Winemaker's Notes

Our 2007 Ladybug Rosé is composed of 80% Cabernet Franc, 12% Gamay, and the remaining 8% other vinifera. Each component variety was handled individually. The grapes were hand harvested and sorted to achieve an average sugar level of 21.9° brix, soaked on the skins for an average 18 hours, fermented cool in stainless steel and then blended to create a rich rosé. Bottled with 13% alcohol and acidity of 7g/l on April 10, 2008 under Stelvin® closure. Drink now until end of 2009.

Food Pairings

This Rosé goes with just about everything. Try with prosciutto rolled in arugula leaves with black pepper and extra virgin olive oil with a shave of Parmigiano Reggiano. You can't miss with garlic - even roasted whole - and drizzled with extra virgin olive oil and a tiny bit of blue cheese. Great with a warmed goat cheese crottin on endive and arugula salad. For some simpler pairings, this wine is great with deli style hot dogs with all the fixins - diced onion, Dijon mustard, & tomato concassé on a sesame seed bun. Also great with nachos, ham, chicken and any kind of pizza.

Wine Reviews

LCBO Vintages June 7, 2008
"Under the Ladybug name, Malivoire consistently crafts one of Ontario's most expressive and classyrosés."

Christopher Waters The Standard June 21, 2008
"Owner Martin Malivoire takes a personal interest in the rosé produced at his Beamsville boutique winery. A frequent traveller to the south of France, Malivoire explains his first order of business after clearing the airport is sitting down to collect himself with a glass of rosé . The new 2007 vintage is an exciting, full-flavoured pink wine. This beautifully balanced rose offers bright flavours and terrific crisp character; it will work with a wide assortment of dishes." Rating: ****

Rod Phillips August 2008
"From its first vintage, Malivoire's 'Ladybug' earned high regard among wine-lovers. The 2007 will entrench its reputation not only as one of Ontario's best rosés, but as a rosé with world-class quality. It's mainly Cabernet Franc (80%) and Gamay (12%) and made from low-cropped dedicated vines. These are not grapes that didn't make the cut for red wine. Look for a rich pink colour, vibrant flavours that show depth and substance, and a mouth-filling but refreshing texture. Enjoy it with chicken, duck, salads, ham... just enjoy it."
Rating: ****1/2