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Peruse any restaurant wine list, and I am sure you will notice the By The Glass selections. These are wines that restaurants choose to inspire new tastes, incorporate some tried and true wines into your evening, and provide choices that won’t break the bank.
When I started collecting more wine, I kept thinking back to the By The Glass list concept. Having a cellar big enough to support a small restaurant, why shouldn’t I have a selection of wines at the ready? This list of wines is perfect for a glass of wine with dinner or whenever friends drop by. Plus, helping to take the temptation away from popping open a bottle that needs a bit more ageing before it is good to go.
If you are in for creating your own By The Glass list at home, here are a couple of my go-to white wines, both still and sparkling, to add to the mix.
Mare di Sirena Pinot Grigio
A wine inspired by the mermaid lore of Italy, the Mare di Sirena is made from grapes grown in the central Italian province of Abruzzo from vines that feel the influence of the Adriatic. On the palate, the wine is fresh, easy-drinking, with citrus flavours and a mineral-driven finish. The wine itself is made in a very fresh style, all in stainless steel. It is a delightful summer complement filled with aromas of tart white peach, fresh apricots, white flowers, watercress, and sea-side vibes.
Find this wine on LCBO shelves for $8.90
Bread & Butter Chardonnay
This California Chardonnay is ideal for palates that enjoy oak-aged white wines. Made by winemaker Linda Trotta, Bread & Butter is a range of wines made for everyday wine moments. A regional wine aged in both French and American oak with partial malolactic fermentation, this wine brings the boldness of Cali into the glass. The wine is filled with aromas of vanilla, toasted almonds, crème brûlée, lemon cream, pineapple and cooked yellow apples. On the palate, the wine is round textured, creamy, easy-drinking and balanced with lifted acidity.
Find this wine on LCBO shelves and in select Grocery stores for $18.95
Popcorn Chardonnay VQA Niagara
Chardonnay is a grape that I never seem to get over. I have a soft spot for cool-climate production from Ontario, and this wine ticks all the boxes. Made in the Niagara Peninsula by Garage Wine Co., this production uses both French and American oak ageing to create a wine that is easy to love. Filled with aromas of lemon meringue, crisp yellow apple, white peach, vanilla buttercream, and soft baking spices. On the palate, this wine blends the versatility of Chardonnay with the cool climate of Ontario wine production, showing bright acidity, touches of salinity, and complemented by a plush and easy finish.
Find this wine on LCBO shelves and in select Grocery stores for $15.95
Nicolas Feuillatte Brut Reserve Exclusive Champagne
Champagne can be an everyday drink at the right price point. While vintage bottles can be saved for those extra special moments, there is no need to deprive yourself of Champagne while you wait. Nicolas Feuillatte’s Brut Champagne is a wine that brings a more affordable side of the region into the glass. One of the youngest and most innovative houses in the region, the winery champions the idea that Champagne is for everyone. Their Brut production is a blend of 40% Pinot Noir, 40% Pinot Meunier and 20% Chardonnay making for a wine that brings aromas of white flowers, quince, sweet spices, tangerine and soft notes of ripe melon into the glass. On the palate, the wine has a beautiful perlage, toasted notes and a round texture with a crisp and clean finish. Taste why Nicolas Feuillatte is the #1 Champagne in France.
Find this wine on LCBO shelves for $54.95
