Gérard Bertrand Minervois 2015
Gerard Bertrand is one of the best-known producers of wine in the South of France. You’ll find many of his wines in Vintages because the LCBO likes his pricing. Virtually all of them are under $20. Betrand, who used to play rugby for France, concentrates on local varieties in Languedoc and Provence. I’m particularly fond of his Minervois 2015. A blend of Syrah and Carignan, it’s dense purple-ruby in colour; the bouquet is black raspberry with a light oak influence. Medium to full-bodied, it’s dry, firmly structured. It costs $16.95 at Vintages outlets. A good bet for a BBQ night. That’s Gerard Bertrand Minervois 2015 from France. For Post City Magazines, I’m Tony Aspler, 680 NEWS. (Vintages #952804, $16.95) (89)

Château des Charmes Brut
Ontario is making some top-flight sparkling wines now. Recently tasted and enjoyed was Château des Charmes Brut Sparkling. A blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, it’s made in the tradtional fermentation in bottle. Pale straw in colour with an active mousse of tiny bubbles. A toasty nose of apple with a honeyed note; medium-bodied, a touch of honeyed sweetness in mid palate kept in check by fresh acidity that gives commendable length on the palate. ($25.95, Vintages #224766) (89)