As the leaves turn and the air grows crisp, the team at Intra Vino Inc. is buzzing with excitement for the holiday season ahead. This past week, we hosted an exclusive staff tasting event in Mississauga,
designed to spotlight three exceptional newcomers from the sun-kissed vineyards of Michalakis Estate on
the island of Crete, Greece. With Thanksgiving just around the corner and Christmas twinkling on the horizon, these wines were selected for their versatility, vibrant flavors, and ability to elevate festive gatherings. Our LCBO staff and managers joined us for an afternoon of discovery, and the enthusiasm was palpable—many walked away with glowing recommendations for pairing these gems with turkey dinners, holiday roasts, and everything in between.
At Intra Vino Inc., we're passionate about curating wines that tell a story, and Michalakis Estate embodies that spirit. Founded in 1962, this family-run winery spans over 440 acres of diverse Cretan terroir, blending ancient traditions with modern techniques to produce wines of unparalleled quality. The result? Bottles that capture the essence of the Aegean—fresh, aromatic, and brimming with Mediterranean soul. Let's dive into the stars of our tasting and why they're poised to become your holiday favorites.
Michalakis Estate M² Rosé: A Fruity, Floral Toast to the Season Kicking off the flight was the M² Rosé, a medium-sweet blend of Mandilari and Moschato grapes that poured a delicate pink hue into our glasses, reminiscent of a Cretan sunset. Vinified with classic rosé methods at cool temperatures, this wine bursts with a strong bouquet of rose petals, violet, white flowers, and a touch of honey. On the palate, it's rich yet balanced, with mild acidity giving way to sweet echoes of the aromas, layered with notes of dried papaya and apricot. Fresh red berries add a juicy lift, making it irresistibly approachable.
Our tasters raved about its crowd-pleasing charm, with several noting it as the perfect aperitif for holiday brunches or a chilled sipper alongside cranberry sauces and charcuterie. One manager quipped, "This rosé doesn't just pair with Thanksgiving—it's the conversation starter your table needs!" At around $16.95 from the LCBO, it's an affordable splash of joy for toasting gratitude.
Michalakis Estate M³: Harmony in a Bottle Next up was the M³, showcased in both its red and white expressions, highlighting the winery's innovative blending prowess. The red variant—a dry fusion of Mandilari, Merlot, and Moschato—unveiled a ruby-red core with aromas of ripe cherry, gooseberry, and pink peppercorns. Vinified separately in stainless steel at low temperatures, it delivers a round, flavorful palate with a long, elegant finish—ideal for those seeking structure without heaviness.
The M³ White stole hearts with its aromatic complexities. A crisp medley of Moscato, Moshofilero, and Malagouzia grapes, featuring muscat-driven notes of citrus fruit and white blossoms. Fresh and mirroring its floral nose on the tongue, it paired seamlessly in our mock setups with herb-roasted turkey and mashed potatoes. "Versatile doesn't even cover it—this could handle everything from Thanksgiving stuffing to Christmas lamb," shared a staff member. Priced at $16.95, the M³ offers endless holiday flexibility.
Michalakis Estate Moschato Spinas: Aromatic Elegance from Crete's Rare Gem
Rounding out the trio was the enchanting Moschato Spinas, a dry white crafted from the rare indigenous Muscat of Spinas grape, known for its thin skins and powerful yet delicate aromas. This wine shimmered with medium-to-high intensity, offering floral waves of peach, apricot, jasmine, and fresh herbs, accented by subtle leafy and mineral undertones. The palate is easy and harmonious, with medium-to-high acidity ensuring freshness, while dominant Muscat sweetness lingers softly alongside rose petals and violet.
It was a standout for lighter holiday fare, with tasters envisioning it alongside green bean casseroles or seafood starters. "This one's a sleeper hit—aromatic enough for Christmas desserts, bright enough for turkey," noted one attendee. As a Cretan rarity, it's a unique addition to any festive lineup.
The energy in the room was electric—from wide-eyed first sips to animated debates on pairings, our LCBO colleagues and managers embraced these wines with open arms. The consensus? These Michalakis selections are tailor-made for the holidays: the M² Rosé for vibrant starters, M³ for mains that bridge savory and sweet, and Moschato Spinas for those "wow" moments. With Crete's sunny heritage shining through every glass, they promise to infuse your celebrations with warmth, flavor, and a touch of island magic.
We're thrilled to promote these at Intra Vino Inc. and through our LCBO partnerships—head to your local store or browse online to snag them before they're gone. What's your go-to holiday wine ritual? Share in the comments below, and let's raise a glass to the season of gratitude and good tastes.
Prost to new discoveries! 🥂🍷
Jerome Christie, Portfolio Manager
Intra Vino Inc., Toronto, Ontario
