This is one of those wines that you first try, then ask the price, then try it again – and during that second sip and swallow you’re thinking to yourself, “no way this wine is that price, better buy a few bottles before the guy realizes he’s made a mistake.” But yes, it’s true, this fantastic Franc is really $13.95. Willow Springs, located in Stouffville, north of Toronto, is year-by-year getting better and better, and this wine seals the deal. The grapes come from the 2007 Grape King Kevin Watson’s Vineyard in Niagara-on-the-Lake, the nose is riddled with sweet tobacco, black fruit (read: cassis) and black cherry. In the mouth, it’s smooth cherry flavours really come through with hints of cassis wrapped in a tannin-laced finish that possesses good acidity that will keep it aging well over the long haul (5+ years). A fine example of Franc done right, from a good growing season, and an up-and-coming winery.