Winemaker Derek Barnett has excelled at making Cabernet Franc for as long as I can remember – his most recent coup was his 2010 Unfiltered version, which ranked in my top 5 Franc from that vintage, and maybe all time from Ontario (I would have to check a few notes to make sure). Now the weather of 2011 was no 2010, but Derek still managed to work his Francy-magic. The nose here is smoky-tobacco with spiced-raspberry; on the palate the fruit screams from the glass with smoked cherry-raspberry, cigar box undertones and a seriously spicy finish. Price: $24.95 – Rating: ****+