering acidity makes this an excellent food wine. Think pepper crusted sirloin. Less than 4 barrels produced. 2023-2032–lw

13%

Black pepper, blackberry, cured meat

Blueberry, black currant, blackberry, pepper

Pepper-crusted sirloin

We first met proprietors Doug Barzelay and Nathan Todd on the recommendation of Michael Palij MW who tasted the Foxtrot wines at the annual Canada House tasting in London, England. We were fascinated by their passion for Pinot Noir and the wine lived up to its stellar reputation. We are thrilled to be able to offer a limited parcel of the 2020 Foxly Opimian Special Reserve Pinot Noir to our Members and look forward to sharing more wines from the portfolio as they become available. A swirl of this delicately hued wine releases a bouquet of cherry, red currant and plum wrapped in the warmth of toasty oak. The palate is notably concentrated with the red fruit profile evolving to flavours of strawberry, cranberry and plum. The barrel influence carries through with hints of cinnamon and clove adding dimension. Light tannins and fresh acidity frame the core as the wine tapers off into a satisfying finish. 2023–2027–lw

13%

Cherry, red currant, plum, toasted oak

Strawberry, cranberry, plum, cinnamon, clove

Wild mushroom risotto

3848

FOXLY OPIMIAN SPECIAL RESERVE PINOT NOIR, BC VQA, 2020

Pinot Noir

PEARL MORISSETTE NIAGARA VINEYARDS COUP DE CŒUR, VQA LINCOLN LAKESHORE, 2021

3765 MELDVILLE BARREL SELECT SYRAH, VQA NIAGARA PENINSULA, 2020

DID

YOU KNOW?

Patience Rewarded: Maturing Wine

By Igor Ryjenkov MW

You spied an older vintage on your host’s table or the wine list, and now you are intrigued. Will it be a sensory delight of mature aromas and textures or a disappointment of oxidized, tired, vinegary liquid? Brushing up on a few things about maturing wine would significantly improve your chances of reaping the rewards of your foresight.

Start from the top: most wines are not meant to be aged. So what wines can mature? In general, a wine of any colour has to have the key structural elements to foretell its longevity: sometimes sweetness, but always the acidity, dry extract and/or tannin, alcohol, the fruit intensity and persistence, all in right proportions, in balance. A track record is hugely helpful. There are many New World contenders in play today. But the European classics with centuries of a head-start still hold the mantle of the outcome predictability when cellared – top Bordeaux, Burgundy and Rhône, Champagne, Vintage Port, Mosel and Rheingau to name just a few.

What are the ideal cellaring conditions?

In short, a steady temperature between 8°C to 14°C, no vibrations, no or low light and air movement, and elevated relative humidity to keep the cork moist. Keeping the bottles on their side also works to that end.

How does the wine change with time in the cellar?

Broadly speaking, there are two trajectories - many will age, that is slowly shed some of their initial overall structure and fruit, turning into an older version of themselves, still a different and more nuanced experience. But some will

actually develop - initial balance evolving into harmony with the nature of fruit completely changing from its starting point. All reds will turn lighter and browner in colour and shed some tannin, hence the sediment in the bottle, and all whites would instead darken and may precipitate some tartaric acid as wine crystals. But it is the top red Burgundy that will morph from identifiable structure components with youthful cherry and beetroot into a seamless underbrush- and truffleperfumed amalgam on the palate. Axiomatically, the wines from the grapes’ marginal climates are more likely to take the “development” pathway. It is helpful to know a given area’s vintages strengths, but making use of drinking windows in the tasting notes is always a very useful shortcut.

How do you treat mature wines properly to avoid spoiling the years of patience by fumbling the very last step?

The whites usually do not need decanting, although if you notice sediment, treat them then as you would a red - make sure to let the sediment settle, and decant the wine, erring on the safe side – don’t try to squeeze the very last drops off the sediment. The lighter reds, e.g. Burgundy do not always throw heavy sediment. However, it still might be worth decanting anything older than 10 years, leaving a little in the bottle to allow the wine to show its best.

Do you have to mature the age-worthy wines?

It’s partly a cultural decision - for example, historically the French have enjoyed even the Classed growths young. But mostly, it’s a matter of personal preference. In addition, many cellar-worthy wines today, be it a Chablis, St.-Émilion or even Port, do not have to be aged and are far more approachable and enjoyable early in their life than decades ago, thanks to climate change and advancements in the vineyard and the cellar. However, if you have never experienced those wines fully matured, you are missing out on something special. To help you enjoy the journey as well as track a wine’s progress, I always suggest getting at least three bottles, opening one right away, and the others - near the book ends of its drinking window.

While it all may sound like a series of chores, it really does not have to be. Maturing wine may not be for everyone, but there is a lot of fun and sensory payoff to be had if you find the prospect intriguing and are willing to apply a few useful bits of information to greatly improve your odds of success.

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.

Meet Your Masters Of Wine

To mark our 50th Anniversary, we are excited to begin introducing you to your new consultant Masters of Wine. Together, they will continue to provide a curated range of exclusive wines to suit all occasions and tastes. In addition, the diversity of opinion and style will take your Member experience to the next level of enjoyment.

The wines from this Cellar were tasted by Louise Wilson MW, Jacky Blisson MW, Igor Ryjenkov MW and Michael Palij MW.

Jacky Blisson MW is a Master of Wine based in Montreal. She is the first Master of Wine in Québec and one of only ten across Canada. After completing a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies at Concordia University, Jacky pulled up stakes and moved to Burgundy to pursue an Advanced Masters in Wine Science and International Trade at the CFPPA de Beaune and AgroSup Dijon.

During her 11 years in France, Jacky held successive positions as UK and North

From the beginning, and for 50 years now, Opimian has relied on the expertise of a Master of Wine to ensure that only top-quality wines from around the world are offered to Members. Kenneth Christie MW started it all and passed the mantle to Jane Masters MW in recent years.

American Export Sales Manager for Burgundy fine wine brokerage Domaine Wines and major Southern Rhône Valley winery Gabriel Meffre. She also worked harvest seasons in Beaune and the Walker Bay, South Africa.

Since returning to Canada, Jacky has built a solid reputation for her high-quality written and video wine education content, and her consultancy work. Jacky tasted and wrote tasting notes for some of your Rhône Valley wines and spirits from Scotland.

Born in Russia, Igor Ryjenkov MW has a degree in Journalism from the Moscow Institute for Foreign Relations. Having settled in Canada in early 90s, his journey in wine got started with a visit to a Niagara Peninsula area winery in 1995. That was followed by a serious reading, tasting, travelling and studying binge, which took him through the WSET Certificates and Diploma and straight into the MW program in 1999. His wine study journey culminated with

achieving the MW qualification in 2003, having been awarded the North American scholarship twice and Henkell-Sohnlein Award for best dissertation in the process.

Igor held progressively senior positions at the Ontario liquor board over two-plus decades, from retail floor to the person in charge of EW WINES portfolio, taking it to the half a billion mark over his tenure.

Igor joined Opimian's Master of Wine team in 2022.

He had the opportunity to taste and review wines from Chablis, Champagne, the Rhône Valley, and the German wines from our Web Pop-Up made by revered winemaker Markus Molitor.

To find out more about Michael Palij MW, who tasted the wines from Moillard-Grivot in our online Bottle Shop, and Louise Wilson MW, who reviewed wines from the Rhône Valley and Champagne, check out our Masters of Wine blog online!

Domaine des Romarins

Southern Rhône is a wide expanse of rolling hills and sub-valleys south of Valence all the way to Avignon and beyond. As high as 95% of Rhône wine – 75% of which is red – is made here from over 30 different grapes: but Grenache holds sway, mostly in the original Grenache-SyrahMourvèdre (GSM) blends. The overall Mediterranean climate ensures the wines have ripe-fruit generosity, round tannins, generous alcohol and body and are very consumer friendly. In consumer perceptions, the style

of these wines can be described as “bridging” – ripe and generous, this makes them an excellent entry point to Europe for a New World fan, while their European structure and discipline retains their appeal to an Old World palate. The provenance and, correspondingly, the qualitypyramid here goes from regional level: Côtes du Rhône, to Côtes du Rhône-Villages, then a Village with a specific name, for example CdRVillages Laudun, and finally to singly named crus, such as Gigondas.

photo — Xavier Fabre checks the maturity of the grapes a few days before the harvest.

$ 36

$ 216

$ 56

$ 168

$ 41

$ 246

$ 59

$ 177

A vibrant Southern Rhône blend of Syrah, Grenache and Carignan. This unoaked blend is bright and fragrant with ripe red and dark aromas. Earthy, savoury undertones add interest giving this red a slightly more serious profile. The palate is juicy and rounded, though it gives way to a firm tannic edge on the finish. 2023-2026– jb

14.5%

Raspberry, dark plum, savoury, earthy

Cranberry, cassis, dried herbs

Gigot d’agneau aux herbes

The vineyard plateau of Signargues is covered by the same large, rounded stones as commonly found in Châteauneuf-du-Pape. These white, rocky soils reflect the sun’s heat back up into the vines maximizing ripening. This Grenache-Syrah-Mourvèdre blend features ripe dark fruit, eau-de-vie and violet aromas. The palate is bold and very grippy, with a firm, dry finish. 2024-2028–jb

15%

Violet, plum, kirsch, pepper

Black cherry, dark chocolate, bitter herbs

Roast partridge with a dark fruit compote

DOMAINE DES ROMARINS, AOP CÔTES DU RHÔNE, 2021

Grenache, Carignan

DOMAINE DES ROMARINS, AOP CÔTES DU RHÔNE VILLAGES SIGNARGUES, 2021

CHÂTEAU CAMBIS

Château Cambis dates back to the 13th century, the time when the Catholic Popes lived in Avignon along with Florentine nobility. The estate has been growing grapes continuously since the 15th century: today’s owners, Celine and Nicolas Verdier, carry the Château’s traditions into yet another century, choosing to grow their grapes in a way that respects both biodiversity and the ecosystem.

Deep

the nose, red fruit preserves, pencil shavings, chalk, fresh dough and lees. It is dry, has a low, but adequate acidity, medium extract, medium fine-textured tannins and medium body. It is medium in length with a matching fruit intensity of plum stone, red fruit preserve, lees and mineralchalky note. It is an interesting ringer to add to the Château Cambis’s two-pack to make it an interesting triangle taste-off: same vintage/ different village; same village/different vintage. 2023-2026– ir

Red fruit preserve, pencil shaving, chalky, doughy, lees

13.5%

Plum stone, red fruit preserve, lees, chalk

Roast venison shank with turnip and quince

purple hue. On

4074 CHÂTEAU CAMBIS, AOP CÔTES DU RHÔNE VILLAGES CHUSCLAN, 2021

Grenache, Syrah

$ 33 $ 198

GREAT TO DRINK NOW OR TO DEVELOP YOUR CELLAR

MIXED CASE

Coming from one of the name-designated Villages, Laudun, here we have a wine that is the recent expression of the terroir and the vintage, as well as a wine with an extra year on it from the supplier’s cellars. In the warm Mediterranean climate of the Southern Rhône, you might assume that the vintage variation is hardly a factor – but you might be surprised to find otherwise.

$ 34 $ 204

Grenache, Syrah

Mostly Grenache and Syrah. Still youthful, a deep purple red. It opens with a mineral, chalky note, followed by floral, red fruit and dark chocolate elements. On the palate, it is ripe with low but adequate acidity, dry, has a medium extract and medium finetextured tannins and medium body. Has a medium length and fruit intensity with red fruit, chicory root, flowers and chocolate flavours to a medium finish. 2023-2027.– ir

Same blend of Grenache and Syrah. A deep purple red. A little shy at first, but then opens up with chocolate, cassis and coffee/chicory root aromatics. A medium acidity here, medium-plus extract and medium, fine, medium-textured tannins and medium to full body. Nice length on the palate and lovely fruit intensity. Closed a bit but promising – dark fruit, chocolate, creamy, hint floral and rooty/earthy with a medium finish. A bit broader and larger-framed than its sibling, yet with a touch more freshness. 2023-2027.– ir

14.5%

Chalk, floral, red fruit, chocolate

Red fruit, chicory root, floral, chocolate

Beef goulash

14.5%

Quiet, chocolate, cassis, hint chicory root

Chocolate, creamy, hint floral and rooty.

