As May gently ushers in warmer days and longer evenings, there’s nothing quite as satisfying as uncorking a refreshing bottle of wine to celebrate spring’s arrival. Whether you’re planning a cozy patio brunch, a laid-back barbecue, or simply unwinding after a busy week, we’ve rounded up exceptional wines to sip this May. Even better, we’re highlighting incredible Black-owned wineries alongside standout Canadian producers.
Discover wines that pair perfectly with seasonal foods and sunshine vibes, while supporting diversity and local businesses.
Sparkling Wines: Bubbles for Brighter Days
1. Nyarai Cellars “Folklore” Sparkling 2023 – Niagara, ON (Black-Owned, Canadian)
Produced by Steve Byfield, Canada’s only Black winery owner, this sparkling wine bursts with crisp apple and zesty lime, rounded out by delicate honeysuckle notes. Light and vibrant, it’s perfect for daytime sipping.
Pairing Ideas:
- Smoked salmon and asparagus quiche
- Tempura-fried fiddleheads
Where to Buy: Nyarai Cellars Website | LCBO
2. McBride Sisters Black Girl Magic California Sparkling Brut – California (Black-Owned)
Crafted by America’s largest Black-owned winery, this sparkling brut delights with refreshing green apple and hints of toasted brioche. Ideal for brunch gatherings or relaxed celebrations.
Pairing Ideas:
- Fried-chicken picnic
- Shrimp skewers grilled with garlic butter
Where to Buy: McBride Sisters Website | LCBO
3. Benjamin Bridge “Nova 7” 2024 – Nova Scotia, Canada
This Canadian favourite offers gentle fizz with aromas of peach and elderflower, ideal for warm afternoons.
Pairing Ideas:
- Strawberry-rhubarb desserts
- Fresh shrimp ceviche
Where to Buy: Benjamin Bridge Website
Rosé Wines: Think Pink for Spring
4. Malivoire “Vivant” Rosé 2024 – Beamsville Bench, ON
This Ontario-produced rosé, made from Pinot Noir grapes, exudes berry freshness with citrus undertones. Certified sustainable, it’s the ideal choice for eco-conscious sippers.
Pairing Ideas:
- Grilled watermelon and halloumi salad
- Fresh seafood tacos
Where to Buy: Malivoire Website
5. Featherstone Rosé 2023 – Niagara, ON
Featherstone’s vegan rosé blends subtle cranberry and strawberry notes, pairing superbly with a charcuterie board filled with local cheeses and fresh berries.
Pairing Ideas:
- Ontario chèvre
- Early-season strawberries
Where to Buy: Featherstone Winery
Crisp White Wines: Freshness in a Bottle
6. Nk’Mip Cellars Pinot Blanc 2023 – Osoyoos, BC (Indigenous-Owned)
Produced by Canada’s first Indigenous-owned winery, this Pinot Blanc features crisp apple and stone fruit notes, perfect alongside fresh seafood or creamy pasta dishes.
Pairing Ideas:
- BC spot prawn linguine
- Lemon-herb roasted chicken
Where to Buy: Nk’Mip Cellars Website
7. Kumusha Sauvignon Blanc 2020 – Western Cape, South Africa (Black-Owned)
Crafted by Zimbabwean sommelier Tinashe Nyamudoka, Kumusha Sauvignon Blanc refreshes with pear, white peach, and zesty lime flavours. It complements spring’s freshest greens beautifully.
Pairing Ideas:
- Asparagus and pea risotto
- Thai green curry
Where to Buy: Swaso Imports (Ontario)
8. House of Brown Chardonnay 2022 – Napa, California (Black-Owned)
Unoaked Chardonnay from Brown Estate, California’s first Black-owned estate winery, offers a crisp, fruity experience highlighted by honeydew and melon notes.
Pairing Ideas:
- Lobster rolls
- Seafood salads
Where to Buy: House of Brown
Light Reds: Chillable and Versatile
9. Maison Noir “Other People’s Pinot” 2023 – Willamette Valley, OR (Black-Owned)
This easygoing Pinot Noir by André Hueston Mack offers vibrant cherry, strawberry, and spice. It’s ideal slightly chilled, enhancing its juicy fruit flavours.
Pairing Ideas:
- Maple-glazed grilled salmon
- Mushroom burgers
Where to Buy: Maison Noir Wines
How to Maximize Your Spring Wine Enjoyment
Chill Your Wines Right:
- White and rosé wines: 8-10°C (45-50°F)
- Light reds: 12-15°C (55-60°F)
- Sparkling wines: 6-8°C (42-46°F)
Use the Right Glassware:
- Universal wine glasses work for whites, rosés, and reds.
- Tulip-shaped flutes are ideal for sparkling wines.
Support Diverse Wineries:
Choosing these wines not only enhances your dining experiences but actively supports Black-owned and Indigenous-owned wineries. Each sip contributes directly to diversifying the wine industry, helping unique voices and rich cultural narratives thrive.
Let’s Toast to Spring!
May is a perfect time to experiment and explore new wine horizons, elevating your meals and outdoor gatherings. By thoughtfully selecting wines from diverse backgrounds, you enrich your table and support important voices in viticulture.
Cheers to sunny skies, good company, and memorable sips!
We’d Love to Hear from You:
Have you tried any wines from these producers? Do you have another favourite Black-owned or Canadian winery we should spotlight? Drop your recommendations and experiences in the comments below!
Happy sipping!
