You can definitely tell that I am partial to California and its bounty of beautiful vines. It’s incredible, from hot and dry Paso Robles Cabs and Zins, to San Luis Obispo’s refined Chards and Sparkling Wines. I have said this before and I will continue saying it; the California Wine Fair has an amazing selection of wines for everyone’s palate and it is coming to town - April 4, 2011 at the Fairmont Royal York and April 6, 2011 at the Westin Ottawa.

My tastebuds are tingling and I can’t wait for my first taste. Maybe this year I will deviate from usual plan of attack and stick to one variety; I, actually, haven’t done a single varietal tasting at the California Wine Fair. Any thoughts? I welcome your suggestions by email at christine@shareaglass.com. Alternatively, I could tackle one AVA to provide you with more of an in depth tasting from one region.

The California Wine Fair is also a great opportunity for consumers and trade to speak with some of the winery’s principal’s; if you are a wine geek, it’s always great to get inside information about the next vintage. One of my favourite wineries is Nichols Winery and Cellars. They have a knack in producing Burgundian style Pinot’s in California, and luck would have it, Keith Nichols will be gracing us with his presence.

I look forward to seeing you all there.

Tags: California, Nichols, Ottawa, Paso Robles, Pinot, San Luis Obispo, Sparkling, Toronto, Wine