There’s a new winery in town (St. David’s, just outside of Niagara-on-the-Lake) and it’s going to be one to watch. Last year I got a preview of their Riesling, during an impromptu pre-opening visit; and a few other wines were also previewed and poured when the principals visited the Wine Writers’ Circle just before Christmas. Earlier this year (February) I made an actual visit to the now open to the public winery … here I was able to look over the wine list – most of the stuff I had tried, but this one was a wine I hadn’t. One thing I will say about Ravine, to their detriment, is that their pricing is a little high (only 3 wines are under $20) – I have never been one to keep quiet with my thoughts on wineries coming out of the gate with high prices for unproven wine; it so seems that they want to get their investment back quickly instead of gaining a following and increasing prices gradually … but that’s just my pet peeve. The “Redcoat” is a decent sip at a decent price (under $20). It’s a pretty equal blend of the big three: Cabernet Sauvignon (35%), Cabernet Franc (33%) and Merlot (32%), simple yet totally enjoyable. Cherry, herbs, licorice – in an easy drinking, quaffable style with a touch of tannins and a lingering white pepper finish. Price: $19.00 – Rating: ****