Discover the fun finds and hidden gems loved by Somms!
10 products
10 products
- White Wine
- Carricante
- Sustainable, Volcanic
- Dry
- 750ml
- 12.5% alc./vol
About the Winery
Azienda Agricola Tornatore
Out of a Sicilian family heritage that traces back to the 17th century, the Tornatore’s Mount Etna wine ventures began in 1865. Today the family’s operations are headed by Giuseppe Tornatore, a businessman whose expertise led to the acquisition of some of the region’s finest north-facing vineyards in the early 2000’s. That heritage and the Tornatore’s profound respect and understanding of the land is showcased in wines that capture the essence of Etna, deftly balancing concentrated flavors, complexity, freshness and refinement.
The company lies in the northern side of Mount Etna, the highest active volcano in Europe. The soils have volcanic origin and were created through the disintegration of lava, ash and stones from previous volcanic eruptions. The climate on the northern side of the Etna is characterized by mild temperatures, and more rain fall reflecting the influence of the Volcano. The combination of soil, climate and the skill of the winemakers, have made the northern slope of Etna an ideal area for the production of high-quality wines. “Our vineyards and our winery are only a few kilometers from our family home. Our entire family is rooted there. We have the greatest respect for this region, and we believe we have a responsibility to be stewards of Etna and to reflect its distinct character in our wines.” - Giuseppe Tornatore
Press Reviews
Wine Align
91 points - Michael Godel
Tornatore has simply, unequivocally and decidedly defined the genre that is Etna Bianco for world markets at an affordable price. The 2023 vintage was not so easy to do this way because mildew pressure and low yields were the obstacle. And yet like so many the acids are intense to insure true Etna mountain spirit is elevated as it needs be. This does precisely what wants and needs for a $25-30 Bianco. All must partake and become believers in what is possible. Drink 2024-2027. Tasted September 2024.
90 points - John Szabo, MS
Tornatore's 2023 entry point Bianco is clean, fresh, lively, and lightly smoky, with everything in place, citric, white fruit-inflected, with no evident wood. The palate is lean, tight, tart, riveted together by pointy acids in a wine lover's expression. Some will find it austere, but I appreciate the tight framing. Best from 2025 - a wine with character and personality. Tasted September 2024.
- Red Wine
- Nerello Cappuccio, Nerello Mascalese
- Sustainable, Volcanic
- Dry
- Medium Bodied
- 750ml
- 14.5% alc./vol
About the Winery
Azienda Agricola Tornatore
Out of a Sicilian family heritage that traces back to the 17th century, the Tornatore’s Mount Etna wine ventures began in 1865. Today the family’s operations are headed by Giuseppe Tornatore, a businessman whose expertise led to the acquisition of some of the region’s finest north-facing vineyards in the early 2000’s. That heritage and the Tornatore’s profound respect and understanding of the land is showcased in wines that capture the essence of Etna, deftly balancing concentrated flavors, complexity, freshness and refinement.
The company lies in the northern side of Mount Etna, the highest active volcano in Europe. The soils have volcanic origin and were created through the disintegration of lava, ash and stones from previous volcanic eruptions. The climate on the northern side of the Etna is characterized by mild temperatures, and more rain fall reflecting the influence of the Volcano. The combination of soil, climate and the skill of the winemakers, have made the northern slope of Etna an ideal area for the production of high-quality wines. “Our vineyards and our winery are only a few kilometers from our family home. Our entire family is rooted there. We have the greatest respect for this region, and we believe we have a responsibility to be stewards of Etna and to reflect its distinct character in our wines.” - Giuseppe Tornatore
Press Reviews
Wine Align
91 Points - John Szabo, MS
2022 yielded a very pretty, fresh and lively Etna Rosso from Tornatore, with classic nerello mascalese flavours of smoky strawberry and raspberry, savoury herbs and very subtle, quality wood influence. Tannins are grainy in the Etna style and acids are properly firm-fresh, while density and intensity are impressive, especially considering the price. A first class value I have to say, a perfect entry point to exploring the wines of the volcano at a very attractive price - at twice the price I would think it's fair. Drink or hold 2-4 years; a terrific vintage. Tasted November 2025.
91 points - Michael Godel
Straight shooter this Etna Rosso, accessible and amenable to all, now and for all the right reasons. Fruit first, ripe and delicious, aromatically charged and energizing the entirety of the wine. Rosso for Rosso’s sake, crunchy and palatable with great toothsome character, A guarantee and stamp of quality in the most professional of Etna Rosso ways. Unwavering consistency from Tornatore. Drink 2025-2028. Tasted May 2025.