Mild crab curry

4075 CHÂTEAU CAMBIS, AOP CÔTES DU RHÔNE VILLAGES LAUDUN3 BOTTLES EACH: 2020 AND 2021

CHÂTEAU CAMBIS, AOP CÔTES DU RHÔNE VILLAGES LAUDUN, 2020

CHÂTEAU CAMBIS, AOP CÔTES DU RHÔNE VILLAGES LAUDUN, 2021

Grenache, Syrah

4041 DOMAINE DES 3 LYS, TRADITION, AOP CÔTES DU RHÔNE, 2021

Grenache, Syrah, Carignan

$ 31 $ 186

This youthful, unoaked Côtes du Rhône wows on the nose with its pretty floral, crushed dark fruit, and subtle baking-spice aromas. The palate is fresher and more discreet, with tangy dark fruit flavours, hints of nutmeg, and a medium-weight structure. Finishes dry with firm, chalky tannins. 2023-2026– jb

13.5%

Violet, blackberry, plum, nutmeg

Cassis, blackberry, dark cherry, nutmeg

Mushroom flatbread with caramelized onions

DOMAINE DES 3 LYS

Established in 2015, the Domaine des 3 Lys may be a newcomer, but its owners are far from novices. This talented band of Southern Rhône winemakers head up Château Saint-Bénezet and Château Bellefontaine. The 30-hectare Domaine des 3 Lys estate is situated in Rochegude. The region’s rich mosaic of vineyard soils and warm Mediterranean climate allow Grenache and Syrah to thrive here.

4042

DOMAINE DES 3 LYS, TRUFFES NOIRES, AOP CÔTES DU RHÔNE, 2021

Grenache, Syrah

$ 33

$ 198

The award-winning “Truffes Noires” cuvée hails from vineyards with–iron-rich clay soils, bringing fine structure and depth. This Grenache-Syrah blend has a lovely floral, dark fruit perfume laced with spice, dark chocolate, and peppery hints. The palate is ample and plush in texture, with bright, tangy acidity giving fine balance. Good short-term aging potential. 2023-2028– jb

13.5%

Violet, baked blackberry, plum, white pepper

Tangy dark fruit, dark chocolate, nutmeg

Asian slow-braised beef

photo — The vineyard of the Domaine des 3 LYS, located on the most beautiful soils of the Rhône Valley, benefits from 300 days of sunshine per year.

4043 CHÂTEAU MONTPLAISIR CASE3 BOTTLES EACH: VALRÉAS AND VINSOBRES

$ 55 $ 330

This duo from Château Montplaisir offers classic expressions of two northerly, higher altitude vineyards of the southern Rhône Valley. These fresh, fruity, well-crafted reds are drinking well now and will hold well for several years to come.

CHÂTEAU MONTPLAISIR

Château Montplaisir is a 17th-century manor house overlooking the plain of Valréas. The property and adjoining vineyards were acquired by winemaker Benoît Chaignon in 2014. Benoît quickly set about converting the estate to organic viticulture. Perched at 250-500 metres altitude, the vines of Château Montplaisir span the Côtes du Rhône Villages Appellation of Valréas and cru of Vinsobres.

CHÂTEAU MONTPLAISIR CUVÉE MONTPLAISIR SAFRES, AOP CÔTES DU RHÔNE VILLAGES VALRÉAS, 2020

Grenache, Syrah, Carignan

Initially discreet, with aromas of blue and black fruit developing overtime. The palate is tangy and rounded with a broad structure and ripe, moderately firm tannins. A pleasant, well-balanced southern Rhône blend of Grenache, Syrah, and Carignan. Should keep well for a few years. Serve slightly chilled. 2023-2027–jb

CHÂTEAU MONTPLAISIR EXPRESSIONS, AOP CRU DES CÔTES DU RHÔNE VINSOBRES, 2019

Syrah, Grenache

This Syrah-dominant Grenache blend is aged in a mix of tanks and large oak casks to preserve freshness while subtly oxygenating the wine to soften tannins. The result is an attractive wine with well-defined black fruit, licorice, and wild herbal aromas. The palate is fullbodied and velvety with bold tannins that frame the finish nicely. 2023-2027–jb

15%

Blueberry, black cherry, garrigue, baking spice

Black cherry, milk chocolate, spice

Mediterranean-seasoned roasted meat

Cassis, plum, licorice, garrigue

15%

Plum, licorice, spice, savoury undertones

Overnight slow-roasted pork shoulder with fennel

A ripe, rich blend of Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre with heady aromas of red berries, dark fruits, peppers and dried flowers. The palate is dense and velvety, with a concentrated core of ripe fruit and sweet milk chocolate. Dried herbal tones, firm tannins and brisk acidity offset the generous palate. 2024-2030– jb

15%

Baked raspberry, plum, cassis, black pepper

Black cherry, plum, milk chocolate, garrigue

Roast quineafowl

The 2021 vintage yields a brisker, more lifted style of Côtes du Rhône Villages here. The ripeness of dark fruit on the nose and palate is offset by fresh, green herbal nuances. The palate is vibrant and juicy with moderate concentration and taut, muscular tannins. Serve slightly chilled to temper the warming finish.

14.5%

Baked blackberry, blueberry, plum, green herbs

Cassis, plum, dark chocolate, spice

Pan-seared sirloin with red-wine butter

2023-2028– jb

4044

DOMAINE MARTIN, AOP CÔTES DU RHÔNE VILLAGES PLAN DE DIEU, 2020

Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre

4045

DOMAINE MARTIN, AOP CÔTES DU RHÔNES VILLAGES SAINTECÉCILE, 2021

Grenache, Syrah

$ 40 $ 240

$ 40 $ 240

$ 45 $ 270

The 2021 Rasteau is powerful and taut at present, with big grippy tannins that should soften reasonably well over the medium term. Intense aromas of ripe red and dark fruit gain in complexity with aeration as herbal and green olive hints emerge, transferring to the equally flavourful palate. Decant up to an hour before serving. 2024-2028– jb

$ 45 $ 270

The 2020 Cairanne is a testament to balance in a warm vintage. The nose is very ripe with its baked, almost jammy red and dark fruits underscored by black olive tapenade. However, the palate shows remarkable freshness with tangy dark fruit flavours and classic herbal notes. Full-bodied and fleshy with firm tannins. Drinking well but would show best with a further year’s cellaring. 2024-2030–jb

DOMAINE MARTIN

Four generations of Martins have tended this southern Rhône estate. At its inception, Julien Martin managed a small holding of five hectares. Over a century later, the family’s vineyards span 62 hectares. The estate is in the Côtes du Rhône Villages, Plan de Dieu area. Once a banditinfested scrubland, this vast plain between Gigondas and Châteauneuf-duPape is now a prized terroir.

15%

Baked raspberry, plum, black olive, violet

Plum, dark cherry, rosemary, dark chocolate

Crispy duck with spiced plum compote

15%

Raspberry, dark cherry, green olive, thyme

Tangy dark fruit, dark chocolate, spice

Bœuf daube Provençal

4046 DOMAINE MARTIN, AOP RASTEAU, 2021

Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre

4047

DOMAINE MARTIN, AOP CAIRANNE, 2020

Grenache, Syrah

LES GRANDES SERRES

The company was created by Camille Serres in 1968 initially to promote the wines of Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Over time, it has expanded its focus on making and marketing all the key southern Rhône Appellations. Young winemaker Romain Leroy discovered his passion for wine during a trip to the Stellenbosch region of South Africa and subsequently started studying viticulture, eventually becoming a `flying winemaker' in France and Argentina. Now settled in Southern Rhône, he specializes in Meridional Crus.

39 $ 234

Clairette, Roussane and Marsanne blend, a regional wine, the broadest in terms of provenance of the three. Medium yellow. It leads with oily/fresh dough notes, with floral and star fruit elements. The palate is extra dry, with medium acidity, medium texture and moreish extract, and medium to full body. Nice length and the fruit comes across with the flavours of fresh dough/lees, star fruit, with mineral and floral tones. 2023-2025– ir

13%

Oily/fresh lees/dough, hint floral, nasturtium, starfruit

Dough, starfruit, minerally, hint floral, [2.00]

Vietnamese rice-paper rolls with shrimp, lettuce and pork

$ 48

$ 144 $ 78

A white-named village, not unique but not very usual either. A more typical make up – a blend of Clairette, Roussane, Grenache Blanc. Medium yellow. On the nose, chocolate, Brazil nut oiliness and very ripe mango notes. The palate is dry, with medium acidity, medium extract and texture, medium to full body and notes of chocolate, nuts, ripe pear and melon. 2023-2027– ir

The Châteauneuf – red or white – is usually a blend of several, or all, allowed varieties, but there is no blend-proportion requirements; if one is inclined, it can be made from a single grape. Case in point – we have a solo Bourboulenc, a grape rarely seen alone. A medium yellow hue. It leads with pickled apple, floral notes, hay and yellow plum. With a medium acidity and dry on the palate, it has a medium extract and body, a soft texture and carries the notes of thistle milk, pickled apple, yellow plum and hay. 2023-2025– ir

13%

14.5%

Chocolate, Brazil nut, oily, very ripe mango

Chocolate, nutty, ripe pear, melon, [2.00]

Pan-fried pickerel with pistachio-butter sauce

Pickled apple, floral, hay, yellow plum

Thistle milk, pickled apple, yellow plum, hay, [2.00]

Tuna tataki

4076

GRANDES SERRES URBAN SERIES, AOP CÔTES DU RHÔNE, BLANC, ORGANIC, 2022

Clairette, Roussane, Marsanne

4077 GRANDES SERRES URBAN SERIES, AOP CAIRANNE, 2021

Clairette, Roussane, Grenache Blanc

4078 GRANDES SERRES URBAN SERIES WHITE POPE, AOP CHÂTEAUNEUFDU-PAPE 2021

Bourboulenc

photo — Romain Leroy makes cuvées carefully selected from forgotten vineyards.

$

$ 86 $ 258

In 2019, the rainy winter and early spring ensured sufficient water reserves to nourish vines over the hot, dry summer. This is a stellar vintage for the southern Rhône and the Genestière Châteauneufdu-Pape 2019 shows it well. This is a full-throttle red, with a plush, broad mouthfeel. Ultra-ripe red fruit, sweet spice, and wild herbal notes echo across the nose and palate. Bold, yet balanced with fresh acidity to offset the warming finish. 2023-2035– jb

CHÂTEAU LA GENESTIÈRE

Château la Genestière has known many iterations in its long lifetime. In the 16th century, the estate was a silkworm farm – a leading supplier to the thriving silk-weaving trade in Avignon. It wasn’t until the 1930s that viticulture became the property’s main activity. Situated in the southern Rhône’s famous rosé Appellation, Tavel, the Château also produces excellent Châteauneuf-duPape and Lirac.

15%

Raspberry jam, strawberry, vanilla, nutmeg

Red berries, cocoa, dried herbs, vanilla

Leg of lamb with rosemary-roasted potatoes

$ 51 $ 306

The terraced and hillside vineyards of Lirac lie on the west bank of the Rhône River, facing across to Châteauneuf-du-Pape. The Appellation is admired for its fresh, ripe, mediumbodied reds. The 2020 vintage from Genestière is seamlessly integrated, with a broad, smooth palate profile and heady aromas of ripe red fruit, baking spice and lingering smoky tobacco hints. 2023-2028– jb

$ 50 $ 300

The Tavel Appellation is renowned for its elegant, structured rosé wines. Don’t be put off by the deep colour: Tavel wines are bone dry, with an intensity of flavour that allows for a wide range of food pairing options. The just-released 2022 vintage from Genestière is highly aromatic, with vibrant red fruit and floral notes. The palate is smooth and rounded with lingering freshness. 2023-2024– jb

15%

Raspberry, red cherry, sweet tobacco, clove

Raspberry, plum, baking spice, earthy

Côte de bœuf

13.5%

Pomegranate, raspberry, peony, mixed spice

Red apple, raspberry, red currant, spice

Soupe au pistou

4048 CHÂTEAU LA GENESTIÈRE, AOP CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE, 2019

Syrah, Grenache, Mourvèdre

4049 CHÂTEAU LA GENESTIÈRE, AOP LIRAC, 2020

Syrah, Grenache, Mourvèdre

4050 CHÂTEAU LA GENESTIÈRE, AOP TAVEL, 2022

Syrah, Grenache

IF YOU LIKE ROSÉ, CHOOSE TAVEL!

photo — Cellar Master Carlos Mellinas and Vineyard Manager Vincent Busquet work together to make fine and balanced wines and find the best expression of the terroir.

