CorkRules - Episodes | Harriet's Rooftop Harriet's Rooftop

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About this Episode

Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier, and Robert Tas review the wine list at Harriet’s Rooftop, an elegantly comfortable space where patrons can take in the most expansive views of vibrant Toronto. Do aromas of white flowers, honeysuckle, ripe pear, lemon zest and spice tickle your palate? If so, dive into the podcast where Michaela offers pairing suggestions for a few local and organic wines, and she suggests several noteworthy wines that will enhance your meal and your evening.

Wines reviewed include:

2020 13th St Winery Chardonnay, Creek Shores, Canada
2020 Malivoire Small Lot Gamay, Beamsville Bench, Ontario
2019 Juggernaut Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, California

Transcript: Harriet's Rooftop

Harriet’s Rooftop:

RT: Hello and welcome to CorkRules!

A podcast where, in each episode, we will review a wine list from your favorite restaurants. I’m your host Robert Tas along with Michaela Quinlan, certified sommelier.

Hello Michaela, it’s great to be back together for another episode.

MQ: Hi Robert!

RT: Before we jump in, let’s talk about CorkRules.

We created CorkRules to demystify wine lists because we know from experience, that sometimes when we get that list handed to us, well… it can be intimidating, and even a little daunting.

Our aim is to help prepare you to navigate that list, find those hidden gems, or value wines or that special bottle that will take your dining experience over the top.

RT: So, sit back and listen as we review your favorite wine list.

RT: Today we are talking about Harriet’s Rooftop. Located at the 1 Hotel in Toronto, this luxurious rooftop features light fate with classic cocktails, Sunday brunch, and an exceptional selection of wine.

Michaela, I can’t wait to hear what do you think of their wine list?

MQ: A gorgeous rooftop view always lends itself to a celebration, no matter the reason. Their menu features several small and large dishes, sushi, along with local and organic wines. We have several noteworthy wines for you today.

RT: That’s really great, as you looked at the list did you see anything jump out at you?

MQ: Let’s kick things off with a local selection. Consider the 2020 13th St Winery Chardonnay from Creek Shores, Canada. This lightly oaked Chardonnay exudes aromas and flavors of ripe green apple, melon, and peach, with notes of vanilla on the creamy finish. This would be a wonderful pairing for sushi and seafood.

RT: That is for sure unique. Did you find any others that caught your eye right away?

MQ: Staying local, The 2020 Malivoire Small Lot Gamay from Beamsville Bench, Ontario is one to consider. This sustainable and vegan Gamay rivals the Gamay of Beaujolais. This medium-bodied red wine features notes of earth, ripe raspberries and cranberries, with hints of white pepper and a soft, mineral finish. This is an excellent pairing with lightly sauced proteins and savory dishes.

RT: So, Michaela, their list seems to have lots of range but was there anything that you would say is a “must-try”?

MQ: A must-try would be the 2019 Juggernaut Pinot Noir from the Russian River Valley in California. This organic Pinot Noir showcases ripe cranberries, and cherries, with aromas of spice, and floral notes. A finish of vanilla and cinnamon come through, as this wine ages in French oak. Pair this Pinot Noir with light proteins, rich fish, and pasta.

RT: These are some great calls. So, you know I’m getting thirsty and will need to order a bottle with my dinner, where would you guide us?

MQ: After checking out the sushi and lighter fare on Harriet’s Rooftop’s menu, I was excited to see which Sauvignon Blanc was available. The 2020 Stattlerhof Sauvignon Blanc from Austria caught my eye. This highly rated, organic Sauvignon Blanc is bright and aromatic with notes of lemon zest, ripe peach and apricot with a mineral finish. Pair this with fresh herbs, soft cheese, and lightly sauced fish.

RT: Ooh, Terrific. Michaela, speaking of price, sometimes people have a budget in mind, any other great value wines you’d point us to?

MQ: Another standout organic wine to consider of excellent quality and value would be the 2019 Alois Lageder “Dolomiti” Pinot Grigio from Alto Adige in Italy. Aromas of white flowers, honeysuckle, ripe pear, lemon zest and spice make this bright, white wine an excellent aperitif, or to pair with shellfish and sushi.

RT: That sounds great. What is your other value selection?

MQ: If you are considering a full-bodied, rich, red wine of excellent value that is also organic and vegan, look no further than the 2018 Earthworks Shiraz from the Barossa Valley of Australia. Ripe plumb, black cherries, notes of sage, earth, and vanilla make this red a true gem. Pair this New World winner with richly sauced proteins and pasta all for an excellent price.

RT: Now Michaela, what if I have a big client dinner or a special occasion where I want to take it up a notch?

MQ: Rooftop celebrations certainly lend themselves to something sparkling. A favorite, and true classic, is the Piper Heidsieck Cuvee from Champagne. It all began in 1777, when Florens – Louis Heidsieck wanted to produce “a wine that smiles.” History as certainly proven his success in this endeavor. This highly rated cuvee consists of a blend of Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, and Chardonnay and showcases bright citrus and pear, with notes of almonds, hazelnuts, and brioche. A perfect addition to any celebration.

RT: Michaela Thank you so much for all your great suggestions and helping us navigate Harriet’s Rooftop’s wine list. I can’t wait to go try them myself.

To our audience, thank you all for joining us here on CorkRules.

If you would like us to review one of your favorite restaurants, please send us email to: Info@CorkRules.Com or visit our web website where we have a request form available and we will do our best to get it in the queue as quickly as possible.

We are looking forward to being with you on another CorkRules episode soon. In the meantime, please check out our website for other episodes of your favorite restaurant wine lists.

And finally, drink what you love and please make sure you drink responsibly.

Thank you.

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