Visited Prince Edward County today. 2 1/2 hours drive east of Toronto, this lovely community reminds me of the charm of Prince Edward Island.  It has a similar "down home" feeling, a sense of community, and a more relaxed pace.  Brought a case of Chateau des Jaubertes wine for my friend Rob who lives in The County. I brought some Sainte Croix du Mont wines for us to taste too. These sweet white Bordeaux wines give Sauternes a run for its money. More below.

Stopped in on The Waring House Restaurant and Inn in Picton, Prince Edward County. They feature cuisine that uses local produce as much as possible. They also have a very impressive wine list of Ontario and International wines. I recommend this establishment for dining and overnight stays. They do a great job.

Had two stunning wines this evening with Rob and his wife. These were sample bottles.  The wines will be available soon to the North American market. Vinobles Ricard (Chateau de Vertheuil Montaunoir) is a 28 hectare family estate located 25 km southwest of the city of Bordeaux on the Garonnes River. They are across the river from the famous Sauternes appellation. 

Chateau Montaunoir Sainte Croix du Mont 2004. A superb and complex white dessert wine. It is produced by Genevieve Ricard and husband Philippe Durand. This wine has lovely viscosity , elegance and complexity. Think of a Sauternes, but it’s made across the river, with equally charming history and winemaking experience. This wine has all the interesting notes you might expect out of a very fine sweet wine. Aromas of honey and apricot and flavors of apricot, dried fruit and acacia - with rich complexity. 70% semillon, 15% sauvignon blanc, 5% muscadelle.
My rating: 9.5 out of 10.

Chateau de Vertheuil Ste Croix du Mont 2003. A perfect wine!  Absolutely stunning. As with the Montaunoir, the grapes are hand harvested four different times later than the regular harvest. Very similar to a Sauternes, this wine is actually a bit better than most.  It's complexity and satisfaction are amazing. The wine has a roasted fruity aroma with notes of honey and almonds. A blend of 70% semillon, 15% sauvignon blanc, 5% muscadelle. My rating: 10 out of 10.