I had lunch with winemaker Andre Lipinski and a buyer from Vintages today. The venue was Mizzen at the Westin Harbour Castle on the Toronto harbourfront.  It's a fine restaurant. A bit pricey but the food is top notch. The buffet is astounding. I enjoyed the roast lamb, creamed mashed potatoes and too many more foods to admit to.

It's always a treat to lunch with people who enjoy wine and who know a lot about it. My lunch mates leave me in the dust when it comes to wine knowledge. Being an insatiable learner, I like that!

We enjoyed two of Andre's creations over lunch: De Sousa Riesling Semi Dry 2005 and Pinot Noir Reserve 2004.  The Riesling is virtually sold out, the 2006 is being bottled next week. This Riesling is very balanced. It's done in the modern German and Alsace style yet with the mineral and petrol qualities that Niagara bench wines are noted for. Its fresh crispness and acidity were nicely set off by the slight residual sweetness.  The Pinot Noir is light in color and it's aromas and flavors are subtle yet impressive. This varietal grows well in Niagara, producing some of the best Pinots in the world.  The wine is made in the traditional Burgundy style yet taking into account the Niagara terrior.  Oak aged to perfection.  Classic fragrances of light smoke and spice are framed in an earthy nose.  Nice tannins, cherry and plum flavours.  This sophisticated wine has a long and satisfying finish.

Andre Lipinski is a winemaker who gently entices Mother Nature's best flavors from the grapes. His talent and expertise are noted in this article by Vintages Magazine.