April 14, 2015 Newsletter

The California Wine Fair - visits 4 more centres across Canada.

There are NO tickets sold at the door! 

Expect over 100 wineries represented and well more than 400 wines to taste in one gala event. It’s best to use the spit containers provided while sampling, and to arrange for public transportation.

Highly regarded as ‘the’ wine show of the year that one does not miss; it’s often sold out. Purchase tickets now @ www.calwine.ca and have questions answered via the California Wine Fair Hotline (905) 336-8932 or 1-800-558-CORK (2675).

The California Wine Fair Tour continues to move across Canada on the following dates:

• Wednesday, April 15th: Halifax, Nova Scotia, Halifax Convention Centre
• Wednesday, April 22nd: Edmonton, Alberta, Shaw Conference Centre
• Friday, April 24th: Calgary, Alberta, BMO Centre, Calgary Stampede, Palomino Room
• Monday, April 27th: Vancouver, British Columbia, Vancouver Convention Centre

Newsletter highlights include:

• Exceptional value wine   – a bonanza of 8 of 48 wines reviewed meet the strict quality-price guidelines and are found throughout the newsletter priced between $13.95 and $17.95—3 appear after the Main Release; all are identified by the   icon. What strict guidelines?  Click here.
• Finding Waldo – pick up some of this value-laden, 8-year-old Mencia from DO Bierzo that’s 4 stars and only $15.95.
• 5-star Wine – 3 wines rang the 5-star bell. Antinori ‘Solaia’ 2011 @ 251.95 and Pol Roger ‘Vintage Extra Cuvée de Réserve’ Brut Champagne 2004 @ $94.95 found in the Famous Families Feature; and Château de Beaucastel Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2012 @ $89.95 under France: Red Wine.
• Susan Selects – Trius Sauvignon Blanc 2013 – at $14.95 earning 4 stars and found after the Main Release under New in Ontario Wineries.
• Vic Picks – Cave de Hoen Mausberg Blanc de Blancs Brut Crémant d’Alsace Non-Vintage @ $17.95 earning 4 stars and found under Sparkling Wine

Access the LCBO store nearest you with stock of any wine with an LCBO product number by clicking on the number shown in brackets in wine reviews then clicking on select stores and entering your postal code. The number of bottles available in each store near you is displayed. For Vintages Release wines, stock should be displayed the Friday before a Saturday release, some stores post earlier. For LCBO wines, it should closely reflect stock in stores, updated every 24 hours. It’s always best to phone first.

Vintages Release: April 18, 2015

Feature: Famous Wine Families

Graham’s ‘Six Grapes Reserve’ Port Non-Vintage
DOP Douro, Portugal $22.95 (208405) 20.0% alcohol
The quality-value equation is well in your favour in this consistently well-made Port crafted from fruit of the same vineyards producing premium Vintage Port. A touch of smoke filters through the intense, sweet black berry aromas along with notes of dried fruit, spice and caramel. There’s great intensity and power on the palate with robust fruit flavour, spicy, peppery notes and lovely warmth. Firmly structured and richly fruited on the finish, it’s a hedonistic treat. (Susan Desjardins)

Pol Roger ‘Vintage Extra Cuvée de Réserve’ Brut Champagne 2004
AOC Champagne, France $94.95 (411793) 12.5% alcohol
Brilliant yellow gold, this vintage champagne retains great depth of aroma and flavour with a nose redolent of lees, butter pastry, pear, yellow plum, mineral and floral notes. The mousse is well-defined and persistent, the flavours of citrus, orchard fruit and wildflower honey expressive, while the underlying mineral note adds verve and flair to this elegant wine. Sip and savour through the intense, clean, dry finish. (Susan Desjardins)

Hugel Riesling 2012
AOC Alsace, France $24.95 (42101) 12.0% alcohol
Petrol and mineral notes, orchard fruit and citrus mingle on the nose of this racy, refined Riesling. Bone dry and medium bodied, the citrus and crisp green apple flavours are zesty and tangy accented by vibrant acidity and mineral notes. Masterfully crafted with elegance on the lengthy finish, this wine pairs well with seafood and can be cellared over an extended period. (Susan Desjardins)

