The holiday season is a time for celebration, and champagne is a popular beverage of choice for many. Whether you&#39;re looking for a high-end champagne to mark a special occasion or a more approachable option for casual gatherings, there are plenty of choices to consider.&nbsp;

By the way, we love champagne with all kinds of food (seafood, fried chicken, spicy food, etc) and is more than just for a quick toast at midnight.&nbsp;

High-End Champagnes:&nbsp;

When it comes to high-end champagnes, names like <a href="https://www.grapesthewineco.com/wines/MoA-t-and-Chandon-Dom-Perignon-Brut-2013-w87575582p">Dom Perignon</a> and Krug often come to mind. These prestigious champagnes are typically reserved for special occasions and are known for their exceptional quality and craftsmanship. <a href="https://www.grapesthewineco.com/wines/MoA-t-and-Chandon-Dom-Perignon-Brut-2013-w87575582p">Dom Perignon</a> is produced by Moet &amp; Chandon and is named after the Benedictine monk who is often credited with discovering the champagne-making process. Krug, on the other hand, is known for its rich and complex flavors, thanks to its unique production methods, including fermentation in small oak barrels. These won&#39;t disappoint! Yum!!&nbsp;

More Approachable Options:&nbsp;

If you&#39;re looking for a more approachable champagne that still offers great quality, there are plenty of options to consider. <a href="https://www.grapesthewineco.com/wines/Ruinart-Brut-Rose-w2136832vx">Ruinart Rose</a> and <a href="https://www.grapesthewineco.com/wines/Charles-Heidsieck-Brut-Blanc-De-Blancs-w1263779l4">Charles Heidsieck Blanc de Blanc</a> are two examples of champagnes that are well-regarded but are often more affordable than their high-end counterparts. <a href="https://www.grapesthewineco.com/wines/Ruinart-Brut-Rose-w2136832vx">Ruinart Rose</a> is known for its delicate, fruity flavors, while <a href="https://www.grapesthewineco.com/wines/Charles-Heidsieck-Brut-Blanc-De-Blancs-w1263779l4">Charles Heidsieck Blanc de Blanc</a> is a type of champagne made exclusively from Chardonnay grapes, resulting in a crisp and elegant taste. Solid choices!&nbsp;

Blanc de Blanc:

Blanc de Blanc is a term used to describe champagnes that are made exclusively from white grapes, typically Chardonnay. This style of champagne is known for its light and crisp flavors, making it a popular choice for those who prefer a more delicate taste. Blanc de Blanc champagnes are often a great option for pairing with seafood or light appetizers.&nbsp;

Lower-End Examples and Spanish Cava:

If you&#39;re looking for lower-end champagne options, there are plenty of choices to consider. <a href="https://www.grapesthewineco.com/wines/Piper-Heidsieck-Brut-Cuvee-w504046291">Piper-Heidsieck&#39;s Brut Non-Vintage</a> is a great affordable option that still offers great quality and flavor. This champagne is known for its fresh and lively taste, making it a great choice for casual gatherings. In addition to champagne, <a href="https://www.grapesthewineco.com/wines/Gramona-Brut-Corpinnat-Imperial-2017-w91087350j">Spanish Cava</a> is another great option to consider for all budgets. Cava is a sparkling wine that is produced in Spain using the traditional champagne method, and it offers great quality at a more affordable price point.&nbsp;

Whether you&#39;re looking for a high-end champagne to mark a special occasion or a more approachable option for casual gatherings, there are plenty of choices to consider. From prestigious names like <a href="https://www.grapesthewineco.com/wines/MoA-t-and-Chandon-Dom-Perignon-Brut-2013-w87575582p">Dom Perignon</a> and Krug to more affordable options like <a href="https://www.grapesthewineco.com/wines/Ruinart-Brut-Rose-w2136832vx">Ruinart Rose</a> and <a href="https://www.grapesthewineco.com/wines/Gramona-Brut-Corpinnat-Imperial-2017-w91087350j">Spanish Cava</a>, there&#39;s a champagne out there for every taste and budget.&nbsp;

Cheers to the holiday season! #drinkwhatyoulove #bubbles

The holiday season is a time for celebration, and champagne is a popular beverage of choice for many. Whether you're looking for a high-end champagne to mark a special occasion or a more approachable option for casual gatherings, there are plenty of choices to consider.

