Discover the Perfect Fall Sip: Famille Bougrier Pure Vallée Pinot Noir – Our Wine of the Month

As the leaves turn golden and the air grows crisp, there's no better time to uncork a bottle that captures the essence of the season. At Intra Vino Inc., we're thrilled to feature the Famille Bougrier Pure Vallée Pinot Noir as our Wine of the Month on intravino.ca. This delightful French red from the Loire Valley is more than just a wine—it's a versatile companion for all your fall gatherings, whether you're cozying up by the fire or enjoying a brisk outdoor picnic.

The Heritage of Famille Bougrier

Hailing from the renowned Famille Bougrier winery, established in 1885, this Pinot Noir embodies the purity and elegance of its "Pure Vallée" name. It's a light to medium-bodied wine with a deep ruby hue that hints at the vibrant flavors within. On the nose, you'll be greeted by an inviting bouquet of red and black berries, subtle floral notes, and a touch of spice.

Tasting Notes

The palate unfolds with bright, juicy notes of cranberry and cherry, balanced by soft tannins and a refreshing acidity that keeps every sip lively and engaging.

Why Choose Famille Bougrier Pure Vallée?

What makes this Pinot Noir the go-to choice for fall? Its complex notes of cranberry and cherry evoke the tart, earthy flavors of autumn harvests—think Thanksgiving cranberries or cherry pies fresh from the oven. These autumnal undertones pair beautifully with seasonal dishes like roasted turkey, hearty stews, or even grilled vegetables.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Plus, its light body and subtle earthiness make it an ideal transition wine as the weather cools, bridging the gap between summer rosés and heavier winter reds.

Serving Suggestions

One of the standout features of the Famille Bougrier Pure Vallée is its incredible versatility in serving temperature. Enjoy it at room temperature to appreciate the full depth of its fruity complexity and soft structure. Alternatively, give it a slight chill for a refreshing twist that highlights its bright acidity and red berry freshness. This flexibility makes it perfect for unpredictable fall days—serve it cooler on warmer afternoons or let it warm up as the evening sets in.

Exceptional Value

Whether you're hosting a casual dinner party or simply unwinding after a long day, this wine delivers exceptional value without compromising on quality. It's easy-drinking yet sophisticated, with a smooth finish that lingers just long enough to invite another pour.

Conclusion

In summary, the Famille Bougrier Pure Vallée Pinot Noir is a remarkable wine that encapsulates the spirit of fall. Its rich flavors and versatility make it a perfect choice for any occasion. Don't miss out on the opportunity to elevate your autumn gatherings with this exquisite wine.

Explore more about this delightful Pinot Noir and discover why it deserves a place at your table this season.

Spotlight on Crete: Introducing Michalakis Estate's M² Rosé, M³, and Moschato Spinas at Our Holiday Tasting

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

#MichalakisEstate #CretanWines #HolidayWineTasting #ThanksgivingPairings #ChristmasCheers #IntraVino #LCBOFavorites #WineLoversUnite

Discovering the Vibrant World of Greek Wines

Intra Vino’s Portfolio Manager was captured in a photo alongside Sommeliers who shared insights from their recent journey to Greece, discussing their experiences with the region’s vibrant wine culture.

On August 27, Intra Vino had the distinct honor of participating in the Wines of Greece Masterclass. This event took place at the breathtaking Arcadian Loft. The masterclass was skillfully led by Sommelier Drew Innes. His captivating presentation delved into the storied legacy of Greek winemaking. He highlighted its significant influence on the global wine industry and the dynamic evolution of Greece’s contemporary wine culture. Innes’ expertise and passion set the stage for an unforgettable exploration of Greece’s viticultural heritage.

Insights from Ontario’s Distinguished Sommeliers

The masterclass showcased the expertise of four of Ontario’s most distinguished sommeliers. They shared their firsthand experiences from a recent journey to Greece. During their travels, they visited a diverse range of wineries and sampled an extensive selection of wines. These wines came from both iconic and up-and-coming producers. Their compelling insights painted a vivid picture of a region poised for innovation while staying deeply rooted in tradition.

The Triumph of the Event

The event proved to be a resounding triumph. Intra Vino Inc. proudly presented an exceptional selection of wines from our portfolio. This included standout offerings from Michalakis Estate, Nico Lazaridi Winery, and Ktima Pavlidis. These wines captivated the audience, earning enthusiastic acclaim from agents, sommeliers, and hospitality professionals alike for their quality and distinctive character.

Celebrating Greek Wine Heritage

This masterclass served as a remarkable platform for celebrating Greece’s rich wine heritage. It spotlighted the immense potential of its modern winemaking innovations. The event underscored the country’s growing influence in the global wine industry. Attendees left inspired by the exciting trajectory of Greek wines.

The Future of Greek Winemaking

As we look ahead, the future of Greek winemaking appears bright. The combination of tradition and innovation is creating a unique landscape for wine lovers. The stories shared by the sommeliers highlighted the dedication of Greek winemakers. They are committed to producing high-quality wines that reflect their heritage.

The wines of Greece are not just beverages; they are a testament to the land, culture, and history of the region. The commitment to excellence is evident in every bottle. This dedication is what makes Greek wines stand out on the global stage.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Wines of Greece Masterclass was more than just an event. It was a celebration of a rich tradition and a glimpse into the future of winemaking. The insights shared by the sommeliers and the exceptional wines presented left a lasting impression. Greek wines are ready to take their place among the world’s finest.

For those interested in exploring these wines further, we encourage you to seek out the offerings from the featured wineries. Experience the vibrant flavors and stories behind each bottle.

Intra Vino is excited to continue sharing the beauty of Greek wines with enthusiasts everywhere. The journey of discovery is just beginning, and we invite you to join us in celebrating this remarkable wine culture.

---wix---