Joseph Drouhin Côte de Nuits-Villages 2012
AOC Côte de Nuits-Villages, France $34.95 (411835) 13.0% alcohol
Semi-transparent ruby, this is a classic with subtle, integrated aromas of red fruit, earth and spice rising from the glass. Dry, medium bodied and silky in texture, the vibrant juicy flavours of red berry and cranberry are effectively framed by clean, juicy acidity while earthy, mineral notes emerge. There’s an excellent lengthy, clean finish. (Susan Desjardins)

Famille Perrin ‘La Gille’ Gigondas 2012
AOC Gigondas, France $29.95 (906073) 14.5% alcohol
From the family that produces Château de Beaucastel, this de-stemmed, wooden-cask fermented, 90% Grenache - 10% Syrah blend is a showcase of complex, layered aromas—subtle leather and smoke, sweet and savoury dried herbs, ripe berries and red cherries. Dry, full bodied, it’s precisely structured to deliver harmony of ripe tannin, clean acidity and sun-ripened fruit. Notions of sweet spice and white pepper arise on the palate and whisper through the lingering, dry, fruit-filled aftertaste. Savour with roast duck or pepper steak. (Susan Desjardins)

Antinori ‘Badia a Passignano Gran Selezione’ Chianti Classico 2009
DOCG Chianti Classico, Italy $44.95 (384552) 14.0% alcohol
This wine of an historic estate has been classified among the top 10% produced in Chianti Classico—it certainly delivers complexity and vigor. Vanilla and spiced rose harmonize with hints of cedar and leather, red cherries and berries on the nose. Dry and medium-full bodied, it’s firm in structure, fresh in texture and lively with red cherry flavours underlain by an earthy quality. The lengthy finish highlights aging in small oak barrels with notes of espresso and cocoa. Serve with Bistecca Fiorentina. (Susan Desjardins)

Antinori ‘Solaia’ 2011
IGT Toscana, Italy $251.95 (987586) 14.5% alcohol
This iconic, opaque and inky blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Sangiovese and Cabernet Franc captivates with powerful aromas of plum and black berry, licorice, vanilla and dark toast. Weighty, round and fresh, the firm structure is immediately present, a counterpoint to richly flavoured fruit. Savoury notes of olive, herbs and notes of slightly bitter dark chocolate add complexity and depth on the dry, lingering finish. Cellar and pull out this historic red for a celebration in a few years. (Susan Desjardins)

Tenuta San Guido ‘Guidalberto’ 2012
IGT Toscana $52.95 (72439) 13.5% alcohol
This second label to the iconic, super-Tuscan, Sassicaia, is an alluring blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot delivering earthy notes of leather and cigar box interwoven with ripe dark fruit and notes of baking spice and vanilla. Dry, medium-full bodied, it offers lush fruit flavours of cassis and black berry, expressive spiciness, toast and a rich earthiness. Firmly structured with clean acidity to match the fruity intensity, it finishes long and dry; serve with rich meat dishes. (Susan Desjardins)

Miguel Torres ‘Altos Ibéricos’ Crianza 2012
DOCa Rioja, Spain $16.95 (381046) 13.5% alcohol
This Tempranillo is very good value. It was aged 12 months in oak producing the spicy notes and vanilla that accent aromas of ripe red fruit. There’s an elusive note of leather underlying the sweet spice and tangy fruit. It’s nicely structured, dry and medium bodied with perceptible tannin and refined acidity. The wine finishes tasty and fruity. (Susan Desjardins)