750ml

$ 67 $ 402

The 2021 Châteauneuf-duPape from Domaine BerthetRayne is restrained on the nose, with a subtle earthiness and timid red berry hints. This ample, velvety red wine really comes alive on the palate though, with seductive baked fruit and spice notes. Lingering dark chocolate and herbal nuances lengthen the finish. Needs time for its powerful tannins to soften.

2025-2037– jb

DOMAINE BERTHET-RAYNE

14.5%

Earthy, strawberry, raspberry, spice

Baked raspberry, plum, nutmeg, cocoa

12-month-aged Gouda

DOMAINE DU MURINAIS

Syrah

$ 52

$ 312

The 2021 vintage old-vine Crozes-Hermitage from Domaine du Murinais is a dense, taut Syrah with bracing acidity and equally marked tannins. Tangy red and dark fruit mingles with vegetal and torrefied nuances on the nose and palate. Decant to allow its complex flavours to unfurl.

2024-2030– jb

13%

Espresso, plum, carnation, green olive

Red currant, espresso, green herbal notes

Coffee-crusted wild boar tenderloin

4054 DOMAINE DU MURINAIS, VIEILLES VIGNES, AOP CROZES HERMITAGE, 2021

4051 DOMAINE BERTHET-RAYNE, AOP CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE, 2021

Grenache, Mourvèdre, Cinsault

photo — Harvesting at Domaine Berthet-Rayne and Domaine des Cigalons is done by hand and at sunrise to pick up a fresh harvest.

DOMAINE DES CIGALONS

4052 DOMAINE DES CIGALONS, AOP CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE, 2021

Grenache, Mourvèdre, Syrah

$ 66 $ 396

The Domaine des Cigalons 2021 Châteauneuf-duPape is firm and muscular at present, with a mix of fresh and dried fruit aromas complemented by subtle barnyard hints and mixed spice. These aromas are echoed on the bold, fresh palate. Will benefit from several years cellaring to harmonize further. 2025-2035– jb

CHÂTEAU DE MONTMIRAIL

4053 CHÂTEAU DE MONTMIRAIL, LE GRAMINIER,

Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre

$ 52 $ 312

14.5%

Cranberry,

Venison stew

The Château de Montmirail “Le Graminier” cuvée is an elegant, vibrant style of Gigondas that really highlights the terroir well. Grown on clay-limestone slope-side vineyards, this is a Grenache-based blend with Syrah and Mourvèdre, aged for 15 months before release. The nose is immediately engaging with its vivid florality, ripe black and blue fruit, and earthy, spiced undertones. The palate is powerful yet refreshing, with a polished texture, juicy dark fruit and savoury flavours. 2024-2034–jb

15%

Violet, blueberry, blackberry, black olive tapenade

Blackberry, plum, aromatic herbs, savoury

Hachis Parmentier

Dried cranberry, black cherry, baking spice, barnyard hints

cassis, baking spice, savoury

AOP GIGONDAS, 2021

photo — The Château de Montmirail has been with Opimian since 2003. Sylvie and Philippe are now managing the estate under the benevolent eye of their mother Monique.

DOMAINE DE PIÉBLANC

The Domaine de Piéblanc is located in the prime southern Rhône cru village of Gigondas. The estate spans 38 hectares of vineyards in Gigondas, Ventoux, and Beaumesde-Venise. Owner Matthieu Ponson is committed to sustainable viticulture, and his vineyards are certified organic. What’s more, wild scrublands, forests, and olive groves are dotted throughout the property to promote biodiversity.

The vineyards of Gigondas are planted on the lower slopes of the Dentelles de Montmirail limestone mountain chain. The Les Terres cuvée hails from a vineyard of 50-year-old Grenache vines, with small portions of Syrah and Cinsault to complete the blend. This is a weighty, dense wine with floral, baked dark fruit aromas and ripe, muscular tannins. 2024-2030– jb

14%

Baked cherry, marzipan, violet, allspice

Cassis, plum, wild thyme, savoury

Grilled root vegetables with winter greens

The vineyards of the Ventoux Appellation lie in the foothills and western slopes of towering Mont Ventoux. The “La Pouitoune” cuvée is produced from vines planted at 300 metres altitude, giving a lively quality to the wine. Earthy notes mingle with ripe dark fruits and hints of dark chocolate on the nose. The palate is brisk and firm, with fine depth of flavour and ripe, structured tannins. 2023-2027– jb

13.5%

Plum, blueberry, dark chocolate, earthy

Plum, cherry, dark chocolate, dried herbs

Confit lamb shoulder with rosemary, thyme and tarragon

The Beaumes-de-Venise Appellation is best known for its sweet Muscat wines but has increasingly gained attention for its fine dry reds. This southern Rhône Appellation is neighboured by top crus: Vacqueyras and Gigondas. The youthful 2021 vintage from Piéblanc is less fruit-driven than other cuvées, with intriguing spice, herbal, and vegetal nuances. The palate is tightly knit with grippy tannins that need a little time to soften. 20242029– jb

15%

Black olive tapenade, plum, garrigue, Sichuan pepper

Baked plum, cherry, milk chocolate, black olive

Moroccan chicken tagine with apricots and toasted almonds on couscous

4055 LES TERRES, AOP GIGONDAS, DOMAINE DE PIÉBLANC, 2021

Grenache, Syrah, Cinsault

4056 LA POUITOUNE, AOP VENTOUX, DOMAINE DE PIÉBLANC, 2020

Grenache, Syrah, Carignan, Cinsault

4057 LES HAUTS, AOP BEAUMES DE VENISE, DOMAINE DE PIÉBLANC, 2021

Grenache, Syrah

photo — Matthieu Ponson, owner of Domaine de Piéblanc, sorts the grapes at least twice, in order to ensure an irreproachable quality to his wines.

Opimian's Wine Programs

By Michael Lutzmann, Managing Director

Subscription - an amount of money that you pay regularly to receive a product or service: E.g. - I decided to take out a subscription to an Opimian Wine Program.

When I first joined Opimian in 2003, I knew a bit about wine and wine regions. I received my first Cellar Offering and was totally bewildered. What was I going to order from all of these amazing wines?

I turned to a wine subscription that removed the need for selection. Boy, was I ever glad that I did! The first case arrived containing wines that I would never have ordered myself and was simply excellent. Not only did I get to enjoy top-quality wines, I also got to expand my palate and my wine knowledge. I've been a disciple ever since. In fact, I subscribe to all three wine programs. Yes, that represents fifteen bottles from each Cellar. Yes, it means that my friends, my family, and I are very happy. Sharing and discovery have become a regular occurrence.

Founders Choice is a six-bottle program where you receive a premium red wine that arrives ready to drink as well as has cellaring potential. I've gotten in the habit of trying one as soon as it arrives and gauging its longevity. Then I decide how quickly (or slowly) to drink the rest. Some of my earliest bottles are still resting in Cellar for the future. Domaine des Romarins is the Founders producer for this offering.

The Masters Case is also a six-bottle case but rather than six bottles of the same wine, you receive two bottles each of three distinctly different wines. Our Masters of Wine choose them to give you the full spectrum of wine styles from a particular producer or region. The bonus of this program is that you, as a subscriber, have access to a live, virtual tasting with a Master of Wine (and often the producer). We schedule them so that you have the wine and can taste along with the experts. Vignerons Ardéchois is the chosen producer for The Masters Case this time.

Our newest subscription program, White Wine Select, was created in response to a huge number of Member requests for a white wine option. For each offering, you will receive a case of three bottles of premium white. Whether you're a white wine lover or not, this program with provide you with a top-quality selection of whites to have on hand for your personal delight or to serve to your guests when the need arises. Les Grandes Serres from Cotes du Rhône is the 'chosen one' for C303.

It's easy to sign up for a wine subscription. First, ensure that your payment information in your account is up-to-date. Next, on your dashboard at opimian.ca, you will see a button to choose one or more of the programs. If you are in multiple programs, you enjoy a 5% discount on the second and/or third. If you prefer, you can send an email to memberservice@opimian.ca or give us a call at 1-800-361-9421. See you at the next tasting!

CHÂTEAU SAINT-BÉNEZET

Prolific Costières de Nîmes duo Elise Bosse-Platière and Yann Soulairac also head up the Château SaintBénezet. This sprawling 200-hectare estate is farmed according to Terra Vitis-certified sustainable agriculture methods. The winery is located in the Costières de Nîmes commune of Saint-Gilles. The Château grows a wide range of grapes including Grenache, Syrah, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cinsault, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Viognier.

4058

CHÂTEAU SAINT-BÉNÉZET MOULIN BAGUET, BLANC, AOP COSTIÈRES DE NÎMES, 2022

Roussane, Viognier, Grenache Blanc

A refreshing blend of Viognier, Grenache Blanc and Vermentino with an elegant profile of melon, pear, green apple and apple blossom. The 2022 Château Saint-Bénézet Moulin Baguet Blanc could be enjoyed with or without food as an alternative for Pinot Gris or unoaked Chardonnay. 2023–2024– lw

FIND THE RED CHÂTEAU SAINTBÉNÉZET IN THE TOP VALUE SECTION!

Melon, pear, green apple, [0.00]

4060

CHÂTEAU SAINT-BÉNÉZET, LES HAUTS DE COSTE-RIVES, ROSÉ, AOP COSTIÈRES DE NÎMES, 2022

Grenache, Syrah

Camembert 13%

$ 25 $ 300

Calling all rosé lovers. From the Appellation Costières de Nîmes, the 2022 Château Saint-Bénézet Les Hauts de Coste-Rives is one to try. It is an unoaked blend of 50% Grenache and 50% Syrah with a medium body and dry finish. Both in aroma and flavour, this stylish wine presents notes of red apple, strawberry and lavender. Delicious year round. 2023-2025– lw

Red apple, strawberry, lavender

Red apple, strawberry, lavender, [0.00]

Thai-seasoned chicken burger

Melon, pear, green apple, apple blossom

photo — Yann Soulairac, owner of Château Saint-Bénezet, tasting his new red wine, considered an exceptional vintage.

DOMAINE

The wines speak for themselves. The reptile-themed labels are a nod to the rarity of the white Clairette and the intensity of the red wines of Nîmes.

A bit of a discovery, this AOC covers only eight hectares in the Costières de Nîmes area. Vinified in amphorae and oak barrels. Medium yellow with a pink hue. On the nose, it presents red delicious apple, lees/ doughy element, citrus and a touch of nutmeg. With a medium acidity, it’s extra dry, has a medium extract, texture and body and displays flavours of fresh dough, red delicious apple and apple seed, lemon oil, to a medium yeasty finish. 2023-2025– ir

14.5%

Red delicious apple, hint doughy, touch citric, spice - hint of nutmeg

Doughy, red delicious apple peels, apple stem, lemon oil, [2.00]

Rice- and currant-stuffed vegetable tolmas

Syrah, Grenache, Mourvèdre, Cinsault

A typical southern France blend of Syrah, Grenache, Mourvèdre, and Cinsault. A deep purple colour. An upfront attractive attack with creamy, tar/smoke, gingerbread, prune and chocolate aromas. This red shows a low but adequate acidity on extra dry palate, medium-plus extract, tannins – fine, medium-textured – and body. It has a nice length and the fruit intensity of chocolate, prune, tar, smoke and cream/olive tapenade on the medium to long finish. 2023-2027– ir

15%

Creamy, tar/smoke, gingerbread, prune, chocolate

Chocolate, prune, tar, smoke, creamy

Grilled saucisses de campagne

4079 CAVEAU ET MILLAS, AOP CLAIRETTE DE BELLEGARDE ORGANIC, 2021

Clairette

4080 CAVEAU ET MILLAS, AOP COSTIÈRES DE NÎMES ORGANIC 2020

CAVEAU ET MILLAS

photo — The crocodile is the symbol of the city of Nîmes, which used to be a Roman colony.

$ 34

$ 204

$ 32 $ 192

CHÂTEAU BELLEFONTAINE

Château Bellefontaine is located in the Rhône’s most southerly vineyard area, Costières de Nîmes. Estate owners Elise Bosse-Platière and Yann Soulairac cultivate 60 hectares of vines in the plains and gentle hills here. Costières de Nîmes boasts a hot Mediterranean climate tempered by cooling mistral winds. The pebbly soils and red sandy clays allow a wide range of Rhône grape varieties to flourish.

