For those of you who were unimpressed with the 2006 version of this LCBO staple (because you fell in love with the ’05 and the ’06 was no ’05), can now come back to the fold. The 2007 version is on the shelf and it’s beautiful and better then ever. You’ve probably heard that 2007 was one of the best years ever in Ontario (if not the best), especially for red wines. This is the first ’07 red out the cellar door of Vineland and it shows great mid-term aging potential, as well as good drink-now-ability. Now, I’ve heard rumours flying about, that Brian Schmidt, winemaker of Vineland, is using chips and staves for the “oaking” of this wine. “Nothing can be further from the truth.” Gaby McCotter, Vineland’s Jackie-of-all-trades, told me, “8-months in 2 to 3 year old French oak.” Good enough for me. The nose is black cherry, sweet cherry tobacco and cassis. The mouth shows a smokiness, along with big, rich tannins, black fruit, oaky woodsy notes and some vanilla on the finish. Seems like it is back to the plus column for the Vineland Cab Franc … that’s the A+ column for those keeping score, especially for that price. And the ageing potential: 5 years easy, if not more. Price: $12.95