Torres ‘Celeste’ Crianza 2011
DO Ribera de Duero, Spain $20.95 (210872) 14.5% alcohol
Produced from the fruit of high-altitude vines, this deep purple Tempranillo is rich and ripe on the nose, offering aromas of dark fruit, spice, smoke and black licorice. Dry, full bodied and plush, almost decadent, dark fruit flavours find balance in refined acidity and supple tannin while spicy warmth permeates the extended dry finish. Serve with braised lamb shanks. (Susan Desjardins)

Feature: Wagner Family Wine

Bell Glos ‘Dairyman’ Pinot Noir 2013
Russian River Valley, California $44.95 (366013)
Here’s a statuesque wine that stands out from the crowd. It’s a big fruity Pinot Noir that’s opaque and inky offering smoky toast and spice wrapped around dense aromas of blueberry and raspberry jam on the nose. Dry, full bodied, it’s intensely spicy and warm with black raspberry jam bathing the palate. There’s supple structure and a taste of tapenade and cocoa on the big, bold, plush finish—a mouth-filling wine with a defining style. (Susan Desjardins)

Caymus ‘40th Anniversary’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2012
Napa Valley, California $68.95 (222877) 14.6% alcohol
This opaque-purple, celebrated Cab brings complex aromas to the nose—cassis and licorice, cedar and menthol, sweet spice and vanilla. Dry, full bodied and powerful, it shows focused, concentrated luscious black fruit flavours on the palate, underpinned by supple yet defined tannin and fine-honed acidity. Round and ripe, warm and rich, lovely notes of spice embellish the vanilla-tinged finish. An affordable luxury, it’s drinking well now and will cellar long term. (Susan Desjardins)

The Main Release

Sparkling Wine

Cave de Hoen Mausberg Blanc de Blancs Brut Crémant d’Alsace Non-Vintage

AOC Alsace, France $17.95 (171785) 10.5% alcohol

This provides good value, loads of flavour and serious fine-bead bubbles; what’s not to like? It opens with a tantalizing nose of orange blossom, honeyed orange and citrus aromas followed by a lovely mousse attack on the palate with oodles of racy zesty flavour—lemongrass, red currant and citrus galore. It’s light on its feet with a refreshing mouth-watering finish. It’s the perfect aperitif with which to welcome guests. (Vic Harradine)

Ontario: White Wine

Featherstone Estate Winery Gewürztraminer 2013

VQA Twenty Mile Bench $19.95 (64592) 13.0% alcohol 

Aromas of rosewater and exotic spice capture the essence of this gem before washing over the palate with waves of slightly off-dry ambrosia—ginger-spiced nectarine and tropical fruit garnished with Meyer lemon and orange peel. It’s medium bodied with a creamy, oily texture and lingering aftertaste of ripe pit fruit and that tell tale lip-smacking aftertaste. Pour alongside green curry chicken with steamed rice. (Vic Harradine)

 
Henry of Pelham ‘Estate’ Riesling 2012

VQA Short Hills Bench $17.95 (557165) 11.5% alcohol

Pale straw, this wine offers lovely mineral notes mingling with orchard fruit and citrus. Dry, medium bodied, dashing clean acidity underlines the flavours of lime zest, ripe apple and pear. The fine silky texture and crisp refreshing finish make it a must-have wine and a great choice for ham or turkey. Pick up a few bottles. (Susan Desjardins)

British Columbia: Red Wine

 
Quails’ Gate Pinot Noir 2013
VQA Okanagan Valley $26.95 (585760) 13.5% alcohol
Recognized for its mastery of the ‘heartbreak grape’, Quails’ Gate delivers yet another outstanding Pinot Noir that brings to mind sun-ripened Okanagan cherries bursting on the palate with delicate floral notes, spice and sweet vanilla adding to the blissful aromas. Dry, medium bodied, it’s super silky and the palate’s true to the aromas—juicy cherry and red berry, spice and a touch of white pepper. Dry yet fruity, there’s a touch of spicy warmth on the sleek finish. It’s definitely a match to duck confit or grilled salmon. (Susan Desjardins)