Bubbles for the Holidays!!

Omakase is experiencing a surge in popularity, let’s dig into what it is and of course what wines to drink.



 Omakase, a term that translates to "I'll leave it up to you" in Japanese, is rapidly gaining popularity in the culinary world. This dining experience places your meal entirely in the hands of the chef, who meticulously crafts each course based on seasonal ingredients and their personal creative flair. It's not just about seafood; while sushi often features prominently due to its status as a cornerstone of Japanese cuisine, an omakase menu can include anything from Wagyu beef to seasonal vegetables.

Omakase and Wine Pairing: A Booming Gastronomic Journey

California Chardonnay: it's a name synonymous with sunshine, buttery richness, and maybe even a splash of white wine envy (looking at you, Bridget Jones). But how did this grape, originally hailing from France, become a Californian icon? Buckle up, because we're diving into the world of CA Chard, from its unexpected origins to the reasons it continues to reign supreme on wine lists.

Buckle up, because we're diving into the world of CA Chard!

Forget everything you think you know about sweet, syrupy wines. Lambrusco is a sparkling red wine from Italy’s Emilia-Romagna region that’s as light and bubbly as a summer day.

Lambrusco: The Party in a Bottle You Need to Try under $25

As the days grow longer and warmer, it's time to trade in your full-bodied reds and crisp whites for a glass of refreshing rosé. This versatile wine is not only perfect for spring but also pairs beautifully with a wide variety of foods all year round.



Rosé originates from France, specifically Provence - the world’s leading rosé region. It has been produced there since 600 BC when Greeks brought vines to southern France. Unlike its red and white counterparts, rosés are made using an array of grape varietals including Grenache, Syrah, Cinsault among others.

Spring into Rosé: The Perfect Wine for Warmer Weather

We are interested in understanding your dining and wine consumption habits to gain valuable insights into the wine and restaurant industry.

State of Wine and Restaurant Survey 2024

Aligoté: Burgundy's Unsung Hero Steps Out of the Shadows

For Chardonnay lovers seeking a refreshing, value-driven alternative, Aligoté, Burgundy's "other" white grape, beckons with its crisp acidity, subtle minerality, and undeniable charm. Often overshadowed by its more illustrious neighbor, Aligoté is finally gaining recognition for its unique qualities and exceptional quality-to-price ratio.

Aligoté: Burgundy's Unsung Hero Steps Out of the Shadows

A Hungarian Legacy: Imagine yourself in Tokaj, Hungary, a region steeped in winemaking tradition. For centuries, Furmint has thrived in its volcanic soil, basking in the warm sunshine. These grapes, loved for their thick skin and high acidity, became the cornerstone of Hungary's most famous wine: Tokaji. These sweet, honeyed treasures were once enjoyed by royalty and popes!

Furmint: Hungary's Hidden Gem for Wine Lovers

Check out these four whites wines under $24, from some great producers across various terroirs – France, Italy, Spain. Spring is in the air.

Four must try white wines for under $24 from France, Spain, and Italy

Eric Asimov's recent article isn't just about the "luxury" of sommeliers vanishing from restaurants. It's a stark warning about the potential collapse of a vibrant corner of our social and cultural ecosystem: the world of wine.

Why the Decline of Sommeliers Is a Crisis for All of Us

Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas visit The Shore Club, a fabulous restaurant with locations in both Ottawa and Toronto.

Wine List Review of The Shore Club, Toronto

Michaela Quinlan

The Shore Club

Shore Club:

RT: Hello and welcome to CorkRules!&nbsp;

A podcast where,&nbsp;in each episode,&nbsp;we will review a wine list from your favorite restaurants. I&rsquo;m your host Robert Tas along with Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier.

