Upon arriving at the Royal York for 2:30, there was a mass of wine trade professionals awaiting their first sip of wine. As the doors opened, everyone flooded in to try their first glass.

Ernest and Julio Gallo was to everyone’s immediate right, and yes, they were sampling more then their best-selling White Zinfandel; In fact, they have a plethora of wines that Ontario wine lovers don’t even have the opportunity to try. Their single vineyard series is excellent; including a fabulous Chardonnay from Laguna Vineyard in Sonoma.

The highlight of my tasting was 3 fold, St. Supery was pouring their 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon; with powerful acidity and tannins, this wine will easily keep for another 5 to 7 years. The dark berry fruit is complimented by blueberries, chocolate and all spice. The acid and tannins on the finish are definitely in balance and will mellow in a few years. Right now, this wine will pair well with BBQ’d game and it should be decanted at least 1 hour prior to drinking (something they, unfortunately, did not do at the show).

Ironstone from Lodi, California, was pouring some great wines, including a Petit Syrah, but my favourite is their Christine Andrew Old Vine Zinfandel; exploding with ripe raspberries and blackberries, this wine is a perfect example of a quality Zin. The finish is smooth and is in perfect balance…Yum…Yum…Yum.

Finally, Delicato Family Vineyards was pouring their Brazin Zinfandel; it definitely receives an honourable mention. I, actually had the opportunity to try this one out of the barrel during our visit to California. Powerful berries on the nose, coupled with a smooth vanilla chocolate finish.

Finally, all of these wines are under $22, so they are fabulous and affordable.

Tags: Brazin, Cabernet Sauvignon, California, Christine Andrew, Ironstone, Lodi, Old Vine, St. Supery, Zinfandel