4061 VIGNOBLES BELLEFONTAINE PRESTIGE, BLANC, AOP COSTIÈRES DE NÎMES, 2022

Grenache Blanc, Roussane, Viognier

$ 34

$ 204

Costières de Nîmes is an exciting wine region that delivers some great-value wines, such as the 2022 Vignobles Bellefontaine Prestige Blanc. This blend of 50% Grenache Blanc, 30% Roussanne and 20% Viognier offers a very expressive nose of peach, nectarine, lime and orange blossom followed by juicy peach, grapefruit and Meyer lemon flavours. 2023-2025– lw

13%

Peach, nectarine, lime, orange blossom

Juicy peach, grapefruit, Meyer lemon, [0.00]

4062

VIGNOBLES BELLEFONTAINE PRESTIGE, ROUGE, AOP COSTIÈRES

Syrah, Grenache

$ 33 $ 198

Initially discreet with floral, dark fruit, herbal, and spiced hints developing with aeration. The palate is very tangy and lifted, with a smooth medium-bodied structure, and fine-grained tannins. A lighter, more high-toned style of Costières de Nîmes in keeping with the cooler 2021 vintage. 2023-2026– jb

14%

Violet, pepper, black cherry, plum

Cassis, plum, thyme, rosemary

Brisket braised with caramelized onions and rosemary

Pan-fried Louisiana catfish with lemon aioli

DE NÎMES, 2021

photo — The Château Bellefontaine is classified as a "remarkable building" and has been entirely renovated to become one of the most beautiful inns in the region.

DOMAINE DES FONTNOBLES

Domaine des Fontnobles, covering around 40 hectares of vineyards, is based in the hamlet of Fontbonne in larger Vacqueyras area and is run by the Bertrand family. Their wines are the blends of Grenache, Syrah and sometimes Cinsault, vinified with wholebunch fermentation, which provides suppler, softer tannins and mouthfeel.

It is really intriguing to taste the individual villages of CDR-Villages’ designation or crus from the same producer – and of nearly the same blend. While it is a reasonable assumption that the wines would likely be a little different, it is still another thing to experience yet again how different they actually are in the glass. This is exactly what we have here: two of the southern Rhône crus from the same producer and vintage, a great opportunity to compare and contrast the finer points of flavor profile and structure of Gigondas versus Vacqueyras.

DOMAINE

4081

$ 52 $ 312

A deep purple in the glass. Floral, nasturtium aromas upfront, followed by chocolate, mineral, earthy/chalky notes, and finally, dried black plum. This Gigondas is dry, has a low but adequate acidity, medium texture, medium fine and soft textured tannins and medium body, with proportionate length and fruit intensity of plum, chocolate, mineral/ chalky notes and floral replays towards the finish. 2023-2025–ir

15%

Floral - nasturtium, chocolate, bit earthy/ chalky, dried red plum

Plum, chocolate, chalky, floral

80% chocolate

A deep purple robe. An inviting floral opening, this time carnations, then red plum preserve, chocolate and tar. The palate shows lowbalancing acidity, is dry, and comes across a bit fuller than that of the Gigondas – mediumplus extract, as well as tannins – fine textured – and full body. Medium to long length and fruit intensity with floral, red plum, chocolate and nuts notes to the medium finish. 2023-2030– ir

15%

Lovely attack, floral/carnations, red plum preserve, chocolate, tar

Floral, plum, chocolate, nuts

Roast quail with balsamic reduction

DOMAINE DES FONTNOBLES, AOP GIGONDAS, 2020

Syrah, Grenache, Mourvèdre

DES FONTNOBLES3 BOTTLES EACH: VACQUEYRAS AND GIGONDAS

DOMAINE DES FONTNOBLES, AOP VACQUEYRAS, 2020

Syrah, Grenache, Mourvèdre

4085

FOLIES PARISIENNES L'HÉRITAGE FRANÇAIS, LE ROUGE DES HÉRITIERS LAMBLIN, VIN DE PAYS D'OC, 2022

Grenache, Syrah

$ 19

$ 228

This fruit forward, well-structured wine was produced in the Languedoc-Roussillon region from a blend of Grenache and Syrah. With a profile of strawberry, cherry and raspberry and a generous tannic grip this is a terrific wine to have on hand for barbeque night. 2023-2025–lw

12.5%

Strawberry, cherry, raspberry

Strawberry, cherry, raspberry

Bangers and mash

4084

FOLIES PARISIENNES L'HÉRITAGE FRANÇAIS, LE BLANC DES HÉRITIERS LAMBLIN, VIN DE PAYS D'OC, 2022

Chardonnay, Grenache Blanc, Ugni Blanc

$ 22

$ 264

An approachable blend of Chardonnay, Grenache Blanc and Ugni Blanc with the aroma of lemon, green apple, mineral and talc. Fruit flavours of green apple, pear and honeydew melon are supported by easygoing acidity. Great value. 2023-2024– lw

12.5%

Lemon, green apple, mineral, talc

Green apple, pear, honeydew melon, [1.00]

Pan-seared chicken breast with herbed cream sauce

FOLIES PARISIENNESOPIMIAN'S PERENNIAL FAVOURITE

4082 DOMAINE DES FONTNOBLES, AOP CÔTES DU RHÔNE, 2021

Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre, Marselan

$ 22 $ 264

An entry level option for the Domaine’s cru two-pack. Deep purple, with aromas and flavours of chicory root, tar, black plum and mushrooms on medium-framed structure. 2023-2025– ir

14%

Chicory root, tar, black plum, mushrooms

Tar, plum, chicory, earthy

Grilled vegetable and mushroom medley with balsamic glaze

WINES FOR YOUR EVERYDAY DRINKING

4120

ARDÈCHE PAR NATURE ROUGE, IGP ARDÈCHE, VIN BIOLOGIQUE, VIGNERONS ARDÉCHOIS 2022

Merlot, Syrah, Grenache

$ 27 $ 162

Made from fruit grown on the Rhône Valley’s sunny right bank in southern Ardèche. This is a full-bodied wine blended from Merlot, Syrah and Grenache Noir grapes. Its generous aromas and flavours reflect notes of earthy plum, cranberry and black cherry while the palate trails into a slightly herbal finish. Moderate tannins make for an approachable, easy-drinking wine. 2023-2025–lw

13.5%

Earthy plum, cranberry, black cherry

Earthy plum, cranberry, black cherry, herb

Roast Cornish game hen

4059 CHÂTEAU SAINT-BÉNÉZET, LES HAUTS DE COSTE-RIVES, ROUGE, AOP COSTIÈRES DE NÎMES, 2021

Grenache, Syrah

$ 25 $ 300

An easy-drinking, unoaked Costières de Nîmes red with inviting notes of baked dark fruit underscored by floral and spiced hints on the nose. The palate is very smooth and rounded with a lifted freshness. Finishes dry with slightly firm, edgy tannins. Best served at table. 2023-2026– jb

13.5%

Baked plum, black cherry, floral, spice

Baked plum, black cherry, cassis, spice

Grilled flank steak

DOMAINE DES REMIZIÈRES

Domaine des Remizières is in the heart of the Crozes-Hermitage area. This northern Rhône Valley Appellation is prized for its fresh, vividly flavoured Syrah red wines. The family-run estate initially sold the grapes from their small, four-hectare property to the local cooperative. However, in 1973 they decided to start producing their own wines. The domaine has now grown to over 36 hectares of vineyards in Crozes-Hermitage, Hermitage, and Saint-Joseph. Today, the third generation of the Desmeure family is now at the helm. Sister and brother duo Émilie and Christophe tend their certified sustainable vineyards with great care to produce the highest quality wines.

4063 DOMAINE DES REMIZIÈRES, AOP SAINT-JOSEPH,

Syrah

$ 62 $ 372

Granite slopes of 40-year-old bush vines give a weighty, concentrated expression to this attractive northern Rhône red. The nose is classic cool climate Syrah, with vibrant dark fruit over mingled black pepper, barnyard and graphite nuances. Aged for a year in 30% new oak, the palate is crisp and full-bodied, with cedar and spice hints and a dry, moderately tannic finish. 2024-2032– jb

13%

Black plum, cedar, black pepper, barnyard

Plum, cassis, smoked meat, eucalyptus

Grilled smoked pork chops with blackberry compote

Syrah

$ 66 $ 198

Another lovely old-vine cuvée from Domaine des Remizières, but this time with truly venerable 70-year-old plantings. CrozesHermitage can often be dismissed as a slightly “lesser” northern Rhône cru with widely variable quality, but this is a stellar example. Engaging notes of both tart and ripe fruit mingle with peppery spice and meaty undertones on the nose and palate. This is a full-bodied, firm wine with lots of freshness. 2024-2034–jb

13%

Plum, green olive, pepper, smoked meat

Cassis, cranberry, smoked meat, eucalyptus

Bake of grilled peppers, onions and mushrooms with aged Cheddar

2021

4064 DOMAINE DES REMIZIÈRES, CUVÉE VIEILLES VIGNES, AOP CROZES-HERMITAGE, 2021

Marsanne, Roussanne

$ 108 $ 324

A hedonistic blend of Hermitage white grape varieties: Marsanne and Roussanne. Fermented and aged in mainly new French oak, with regular lees stirring, this is a rich, opulent dry white wine. Seductive baked stone fruit and pâtisserie notes complement the creamy, rounded structure. Drinking well now. Carafe and serve with seafood or white meat in creambased sauces. 2023-2028– jb

13.5%

Buttered toast, baked apricot, pear, hazelnut

Pear, peach, white spice, roasted nuts, [2.00]

Blanquette de veau

Syrah

$ 116

$ 348

A powerful, age-worthy old-vine Syrah from the majestic Hermitage hill. The nose is hugely complex, with aromas of leather, red and dark fruit, black pepper, and smoky tar notes unfurling in rapid succession. The palate is dense and weighty, with tangy mixed fruit flavours underscored by earthy and subtly oaked flavours that linger on the broad, grippy finish. Needs time to soften and reveal its full potential. 2026-2038–jb

13.5%

Leather, cranberry, black olive, tar

Cranberry, black plum, smoked meat, spice

Braised beef short ribs with balsamic and five-spice

4065

DOMAINE DES REMIZIÈRES, CUVÉE EMILIE, BLANC, AOP HERMITAGE, 2021

4066

DOMAINE DES REMIZIÈRES, CUVÉE EMILIE, ROUGE, AOP HERMITAGE, 2021

photo — Tournon-sur-Rhône, overlooking the famous Hermitage hill.

The Champagne Bottle Shop

WEB EXCLUSIVES

Vine growers and wine producers for generations, Nicolas and Clotilde Didier are the husband-and-wife team behind Champagne Didier-Ducos. They are building on the foundation laid by Nicolas’ father and grandfather – the label was born in the 1950s as a result of marriage between Didier and Ducos families. They make a range of wines from Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and Chardonnay. Find these exquisite Champagnes in our French Bottle Shop on our Website.

To read the tasting notes, download the PDF at OPIMIAN.CA

The French Bottle Shop

Moillard-Grivot

Opimian first presented Moillard-Grivot in the C300 Offering. Moillard-Grivot returns with Appellation wines from Chablis through to Santenay – a testament to a canny acquisition strategy through the generations.

Known for its celebrated mosaic and the lovely Citroën van that used to make deliveries to the entire region fifty years ago, the Maison

Moillard is a veritable institution in Nuits-Saint-Georges. The estate has built up its unique expertise and now offers an impressive selection of appellations from the entire Bourgogne area, from Chablis to Mâcon and as far south as the Beaujolais. Travelling the highways and byways of Bourgogne, our oenologists select the most perfect grapes from the best plots in order to enable our wines to express the full diversity of the Bourgogne terroirs.

This is a very convincing example of entry-level Pinot, with spritely acidity and fine tannins supporting the bright red fruit flavours.

the wines are all hitting the high notes it's time to stock up. This has a surprisingly broad range of flavours.

This is textbook Mâcon and has “summer's day” written all over it. The crisp natural acidity keeps the fruit dancing on the tongue, and it makes for utterly delicious deck-chair hoovering.

$ 48 $ 288

While most Côtes du Rhône red blends feature Grenache in a starring role, this is much more of a northern Rhône interpretation, with a solid Syrah focus. The nose is initially smoky and herbal, with ripe red fruit emerging with aeration. The palate is wonderfully vibrant with a taut, medium-bodied structure, and chalky tannins. 2023-2027–jb

13.5%

Smoky, herbal, baked cherry, plum

Ripe raspberry, red cherry, tobacco

Assorted and sundry charcuterie

DOMAINE PICHON

Domaine Pichon is in the northern Rhône commune of Chavanay. Over the past 30 years, Christophe Pichon has worked tirelessly to expand the long-held family property, adding prime vineyard terroirs in Condrieu, Saint-Joseph, Côte Rôtie, and Cornas. Christophe’s two sons, Corentin and Alexis, have now joined the estate. They proudly continue the quality-focused, sustainable traditions of their father.