California: White Wine

Kendall-Jackson ‘Vintner’s Reserve’ Chardonnay 2010

California $11.95 (703710) 375 mL 13.5% alcohol

The price-quality balance tips in your favour and it’s the perfect size for two sharing small plates for lunch. Perfumed aromas—floral notes, toast and spiced orchard fruit—widen on the palate with a wash of balanced flavour—ripe, succulent nectarine, pineapple and quince jelly to the fore. Medium bodied and nicely textured, look for a clean, mouth-watering finish. (Vic Harradine) 

Mer Soleil ‘Silver’ Unoaked Chardonnay 2012 

Santa Lucia Highlands $29.95 (220343) 14.8% alcohol 

The distinctive silver-coloured, ceramic bottle will attract attention on the shelf and when displayed with a single red rose in your home. Distinctive aromas of almond, honeyed apple and beeswax precede a tang-infused streak of lime cordial, lemon curd and crisp green apple on the palate, replaying on the racy finish. It’s mid-full weight with a hint of grapefruit pith on the finish. (Vic Harradine)

California: Red Wine

McManis Family Vineyards Syrah 2012
California $19.95 (658104) 14.0% alcohol
Semi-transparent purple, this is deftly balanced offering lifted aromas of dark berries, exotic spice and vanilla. Dry, medium-full bodied, it combines supple tannin and juicy acidity in support of well-defined, round dark fruit flavours with spice and pepper adding zing on the palate. Vanilla and toast replay on the warm, fruity finish. Enjoy with barbeque ribs. (Susan Desjardins)

Ravenswood ‘Old Vine’ Zinfandel 2012
Lodi $19.95 (942599) 14.5% alcohol
This respected producer of Zinfandel is on the mark with this dense purple gem. Big, intense aromas include smoky toast, ripe black fruit, milk chocolate and vanilla. Dry, full bodied, plush and powerful, it’s brimming with fruit flavour that’s framed by a supple underlying structure. Notes of cocoa and cinnamon toast are in evidence on the tasty, fruity, dry finish. Serve with braised beef. (Susan Desjardins)

Oregon: Red Wine

Illahe Pinot Noir 2013
Willamette Valley $31.95 (403154) 12.5% alcohol
It’s pronounced Will-am-it, dammit! A classic cool-climate Pinot Noir, this offers beetroot and earth aromas, layered on cherry/berry fruit and dusted with a whiff of vanilla. Dry, medium bodied and silky, the aroma profile carries through on the palate with a touch of red licorice adding to the juicy taste experience. Beautifully balanced, supple, silky and lasting on the finish, it definitely wants to be on your shopping list. (Susan Desjardins)

Argentina: Red Wine

Secreto Patagónico Cabernet Sauvignon 2012
Patagonia $18.95 (399204) 14.3% alcohol
Complex aromas include dried herbs, vanilla, cedar and a whiff of underbrush interwoven through red fruits and red peppers. Dry, medium bodied and well balanced, this gem’s crafted with fresh texture and a firm underlying structure putting a clean focus on the pure, concentrated red fruit flavours. Tasty notes of espresso, spice and an earthy quality expand on the lingering finish. Good value and a great match for grilled meats or grilled vegetables with buffalo mozzarella and fresh herbs. (Susan Desjardins)

Chile: White Wine

La Joya ‘Gran Reserva’ Viognier 2014
Colchagua Valley $13.95 (168542) 14.0% alcohol
Viognier consistently offers an alluring nose and this is no exception with its rush of floral notes and fruit aromas that bring to mind a basket of peaches, apricots and pears and a whiff of warm spice. Dry, medium bodied, it has a lovely creamy, round texture, luscious fruit flavours and a replay of a tasty warm note of spice. Well-defined acidity assures balance while the fruity finish mirrors the nose with lingering spice and floral notes. It’s great value and a versatile wine that will take on roast veal, pork or ham, creamy pasta, flavourful fish dishes, to name a few. (Susan Desjardins)

