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We are all in an era of change, caring more about the world around us. With every choice we make, we have the power to live life more sustainably, with intention and care. But that doesn’t mean we have to give up the good stuff. Living a holistic life is not void of delicious food and wine, it's about the choices we choose to make. Every bite and sip presents an opportunity to fully embrace the world and contribute positively to the planet.
For McManis Family Vineyards, making wine sustainably extends beyond the grapes they grow and the wine in the bottle. Following the LODI RULES Sustainable Winegrowing Program, McManis Family Vineyards makes wines that consider water management, soil health and ecosystem diversity; use an integrated system of natural pest management; carry forth a focus on generational farming; engage in community support; and provide people with a rewarding working environment. And in so doing, they produce high-quality wines as a result.
Raising a glass to an eco-friendly future, McManis Family Vineyards tends over 3,600 acres certified sustainable under the LODI RULES. Taking good care of the land they farm has been a McManis family value for generations. It's what the winery has always done because, in the eyes of the McManis family, it is simply the right thing to do. Found throughout the year at the LCBO, McManis Family Vineyards makes wines with purpose, whether it be the iconic cabernet sauvignon, zinfandel or chardonnay. You can taste the intention in every sip.
Lodi is considered the zinfandel capital of the world; this terroir makes stellar zin! The McManis Family Vineyards Zinfandel is an estate-grown wine from the LODI AVA made with the hallmark grape of the region. It is loaded with ripe fruit notes of plum, blackberry, red currant and strawberry, complemented by toasted oak notes, vanilla and caramelized baking spice — savoury on the palate with supple tannins, medium acidity and a smooth, long finish.
The McManis Family Vineyards Chardonnay shows off a different side of California winemaking. It is filled with aromas of stone fruit, Meyer lemon, yellow apple, under-ripe banana, vanilla and butter popcorn, and is followed by a palate that is easy to love and enjoy. This wine finishes dry with balanced acidity and mineral expression. It's made from estate-grown grapes from the River Junction AVA, located at the San Joaquin and Stanislaus Rivers meeting point, just south of Lodi.
While wine is affected by climate change, it is also an industry that contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. When a winery such as McManis Family Vineyards operates sustainably, it makes a big impact and statement! Food production has a similar effect on the world. This is why it is so essential to make better choices. By adopting mindful practices, consumers can play a pivotal role in driving positive change toward a more sustainable future. It's easily accomplished by sipping sustainably and eating locally.
With the cold weather starting to wane, March and April might seem like months with little to harvest, but a good handful of seasonal fruits and vegetables are accessible this time of year. Served alongside locally sourced eggs, meat and dairy products available throughout the year, the McManis Family Vineyards Zinfandel and Chardonnay are ready to be paired with some tasty Ontario seasonal fare.
Pair the McManis Family Vineyards Zinfandel with an Ontario lamb roast with parsnips, yellow onions, mushrooms, potato and squash. They're all in season and make for a delicious pairing to bring out the fruit notes of this wine, while also matching with the leanness of lamb. Zinfandel and lamb are always a winning combination. However, if meat is not your thing, you can always sub out the lamb with rutabaga and carrots and make this a whole veggie roast, which would also pair beautifully.
With the McManis Family Vineyards Chardonnay, the wine’s bright finish and bold aromas marry well with baked frittata. Using Ontario eggs and a sharp locally made cheese, add pepper, red onion and cabbage, then bake in a short round pan. Served alongside a sweet potato hash and a simple beet, cucumber and lettuce salad, this delightful and delicious chardonnay elevates this locally-made pairing.
Find the McManis Family Vineyards Zinfandel and Chardonnay at the LCBO now and enjoy sipping, savouring and pairing them up with some delicious local favourites.