RECOGNIZABLE APPELLATIONS FOR A REASONEXCEPTIONAL WINES

$ 57

$ 342

A surprisingly harmonious, ready-to-drink Saint-Joseph given the cool, rainy conditions of the youthful 2021 vintage. Full-bodied and velvety on the palate with excellent depth of juicy plum and cassis flavours, layered with peppery spice and savoury, smoky hints. Brisk, lively acidity provides lift and lengthens the broad finish. Subtle oaked nuances from 12 months’ aging in barrel are seamlessly integrated. 2023-2031–jb

Cranberry, damson, smoked meat, cumin

Cassis, damson, pepper, earthy

Pot au feu

4067

SYMPHONIE, AOP CÔTES DU RHÔNE, MAISON CHRISTOPHE PICHON, 2021

Syrah, Grenache

4068 CHRISTOPHE PICHON PÈRE & FILS, AOP SAINT-JOSEPH, 2021

Syrah

The white wine Appellation Condrieu is revered for its highly aromatic, concentrated Viognier wines. The 2021 vintage from Pichon is very youthful with baked stone and tropical fruit notes overlaying toasted oak nuances. The palate is broad and lush, with sweet peach and apricot flavours. Finishes dry with a slight phenolic bitterness. 2023-2025–jb

The 2021 Cornas from Christophe Pichon delights on the nose with its alluring florality and array of blue and black fruit aromas. Bass notes of smoked meat and pepper develop over time adding further intrigue. The palate is full-bodied though not as powerful as recent, warmer vintages. Very fresh with firm, fine-grained tannins. 2025-2033– jb

$ 97 $ 291

Aged for just over a year in mainly new French oak barrels, this is a dense, structured Côte-Rôtie with all the classic markers of this renowned Appellation. Aromas of blue and black fruit intermingle with lovely floral notes and peppery spice on the nose. The palate is robust yet fresh, with brawny tannins that should soften nicely within a couple of years. 2025-2035–

13.5%

Baked stone and tropical fruit. Toasted oak

Candied peach, apricot, pear, [2.00]

Saint-André cheese with red pepper jelly and toast

Violet, cassis, blueberry, smoky

Plum, blueberry, pepper, meaty

13%

Wild boar sausages with blueberry-glazed onions

13%

Black pepper, violet, blueberry, dried thyme

Blueberry, cassis, espresso, cocoa

Beef Stroganoff

jb

4070 MAISON CHRISTOPHE PICHON ALLÉGORIE, AOP CORNAS, 2021

Syrah

4071 CHRISTOPHE PICHON PÈRE & FILS PROMESSE, AOP CÔTE RÔTIE, 2021

Syrah, Viognier

4069 CHRISTOPHE PICHON PÈRE & FILS, AOP CONDRIEU, 2021

Viognier

photo — The Pichon family (Isabelle, Corentin and Christopher) works on the final blend before bottling.

SOUTHERN RHÔNE

Vignerons Ardéchois ARDÈCHE

The Vignerons Ardéchois are a collective of 14 sustainably minded wineries located in the southern Ardèche. Their collaboration began in 1967 with the construction of a shared winery. Today, the group produces wines from 6,000 hectares of vineyards on a diverse range of terroirs from the rolling foothills of the Cévennes Mountains to the steep Rhône Valley terraces.

Syrah

4115

2022

Viognier

The fruit for the Vignerons Ardéchois Viognier Grès du Trias was hand-harvested in the coolness of the morning hours to preserve the grapes’ freshness and flavour. This is a rich, full-bodied wine made without the influence of oak. A classic Viognier with pronounced aromatics of rose, peach and nectarine. The flavours are equally expressive, recalling notes of grapefruit, lime, lemon and white peach. 2023–2025– lw

14.5%

Rose, peach, nectarine

Grapefruit, lime, lemon, white peach, [0.50]

Crayfish gratin

Ripe dark fruit and exotic spice combine on the nose of this broad, medium-weight Ardèche Syrah. The palate is equally fruitdriven with subtle underlying earthiness. Finishes with a soft, fleshy texture. An easydrinking, every-day red wine. Drinking well now. 2023-2026– jb

13%

Blackberry, plum, licorice, earthy

Blackberry, cassis, plum, exotic spice

Steak and kidney pie

4116

FRIGOULE, SYRAH ARDÈCHE, IGP ARDÈCHE, VIGNERONS ARDÉCHOIS, 2021

VIOGNIER GRÈS DU TRIAS, IGP ARDÈCHE, VIGNERONS ARDÉCHOIS,

PRODUCER FOR THIS CELLAR

photo — Domaine Terra Noé surrounded by its 25 ha of organically grown vineyards.

$ 35 $ 210

$ 28 $ 168

ARDÈCHE PAR NATURE BLANC, IGP ARDÈCHE, VIN BIOLOGIQUE, VIGNERONS ARDÉCHOIS, 2022

Sauvignon Blanc, Grenache Blanc, Ugni Blanc

A crisp, unoaked blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Grenache Blanc. Notes of lemon, lime, grapefruit, peach and orange blossom are found on both the nose and palate. The body is well balanced with the fruit supported by lively acidity. A good value wine that can be enjoyed with a wide range of cuisine. Try with haddock and chips or lemon roasted chicken. 2023-2024– lw

ARDÈCHE PAR NATURE ROSÉ, IGP ARDÈCHE, VIN BIOLOGIQUE, VIGNERONS ARDÉCHOIS, 2022

Merlot, Grenache

The 2022 Ardèche Par Nature Rosé is a blend of Grenache Noir, Merlot and Syrah. It is a pretty cotton-candy pink wine with a fresh dry finish. This harmonious, medium-bodied rosé expresses notes of cherry, strawberry and plum. Match with salmon sashimi. 2023-2024– lw

4114

ARDÈCHE PAR NATURE2 BOTTLES EACH: WHITE, ROSÉ AND RED

$ 27 $ 162

ARDÈCHE PAR NATURE ROUGE, IGP ARDÈCHE, VIN BIOLOGIQUE, VIGNERONS ARDÉCHOIS, 2022

Merlot, Syrah, Grenache

Made from fruit grown on the Rhône Valley’s sunny right bank in southern Ardèche. This is a full-bodied wine blended from Merlot, Syrah and Grenache Noir grapes. Its generous aromas and flavours reflect notes of earthy plum, cranberry and black cherry while the palate trails into a slightly herbal finish. Moderate tannins make for an approachable, easy-drinking wine. 2023-2025– lw

12%

Lemon, lime, grapefruit, peach and orange blossom

Lemon, lime, grapefruit, peach and orange blossom, [0.50]

Haddock and chips with lemon aioli

Cherry, strawberry, plum

Cherry, strawberry, plum, [0.50]

Salmon sashimi

13%

13.5%

Earthy plum, cranberry, black cherry

Earthy plum, cranberry, black cherry, herb

Margherita pizza with a drizzle of balsamic reduction

photo — Vignerons Ardéchois' unique aging vinothèque, 50 metres underground, right in the natural cave of the Aven d'Orgnac.

CELLAR UP!

WINES TO SHAPE YOUR CELLAR

If you have ever thought of building a climate-controlled cellar for your wine collection - and haven't done it yet - here are a bunch of good reasons.

Preservation: your wines will age much better (and even the short-term tenants will be at their best when you're ready to drink them.)

Convenience: it's such a pleasure to have properly stored wine at your fingertips. No more running out for that last-minute bottle.

Organization: you'll know what you have and what you need. An organized cellar is a wine lovers' dream.

Knowledge: you'll be surprised how much more you learn about the wines you own and drink. You'll find yourself researching the wines before you put them away for safekeeping and visiting them when it's time to choose a pairing for dinner.

Cost efficiency: proper storage will allow you to take advantage of special case lots, multiples of your favourites, and good value when you find it. Not only that, you can do your own aging. Wines intended for aging are far more inexpensive when young and increase in value with age. Whether you have a dedicated cellar or not, consider these wines and whisky for your collection.

...AND FOR YOUR BAR

Whisky

AM PRÀBAN GAELIC SCOTCH

WHISKY, LOT 4112, P55

This standard bearer for Opimian spirit never disappoints. Easily competing with single malt whiskys at a fraction of the price, the balance that blending affords make Am Praban a must for every bar - and only Opimian Members have them in Canada.

SPARKLING

Pairs with anything, celebrations, romance

DM MILLESIME BRUT 2013, CHARDONNAY BLANC DE BLANCS, VERTUS PREMIER CRU, LOT 4103, P52

When is the last time you saw a 2013 Vintage Champagne? ... Exactly! Here is your chance to own and savour the delight of an aged Vintage Champagne. You can taste and feel the enthusiasm of the winemaker, Carole Doyard, in this exceptional bottle.

MEDIUM-BODIED WHITE

Seafood such as oysters, scallops,sashimi, or salads with mild vinaigrettes

GRANDES SERRES URBAN SERIES WHITE POPE, AOP CHÂTEAUNEUF-DU-PAPE 2021, LOT 4078, P20

Not only have many of us not heard of the grape variety Bourboulenc, it is rarely seen in a single varietal wine. This delicious example of a Châteauneufdu-Pape white will not only be a conversation starter, it will bring into focus how many great wines there are to discover in your wine journey.

MEDIUM-BODIED RED

Versatile; many meats without heavy sauces, casseroles

DOMAINE DES 3 LYS, TRUFFES NOIRES, AOP CÔTES DU RHÔNE, 2021, LOT 4042, P16

3 Lys has quickly become a Member favourite. This small estate is producing fabulous wines that express the Mediterranean climate and terroir of the southern Rhône. A versatile, food-friendly wine to be sure.

FULL-BODIED RED

Heavy stews, many game meats, lamb, strong cheeses, even dessert CHRISTOPHE PICHON PÈRE & FILS PROMESSE, AOP CÔTE RÔTIE, 2021, LOT 4071 , P37

We are always fascinated and delighted when winemakers put a splash of white into their reds. The Viognier in Promesse helps to stabilize the gorgeous colour of the Syrah and tempers the tannins to give this a wide drinking window - 2025 - 2035. Perfect for every cellar!

SWEET

Dessert, rich foods like foie gras VIOGNIER, VENDANGES D'OCTOBRE, COTEAU SAINT-GIRAUD, IGP ARDÈCHE, VIGNERONS ARDÉCHOIS, 2021, LOT 4119, P41

With a dessert or for dessert, this wonderful, sweet confection sings with nuts, salted caramel, vanilla and dried apricot. So many people only judge dessert wines from their experience with ice wine. Try this. A completely different (and spectacular) mouth feel and taste sensation.

DOMAINE TERRA NOÉ, ESPRIT DE NOÉ ROUGE, IGP ARDÈCHE, VIGNERONS ARDÉCHOIS, 2020

Cabernet

$ 32

192

A juicy, fruit-led wine with notes of blackberry, black cherry and plum. Subtle hints of earth and herb add interest, while fresh acid and moderate tannins balance the full-bodied palate. Match with a hearty beef stew or slow-cooked pork ribs. Ready to enjoy. 2023–2025– lw

4119

VIOGNIER, VENDANGES D'OCTOBRE, COTEAU SAINTGIRAUD, IGP ARDÈCHE, VIGNERONS ARDÉCHOIS, 2021

Viognier

$ 29 $ 174 $ 45

This ripe, full-bodied wine is made from 100% Syrah grown on volcanic soils. It invites with a vibrant ruby purple hue and a bouquet of mocha, plum, cranberry and spice. Ample flavours of cranberry, plum, and red currant along with a hint of leafiness engage the palate. Ripe tannins balance the fruit providing a judicious amount of tannic grip. 2023-2026–

14.5%

Blackberry, black cherry, plum, earth, herb

Blackberry, black cherry, plum, earth, herb

Pork ribs with blackberry glaze

Mocha, plum, cranberry, spice

Cranberry, plum, red currant, leafiness

Roast duck with Madeira gravy

The steep slopes and limestone soils of this vineyard bring a notable freshness to the Viognier planted here. This cooler micro-climate allows grapes to hang longer into the fall. By harvesting at the end of October, the winery obtains plump, sugar-rich Viognier grapes ideal for dessert wines. Aged for several months in oak barrels, this sweet white wine is rich and rounded with heady caramel, nutty flavours, and vivid aromatics. 2023-2028– jb

12%

White flowers, apricot, orange peel, vanilla

Nutty, salted caramel, vanilla, dried apricot, [95.00]

Almond tart

4117

Sauvignon, Grenache

lw

4118

SYRAH BASALTE DU COIRON, IGP ARDÈCHE, VIGNERONS ARDÉCHOIS, 2022

Syrah

photo — David Fialon and his daughter, one of the growers that collectively own Vignerons Ardéchois.

