Tasting Note – This is the first Last House Vineyards chardonnay traditional method, a typically light-bodied, elegant and almost ethereal County version with its underpinning of limestone, accented by the lakeshore location of the vineyard. I keep wanting to say seashore because that’s what this place looks, feels and smells like.  This could be mistaken for Nova Scotia sparkling wine for its lightness. The nose is very complex with an opening lactic note mindful of camembert rind, then classic dried apple, barley sugar, lightly toasted almond, lemon and onion crisps. Lots going on when aerated well in a large white wine glass (forget flutes). It does feel lighter than even many Champagnes but it is dry, brisk and shows excellent length, with some nutty bitterness on the finish. The mousse is very fine. The length is excellent to outstanding. Tasted July 2026

Backgrounder – Last House’s first vintage was 2019, founded by grocery executive Andre Gagne, partner Debra Matthews and now assisted by sons Daniel and Christian. They hired County pioneer Geoff Heinricks as consultant, who first planted experimental vinifera in the County in 1993! They farm four acres of vineyard metres from the Lake Ontario shoreline, in shallow clay loam over limestone bedrock. The viticulture and winemaking are minimal intervention and done by hand. Made with 100% estate grown chardonnay this was aged 42 months on the lees before hand-riddling and disgorging. If the website says “Sold Out” inquire anyway. Disgorging is being done on demand, so there may be a delay in order fulfilment.