Chile: Red Wine

Falernia ‘Reserva’ Syrah 2010
Elquí Valley $17.95 (208371) 14.0% alcohol
The powerful aromas lifting from the glass include dark ripe fruit, floral notes, pepper and spice, smoke and an elusive notion of mineral dust. It’s inky and dense, dry, medium-full bodied and packed with intense fruit and expressive pepper and vanilla notes. Firm tannin provides a well-defined structure while lively texture offers freshness to the ripe fruit. This is balanced and flavourful displaying a rush of peppery warmth on the finish. (Susan Desjardins)

Australia: Red Wine

Thorn-Clarke ‘Shotfire’ Quartage 2012
Barossa Valley $21.95 (24091) 14.9% alcohol
This vintage is a blend of the Cabernets with Petit Verdot and Malbec. The nose showcases smoke, floral notes, sun-ripened black fruits and sweet spice. Dry and full bodied, the balanced character is delivered by supple tannin, a fresh texture and a basketful of big, bold black berry and plum fruit. Attractive notes of spice, licorice and toast add appeal. Dry, full and fruity on the finish, it’s a good match for thick grilled steak. (Susan Desjardins)

New Zealand: White Wine

Rapaura Spring ‘Reserve’ Sauvignon Blanc 2013
Marlborough $21.95 (388421) 13.5% alcohol
Bringing together gooseberry, passion fruit, mineral and herbal notes, this dry, medium-bodied wine is flavourful and tasty. The palate is consistent, the savoury notes and minerality a fine counterpoint to passion fruit and juicy citrus. Bright, vivacious and fresh, you’ll enjoy sipping this on a warm summer day—try with a lemon and herb goat cheese appetizer. (Susan Desjardins)

New Zealand: Red Wine

Oyster Bay Pinot Noir 2013
Marlborough $19.95 (590414) 13.5% alcohol
A semi-transparent ruby, this is a beautifully crafted Pinot, pure in its fresh aromas of red fruit, hints of mineral and wood smoke. It stakes its ground with a well-defined backbone of juicy acidity, subtle drying tannin and wonderfully fresh flavours of red cherry, berry and cranberry. Dry, medium bodied, juicy and clean on the extended finish, it’s a great match for grilled beef tenderloin or pork tenderloin with Burgundy sauce. (Susan Desjardins)

France: Red Wine

Château de Beaucastel Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2012

AOC Châteauneuf-du-Pape $89.95 (711317) 14.0% alcohol

High-end collectors, connoisseurs and folks like you and me will want a bottle or two, popping corks on a special occasion 2018 – 2020. Baking spice, dark berry fruit, black licorice and fennel aromas herald a structured, stylish river of sweet, succulent mulberry, briary berry and red currant interweaving with garrigue, wonderful tang and soft tannin. It’s full bodied and satin smooth with an impressive, majestic finish and aftertaste. (Vic Harradine)

Domaine le Grand Retour ‘Plan de Dieu’ Côtes du Rhône-Villages 2012
AOC Côtes du Rhône-Villages $14.95 (224592) 14.5% alcohol
Principally Grenache with a measure of Syrah and Mourvèdre, this southern-Rhône blend is tasty and well structured. There are aromas of fresh red berries, garrigue, notes of toast and spice on the nose. Medium-full bodied and dry, there’s freshness to the texture that replays on the palate with red raspberry flavours. There’s perceptible, ripe tannin delivering a solid frame while notes of spice and dark chocolate appear on the tasty finish. Order a pizza and share this value-packed red with friends. (Susan Desjardins)

Germany: White Wine

Loosen Bros. ‘Dr. L’ Riesling 2013

Qualitätswein $13.95 (599274) 8.5% alcohol

The quiet nose barely allows minerality and citrus aromas to be coaxed out. Belying its modest designation and delicate aromas, there’s a gusher of sweet and tang on the palate with sweet pit fruit and ripe apple and pear to the fore. It’s light on its feet and delicately textured with a mid-length sweet and tang finish. This pours exceptionally well with spicy Asian cuisine. (Vic Harradine)