Lamblin Fils

CHABLIS

Chablis is the northernmost outpost of Burgundy an hour-and-a-half drive from the top of the Côte-d'Or. It covers just 20 villages in the area roughly 20 by 15 kilometres, yet it is responsible for one of the benchmark, unique expressions of Chardonnay. The combination of cool continental climate and the limestonerich Kimmeridgean and Portlandian soils, paired with the local know-how, forge age-worthy, steely, refreshing, chalk- and green apple-scented wines, usually unoaked, and even with some oak, still unmistakably Chablis. Speaking of know-how – very few could compete with the roots and expertise of the Lamblin family. They trace their history in the region to 1690 and are one of the oldest domains in Chablis. Today, cousins Alexandre and Clement represent the 12th generation of the family helping their respective fathers, Didier and Michel, to carry on the tradition of quality and expression of the local terroir in their wines.

Aligoté

750ml

Aligoté from the limestone-rich vineyards in Yonne Valley. A pale yellow hue. It leads with the pleasant aromas of poached yellow plum, wet chalk, clean lees and fresh dough. It shows a low but adequate acidity; it’s dry, soft textured with medium body, medium-plus length and fruit intensity. It’s simple, pleasant with the yellow plum, mineral element, nuts and lees to medium finish. Drink now.– ir

12.5%

Poached yellow plum, wet chalk, clean lees, dough

Yellow plum, minerally, nutty, lees, [0.50]

Moules marinières

A pale yellow in the glass. Comes as advertised, clear as bell a Sauvignon – a touch chalky, with upfront camomile and green gooseberry qualities and a note of pine nuts. Medium acidity, extra dry on the palate, with good extract and medium texture, medium to full-bodied, with nice length and fruit persistence – camomile, chalk, pine nuts, and thistle milk, medium-plus finish. Drink now.– ir

12%

Chalky, camomile, green gooseberry, pine nuts

Chamomile, chalk, pine nuts, thistle milk, [0.50]

Phyllo pouches with chèvre, ricotta and thyme

This cuvée owes its name to the acacia woods growing next to the vineyards it is sourced from. A light-yellow hue. It is unoaked, yet leads with light toast, nutty notes, followed by chalk and yellow plum elements. A medium acidity and dry entry, medium-plus extract, medium to full body, a nice length on the palate and a lovely nutty, oatmeal, vanilla, chalk and yellow plum ensemble, with medium to long finish. 2023-28.–ir

12.5%

Toast, nutty, vanilla, chalk, yellow plum

Nuts, oatmeal, hint vanilla, chalky, yellow plum, [0.60]

Tandoori chicken and vegetables

4087 BOURGOGNE ALIGOTÉ AOC, 2021

4088 SAINT-BRIS SAUVIGNON, AOC, 2021

4089 CHABLIS, AOC, FLEUR D'ACACIA, 2021

photo — The Grand Crus vineyards in Maligny.

Chardonnay

$ 60 $ 360

12.5%

Quince preserve, floral, Turkish delight, yellow plum preserve, minerally

Quince fresh and preserved, floral, yellow plum, vanilla, [0.90]

Lobster risotto

4091 CHABLIS

Chardonnay

750ml 3

$ 73 $ 219

The 2020 Premier Cru, Vaillon is made from organic fruit grown on the Kimmeridgian soils west of the river Serein. It is a medium-bodied wine with an elegant floral and fruity style. The bouquet is decorated with notes of lemon and pear along with a hint of minerality. Flavours of green apple, grapefruit and lime follow, leading to a slightly chalky finish. Enjoy over the next four years.

2023–2027– lw

Lemon, pear, mineral

13%

Green apple, grapefruit, lime, chalk , [0.60]

Grilled lobster with butter-vanilla sauce

This cuvée was barrel fermented in second- and third-use oak, in which it was aged for another six months post-racking. This gives the wine a far more subtle oak influence. Medium yellow. Nicely intense aromas with quince preserve, floral notes, Turkish delight and Mirabelle plum preserve, with a touch of minerality – chalk. Medium acidity, dry, medium to full extract and body, with nice length and fruit intensity of pretty quince??, fresh and preserved, yellow flowers, yellow plum and vanilla. 2025-2032.– ir

Chardonnay

750ml 3

Nicely

$ 75

$ 225

Fourchaume is one of the handful of Premier Crus sharing the same south-southwest facing aspect of Grand Crus on the right bank of Le Serein. Light to medium yellow. It opens with notes of thistle milk, quince, yellow plum and cardamom. Medium acidity and dry palate, soft textured but with mediumplus extract and body, it takes its time on the palate showing rich and savoury bone marrow notes, quince, yellow plum and chalky minerality to a persistent finish.

13%

4090 CHABLIS, AOC, ÉLEVÉ EN FÛT DE CHÊNE, 2021

PREMIER CRU, VAILLON, AOC CHABLIS 1ER CRU, VIN BIO, 2020

Thistle milk, quince, chalk, yellow fruit, cardamom

bone marrow-rich, quince, yellow plum, minerally/chalky, [0.60]

Albacore BLT salad

2023-2028.–ir

4092 CHABLIS PREMIER CRU, FOURCHAUME, AOC CHABLIS 1ER CRU, 2021

bottom photo — Pruning in Chablis. top photo — Buckets of freshly picked Chardonnay.

MIXED CASE

This mixed case is a great opportunity to experience the same vineyard three years apart – to see what 2018 may have been three years ago, or where 2021 would be in three years. It might be fun to get a couple of these cases to try them side by side now, and then in three years, or just enjoy the 2018s now and 2021s later.

3

$ 67 $ 402

1ER CRU, 2018

Chardonnay

Still relatively youthful and light to medium yellow. The wine displays a developing bouquet of hazelnut paste, citrus oil, pasta dough, floral notes, toast, with savoury bouillon elements. On the palate it shows medium acidity, is dry with soft texture, medium extract and medium body, a lovely length and nice intensity of nuts, pasta dough, lemon oil and bouillon. Medium-plus finish. Quite good. 20252030.– ir

13%

Hazelnut paste, oily/pasta dough, floral, toast, savoury, bouillon

Nuts, dough, lemon oil, bouillon, [0.50]

Chicken with beurre blanc sauce

Chardonnay

Light to medium yellow. Youthful aromas of toast, fresh lees, quince, star fruit, chalk and oatmeal. This 2021 has a medium acidity, is dry, of a mediumplus extract and medium texture, medium body with a proportionate length and fruit – quince, chalk, yellow plum and a hint of green leaf. Medium-plus finish. 2025-2030.– ir

13%

Toast, lees, quince, starfruit, chalk, oatmeal

Quince, chalk, yellow plum, hint of green leaf, [0.80]

Oysters on the half shell

4093

CHABLIS PREMIER CRU, VAILLON, AOC CHABLIS 1ER CRU -

BOTTLES EACH: 2018 AND 2021

CHABLIS PREMIER CRU, VAILLON, AOC CHABLIS

CHABLIS PREMIER CRU, VAILLON, AOC CHABLIS 1ER CRU, 2021

EXPRESSIONS FROM SOME OF THE BEST TERROIR OF THE WORLDCHABLIS

MIXED CASE

This pairing of back-to-back vintages of the same Grand Cru is an interesting insight into two different expressions of the same site from two disparate years: a textbook 2020 and a more trying 2021, which nonetheless yielded high-quality, if much smaller than average, crop. While at different stages, both wines are clearly showing their excellent pedigree.

4094 CHABLIS GRAND CRU,VAUDÉSIR, AOC CHABLIS GRAND CRU3 BOTTLES EACH: 2020 AND 2021

$

$

CHABLIS GRAND CRU, VAUDÉSIR, AOC CHABLIS GRAND CRU, 2020

CHABLIS GRAND CRU, VAUDÉSIR, AOC CHABLIS GRAND CRU, 2021

Chardonnay

Light to medium yellow in appearance. A very different, more developed aromatic theme here – savoury, bouillon notes, cabbage rolls, citrus oil and yellow fruit. Equal in statue to its twin, it is also extra dry, has a medium acidity, soft texture, high extract and full body, the same lovely length and intensity yet with its own set of flavours mirroring the nose – savoury, notes of bouillon, chalky, nutty, with, again, a hint of Mirabelle plum. Another very good effort. 2023-2032.– ir

13%

Savoury: bouillon, cabbage rolls, citrus oil, yellow fruit

Savoury, chalky, nutty, thistle milk and yellow plum, [0.60]

Spring vegetable risotto

Chardonnay

This Grand Cru is fermented in second- and third-use oak, keeping its influence light and well in check. Light to medium yellow in appearance, it leads with primary floral aromas, followed by fresh and jellied quince, nuts, chalk and thistle milk. Its breeding is evident in the well-structured palate: extra dry with medium acidity, soft texture, high extract and full body, good length and lovely floral, quince, nuts and chalk replays with a yellow plum note too. A very good effort. 2023-2034.–ir

13%

Floral, quince fresh and preserved, nutty, chalk, thistle milk

Floral, quince, yellow plum, nutty, chalk, [0.60]

Pôchouse aux poissons

photo — Carole Lamblin, Alexandre's sister, helping out during the harvest, at the bottom of the Premier Cru Fourchaumes.

96

576

Refreshing On Any Occasion

$ 120

ARE YOU A WHITE WINE LOVER?

This program is designed specifically for you.

With the new White Wine Select program, you receive a three-bottle case of curated, superior white wine. Each Cellar, your Master of Wine chooses an exciting, unique and exquisite white wine.

Explore the classics, discover new grape varieties and treat yourself to a case of three bottles of one white wine with every Cellar. This Cellar's White Wine Select case comes from Les Grandes Serres.

CHAMPAGNE

Champagne DoyardMahé VERTUS

In Champagne, the recent increase of growers wines provides the variety and the excitement to complement the blending skill and consistency that the top brands deliver. Due to the nature of business, nearly all the larger houses buy a significant percentage of their needs from the independent growers. The growers’ Champagne, like those of our two suppliers, are the wines crafted by some of those growers (“RM” for “récoltant-manipulant” on the label) from their own grapes, with much clearer stamp of the terroir and the vintage.

Carole Doyard is the fourth generation of her family crafting the Champagne Doyard-Mahé wines. The vineyards are in a Premier Cru-designated village of Vertus, south of Épernay, in the Côte des Blancs area famed for its Chardonnay. Not surprisingly, all the wines carry the village and Premier Cru designation, and all are Chardonnay based, with some Pinot Noir in rosé. Her team’s commitment to sustainable and environmentally friendly practises were recognized in 2020 by Viticulture Durable Champagne (VDC) and Haute Valeur Environnemental (HVE) designations.

photo — Carole and her dog Raya enjoy their walks in the vineyards in Vertus.

