Every New Year we go through the arbitrary task of creating resolutions: Go to the gym, use the stairs instead of the elevator, eat healthier- General self-improvement. The gym is packed with ‘resolutioners’ that will be gone in a few weeks, only to return January 2015.

This year, however, how about making a resolution that you want to stick to? In 2014, resolve to try new wines, new vintages and new grapes. Explore wine outside of your comfort zone- swap a red for a white, drink Prosecco on a Monday- and perhaps, find a new favourite.

Over the holidays, I was given quite a few bottles of wine- (my friends and family know me well). Some were old favourites but there were a few new brands deserving of a smell, a sip and hopefully, a savor.

My first new wine was a Cabernet Merlot from Pillitteri Estates Winery in Niagara. I know Pillitteri primarily as the world’s largest distributor of ice wine and their picturesque vineyard tours, although I hadn’t yet tried any of their red or white wines. After a quick Google search, I discovered that Pillitteri’s Cabernet Franc won Red Wine of the Year 2013 at the Ontario Wine Awards. That was all I needed to twist open the bottle, pour and drink.

I was not disappointed. This Cabernet Merlot is full bodied, smooth and dry. This dark ruby red tastes of ripe fruit and moist earth, smelling of cherry and herbs with a savory finish. I have seen it paired with potatoes, veal or a beef stew although I chose to drink this wine on the couch while watching Downton Abbey. This blend was an easy drinking wine that didn’t leave me with dry mouth.  It was a perfect accompaniment for a rare solo night, on the couch, watching shows my other half wouldn’t care for.

Although this isn’t my favourite red, it is a great Monday to Thursday dry wine, and I would definitely drink it again- especially as it is a mere $12.95 at the LCBO, a great wine at it’s price point.  Give it a try and let me know what you think.

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