91 points - David Lawrason
This is a typically pale nerello mascalese from the north slope of volcanic Mt. Etna. The nose nicely combines sour cherry fruit with evergreen and spice almost vermouth botanicals. It is light bodied, quite warm (14% abv) with some minerality and drying, slightly crusty tannin. The length is very good to excellent. This fairly new producer is also one of the larger, and now becoming fairly commonly seen in Canada. Tasted November 2025
- Red Wine
- Grenache, Samso / Carignan, Syrah
- Sustainable, Vegan-Friendly
- Dry
- Residual Sugar: 2 g/l
- Full Bodied
- 750ml
- 14.50% alc./vol
About the Winery
Clos del Rey
In the foothills of the Pyrénées Mountains, not far from the Mediterranean sea, Clos del Rey is situated in the high altitude hills over the tiny village of Maury. The estate has been owned and farmed by the Montagne family for generations. The vineyard itself is nestled among a protected area of garrigues (rosemary and thyme). The vines of up to 120 years old are allowed to grow natural and untrained, in the old-fashioned way, known as the goblet or bush style. However, it is what lies beneath the vineyard that lends much of the character and complexity found in their wines. Julien Montagne makes complex wines that truly represent his vineyards and his Catalan roots--you can almost smell the sun in the glass.
Press Reviews
WineAlign
92 points - David Lawrason
This sports a very pretty, lifted nose plum, cranberry and blackberry, with lifted lilac florals and a subtext of pepper. It is quite lively, refined and energized for the genre from the south of France, perhaps due to the schist and limestone soils in Maury (which is more famous for its sweet vins doux natural. This is almost silky texture with 14.5% abv heat and fine, drying tannin and minerality on the finish. The length is excellent. Drinks now. Tasted Feb 2026
92 points - Megha Jandhyala S.J.D., DipWSET
A classic red from Maury, an appellation in Rousillon, this is a blend of grenache, samsó (a.k.a carignan), and syrah. I find its flavour profile enchanting - it is vibrant and vivid, showcasing both generosity and poise. Resinous herbs, some fresh, some gently roasted, and wild flowers are juxtaposed with ripe fruit flavours, including plums and blueberries. The palate is voluptuous, warm, and dense, supported by firm acidity and fine-grained tannins. The long, flavourful finish features a botanical bitterness, while warmth diffuses over the palate. Tasted February 2026.
91 points - Michael Godel
The black schist at 200m of elevation looking up at Maury with soils edging and abutting a line of limestone work to build character and Roussillon expression for grenache noir, carignan and syrah. A well developed style with chewy fruit maturity in a vintage more black olive Mediterranean than some others. Amaro herbal, always liquorice, saline and schisty-fine. Drink 2026-2029. Tasted February 2026.
- White Wine
- Olaszrizling, Pinot Gris, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc
- Organic, Sustainable, Vegan-Friendly, Volcanic
- Light Bodied
- 750ml
- 12% alc./vol
About the Winery
Gilvesy Pincészet
Hungarian expat Róbert Gilvesy moved back to his homeland from Canada, and began building the Gilvesy winemaking empire on the former Esterházy estate on Szent György Hill. Thanks to years of hard work, the Hegymagas-based facility now includes a modern building complex and about 13 hectares of vineyards, in addition to being the home of the family. The area is shaped by 6 million years old volcanoes, where indigenous and international varieties grow organically.
Robert’s absolute admiration for nature and the terroir translates into an immense respect for the environment. By farming using organic practices, the soils and the vines stay healthy. In the winery, by letting nature take its course without controlling the processes, and using local resources, such as Hungarian oak barrels, Gilvesy promotes and protects the Balaton region.
Press Reviews
Wine Align
91 points (2021) - Michael Godel
Robert Gilvesy’s Bohém blend no longer uses pinot gris (as mentioned in March) and tasting it four months later while looking out at Lake Balaton only romances the flavours and exults the wine. How could it not? The appellative excellence speaks to all the winemakers in the area and says it’s time. Time to join the party and make a white blend that represents estate. Last tasted July 2023.
The blend in 2021 is olaszrizling (a.k.a. welschriesling), riesling and sauvignon blanc with pinot gris no longer involved. No doubt a botanical aspect ups the complexity game away and beyond the simple norms of white blends marked by citrus and stone fruit. They are in the mix but the herbal tonic and fine bitters elevate the cuvée to speak rightly and spritely for Balaton, the Szent György Hill and Robert Gilvesy’s oeuvre. This wine is an institution now and deserves plenty of attention. Drink 2023-2026. Tasted March 2023.