Italy: Red Wine

Umberto Cesari ‘Liano’ Sangiovese/Cabernet Sauvignon 2011
IGT Rubicone $27.95 (225086) 13.5% alcohol
Named after the famous river—Rubicon—crossed by Julius Caesar, IGT Rubicone wines are not commonly seen. You’ll want to take the opportunity to enjoy this plush, deep purple blend. Lifted notes of black cherry and plum mingle with vanilla-tinged chocolate and spice. Dry, full and fruit forward, the wine is brimming with dark ripe fruit, notions of clove, caramel and vanilla. Fear not, the structure is there in the finely-wrought tannins that retain their presence on the savoury dark, chocolate finish. Serve with a meaty lasagna or slow-roasted pork shoulder. (Susan Desjardins)

Montemercurio ‘Messaggero’ Vino Nobile di Montepulciano 2008
DOCG Montepulciano $29.95 (385393) 14.5% alcohol
Attractively evolved and showing a garnet note on the rim, this wine teases the nose with a whiff of balsamic, notes of dried herbs and aromas of cherry and pomegranate. Dry, medium bodied, the satin texture is captivating. Ripe red fruits bathe the palate along with intense spicy, peppery notes. Well structured with ripe, perceptible tannin and subtle acidity, it finishes warm and dry. Savour with mature Italian cheese and charcuterie. (Susan Desjardins)

Portugal: Red Wine

Portas de Heredade Reserva 2012
Vinho Regional Alentejano $15.95 (404418) 14.0% alcohol
Tobacco, spice and dark fruit aromas dominate the nose of this opaque, purple blend. Dry and medium-full bodied, it’s quite intense on the palate, the tannin well defined and framing impressive, weighty black cherry and plum flavours. The notes of dried herbs mingle with a hint of earth and an elusive note of dark chocolate. The finish is drying and long. This is good value and will benefit from cellaring for another year or two; it may be decanted now and served with a hearty meat dish. (Susan Desjardins)

Spain: Red Wine

Abad Dom Bueno Crianza 2006 

DO Bierzo $15.95 (244699) 13.6% alcohol 

This is highly and heavenly aromatic—a bouquet of cedar, floral notes and spice-infused dark berry fruit waft over the glass of this well-aged ‘Mencia’—an ancient grape recently identified as being DNA-similar to the Portuguese grape, Jaen do Dão. There’s mid weight, nice texture, balance and depth here. The red cherry, black currant and ripe mulberry dazzle the senses and dominate the long tangy aftertaste along with wisps of still-resolving tannin—aerate/decant a couple of hours before serving to ameliorate them. (Vic Harradine) 

Spain: Rosé Wine

Muga Rosé 2014
DOCa Rioja $13.95 (603795) 13.0% alcohol
This lovely blend of 60% Garnacha, 30% Viura and 10% Tempranillo is replete with aromas and flavours of summer’s red berries along with touches of juicy peach and citrus. Dry, light-medium bodied with a lively backbone of clean acidity, it’s refreshing and tasty. It’s a versatile Rosé to sip on a sun-drenched deck or pair with warm orzo salad with grilled veggies and shrimp, or even a simple pizza. (Susan Desjardins)

New in Vintages

• winecurrent didn’t find the following three premium wines at the previous Vintages Release tasting, but subsequently received samples for tasting from agents and there remains stock on Vintages shelves at time of reviewing.

Frei Brothers ‘Reserve’ Chardonnay 2013
Russian River Valley $24.95 (396259) 13.5% alcohol
Brilliant gold, this classic Chardonnay-lover’s dream offers complex aromas of buttered toast, hazelnut and vanilla, apple and pear, tangy citrus and spice. Dry, rich and creamy, ripe orchard fruit and lively citrus flavours bathe the palate with tasty notes of spice, white pepper and toasted nut adding to the delicious taste experience. There’s a fresh note of citrus zest woven through the toasty finish. It’s finely honed and elegant; serve with roast turkey or ham. (Susan Desjardins)

