Discover Arret Wines: A Journey of Excellence in Every Bottle

Arret Wines is a boutique winery owned and operated by a dynamic duo, Rok and Maja. Their vision is clear: to produce and sell world-class wines from Lower Carniola in Šentjernej, Slovenia.

The Story Behind Arret Wines

Arret Wines is more than just what’s in the bottle. It’s a story of passion and dedication. Rok, a self-proclaimed wine nerd, made a bold decision to leave his previous job and fully devote himself to the vineyards. His dream was to create a first-generation boutique winery. This dream has now become a reality with Arret Wines.

The Philosophy of Arete

The name "Arret" is inspired by an ancient Greek concept that means ‘excellence’ in any form. A person embodying arete is effective, using their strength, bravery, and wit to achieve the best results. This philosophy is at the heart of Arret Wines.

Our Commitment to Quality

“Our wines reflect who we are, what we enjoy, and the values we hold dear,” Maja explains. They prioritize respect for their customers, ensuring every bottle offers something enjoyable and memorable. They also respect their vineyards and the fruit, which is grown with care and meticulous attention. Finally, they are committed to sustainability, creating wines they can be proud of today and for years to come.

The Excitement of New Releases

Get ready to discover something fresh and unforgettable. Arret Wines will soon be available at your local LCBO. Stay tuned for the arrival of their unique offerings!

Exploring the Wine Selection

At Arret Wines, the selection is diverse and thoughtfully curated. Each wine tells a story, reflecting the unique terroir of Lower Carniola. Whether you prefer a crisp white or a bold red, there is something for everyone.

The White Wines

The white wines from Arret are known for their freshness and vibrant flavors. They are perfect for pairing with light dishes or enjoying on their own. Each sip transports you to the sun-drenched vineyards of Slovenia.

The Red Wines

Arret’s red wines are rich and full-bodied. They offer deep flavors and aromas that evolve with each taste. These wines are ideal for cozy dinners or special occasions.

The Rosé

Don’t overlook the rosé! It’s a delightful option for warm days and casual gatherings. With its refreshing taste, it’s sure to become a favorite.

The Winemaking Process

The winemaking process at Arret Wines is a labor of love. Rok and Maja are hands-on, ensuring every step is executed with precision. From grape selection to fermentation, they are involved in every detail.

Harvesting

Harvest time is crucial. The couple carefully picks grapes at their peak ripeness. This attention to detail ensures the highest quality in every bottle.

Fermentation and Aging

Once harvested, the grapes undergo fermentation. Maja and Rok monitor this process closely, making adjustments as needed. After fermentation, the wines are aged to develop their character.

Sustainability Practices

Sustainability is a core value at Arret Wines. They employ eco-friendly practices throughout their winemaking process. This commitment ensures that they can produce exceptional wines while preserving the environment for future generations.

Conclusion

Arret Wines is more than just a winery; it’s a testament to passion, dedication, and excellence. With a commitment to quality and sustainability, Rok and Maja are crafting wines that not only reflect their values but also offer a delightful experience for every consumer. Keep an eye out for their wines at your local LCBO and prepare to enjoy something truly special.

Stay connected with Arret Wines on social media to follow their journey and discover new releases. Cheers to excellence in every bottle!

Discover the Richness of Sur De Los Andes Malbec-Cabernet Sauvignon Reserva as LCBO VINTAGES Featured Wine of the Month

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Chilling Release, Warming Wine: The Sur De Los Andes Sell-Out

While the temperatures across Ontario took a dive this past weekend, wine lovers in Ottawa, Toronto, and Barrie were undeterred. On February 7th, the LCBO saw a flurry of activity for the highly anticipated Vintages release of the 2022 Sur De Los Andes Malbec-Cabernet Sauvignon Reserva. If you didn’t make it to one of the selected stores early, you likely missed out—all feature locations reported record sales on this Weekend Pre-Sale.

The 2022 Vintage: A High-Altitude Hero

For those lucky enough to snag a bottle (or experience the in-store tasting bars), the quality was immediately evident. The 2022 vintage is a masterclass in the Argentine "Premium Blend" style.

By marrying the plush, violet-inflected fruit of Malbec with the structural backbone and spice of Cabernet Sauvignon, Sur De Los Andes has crafted something truly special.

• The Profile: Expect a bright and spicy red with enticing undertones of hazelnut and vanilla.

• The Palate: Full-bodied and creamy, balanced by a lively acidity that keeps the dark plum and blackcurrant notes fresh.

• The Score: It’s no surprise this wine earned a solid 91 points, cementing its reputation for "quality far beyond its price point."

