Why replace American wines?
The disruption of trade relations with the United States is prompting many Canadian consumers to boycott American products. In response to this popular movement, the Société des Alcools du Québec (SAQ) has removed all American wines and spirits from its shelves, thereby creating more space for locally produced items.
This is, more than ever, an opportunity for wine enthusiasts to discover several red wines that wonderfully substitute American wines, as well as very good Canadian white wines and superb rosés from Québec and across Canada.
Québec Rosé Wines
Among numerous alternatives to American products, Québec rosé wines are ideal for the summer. Light and very refreshing, they are delightful as an aperitif and pair excellently with barbecue grilled fare.
The Light Rosés of Québec
Domaine St-Jacques Pinot rosé is a harmonious blend of Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir and Vidal. It is an elegant wine with floral undertones and hints of red berries.
Rosé Gabrielle du vignoble Rivière du Chêne features a fruity finish and pairs perfectly with red-fleshed fish such as salmon and trout.
Coteau Rougemont Versant Rosé is fresh on the palate with subtle spice notes, making it a fine match for seafood and Mediterranean cuisine.
The Fruity Rosés of British Columbia
Quails’ Gate Rosé 2023, produced in the Okanagan Valley, is composed of 50% Gamay, 40% Pinot Noir and 10% Pinot Gris. Undertones of violet flowers, strawberry and melon complement pork chops and ham-cheese sandwiches perfectly.
Mission Hill Reserve Okanagan is a beautiful blend of 50% Merlot, 45% Syrah and 5% Pinot noir. It pairs wonderfully with burgers, shrimp cocktail and pork ribs.
An Ontario Rosé
Malivoire Lady Bug Niagara 2023, from the Niagara Peninsula, is composed of 60% Cabernet Franc, 20% Gamay and 20% Pinot noir. It expresses flavours of strawberry, raspberry and subtle vegetal notes.
Mineral Profile
Calcareous, rocky or shale-based terroirs favour the production of grape varieties with a mineral profile, such as Chardonnay and Riesling.
Mineral Profile
- NV Oyster Chardonnay — Monolith Series comes from Flat Rock vineyard, whose marine fossils lend this Ontario white wine an aromatic profile that pairs well with seafood.
- 2022 Perpetua Collection — Mission Hill, a chardonnay from the Okanagan Valley, reveals notes of flint and delicate lemon acidity. It is both elegant and refreshing.
- Riesling — Norman Hardie Winery & Vineyard from Prince Edward County in Ontario offers an exceptional balance of mineral and fruit.
- 2021 Chardonnay Quarry Road Vineyard, a gold medallist at the National Wine Awards, showcases aromas of pear, green apple and citrus notes from the Niagara Peninsula.
- 2024 Pervenches-Seyval Chardo, a blend of Seyval and chardonnay grapes grown on Farnham’s sandy terroir in Montérégie, develops pleasing bitter undertones and flavours of white-fleshed fruits.
Floral and Fruity Profile
- 2023 Carretto Gewürztraminer-Riesling Fusion, very aromatic, is a blend of 60% Gewürztraminer and 40% Riesling from Pillitteri in Niagara on the Lake. It unfolds notes of lychee, pink grapefruit and honey.
- 2023 Ehrenfelser — Summerhill Pyramid Winery, a rare variety from the Okanagan Valley, bursts with notes of apricot and citrus.
- Classic — Domaine Saint-Jacques, a vibrant blend of Vidal and Seyval, charms with aromas of ripe pear, candied lemon and a mineral finish.
The Pomerantz Foundation’s 18th Annual Golf Tournament
To enjoy a good wine, whether from France, Italy or locally produced, nothing beats sharing it with great company. And if, in addition, you contribute to a fundraising event for differently-abled children, the enjoyment of every sip is multiplied!
To experience this unique moment, register today for the 18th Annual Golf Tournament of the Pomerantz Foundation, which will take place on August 14, 2025, at the Summerlea & Country Club golf course in Vaudreuil. All proceeds will be donated to organizations that support children with special needs and their families.
An avid wine lover, Terry Pomerantz shares his love of fine bottles, guided by a responsible approach to the art of living. Discover his advice on food and wine pairing, his favorite bottles, and the ideal choices for each season and occasion. Immerse yourself in his passion and learn to fully appreciate each bottle in good company.