Staff at Peninsula Ridge Estates Winery is reaching into the winery’s library and pulling out exclusive sold-out white wines for a special tasting this
weekend. The Beamsville winery crew will uncork the few remaining award-winning bottles — a 2003 Sauvignon Blanc, a 2005 Fume Blanc and a 2006 Fume Blanc — giving visitors a taste of the same grape variety from different years. Only the best of Niagara wineries is showcased during the Cuvee weekend, the 21st annual charity event that celebrates Ontario wines. The Oscar-style ode to Ontario’s top wines kicks off with the $200-per-person Cuvee Gala and wine awards Friday night at Fallsview Casino Resort in Niagara Falls. Tickets are still available. Budget-conscience oenophiles can get their Cuvee fix by purchasing a $30 En Route passport, a gateway to tasting some of the best wines from more than 50 wineries. Award-winning wines from the gala will be on sale Saturday and Sunday at the wineries. “Wineries tend to really go all out for the Cuvee weekend when it comes to the passports,†said Norm Beal, president and CEO of Peninsula Ridge Estates Winery and chairman of the Wine Council of Ontario. “I think this year is no exception.â€
Beal said his winery wanted to allow consumers a special tasting.