Why It’s the "No-Brainer" of the Season

At a generous price of $17.95, this bottle is the ultimate "utility player" for your wine cellar. It’s sophisticated enough to impress at a formal dinner party (think grilled ribeye or a hearty lamb ragu) but accessible enough for a low-key Tuesday night.

As we head into mid-February, there’s no better way to beat the sub-zero chill than curling up on the couch with a glass of this rich, warming red and the person you love most.

The Ultimate Valentine’s Day Secret

With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, this sell-out release has become the "it" bottle for romantic celebrations. Its deep garnet hue and velvet finish make it the perfect companion for a shared steak dinner or a selection of dark chocolates.

Missed the release? Keep your eyes peeled on the LCBO inventory app for any stray bottles, or check in with your local Vintages consultant. This is one Argentine gem that won't stay on shelves for long.

Xinomavro Season is Here!

Xinomavro Season is Here – Ktima Stergiou Just Dropped at LCBO

For the first time ever, Ontario gets to taste what Greece’s insiders have been whispering about for years: the breathtaking Xinomavro from Ktima Stergiou.

Ktima Stergiou is a small, family-run estate with 60 acres of organically farmed vineyards perched high above the village of Metamorphosi in Kastoria, northern Greece. Afrodite Stergiou and her family farm just 11 hectares of old-vine Xinomavro organically, by hand, and with zero shortcuts.

Ktima Stergiou Harvest 2025

Afrodite – a former chemist turned winemaker – is the quiet revolutionary who traded lab coats for vineyards and now crafts wines that sit comfortably beside the finest Barolo and Etna Rosso.

Her 2019 Xinomavro spent 24 months in old 500 L French barrels, emerging with the grape’s signature pale ruby hue, explosive aromatics of sour cherry, sun-dried tomato, and mountain herbs, and a structure that promises another decade of evolution.

The 2019 Ktima Stergiou Xinomavro (LCBO VINTAGES #47496 | $43.95) marks the estate’s debut in Canada – and we fought hard to bring in every bottle we could. Only 126 bottles landed in the province, and they’re already moving fast at Summerhill, Yorkville, and Danforth.

Afrodite’s note to Ontario drinkers was simple: “I want you to taste the mountain air and the patience in every glass.”

Discovering Xinomavro

Xinomavro is a unique grape variety. It thrives in the mountainous regions of Greece. The grape is known for its complexity and aging potential. It offers a beautiful balance of acidity and tannins. This makes it a perfect choice for wine lovers seeking depth in their glass.

The Art of Winemaking

At Ktima Stergiou, winemaking is an art. Afrodite Stergiou, the winemaker, has a background in chemistry. She applies her scientific knowledge to create exceptional wines. Every bottle reflects her dedication and passion. The estate uses organic farming methods. This ensures that the grapes are of the highest quality.

Tasting Notes

The 2019 Xinomavro from Ktima Stergiou is a standout. It spent 24 months in old French barrels. This aging process enhances its flavor profile. Expect aromas of sour cherry, sun-dried tomato, and mountain herbs. The wine's structure promises to evolve beautifully over the next decade.

Limited Availability

The 2019 Ktima Stergiou Xinomavro is a rare find in Ontario. Only 126 bottles were imported. They are already selling quickly at Summerhill, Yorkville, and Danforth. If you want to experience this unique wine, act fast.

A Message from Afrodite

Afrodite's message to Ontario drinkers is clear: “I want you to taste the mountain air and the patience in every glass.” This sentiment captures the essence of what makes Ktima Stergiou special. Each sip transports you to the vineyards of Greece.

The Significance of Xinomavro

Xinomavro is more than just a grape; it is a reflection of the terroir. The unique climate and soil of northern Greece contribute to its distinct character. This grape variety is often compared to Pinot Noir for its elegance and complexity. It is a wine that tells a story with every sip.

Pairing Suggestions

When it comes to food pairings, Xinomavro shines. Its acidity and tannins complement a variety of dishes. Try it with grilled lamb, roasted vegetables, or a rich tomato-based pasta. The wine’s flavors enhance the dining experience, making it a perfect choice for gatherings.

The Future of Ktima Stergiou

As Ktima Stergiou continues to grow, the future looks bright. The estate is committed to organic practices and sustainability. This dedication ensures that each vintage maintains its quality. Wine lovers can look forward to more exceptional releases in the coming years.

Conclusion

Welcome to Xinomavro season, Toronto. This is a moment to celebrate. The arrival of Ktima Stergiou marks a new chapter in Ontario's wine scene. Don't miss the chance to taste this remarkable wine.

For more information, check out the Ktima Stergiou website.