NatDecants

Yes Jason, we make some spectacular wines, and both riesling and pinot noir are our dry style specialties. There are so many amazing small cult wineries that have opened up, and not only are they producing fantastic wines, but they're reasonably priced (and downright cheap when you consider the exchange on the dollar). But you're right, it's difficult to get them... most folks drive across the boarder and load up. I have links to listings of Canadian wineries on my site as well as a recent article about the small cult wines and planning a weekend getaway in Niagara, which itself is beautiful apart from the wineries (http://www.nataliemaclean.com/articles/niagara.html). If I were living in the US, I'd make a family trip of it: great restaurants, wineries and lots of fun stuff like Niagara Falls not far away, hot air ballooning etc. Nat

OK guys, here's my article... I hope it adds some info to the discussion... it certainly is seasonal -- we have -40 degree Celcius weather here this evening :) http://www.nataliemaclean.com/articles/icewine.html Cheers, Nat

no not selling anything, my site is free -- I post my articles there but I probably should get Jason's blessing first (or whomever is the moderator) Nat

Hi folks, This is my first post so forgive me if I make a few mistakes (just give me an e-whomp). I live in Ontario and have participated in the icewine harvest... for 10 minutes at a time, I'm such a whimp. (I've written about my experience but I don't want to post a link in case that's bad manners. Maybe Jason can let me know.) Anyway, I find that the rielsing-based icewines are generally superior to vidal-based because they have some acidity which balances their sweetness and goes well with salty foods like foie gras. But I agree with Tammy that Rief makes an excellent vidal version. There's an icewine festival with winery tours and events that takes place every January in Niagara... worth attending if you can take the cold (then again, why worry, because the icewine will keep you warm). Cheers, Nat