91 points (2021) - Megha Jandhyala
Situated near an ancient dormant volcano, Gilvesy grows native grape varieties organically and sustainably in volcanic soils. This blend of olaszrizling, pinot gris, riesling, and sauvignon blanc is subtly reductive and mineral, with notes of freshly cut-grass, juicy grapefruits and lemons, peaches, and crunchy pears. It feels fleshy and rounded, but refreshing on the palate, with a long, pleasantly grippy finish. I like the layers of flavours here and the succulent texture. This wine is ready to drink and vegan-friendly. Tasted March 2023.
90 points (2021) - John Szabo, MS
Gilvesy's 2021 Balatoni cuvee is the customary blend of welschriesling, riesling and sauvignon blanc, crafted in an appealingly reductive, grapefruit pith and peel-inflected style, tightly wound and bone dry, mineral and fresh. I love the saltiness on the palate and the succulent acids that draw additional sips. Crunchy, fresh, lively, drinking now or hold short term. Tasted March 2023.
- White Wine
- Pinot Bianco
- Sustainable
- Dry
- Light Bodied
- 750ml
- 13% alc./vol
About the Winery
Kellerei Bozen - Cantine Bolzano
Cantina Bolzano, based in the town of Bolzano, traces its roots to two of Alto Adige’s most historic cooperatives: Santa Magdalena, est. 1930 and Cantina Gries, est. 1908. After deciding to merge in 2001, Cantina Bolzano was created. Bolzano is located in the middle of a valley basin surrounded by hilly vineyards that grow from 200 meters above sea level up to 1000. North and south meet in this valley, and the sun warms the stony soils with its pronounced diurnal temperatures, protecting the vines from the cold.
The average growers’ plots in Sudtirol averages only approx. 1 hectare, and the area, with its famed reputation and steep slopes, is an expensive area to farm. The member of Bolzano (approx. 300 in all) own many of the best vineyards throughout the region, including the Valle Isarco, and pool their resources to create top quality wines. And while no grower is certified organic, many practice organic viticulture and all of them adhere to natural practices in their vineyards. Most growers have lived on their farms with their families for generations. They protect their land and cultivate their vineyards as they have done for generations with total respect of the environment where they live.
Press Reviews
Wine Align
91 points (2023) - Michael Godel
Yet another stellar pinot bianco from the collective Bozen collection to present one of the better global white wine alternatives. Not for Alto Adige mind you, but there is a world out there that knows so little about the grape and here would be the place to begin a new and exciting varietal journey. Tart and at its high moments also bracing, lime spritzing here and there, fruit pungency and intensity running amok and frankly everywhere. Pulse, energy and vitality, almost as if you can here the crackling, like ice on the coldest of days. Cool climate pinot bianco rocks. Drink 2024-2026. Tasted August 2024.
90 points (2023) - Megha Jandhyala
This is a delightfully engaging pinot bianco, with clear, bright notes of golden currants, peaches, apricots, and jasmine blossoms. The palate too is bright, with appealing layers of fresh fruit. It feels pleasantly textured and fleshy, supported by uplifting acidity, while the finish is appealingly drawn out and flavourful. Tasted August 2024.
90 points (2023) - Sara d'Amato
A tart and dry style of pinot bianco, finely crafted with more intrigue than the norm. Features delicate notes of bergamot, white pepper, and the faintest touch of lees autolysis, along with citrus blossom that lingers on the finish of very good length. Offers impressive concentration and complexity that matches the premium price. Tasted August 2024.
- Sparkling Wine
- Chardonnay
- Sustainable, Vegan-Friendly
- Dry
- Medium Bodied
- 750ml
- 12.00% alc./vol
About the Winery
Domaine Baud Père et Fils
The history of Domaine Baud dates back to 1742, and it wasn't until 1950 when René Baud, the 7th generation, rebuilt the vineyard which had suffered from the phylloxera crisis and two World Wars.
Starting with only 4 hectares, the vineyard progressively expanded to 20 hectares with the help of successive generations. Now, managed by siblings Clémentine and Bastien, the 9th generation, the estate continues to flourish and grow, with a strong commitment to sustainable viticulture and preserving the traditions and style that makes the wines of the Jura so unique and incredible.
The estate achieved the Terra Vitis certification in 2014 for its eco-friendly work and environmental preservation.
Press Reviews
Wine Align
92 points - David Lawrason
This is a very tasty, rich, golden hued, well aged chardonnay-based sparkler with an involved nose of cashew, baked apple, nougat and honey. It is almost creamy in texture with fine mousse and very good acidity providing counterpoint. There is pleasant nutty bitterness on the finish; length is excellent.