This Opimian Member favourite is made from 2020 Chardonnay supplemented with reserves from previous harvests. The fruit was grown in the prestigious Premier Cru vineyard of Vertus located in the Côte de Blancs region of Champagne. The bouquet references an appealing balance of lemon, lime and bread dough aromas while the body expresses notes of apple, honey and brioche. A wellbalanced wine with a pleasing length. 2023-2027– lw

12.5%

Lemon, lime, bread dough

Apple, honey, brioche, [9.00]

Sushi

4098

Chardonnay

$ 77 $ 462

12.5%

Lifted, floral, quince, lemon, brioche

Lemon, quince, brioche, hazelnut, intense but graceful, [4.00]

Herb-roasted chicken with lemon and white-wine cream sauce

4100

DM VIEILLES VIGNES 70 ANS, MILLÉSIME 2017, CHARDONNAY BRUT NATURE, VERTUS PREMIER CRU, 2017

Chardonnay

$ 138 $ 276

This is a cool bottling of old vines and Brut Nature indicates that no dosage was added. A youthful pale yellow, it opens with lifted notes of yellow flowers, followed by hazelnut and hazelnut milk, thistle and oatmeal – there is a great deal of complexity here. The palate is dry, with fine lazy mousse, medium acidity and medium-framed, with good length and fruit intensity displaying lemon peel, nuts, yellow flowers notes and elements of brioche toast to a long finish. 2023-2027–ir

12.5%

Lifted, yellow flowers, hazelnut milk, nutty, thistle, oatmeal

Lemon peel, nutty, yellow flowers, toast, [0.00]

Duck à l'Orange

Light lemon yellow. It opens with an attractively lifted, floral attack with notes of fresh quince, lemon and brioche. The palate is dry and nicely structured with medium acidity, lazy fine mousse, medium extract and texture, medium body, good length and wellarticulated flavours of lemon, quince, brioche and hazelnut. Nicely intense, yet graceful. Based on 2019 vintage with half of the blend from old vines with full malolactic conversion. 2023-2030– ir

Chardonnay, Pinot Noir

$ 75 $ 450

12.5%

A bit sharpish, beetroot, red plum compote, rye bread

Red fruit compote, beetroot notes, dark toast, nutty, [9.00]

As an apéritif or with salmon carpaccio

DM EXTRA BRUT DÉSIR, CHAMPAGNE DOYARD-MAHÉ, CHARDONNAY BLANC DE BLANCS, VERTUS PREMIER CRU NV

4099

DM ROSÉ, CHAMPAGNE DOYARDMAHÉ, CHARDONNAY & PINOT NOIR, VERTUS PREMIER CRU NV

This cuvée has 13% Pinot Noir also from Vertus. A lovely, medium-plus cranberry rose robe. It starts a tad sharpish on the nose with beetroot, red plum compote and rye bread elements to follow. The wine comes across dry with medium acidity, superfine mousse, medium extract, texture and body, with medium length and flavour intensity of the red fruit compote, beetroot, dark toast and nutty note to medium finish. Drink now.–ir

MIXED CASE

Time rewards the patient, particularly when it comes to Doyard-Mahé Champagne. This mixed case highlights a pair of outstanding vintages, both showing the complexity of maturity but also with long lives ahead.

$ 105 $ 630

Chardonnay

Matured for seven years in the Doyard-Mahé cellars, this fine vintage is eager to tell its tale with a dramatic bouquet of quince, toffee and bread dough layered over notes of apple and citrus. The palate remains zesty and full of life with flavours of lemon, green and red apple, white grapefruit and toast. A high-scoring Champagne, particularly notable for its harmonious balance, generous complexity and enduring length. 2023-2031– lw

Chardonnay

It is always fascinating to taste two vintages of an outstanding wine side by side. As expected, the Millésime 2016 Nature Vertus Premier Cru wine is slightly more youthful than its older sibling but clearly evolving on a similarly delicious trajectory. The bouquet expresses scents of pear, apple, and lemon intermingling with nutty, honeyed notes. Fruit outpaces tertiary character on the palate with an appealing array of lemon, grapefruit, lime, green apple and toast flavours. Both intensity of flavour and length exceed expectations. 2023-2028–lw

12.5%

12.5%

Quince, toffee, bread dough, apple, citrus

Lemon, green and red apple, white grapefruit, toast, [0.00]

On its own as an apéritif

Pear, apple, lemon, nut, honey

Lemon, grapefruit, lime, green apple, toast, [0.00]

Duck prosciutto

4101 CHAMPAGNE DOYARD-MAHÉ MILLÉSIME NATURE CHAMPAGNE: 3 BOTTLES EACH: 2015 & 2016

MILLÉSIME 2015 NATURE, BLANC DE BLANCS VERTUS PREMIER CRU

MILLÉSIME 2016 NATURE, BLANC DE BLANCS VERTUS PREMIER CRU

4102

DM MILLÉSIME 2012, CHARDONNAY, VERTUS PREMIER CRU MAGNUMS

Chardonnay 1500ml 3

$ 203

$ 609 $ 211 $ 633 $ 110 $ 330

A fully mature, decade-old vintage Champagne with six years on its lees after fermentation (note: only three years are required). Still quite light coloured. An expansive, savoury opening – bone marrow and cabbage roll, followed by lemon oil and nutty elements. The wine displays medium acidity on the palate, is extra dry (8 g/L dosage), very supple with integrated mousse, medium texture, extract and body, with nice length and intensity of savoury bouillon notes, lemon oil and hazelnut paste to medium finish. Drink now.–ir

12.5%

Expansive, savory: cabbage roll and bone marrow, citrus oil, nuts

Savoury/bouillon, lemon oil, nutty, [8.00]

Blinis of foie gras

Another lovely mature vintage offering. It has a very low 4 g/L dosage. Still light yellow. A very open, expansive aromatic profile with preserved lemon, lemon oil, and very autolytic, umami character in the best way possible – nuts, toast, rye bread. Medium acidity, superfine lazy mousse, soft texture, medium extract and light-to-medium body with a lovely persistence and fruit intensity of what the aromas promised: preserved lemon, rye bread toast, nuts and lemon oil. 2023-2026– ir

12.5%

Expansive, preserved lemon, lemon oil, very autolytic, nutty, toast, rye bread

Preserved lemon, rye bread toast, nutty, lemon oil, intense, if not big, [4.00]

Salmon tartare with candied salmon tartine

12.5%

Lifted, mushroom, savoury/bone marrow, fresh dough, hint bay leaf

Fresh dough, spice, nutty, savoury, [8.00]

Pistachio-crusted scallops

Light yellow in appearance. Lifted, mushroom, bone marrow, chalk and pasta dough notes with a hint of bay leaf. This 2013 has a medium acidity; it is dry with a medium intensity mousse and medium frame, with medium length and fruit intensity with replays of the aromas: fresh pasta dough, spice, nuts and bone marrow. Drink now.– ir

4104

EB 2011 EXTRA BRUT, CHARDONNAY, VERTUS PREMIER CRU MAGNUMS

4103

DM MILLESIME BRUT 2013, CHARDONNAY BLANC DE BLANCS, VERTUS PREMIER CRU

Spirits

Pommeau de Normandie is made by fortifying apple juice with Calvados. The result is a sweet, warming spirit with alluring baked apple and spice flavours. Odin’s Spirit uses a bittersweet variety of apples to give balanced freshness to its Pommeau de Normandie. Fragrant apple flavours are heightened by hints of lavender and spice.–jb

17%

Dried apple, cinnamon, nutmeg, lavender

Baked apple, marzipan, candied lavender, [75.00]

Smooth and glossy

18%

Hay, pear, melon, dried star fruit and flowers

Poached pear, peach preserve, dried flowers and fruits, hay, [140.00]

Chocolate macaron

Ratafia de Champagne is a sweet drink that is a fresh wine grape juice – Pinot Noir in this case – fortified with high-strength alcohol to 18%-plus strength. After fortification, this version is aged in a solera system, launched in 2005, for about three years. Medium yellow with the aromas of hay, pear, melon, dried star fruit and flowers. Sweet with medium acidity, soft texture and medium body, with poached pear, pear preserve, dried flowers and fruit to medium finish. Drink now.–ir

4105 RATAFIA, DOYARD-MAHÉ DM NV

Chardonnay, Pinot Noir

ODIN'S SPIRIT POMMEAU DE NORMANDIE

$

The Pràban na Linne “Pràban” blended Scotch whisky offers subtle hints of leather, smoke, and dried citrus peel on the nose, gaining in intensity over time. The palate is more immediately arresting with its spiced fruitcake and caramel nuances that temper the lifted, slightly fiery finish.– jb

Whisky

Smoke, leather, butterscotch, dried citrus peel

Caramel, fruitcake, mixed spice

Flavourful and fiery

43%

4112 AM PRÀBAN GAELIC SCOTCH WHISKY

55

$ 330

ARTISANAL SCOTCH WHISKY

Pràban na Linne

ISLE OF SKYE

Pràban na Linne is an artisanal producer of Scotch whisky located on the Isle of Skye. Owner Sir Iain Noble is a passionate advocate for preserving the Gaelic language. Pràban na Linne translates as “shebeen of the firth” – in reference to the illicit drinking dens that once dotted the water’s edge. The companyis one of the rare independent Scotch houses in the country and among only a handful based in the Scottish Hebrides. Their range includes awardwinning single malt and blended whiskies, as well as a small production of single-batch, copper-distilled gins.

Blended malt Scotch whisky is, as the name indicates, a blend of different single malts with the aim of highlighting a certain style. In the case of the 12-yearold Cùl na Creagan, the dominant notes are smoky and peaty. This is a brooding, weighty offering with lingering peppery notes.– jb

Whisky 43%

Smoke, peat, toffee, dried apple

Smoke, earthy, Sichuan pepper

Smoky and peppery

4110 CÙL NA CREAGAN 12 YEAR OLD, BLENDED MALT SCOTCH WHISKY

$ 96 $ 576

The Gaelic Gins are produced in a converted whisky still acquired by founder, Sir Ian Noble. The still was rumoured to have once been used to produce illicit spirits. A botanical infusing basket was recently added halfway along the copper lyne arm making this a perfect vessel for the company’s artisanal single-batch gins. First produced in 2017, this dry gin is infused with a wide range of botanicals including juniper, coriander, angelica, cassia bark, cardamom, and lemon peel. The nose features classic notes of juniper and fresh herbal nuances, with an underlying lemony fresh fragrance. The palate is smooth and supple with a linear structure and dry finish. A great gin for traditionalists; the ideal base for a gin and tonic on the rocks.– jb

Gin 40%

Juniper, lemon peel, fresh green herbs

Earthy, savoury, butterscotch, nutty

Smooth and dry

This is the first time that Pràban na Linne’s Gaelic Gins are being offered outside of Scotland! What better way to familiarize yourself with the range than this mixed case of dry, sweet and spiced gins.

In the 19th century, Juniper grew so abundantly across the highlands that a robust trade existed of Scottish juniper berries to Dutch gin producers. Over time, these hardwood habitats were depleted, and the juniper began to disappear. Sir Ian Noble has always been a passionate conservationist. His work to restore native woodlands included widespread juniper plantings: the result has been a slow but steady resurgence of juniper, and The Gaelic Gins are a tribute to Sir Ian’s dedication. This sweet gin is a new addition to the line up. It was first produced in 2021, after a succession of test batches to obtain the perfect balance of freshness, florality, and subtle sweetness. The main botanicals include juniper, coriander, cassia bark, hazelnuts, orange peel, orris root, honey and thyme.–jb

Gin 40%

Floral, citrus, juniper, fresh herbal hints

Citrus, juniper, subtly nutty and honeyed

Round and subtly sweet

The Gaelic Gins from Pràban na Linne are distilled using the Isle of Skye’s soft water, the same key ingredient that makes the producer’s Scotch Whiskies so distinctive. The labels bear the words Uisge Lusach in a bold cursive script. Uisge is the Gaelic term for water and lusach refers to an abundance of herbs. This is indeed a fitting name for these artisanal, single-batch gins produced with a diverse array of botanicals. The spiced gin was added to the range in 2019; its vibrant, warming flavours are derived from an infusion of juniper, cassia bark, orange peel, allspice, mace, liquorice root, sage, and almond. The result is very harmonious with each spice, botanical and fruit element knitting together to make a smooth, pleasing whole.– jb

Gin 40%

Cinnamon, juniper, citrus peel, licorice

Earthy, savoury, butterscotch, nutty

Spicy and vibrant

4113

UISGE LUSACH THE GAELIC GINS2 BOTTLES EACH: DRY, SWEET AND SPICED

UISGE LUSACH THE GAELIC GINS – DRY

UISGE LUSACH THE GAELIC GINS – SPICED

UISGE LUSACH THE GAELIC GINS – SWEET

$ 78 $ 468

Chardonnay

A delightful Champagne crafted from 100% Chardonnay harvested in 2020 and older vintages. The bouquet transports one to the local bakery, with aromas of shortbread, lemon meringue pie and apple turnover. Minerality shines through on the palate balanced by flavours of lemon, pear and grapefruit. Ready to pour but will also continue to mature over several years. 2023-2027– lw

COLLECTOR’S CORNER

RARE WINES TO ENHANCE YOUR CELLAR

4106

CHAMPAGNE DOYARD-MAHÉ BRUT NATURE CHAMPAGNE: 2 BOTTLES EACH: DÉSIR NATURE, EMPREINTE NATURE, ROSÉ NATURE

To celebrate Opimian’s 50th year, vigneronne Carole Doyard created this trio of zero dosage Champagnes for the first time. The ability to create an outstanding Champagne without the addition of extra sugar speaks to the fine quality of the wine. Congratulations Carole!

