I had the opportunity to stop in on Palatine Hills today to taste some of their wines. I had been told by wine importer Hugh Sutherland about how wonderful their gewürztraminer is, and about their vast and beautiful vineyards. So, I took the drive down to Niagara-on-the-Lake and decided to experience the winery for myself. I was greeted by proprietor John Neufeld who let me try their famous gewürz, riesling, cabernet sauvignon and chardonnay among others. I was impressed. These are good honest wines at an affordable price. I was especially thrilled at the fine quality of the Proprietor's Reserve series. The acreage runs to about 180, which is among the larger vineyards in Niagara. John's significant experience as a grape grower gives him the edge in providing the finest fruit for his winemaker to work with. "A good wine begins in the vineyard. You can't make a good wine if you don't start with good grapes," as the saying goes. Palatine Hills was worth the visit. A healthy list of wines are available from the winery boutique (onsite).

I was pleased to learn that their Cabernet Sauvignon (LCBO # 58552) & Riesling/Traminer (LCBO # 58602) are available in LCBO. To find a store that stocks either one, here's the link, type Palatine in the search box: http://www.lcbo.com/products/productsearch.shtml

My Top Picks:

Palatine Hills Chardonnay 2005

This single vineyard chard is among the most balanced I've had in a while. It seems to be the right mix of everything you want in a chardonnay these days. It has seen some oak, but not too much. Citrus, toasty and dry. Very satisfying mouth-feel.

Palatine Hills Gewürztraminer Proprietor's Reserve 2006

This is the best gewürz in Ontario. I did a double-take on the price: it's only $13.95. This wine entices with its elegance and balance. Grapefruit, melon, honeycomb, and a light bit of lychee leap forth in the bouquet with intensity and follow through in the flavours. A whisper of spiciness rounds out this well crafted Mosel-style wine.