Luck Penny ‘Red’ 2010
South Eastern Australia $17.95 (308239) 14.0% alcohol
There are toasty notes—18 months in French and American oak—mocha and ripe, dark berry aromas on the nose of this Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot blend. Offering good value, it’s balanced and flavour laden with a river of black currant and mulberry garnished with spice and hints of fine-grained tannin. The long finish of red and black currant is wreathed with a dusting of cocoa and lip-smacking good. (Vic Harradine)


Luck Penny ‘White’ 2011
South Eastern Australia $16.95 (312819) 12.0% alcohol
This unoaked blend of Chardonnay, Viognier and Pinot Grigio offers lovely aromas of tropical fruit and poached pear. It’s mid weight with good balance and nice mouth feel showering the palate with succulent nectarine and yellow plum melding with tangy citrus on the crisp, refreshing aftertaste. A real crowd pleaser that’s balanced and charming—there’s good value here. Pour with seafood, chicken, pork or veal. (Vic Harradine)


Pillitteri Estates Winery ‘Fusion’ Gewurztraminer Riesling 2011
VQA Niagara-on-the-Lake (349126) $12.95 11.5% alcohol
Exotic aromas of Asian spice, rosewater and floral notes swirl from the nose of this light-medium bodied, perfumed blend. A wash of citrus, pineapple and perfumed nectarine brush the palate lacing the aftertaste with its tell-tale Gewürztraminer bite, that’s a good thing. It’s versatile at the table fronting up well to spicy Asian dishes, young creamy cheese or fruit flan. (Vic Harradine)


Pillitteri Estates Winery Pinot Grigio 2011
VQA Niagara-on-the-Lake $15.00 (146787) 12.0% alcohol
Floral, spice and orchard fruit on the nose, it dishes up a spirited wash of citrus tang—lemon pie filling and key lime mingling with green apple. Mid weight and nicely textured, this light-on-its-feet Grigio delivers a crisp, refreshing aftertaste. A good sipper, it also shows well with lighter-styled appetizers. (Vic Harradine)