Sweet Cabernet Franc may sound strange, but in Inniskillin’s hands it’s amazing. The green-herb notes common to the variety read as peppery spice; the fruit flavours bring to mind sweet red raspberries and tangy rhubarb pie. It’s sweet but not too, with vibrant acidity and that Cab Franc grape-skin spice. And this is one of the rare wines that really does complement chocolate desserts, from birthday cake to mousse.

A pale silver/yellow color, the 2023 Sauvignon Blanc Russian River Valley has softer floral notes of melon, dewy flowers, quince, pink grapefruit, and vanilla. It’s elegant, fruity, and supple, with lots of elegant charm and an inviting feel as well as a softly rounded texture. Drink 2025-2030.

The 2022 Pinot Noir Meredith Estate is a dark red color with a youthful hue. It’s deep and has liqueur-like aromas of black cherry and dark stones but needs a bit of air. The palate is full and more approachable, and its palate feels a bit more cherry in this vintage. Drink it over the coming 8-10 years.

On the nose, sweet tobacco balances the medicinal tang of blackberries, top soil, wild fennel and eucalyptus. The palate is peppery and spicy, with lots of earth and herbs, but a hint of vanilla emerges to bring out the sweetness of the berries. A fresh, precise wine.

Pale rose pink with a little salmon tint. Sumptuous, broad nose. And a richer, prettier palate than the white version. Pleasing already.