Tapestry Shiraz 2012
McLaren Vale $19.95 (247155) 14.5% alcohol
Opaque and inky, this showcases notes of vanilla and spice, heavenly ripe dark fruit and smoke. It’s dry, full bodied and fruit forward with ripe blueberry and blackberry. The captivating spice and black pepper rush forward on the palate accenting the dark fruit. The structure is subtle, supporting and framing ripe fruit while barrel aging offers notes of chocolate-dipped coffee bean through the fruity finish. Pour alongside pork back ribs with a spicy rub. (Susan Desjardins)

William Hill Cabernet Sauvignon 2012
Napa Valley $44.95 (212951) 14.8% alcohol
The opaque purple hue signals depth and concentration in this Cabernet Sauvignon enhanced by touches of Merlot and Syrah. There’s an enticing nose of cinnamon spice and lavender, sun-ripened black fruit and licorice, vanilla and a whiff of cedar. Dry and full bodied with a defined structure, the perceptible tannin and clean acidity frame a core of dense cassis, black berry and cherry. The spice and toasty barrel notes add depth and balance to the ripe fruit and linger on the finish as a notion of chocolate-coated espresso bean. This is a mouth-watering, deftly crafted red that’ll cellar long term or decant and enjoy now with rare roast beef in peppercorn crust. (Susan Desjardins)

New in the LCBO

Château des Charmes ‘Barrel Fermented’ Chardonnay 2013
VQA Niagara-on-the-Lake $13.95 (81653) 13.0% alcohol
Buttered toast, ginger and cinnamon, pear and pineapple aromas mingle on the nose. Dry, medium-full bodied, there’s a well-defined yet restrained backbone of acidity that showcases the creamy, round texture and ripe, lush fruit. Attractive notes of spice, toast and a touch of white pepper add warmth to the flavourful, satiny finish. (Susan Desjardins)

 
Château des Charmes ‘Cuvée d’André’ Rosé 2014
VQA Niagara-on-the-Lake $14.95 (333260) 12.5% alcohol
You won’t need rose-coloured glasses to enjoy the bright tones, aromas and flavours of this herald of spring! Pure red berry and cherry notes rush from the glass of this dry, light-medium bodied Rosé. The flavours are true, it’s delightfully lively, clean and fresh, bursting with fruit and begging to be chilled and served on a sunny deck with pizza, salads or grilled chicken. (Susan Desjardins)

 
Henry of Pelham Rosé 2014
VQA Niagara Peninsula $13.95 (613471) 11.5% alcohol
This Salmon pink Rosé is a blend of several red grape varieties. It offers attractive aromas of red fruits and a whiff of ripe apple. Dry, light-medium bodied, it balances lively acidity and tasty red berry/cherry flavours with a touch of fresh herbs and a hint of apple replaying. Bright and fresh, tasty and flavourful, it’s a versatile beauty that’ll pick up your spirits after a long winter. (Susan Desjardins)

 
Pink House Wine Co. Chardonnay/Merlot 2013
VQA Niagara Peninsula $12.95 (324558) 12.5% alcohol
A Rosé by any other name . . . here’s a pretty salmon-toned white and red blend offering pleasing floral and fruit aromas. Quite silky and smooth, it has fresh texture and tasty red fruit flavours. There’s sufficient acidity to balance the sweet fruit on the finish. Sip on its own or serve with pizza or salad. (Susan Desjardins)

 
Sibling Rivalry Pink 2014
VQA Niagara Peninsula $13.95 (171003) 12.0% alcohol
A true Rosé, there’s plenty on the nose of this blend, produced from the fruit of the Cabernets, Gamay and Merlot—think tangy cherry, ripe strawberry, a touch of apple and red pepper jelly. Dry, crisp and savoury, this is a Rosé with personality, a good backbone of acidity, loads of tangy ripe red fruits and that teasing note of crunchy red peppers. Palate-cleansing and fresh, you’ll enjoy it with grilled salmon, pork or a grilled veggie medley. (Susan Desjardins)

