Norman Hardie has spent the last 15 years learning everything there is to know about Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. He began in 1996 with 4 vintages at Bouchard Finlayson in South Africa, interspersed with vintages in Burgundy at Domaine de la Pousse d’Or, Domaine de la Vougeraie, and Nicolas Potel. He followed this with a vintage in Central Otago and some time in Santa Barbera at Au Bon Climat. He has developed his own style, most closely matched to Burgundian. He is making wine in both the Niagara Peninsula and Prince Edward Country Appellations.
The diversity of the wines grown in these two Appellations is outstanding. Although the Niagara and PEC Appellations both have a ribbon of limestone running through them and are separated only by Lake Ontario, the top soil in the PEC Appellation is also high in Calcareous limestone and imparts a very different flavour profile to the wines. To best experience the true effects of these diverse growing regions, we will be showcasing a Chardonnay and a Pinot Noir from each of the two regions. Even the most geekiest of wine geeks will be amazed by this perfect example of the power of the terroir.
Dinner will be 4 courses, each paired with very specific dishes created by the talented culinary team at Divino Wine & Cheese Bistro. To finish, we will bring back both the Niagara and the Prince Edward County Pinot Noirs to experience with a selection of appropriate cheeses.
An amazing opportunity to drink some truly great quality Canadian wine and to meet Norman Hardie who is, really, a super cool guy!!