In Ontario Cabernet Franc fares at a very high level in comparison to its Cabernet Sauvignon. The secret for Ontario Cabernet Sauvignon would appear to be a heavy compliment of oak to impart more “character”. Oak has garnered a dirty name in much of the wine world perhaps a throwback to earlier days when excessive oak was the rage.
The Reif Estate Winery 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon from Niagara has been fermented and aged in French and Hungarian oak for 2 years. New? Old? Neutral? The winery website fails to disclose.
Aroma: Blueberry and cassis reigns supreme. BlackBerry and cactus pear. The oak is not particularly well integrated into the wine and it is noticeable instead of harmonious.
Palate: Some heat and heft and solid in the background tannins. Peppery burn on the long finish. Despite the oak ageing there is some tartness where one might expect more depth and fullness.
Personality: I am trying to swing with the big boys here and even take advantage of Canadian patriotism shunting aside Yankee Cabernet Sauvignon but sorry I just can’t deliver.
Food Match: The winery website suggests beef or lamb but not enough guts in the wine for that match. I would suggest a pasta sauce using Ontario field tomatoes with a higher degree of acidity than canned Italian San Marzano’s might offer. I say a simple tomato sauce.
Price: $35 CDN.
Cellarbility: The winery website suggests 7-10 years. No way! My thoughts are at this price not to buy.
RKS 2025 CANADIAN Wine Rating: 65/100. Natalie MacLean 91.
(Reif Estate Winery 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve, VQA Niagara Peninsula, Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario, 750 mL, 13.5%).
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