Hello Michaela,&nbsp;it&rsquo;s great to be back together for another episode.

MQ: Hi Robert!

RT: Before we jump in, let&rsquo;s talk about CorkRules.

We created CorkRules to demystify wine lists because we know from experience that sometimes when we get that list handed to us, well&hellip; it can be intimidating, and even a little daunting.

Our aim is to help prepare you to navigate that list, find those hidden gems, or value wines or that special bottle that will take your dining experience over the top.

RT:&nbsp;So, sit back and listen as we review your favorite wine list.

RT: Today we are talking about The Shore Club. Located in Toronto and Ottawa, this contemporary steak and seafood restaurant features lunch, light fare, and formal dining.

Michaela, I can&rsquo;t wait to hear what you think of their wine list?

MQ: Another fantastic wine list featuring classic favorites, local wines, half bottles, what they deem alternative whites and reds, along with bin ends, make this list fun and welcoming to all wine lovers.

RT: That&rsquo;s really great, as you looked at the list did you see anything jump out at you?

MQ: Anytime I see a menu featuring light fare and shellfish, I think of Rose, no matter the season. A light, crisp, and refreshing rose to consider is the 2020 Jules Rose from Provence, France. This blend of Cinsault, Grenache, and Syrah features the classic aromas and flavors we look for in Provence Rose. From notes of citrus, strawberry, and cantaloupe, this dry Rose is a perfect pairing for all light dishes, cheese, or as an aperitif.&nbsp;

RT: That is for sure unique. Did you find any others that caught your eye right away?

MQ: Another favorite that caught my eye was the 2020 Ben Marco &lsquo;Plata&rsquo; Malbec from Mendoza, Argentina. This Malbec is appealing in every way. The medium to full body, along with soft, round tannins, aromas of ripe blueberries, blackberries, fig, with coffee and cocoa make this crowd-pleasing red a perfect companion to richly sauced pasta and proteins.

RT: So Michaela, their list seems to have lots of range but was there anything that you would say is a &ldquo;must-try&rdquo;?

MQ: If you are considering shellfish, or fried seafood you must keep something sparkling in mind. The Domaine Rolet Pere &amp; Fils &lsquo;Brut Cremant&rsquo;&nbsp; from the Jura region in France. Jura, located in Eastern France, is known for its standout Chardonnay. This &lsquo;Brut Cremant&rsquo;, which means dry sparkler produced in France, outside of the Champagne region, is a blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. The fresh pear, green apple with brioche, and creamy, nutty finish make this sparkler a must-try.

RT: These are some great calls. So you know I&rsquo;m getting thirsty and will need to order a bottle with my dinner, where would you guide us?

MQ: If you are looking for a rich, full-bodied red to pair with steak or lamb chops, consider the Tin Barn &lsquo;Pickberry Vineyard&rsquo; from the Sonoma Valley of California. These grapes are sourced from the single 30 acre &lsquo;Pickberry Vineyard&rsquo;. This highly rated Cabernet Sauvignon features ripe black cherries, plumb, and spice, with soft tannins and a lingering finish with notes of licorice. Sip this beautiful red while enjoying those richly sauced proteins and pasta dishes.

RT: Michaela, speaking of price, sometimes people have a budget in mind.&nbsp; Any other great value wines you&rsquo;d point us to?&nbsp;

MQ: I am such a fan of the next wine for many reasons. To name a few, this white grape is crisp, crowd-pleasing, and always combines its excellent quality with amazing value. Consider the 2020 Domaine Lucien Jacob Aligote from Burgundy, France. The grape in this remarkable white Burgundy is Aligote, which exudes lemon and lime zest, gooseberry, and melon, with bright acidity, and a dry, mineral finish. A perfect companion to herbed cheese and seafood.

RT: That sounds great. What is your other value selection?

MQ: Spain brings us many styles, varietals, and price points of their wines. A standout red Spanish wine to consider of exceptional quality and value, would be the 2020 Cruz de Piedra Garnacha from the Aragon region of Spain. This medium to full-bodied red is well balanced and features ripe raspberries and cherries, along with notes of clove, earth, and vanilla on the smooth finish, making this a food-friendly wine.

