i4C School of Cool 2026: Three Sessions, One Emerging Story

By John Szabo, MS for Wine Align

Whether you joined us for the School of Cool or couldn’t be there in person, Master Sommelier John Szabo‘s reflections are well worth your time.

Drawing on all three sessions, John goes beyond a recap to identify the bigger themes that emerged over the course of the day. His article connects the conversations, the wines and the ideas into a compelling look at where cool climate winemaking is headed, both in Canada and around the world.

For those who attended, it’s an insightful summary of the discussions and perspectives that shaped the day. For those who missed it, it’s an opportunity to share in the knowledge, curiosity and optimism that define the School of Cool.

We invite you to read John’s article here.

Session 1: Coast-to-Coast Chardonnay – Distinction, Side by Side
Moderator: Véronique Rivest
Blomidon Estate Winery 💛 2022 Reserve Chardonnay
Volta Estate Winery 💛 2024 Chardonnay Amphora
Broken Stone Winery 💛 2024 Chardonnay Home Farm
Vignoble Camy 💛 2024 Chardonnay
Watchful Eye Winery 💛 2022 Chardonnay
Icellars Estate Winery 💛 2021 Chardonnay
JoieFarm Winery 💛 2023 En Famille Chardonnay
Quails’ Gate 💛 2023 Stewart Family Reserve Chardonnay

Session 2: Sparkling Chardonnay – Pop Quiz
Moderator: Christopher Waters
Trius Winery 🥂 NV Showcase 10 year Sparkling
Rosehall Run Vineyards 🥂 2023 Ceremony Blanc de Blancs
Leaning Post Wines 🥂 2020 Traditional Method Sparkling
Kew Vineyards 🥂 2017 Blanc de Blancs
Stratus Vineyards 🥂 2017 Stratus Blanc de Blancs
Hidden Bench Estate Winery 🥂 2019 Natur
Tantalus Vineyards 🥂 2023 Blanc de Blancs
Malivoire Wine Company 🥂 NV Bisous Brut

Session 3 – Chardonnay & Pinot Noir – Same sites or the best of neighbours
Moderator: Peter Gamble
Deux Roches (Collovray & Terrier) 2024 Limoux Terres Amoureuses Altugnac
Deux Roches (Collovray & Terrier) 2024 Pays d’Oc Pinot Noir Côté Pierre Lys Altugnac
Boschendal Estate 💛 2023 Boschendal Elgin Pinot Noir
Boschendal Estate ❤️ 2023 Boschendal Appellation Series Elgin Chardonnay
Closson Chase Vineyards 💛 2023 South Clos Chardonnay
Closson Chase Vineyards❤️ 2023 Churchside Pinot Noir
Dobbin Estate 💛 2021 Chardonnay
Dobbin Estate❤️ 2022 Pinot Noir
Alois Lageder 💛 2021 Lowengang
Alois Lageder ❤️ 2022 Krafuss