In terms of price and quality here in Canada Chilean red wines rule the roost. I await export statistics as to both volume and monetary value for 2023.
In the Liquor Control Board of Ontario’s Vintages 6January2024 release there are 5 Chilean reds and they are all under $20. There are a paltry 3 Canadian reds (shame on you LCBO) one is $17, one $35 and the other $26.95. If the quality is there what are Ontario consumers going to be reaching for? As for many consumers at the LCBO I speak to they are grabbing Chilean wines and not even bothering to lament the poor selection of Canadian red wines.
With a name like Montgras Day One New Range 2022 Gran Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon the North American and UK markets would seem to be the target.
Aroma: Opulent and thick raspberry, blackberry, cassis and all of this suggesting a powerful and rich red wine.
Palate: Blackberry, violets, cassis and dark chocolate. Moderate tannins and a medium finish.
Personality: A 360-pound linebacker wine that plays on the palate like a swift 264-pound tight end. Save me for your Super Bowl viewing. I am no flash in the pan.
Food Match: Since we mention the Super Bowl give up your beer, at least until half time to educate your palate with this wine and pair the wine with a flank steak Fajita with guacamole and corn chips on the side. Will win points as a sipper until the 3rd quarter starts and you have finished your fajitas and you may wish to switch to some sparkling water.
Cellarbility: Drink by 2025-year end.
Price: $17.95 CDN (Ontario).
RKS 2024 Wine Rating: 89/100.
(Montgras Gran 2022 Reserva Day One Cabernet Sauvignon, D.O. Valle del Maipo, Vina Montgras, Chile, 750 mL. 14%).
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