Wine Wednesday
A rich and rewarding Champagne and three stylish whites from Osoyoos
Valentin Leflaive CV 19 30 Extra Brut Blanc de Blancs Champagne
Champagne, France $86.95 (50769)
Valentin Lefalive is named for the son of Burgundy wine grower, Olivier Leflaive, who started production in Champagne in 2015. The first number represents the vintage of the base wine (2019) and the second number suggests the dosage in 0.1 g/l.
This is a rich and rewarding style of Champagne, made from chardonnay from older vines in Premier and Grand Cru villages. The aroma suggests an inviting mix of nutty, bready and fruity (cooked and dried) notes, which replay on a palate that’s freshened by juicy, citrussy acidity. This dry Champagne is bright and balanced, and not austere at all. It’s flavourful, with an appealing texture, depth and length. Great value. This has 12.5 per cent ABV and 5 g/litre r.s. Drink now to 2032. Available in Ontario. (94/100)
Moon Struck
It’s always exciting to receive samples from Moon Curser, a Osoyoos-based winery which produces a wide range of wines from various varieties, including some that are less common in the Okanagan, such as Carmenère, Dolcetto and Tannat. The current heat and humidity in southern Ontario inspired me to select this trio of white wines made from Rhône varieties to sample. The Okanagan Valley has a winning way with Rhône style wines.
Moon Curser Marsanne 2025
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia $26.99 (mooncurser.com)
Grapes grown at the Home Vineyard on the Osoyoos East Bench, first planted in 2004. Tank fermented and aged.
This has convincing and refreshing Marsanne character, offering a mix of stone fruit, floral and herbal flavours. It’s generous and creamy texture is underpinned by refreshing acidity, which adds to the appeal. Good length and focus. Will be interesting to see how it develops in bottle. This has 13.8 per cent ABV and 2.6 g/litre r.s. Vegan friendly. 151 cases. Drink now to 2032. Available direct. (92/100)
Moon Curser Roussanne Marsanne 2025
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia $28.99 (mooncurser.com)
79 per cent Roussanne and 31 per cent Marsanne, from the Home and Stubbs vineyards on the Osoyoos East Bench. Tank fermented and aged.
This youthful white blend is made in an expressive and enjoyable style, with flavours suggesting a mix of tropical, peach and citrus fruit with earthy and nutty notes. It’s full-bodied character is nicely balanced, with juicy flavours that linger on the finish. This has 13.8 per cent ABV and 2.7 g/litre r.s. Vegan friendly. 279 cases. Drink now to 2030. Available direct. (91/100)
Moon Curser Viognier 2025
Okanagan Valley, British Columbia $25.99 (mooncurser.com)
Grapes grown at the Home Vineyard on the Osoyoos East Bench. Tank fermented and aged.
This Viognier has a greener edge that is more refreshing than the variety’s more commonly expressed opulent character. Its pleasing mix of floral and fruity aromas and flavours — leaning more towards citrus than textbook peach or tropical fruits — makes this a refreshing and enjoyable white wine, especially when consumed young. This has 13.5 per cent ABV and 2.2 g/litre r.s. Vegan friendly. 421 cases. Drink now to 2028. (90/100)
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