 
Trius Sauvignon Blanc 2013
VQA Niagara Peninsula $14.95 (221804) 12.5% alcohol
Winemaker Craig McDonald, favourably influenced by his time in New Zealand, crafted this value-laden gem. Expressive on the nose, you’ll enjoy fresh notes of gooseberry, herbs and lemon grass. The pungency on the palate is brought to the fore by a warmer fermentation and extended skin contact while a touch of barrel fermentation adds to the silky texture. Dry, medium bodied and vibrant, there’s a replay of citrus and gooseberry on the palate and a note of grapefruit pith lingering on the crisp finish. Enjoy beside a salad of arugula and goat cheese. (Susan Desjardins)

New in Ontario Wineries

• Order the following two wines by the case for daily office, restaurant or home delivery direct from Peller Estates.

 
Peller Estates ‘Private Reserve’ Rosé 2013
VQA Niagara Peninsula $16.95 11.6% alcohol
Produced from hand-harvested Gamay and Pinot Noir, this award-winning elegant Rosé is reminiscent of classic Tavel offering a delicate, clean nose of red berry and cherry with a whiff of citrus. Dry, light-medium bodied, the texture is fine and silky. Subtle red fruit flavours expand on the palate, the lively backbone of acidity accenting the fruit and offering a refreshing, lengthy finish. Serve well-chilled on its own or with sautéed shrimp. (Susan Desjardins)

 
Peller Estates ‘Private Reserve’ Cabernet Franc 2012
VQA Niagara Peninsula $21.95 13.8% alcohol
From the historic 2012 vintage, this Cabernet Franc offers great fruit concentration, depth and complexity. On the nose notes of violet, ripe dark fruit, vanilla and spice mingle. Dry, medium-full bodied, the palate’s awash with dark chocolate flavours, dark berry and plum, elusive floral notes and savoury nuances. Twelve months in American and French oak add smoky, toasty notes while ripe tannin and fine acidity bring balance and structure. Bold and flavourful, it finishes warm and spicy, the dark chocolate note lingering. It’s a lovely match for roast lamb. (Susan Desjardins)

• Order the following three wines by the case for daily office, restaurant or home delivery direct from Rosehall Run.

Rosehall Run ‘The Righteous Dude’ Riesling 2014
VQA Twenty Mile Bench $19.95 9.5% alcohol
There’s an expressive nose here—pretty floral notes, aromas of peach and a whiff of citrus. Tasty fruit is the signature of this just off-dry, juicy light-medium-bodied gem—lemon-lime, crunchy green apple and ripe pear ride a backbone of vibrant acidity. Lively and refreshing on the finish, this is a great wine to serve with soft cheese or with pork schnitzel. (Susan Desjardins)

 
Rosehall Run ‘Hungry Point Unoaked Chardonnay’ 2014
VQA Prince Edward County $19.95 13.0% alcohol
Enjoy the lovely aromas offered by this stainless-steel fermented Chard—sugar-coated almonds, apple/pear tart and fresh citrus. Dry, medium bodied, you’ll find good balance, weight and presence on the palate. There are zippy notes of green apple, juicy grapefruit, grapefruit zest and almond kernel offering a lip-smacking taste experience. Clean and fresh in texture, pour with creamy pasta or sole almandine. (Susan Desjardins)

 
Rosehall Run ‘Hungry Point’ Pinot Noir 2013
VQA Prince Edward County $24.95 12.0% alcohol
Produced from fruit of dry-farmed vines then aged 15 months in French oak, this ruby-red Pinot offers notes of smoke, red cherry, pomegranate and spice. Dry, medium bodied, there’s a touch of smoke, earthy beetroot, red cherry/berry with notes of herbs and spice adding complexity. Tannin provides structure while clean acidity provides freshness and balance. You can cellar this short term or pair now with roast duck and a cherry reduction. (Susan Desjardins)

Cheers, Vic and Susan