12.5%

Shortbread, lemon meringue pie, apple turnover

Lemon, pear, grapefruit, mineral, [0.00]

As an aperitif and with fresh popcorn

Chardonnay, Pinot Noir

The Désir Nature Vertus Premier Cru is a superior Champagne made from 50% 2020 old-vine fruit and 50% the house’s most mature reserves. Although the Doyard-Mahé Champagnes are enticing across the board, this bottle captured my highest score. The bouquet greets the senses with aromas of ripe red apple, lemon, white blossoms and pastry while its body and notably long finish are adorned with notes of mineral-laden lemon, lime and white grapefruit flavours. A celebration-worthy wine. 2023-2027–lw

12.5% Red apple, lemon, white blossoms, pastry

Lemon, lime, white grapefruit, [0.00]

Lemon curd shortcake

Chardonnay

Crafted from a blend of 87% Chardonnay and 13% Pinot Noir, the Doyard-Mahé Rosé Nature, Vertus Premier Cru beckons with a pretty rose-coloured hue and fine pearly mousse. This is a lively Champagne evoking a profile of rose, lime, cranberry, cherry, red currant and rhubarb. An appealing tension between this wine’s zesty acidity and its fruit core carries from the mid palate though to its lengthy finish. Champagne can be a superb match throughout the meal. Try with cedar plank salmon. 2023-2026–lw

12.5%

Rose, lime, cranberry, cherry, red currant, rhubarb

Lime, cranberry, cherry, red currant, rhubarb, [0.00]

Cedar plank salmon

CUVÉE EMPREINTE BRUT NATURE, BLANC DE BLANCS VERTUS PREMIER CRU

CUVÉE ROSÉ BRUT NATURE, VERTUS PREMIER CRU

CUVÉE DÉSIR BRUT NATURE, BLANC DE BLANCS VERTUS PREMIER CRU

photo — Managing Director Greg Rinehart, Master of Wine Louise Wilson MW and Carole Doyard at ProWein in 2022.

$ 74 $ 444

CUVÉE IMMERSION

What is Cuvée Immersion?

You will receive two bottles of the same vintage of Champagne. One was aged classically in the cellar, while the other one was aged under the sea, in Stiff Bay in Ouessant (Bretagne). The Cuvée Immersion will bear visible barnacles and corals (polyps) on the bottle.

A Unique Tasting Experience. Champagne maker Carole Doyard was approached by a wine merchant from Lyon who had experimented with aging wines 20 metres under the sea. He wanted to try it at even greater depths, 60 metres deep, to replicate the same pressure inside and outside the bottle. Carole was curious about the experiment and decided to try it out in Bretagne, where her parents spend a lot of time. She says: "It is an incredible journey between land and sea, you have to live it to believe it."

Oenologist Geoffrey Orban completed this tasting.

Immersed bottle :

Pale yellow colour and quite bright. A bit messy on first nose, evolving towards iodized notes, shellfish and molluscs, menthol, infusions, wheat. Balanced on the palate with an evolved iodized return, some alliaceous notes, candied lemon, verbena, butter and a powerful and flavourful umami (seawater) finish.

Cellar Storage:

More piercing bright yellow colour. Nose dominated by acacia honey, candied lemon and quince paste. More fruity and evolved register. More velvety, seductive in the mouth, on candied fruits, quince jelly, soft chalk, acacia honey, and a melted and saline finish.

4107 COFFRET IMMERSION, 2011

$ 449 $ 898

Immersed bottle : Lighter and brighter yellow-green colour. Nose of rocky chalk, Carensac liquorice, iodine, menthol, with a creamy sensation of limestone. Great purity. Creamy and refined palate, a real shellfish juice with the calcium sensation of "Patch" on the tongue.

Cellar Storage:

Bright pale green-yellow colour. Same sensation but with a more expressive fruitiness, butter and lemon heart. Palate more coated on white fruit with a more sunny side, meringue, lemon cream, also leaving a feeling of “patch” but less refined.

Immersed bottle : Yellow gold colour with a green-yellow undertone, beautiful shine. Rich nose with notes of roasted pineapple, cooked apple and pear, quince paste, honey, meadow mushrooms, candied lemon, mocha, peach, almond, rancid butter, curry. Concentrated palate, very deep with a brilliant finish, long lasting quality and prolonged tasty and aromatic persistence.

COLLECTOR’S CORNER

RARE WINES TO ENHANCE YOUR CELLAR

Cellar Storage:

Yellow-gold colour with golden-yellow reflections, duller appearance. Peaty nose, roasted, evolving towards notes of dry rancio, curry, cumin, toasted hazelnuts and almonds, cigar. We oscillate between typical whisky, rum and amber “Rivesaltes” wine. Coated palate and mellow style, delivering notes of candied yellow fruits prior to a concentrated and deeply saline finish.

CHAMPAGNE AGED A THE BOTTOM OF THE SEA - A RARE TASTING EXPERIENCE!

4109 COFFRET IMMERSION, 1996

4108 COFFRET IMMERSION, 2012

$ 449 $ 898

$ 649 $ 1 298

Web Exclusives

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

CHAMPAGNE DIDIER-DUCOS

Nicolas and Clotilde Didier are the husband-and-wife team behind Champagne Didier-Ducos. They are building on the foundation laid by Nicolas’ father and grandfather – the label was born in the 1950s as a result of marriage between Didier and Ducos families. They make a range of wines from all three grapes – Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and Chardonnay – from their own vineyards located southeast of Epernay, and they also have Viticulture Durable Champagne (VDE) and Haute Valeur Environnementale (HVE) designations.

As the name suggests: 100% Pinot Meunier with an extended, five-year period on the lees. Light lemon yellow. Nicely articulated aromas of oatmeal, poached yellow plum and pear with floral and nutty tones. Medium acidity, extra dry with very subtle lazy mousse, soft texture and medium body with good length and intensity of yellow plum, a touch of sake, rye toast and lemon peel. Drink now.– ir

CASES OF 3 FOR YOUR DRINKING PLEASURE!

All Pinot Noir, with three years on the lees. A tad shy initially but with a little air-time the inviting and developed aromas come to fore: rye toast, hazelnuts, bone marrow and citrus. Noir Absolu has a medium acidity. It’s extra dry, with a nice lazy mousse action, medium texture and body. It is long-lasting on the palate with good fruit persistence, featuring preserved lemon, rye toast, nuts, savoury elements and lemon peel with medium-plus finish. High marks here : the best of a strong lot. 2023-2027.–ir

12%

Oatmeal, poached yellow plum and pear, floral, nutty

Yellow plum, hint of sake/autolytic, rye toast, lemon peel, [6.00]

Gougères

12%

Rye toast, nutty, bone marrow, citrus

Preserved lemon, rye toast, nutty, savoury, lemon peel, [6.00]

Sweetbreads with chestnut and parsnips

4028 CHAMPAGNE DIDIER - DUCOS ABSOLU MEUNIER NV

Meunier $ WEB

4029 CHAMPAGNE DIDIER - DUCOS NOIR ABSOLU BRUT NV

Pinot Noir

$ WEB

Meunier, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir

Meunier, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir

Pinot Meunier with 15% Chardonnay and 5% Pinot Noir. Four years on the lees. Light yellow hue. A bit quiet at first, then offering yellow fruit, oatmeal, rye toast, savoury notes and lemon oil. With a medium acidity and extra dry on the palate, it shows a lazy fine mousse, medium texture and body, medium to long length and medium-plus fruit intensity: minerally, lemon oil, rye toast, nuts and lemon peel onto medium-plus finish. Nicely put together. 2023-2026.– ir

60% Chardonnay, 30% Pinot Noir and 10% Pinot Meunier – with five years on the lees. A lovely medium-salmon rose in the glass. This sparkler opens with aromas of pink grapefruit, wilting roses, black plum preserve and rye toast. On the palate, it has medium acidity, is extra dry, with a nice lazy mousse, soft texture and medium to full body. There’s nice length and fruit that follows the nose – pink grapefruit here, too, with rye toast and floral element to a persistent finish. 2023-2027.– ir

Yellow fruit, oatmeal, rye toast, savoury, lemon oil

Minerally, lemon oil, rye toast, nutty, lemon peel, [7.00]

Paté en croute

CHAMPAGNE DIDIERDUCOS L'ABLUTIEN BRUT NV

Pink grapefruit, wilting flowers, black plum preserve, rye toast

Red plum, pink grapefruit, rye toast, floral, [9.00]

Beef carpaccio

CHAMPAGNE DIDIER - DUCOS LA ROSÉE NV

Difficult to have too much “cooking” white Burgundy in an offer, and when the wines are all hitting the high notes it's time to stock up. This has a surprisingly broad range of flavours for a humble Bourgogne Blanc with a bouquet of red apple and Anjou pear while on the palate the orchard fruit is usurped by tropical flavours: guava and banana. A good dollop of smoky oak rounds out the finish.2022-2024.–mp

MOILLARD-GRIVOT

Moillard-Grivot, based in Nuits-Saint-Georges, has an illustrious 170-year history. The companymanages to produce Appellation wines from Chablis through to Santenay – a testament to a canny acquisition strategy through the generations. During a financial crisis in the 1930s, it was given the moniker “bank of Burgundy,” such was its ability to stay in the black. Maison François Martenot acquired Moillard-Grivot in 2016, safeguarding its status as a local institution. Over a broad selection of terroirs, the house style remains distinctly “Nuits” – powerful wines with bags of aging potential. Rather interestingly, œnologue Baptiste Corrot studied at the University of Bordeaux, which may account for his considerable skill in managing Pinot's occasionally rustic tannins.

Notes of lemon peel, green apple, wet stone, honeysuckle, tangerine, and grapefruit fill this moreish, quintessential Chablis. There’s a weight and a fruitforward character that village level doesn't always muster, while the finish gives a lick of lemony acidity and satisfying Granny Smith apple crunch. 2022-2027.– mp

12%

Lemon peel, green apple, wet stone, honeysuckle

Green apple, lemon, grape, wet stone

Spaghetti alla vongole

11.5%

Red apple, Anjou pear, ripe peach, nectarine

Guava, banana, toast, wood smoke

Vegetable terrine

4024 MOILLARD-GRIVOT CHABLIS, AOC, 2021

Chardonnay

$ WEB

4025

MOILLARD-GRIVOT BOURGOGNE CHARDONNAY, AOC BOURGOGNE CHARDONNAY, 2021

Chardonnay

$ WEB

4027

MOILLARD-GRIVOT MÂCONVILLAGES, AOP MÂCON, 2021

Chardonnay

4026

MOILLARD-GRIVOT BOURGOGNE PINOT NOIR, AOC BOURGOGNE PINOT

NOIR, 2021

Pinot Noir

$ WEB

This is textbook Mâcon and has “summer's day” written all over it. The nose is pure and unadorned, with yummy lemon curd and tangerine. The palate reveals apricot, mandarin and green apples, allied to a charming, long finish. The crisp natural acidity keeps the fruit dancing on the tongue, and it makes for utterly delicious deck-chair hoovering. 2022-2026.– mp

13%

Lemon curd, tangerine, apricot, mandarin

Apricot, mandarin, green apple, tangerine

Sole meunière

$ WEB

This is a very convincing exampleof entrylevel Pinot, with spritely acidity and fine tannins supporting the bright red fruit flavours. Inviting nose combining smoky notes of clove and cedar with unescapable rhubarb, strawberry, beetroot, and cooked plum. Finishes strongly with a prudent balance of alcohol; this is thoroughly decent Bourgogne Rouge. 2022-2024.– mp

13%

Clove, cedar, beetroot, strawberry

Rhubarb, strawberry, cooked plum, clove

Char siu pork

4086

FOLIES PARISIENNES L'HÉRITAGE FRANÇAIS, LE ROSÉ DES HÉRITIERS LAMBLIN, VIN DE PAYS D'OC, 2022

Grenache, Syrah, Cinsault

$ WEB $ WEB

A pretty, pink wine with notes of strawberry, cherry, watermelon and citrus and a crisp, dry finish. Made from a blend of Grenache, Syrah and Cinsault this sunny sipper is perfect for the patio or a picnic. 2023-2024–lw

13%

Strawberry, cherry, watermelon

Strawberry, cherry, watermelon, citrus, [1.00]

Mustard-roasted pork loin with squash polenta

Popup!

Meet Markus Molitor, “Mr. 300 Points”

Germany’s most awarded winemaker

In 2015, three of his wines from the 2013 vintage received a rating of 100 points from The Wine Advocate; thus his nickname, “Mr. 300 points” (Herr 300 Punkte in German). We are pleased to announce that Opimian has secured a small allocation of these outstanding wines from this brilliant winemaker. Don’t miss this opportunity to get your hands on these top-scoring wines, as they usually sell out in record time!

Only at Opimian.ca beginning February 27.

LIMITED TIME – LIMITED QUANTITIES – WEB ONLY

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