Wines Niagara Peninsula Two Sisters Vineyards - 2019

Two Sisters Vineyards 2019 Rouge from the Niagara Peninsula represents the growing reputation of Canadian winemaking, particularly in Ontario’s most celebrated appellation. While the precise blend for this wine isn’t confirmed, reds from this region often showcase classic Bordeaux varietals such as Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, or Merlot, which typically thrive in Niagara’s climate. The 2019 vintage benefitted from a balanced season, encouraging complex ripeness while retaining vibrant acidity. Expect a dry, structured red with an elegant interplay of ripe red and dark fruit, subtle spice, and well-integrated oak, a signature style of the estate.

The Niagara Peninsula is Canada’s flagship wine region, benefitting from its unique position between Lake Ontario and the Niagara Escarpment. This location moderates the extremes of the Canadian climate, allowing a longer growing season and more gradual ripening, essential for producing balanced, expressive wines. Soils here are predominantly clay and limestone, lending a certain minerality and freshness to the wines. Since the industry’s rejuvenation in the late 20th century, Niagara has become synonymous with quality, especially for cool-climate varietals, and its reds are increasingly recognised for their finesse and ability to age.

For food pairings, consider dishes that complement both the wine’s structure and subtle fruit character. Grilled lamb chops with rosemary, roast beef, or game dishes such as venison work beautifully, especially with sauces incorporating local berries or dark fruits. Ontario cheeses, in particular aged cheddar or Highland Blue, make excellent accompaniments. For a regional touch, a hearty tourtière, a savoury meat pie traditional to Canada, would also harmonise well with this style of wine.

To best appreciate this 2019 Niagara Peninsula Rouge, serve it at 16-18°C. Allow the wine some time to breathe after opening, either by decanting for 30 minutes or swirling in the glass, to fully reveal its aromatic complexity and supple tannins. Enjoy its evolution over the course of your meal.