It's the festive season and, even though I encourage sparkling all year long, now's the time you really must buy some. Here are a few suggestions, including a couple of good local rose sparklers. 

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Some brand new Latin phrasing graces the newest “herald” in Canada. The Lieutenant Governor’s Award for Excellence in Ontario Wines has taken BC’s wine award initiative started a few years ago, brought it east and pumped up the pomp.

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Most octogenarians are content to sit in a rocking chair and maybe visit their grandchildren, but not Margrit Mondavi: “I just love to meet people,” she said. Master of Wine Mark De Vere was also there to talk about the fine Mondavi Reserve wines.

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For good reasons, the launch of Beaujolais Nouveau happens with a lot less hoopla than 10-20 years ago. But producers still maintain an embargo on sales before November 17. I got to taste them - and can advise on which of the light and simple wines to get for your party. And it's not just Beaujolais either - there are nouveaus from elsewhere in France, Italy and heck, even Ontario.

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With a level of enthusiasm that would raise eyebrows even among sailors of yore, Canadians continue to lift their glasses – and there’s serious cash on the table. Nationwide, alcohol sales in 2010 were just shy of $20 billion. Beer, wine and spirits all saw higher sales.

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The successful goLOCAL campaign at the LCBO is now over, but there are still lots on Ontario wines you haven't tried. Here's a summary from the Taste Ontario event at the Ritz-Carlton in late September.

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Taste Ontario at the ritzy Ritz-Carlton on September 19th was a big success, with the afternoon session attracting lots of media folk and restaurant buyers looking for new ideas for winelists. Pinot Noir got a special session at the beginning.

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