Autumn promises to be delicious for Quebec wine lovers! Two of the biggest events in the world of wine and spirits will take place in Montreal and Quebec City to celebrate tableside pleasure and flavor discovery.
From 18 to 26 October Rendezvous Raspivav transform the Bonsecours Market and the Voltigeur Armory into authentic private import markets with over 1,000 products to choose from, including 600 available individually—the perfect opportunity to stock your cellar before the holidays.
Then, from November 6 to 8, Grand Tasting of Montreal returns to Grand Quay du Port for its 15th edition, highlighting the diversity of wines, beers and spirits from around the world, with masterclasses, immersive spaces and a festive atmosphere. Two unmissable events for the curious, enthusiasts and all those who love a toast to discovery!
And those who say autumn say visits to winegrowers with numerous tastings as a result. Here's a sneak peek of the latest inspiring wine gatherings, with some wine suggestions to enjoy at the end of the week.
Drink less. Drink better.
Terlan – a great name in Alpine winemaking
A rare opportunity to meet Klaus Gasser, Export Director and Oenologist of the prestigious Kellerei Cantina Terlan, during an intimate tasting lunch in the (upper) restaurant. Clownin Montreal. Several emblematic vintages, including some older ones, confirm that these wines age superbly, especially the stunning 1991 Rarity vintage (60 months on lees), confirming that we are one of the greatest white wines in Italy. The featured wines include Pinot Bianco 2024 ($27.45 – Code SAQ 13199012) is excellent proof that excellent wines can be produced from this grape variety. Green apple, pear, white floral notes, lively and elegant palate with wonderful minerality. Precise and refreshing. Don't miss ★★★1⁄2 $1⁄2
Excellent burgundy Rive Droite from Moueix.
Then, on Friday, it was time to sit down at Le Monarque restaurant for an exceptional tasting in the company of Stéphane Laborie, commercial director of Domaines Jean-Pierre Moueix. This 23rd edition has allowed us to explore the nuances of the wines of Saint-Emilion and Pomerol from the excellent 2022 vintage (those who bought en primeur will be more than happy!), through a series of prestigious wines, as well as more affordable wines, including (still) very good ones. Jean-Pierre Mouet Pomerol 2021 ($41.00 – Code SAQ 739623) is well characterized by black fruits, notes of pencil lead and a flexible and finely structured palate. A wine that embodies the Pomerol terroir very well. ★★★ $1⁄2
An inspiring meeting with the women of Pesquera
There are wine stories that resonate far beyond the glass, and the story of Familia Fernández Rivera is one of them. During an intimate tasting in Club Le SalonI had the opportunity to rediscover the wines of this house in Ribera del Duero, which today are carried by three generations of passionate women – from the great Esperanza Rivera, to her daughters Olga, Maricruz and Lucia, to the young guard represented by Lucia Pascual, Ines and Elvira. Among the wines tasted, in addition to the magnificent 2008 Millenium Reserva vintage, I offer Tinto Pesquera Reserva 2020 ($50.75 – Code 10273088) who has just arrived at SAQ. Intensity, balance and depth. Drink now, knowing that it can easily improve for 10-15 years. ★★★★ $$$$
And two magnificent champagne houses…
Refinement Ruinart
There are invitations that we cannot refuse, and the invitation from Maison Ruinart is one of them. A great gastronomic moment in the chic and cozy (completely refurbished) Mama C Restaurant, located in the heart of the Nelligan Hotel. Led by Florence Boubet-Legrand, the house's oenologist since 2021, we are immersed in the radiant world of Chardonnay, Ruinart's signature grape, a sparkling interlude that reminds us why Ruinard remains an important benchmark in the world of great Champagne wines. In this regard, I invite you to stock up on great food for the holidays and special occasions. Blanc de Blanc Brut ($166.50 – Code SAQ 14822734), a long caress, complex and creamy. Nice!
★★★★1⁄2 $$$$$
Beresh precision
Last stop and last but not least, an exceptional lunch at Marcusin a luxury hotel Four Seasons of Montrealin the company of Rafael Beres, a passionate and interesting winemaker. A “master class” (as the French cousins say) that allowed us to better understand his artisanal vision for Champagne, as well as the complexity of the work behind each vintage. From Rive Gauche Pur Meunier to Campania Remensis Rosé (absolutely divine!), including grand cru Cramant, Aÿ and Ambonnay, they demonstrated amazing precision, vibrant energy and a deeply personal signature. Currently available in SAQ (hurry!) at Gross reserve ($97.00 – Code SAQ 13253306 ), with its fine bubble, notes of dried fruits, white flowers and rich texture, wonderfully embodies the spirit of the house. A wonderful meeting with a winemaker who promotes champagne with sensitivity and conviction. ★★★★ $$$$$
Legend
★ Correct
★★ Bon
★★★ Very good
★★★★ Excellent
★★★★★ Exceptional
More stars than dollars: it's worth it.
As many stars as dollars: it's worth it.
Fewer stars than dollars: the wine is expensive.