RT: Now Michaela, what if I have a big client dinner or special occasion where I want to take it up a notch?

MQ: If they still have this bottle available, consider the 2013 Turley &lsquo;Hayne Vineyard&rsquo; Petit Syrah from Napa Valley. Rated 96 points by both Vinous and Robert Parker, Turley&rsquo;s organically farmed Petit Syrah is truly a standout. Grown from vines planted in 1953, aromas of ripe blackberries, plumbs, fig, blackberry jam, along with black pepper, herbs, and rich, round tannins, this Petit Syrah is a special occasion on its own. Pair with steak, lamb, herbed dishes, and anytime you are looking to take your dining experience to the next level.

RT: Michaela, thank you so much for all your great suggestions and helping us navigate The Shore Club&rsquo;s wine list. I can&rsquo;t wait to go try them myself.&nbsp;

To our audience, thank you all for joining us here on CorkRules.

If you would like us to review one of your favorite restaurants, please send us an email to: <a href="mailto:Info@corkrules.Com">Info@CorkRules.com</a> or visit our web website where we have a request form available and we will do our best to get it in the queue as quickly as possible.

We are looking forward to being with you on another CorkRules episode soon. In the meantime, please check out our website for other episodes of your favorite restaurant wine lists.&nbsp;

And finally, drink what you love and please make sure you drink responsibly.

&nbsp;

Thank you.

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End

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BRAT

Bocca di Lupe

Gap Weekend: A Film Shoot in Wine Country

Alba Restaurant

Alba

10 Greek Street

L'Auberge Chez Francois

Andrew Edmunds

Salt Seafood and Oyster Bar

Matteos Ristorante Italiano

Matteo's

Ruffino is an Italian wine producer that was founded in 1877 by Ilario and Leopoldo Ruffino. Today, the winery is owned by Constellation Brands and is known for its high-quality wines, particularly its Chianti. Ruffino combines traditional winemaking techniques with modern technology to produce wines that reflect the terroir of the region.

Quaint, stylish nook known for a creative, seasonal American menu made from local ingredients.

Dante

Geronimo

La Mercerie

Bar Primi

Kirby’s Steakhouse

The Grill

homepage

CorkRules application allows you to discover wines at your favorite restaurants, learn with friends and be confident with price transparency. Order wine with confidence at restaurants and retailers. Get personalized recommendations. #DrinkWhatYouLove

Cafe La Haye

Mathis

Grenache NV

Grenache

Sonoma Valley, USA

Bedrock Wine Co.

Old Vine Zinfandel NV

Zinfandel

California, USA

Rochioli 'J.Rochioli' Big Hill Pinot Noir 2019

Russian River Valley, USA

Liwa

Sauvignon Blanc 2021

Sauvignon Blanc

Dry Creek Valley, USA

Massican

Annia, Napa Valley 2021

White Blend

California, USA

Lillian Whitehawk

Vineyard Syrah 2013

Central Coast, USA

Grey Stack

Rosemary's Block Sauvignon Blanc 2021

Sauvignon Blanc

California, USA

J Vineyards

Pinot Noir (Monterey/Sonoma/Santa Barbara) 2019

Pinot Noir

California, USA

Olema

Cabernet Sauvignon 2021

Cabernet Sauvignon

California, USA

Once & Future

Sangiacomo Vineyard Merlot 2018

Merlot

Los Carneros, USA

Kistler

Les Noisetiers 2021

Chardonnay

Sonoma Coast, USA

Roederer Estate

Brut NV

Blend

Anderson Valley, USA

Abreu

Rothwell Hyde Red 2016

Blend

St. Helena, USA

Spottswoode

Sauvignon Blanc, Napa County - Sonoma County 2021

Napa County-Sonoma County, USA

Domaine Tempier

Bandol Rose 2019

Mourvedre

Bandol, France