92 points - John Szabo, MS
A traditional method, pure chardonnay bubbly from the Jura of considerable maturity and toasty-oxidative character, also notable dosage - the style has changed little since last reviewed almost 8 years ago (though this is a new, non-vintage bottling, of course). It's maple syrup and curry-infused with dried citrus and apples, indeed with quite impressive complexity in a mature style. Length and depth are very good. Quality wine, attractively priced in the category. Tasted January 2026.
91 points - Michael Godel
Increased autolysis and also richness from the present bottle of Baud’s Blanc de Blanc. Some maturity here, an evolution of bread and gingered elements that make the wine feel like it’s reached the peak. Complex and flavourful in any case with creamy textures and mouthfeel in between. Last tasted January 2026.
91 points - Sara d'Amato
From an old estate now in the hands of ninth-generation family upstarts, this traditional-method chardonnay Blanc de Blanc comes from the remote, rocky, high-altitude Jura, wedged between Burgundy and Switzerland. Generous yet clean, it leans pleasantly conventional in the best sense. Autolytic notes mingle with florals, tender fruit, and subtle toasty layers. A measured dosage adds welcome weight to an otherwise light-footed palate. Lemon zest, white grapefruit, and sweet cream lead into a nicely poised finish of memorable length. Tasted January 2026.
91 points - Megha Jandhyala, S.J.D., DipWSET.
This is a winsome chardonnay-based crémant, with a subtly toasty flavour profile, led by flavours of green orchard fruit and juicy citrus fruit. It has begun to evolve, showing signs of maturity in the form of notes of toasted nuts and fruit flavours transitioning towards the dried end of the spectrum. The palate has lively acidity and subtle sweetness, with a finish that is slightly bitter adding to the overall sense of freshness. This balanced and classic sparkling is ready to go. Tasted January 2026.
Treve Ring
91 points
This family estate dates back to 1742, but it wasn't until 1950 when René Baud, 7th generation, rebuilt the vineyards, expanding from 4 hectares into 20 hectares over the years. Today the estate is managed by siblings Clémentine and Bastien, 9th generation. This sustainably farmed chardonnay is rooted in the Jura's marl and limestone soils and was fermented in stainless before a year on lees before disgorgement and release. Green apple, white florals, oyster shells, meadow herbs, meringue run the bright, sleek palate, with a bed of creamy lees. There's a lovely streaming anise note that leads to a lengthy finish. Drinking beautifully now, but will hold over the next couple years easy.
- White Wine
- Chenin Blanc
- Sustainable
- Dry
- Medium Bodied
- 750ml
- 12.97% alc./vol
About the Winery
Pearce Family Wines
In the early 2000's Nicholas Pearce was exposed to the garagiste movement in Bordeaux and was particularly inspired by négociants like Jean Luc Thunevin (Saint Emilion), James Sichel (Margaux) and Nicolas Potel (Beaune) from Burgundy.
After returning home to Ontario and starting his own wine company, he has had a hand in making 10+ wines in two hemispheres, 3 countries and 5 different appellations since the 2013 vintage.
Pearce Predhomme
Pearce Predhomme is a collaboration of like-minded individuals from around the globe. Founded with a mission to build and import wines from our favourite appellations while offering an unequaled value/quality ratio for the sommeliers & wine buyers in Ontario. This is a project between Toronto Sommelier and entrepreneur Will Predhomme and Ontario wine importer Nicholas Pearce. They have partnered with Radford Dale in South Africa and NorthWest Wine Co. in Oregon to create these special cuvées.
Press Reviews
Platter Wine Guide 2026
4.5 Stars (91/100)
Remarkably generous & forthcoming at modest 12.5% alcohol, 2024 layered stonefruit & sweet citrus swathed in rich, creamy lees. Hints vanilla & nutmeg, nicely integrated, attest to 9 months in seasoned barrels.
WineAlign
90 points (2022) - Michael Godel
Good Stellenbsoch season, of that there can be no doubt and surely less complaints, especially as it goes for chenin blanc. By count this is the eighth take on the variety by winemaker Jacques de Klerk for the négoce duo of Nicholas Pearce and Will Predhomme, always wild, always alive and never boring. This hums that familiar tune and reminds us all how chenin and Stellenbosch are so intrinsically connected so that a winemaker need only pay attention to timing and details for the wine to make itself. Feels so natural, in synch and on time. Drink 2024-2027. Tasted April 2024.