March 31, 2012 Vintages Release

California Wine Fair Tour – Friday, March 30 in Ottawa 7:00 to 9:30 p.m.
The Westin Ottawa - Confederation Ballroom - 11 Colonel By Drive
General Admission $70.00 includes admission and all tastings
Please use a taxi or public transportation

This event sells out each year - no tickets sold at door! Purchase tickets here…

Over 110 wineries offer more than 450 different wines for tasting. These tastings provide a wonderful opportunity to sample a wide range of styles and varietals from all of the major wine-growing regions of the Golden State. The largest tasting tour of California wines in Canada. 



For information on the tour or to book tickets, contact California Wines at 1-800-558-2675 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or click here.

Vic is still in South Africa and for the next little bit; this week’s reviews and winery backgrounds focus on Swartland—the wine region many think is one of the, if not the, most exciting. Even though harvest is just winding down, winery principals, managers, marketers and winemakers gave most generously of their time providing winecurrent subscribers with a rare glimpse into the history of the Cape winelands along with an interesting take on the future.


There’s a brief introduction to each winery and a number of wines reviewed that you access via the link below. Many are, or will be, available through agents and in LCBO, SAQ and other Canadian retail stores. You’ll most likely learn a great deal and, if you have any thoughts of a visit, you’ll get a feel for the treat in store. Read more…

Highlights in this winecurrent newsletter include:

• Finding Waldo – six wines sport the icon which represents wines of ‘exceptional value’—two in the Main Release and four in the Special Feature on Swartland, South Africa click here…
• Susan’s Value Selections at $14.95 – Quady Elysium Black Muscat; Zuccardi Serie A Chardonnay/Viogner; La Posta Estala Armando Vineyard Bonarda; Château Roquetaillade La Grange Blanc; Château La Fleur Terrien.

Susan Desjardins tasted and reviewed this Vintages Release solo while Vic continues to tour South Africa. This winecurrent newsletter reviews wines in the order of the catalogue.

Main Release

Dessert Wine

Quady ‘Elysium’ Black Muscat 2010
California $14.95 (276840) 15.0% alcohol
From a respected producer of Muscat wine comes this intensely aromatic dessert wine featuring raspberry compote, dried fruit, spice and floral notes. Medium-full bodied, it’s tangy and sweet with rich berry flavours and floral notes persisting on a long, honeyed finish. Excellent value, it pairs with raspberry/blueberry tart or chocolate mousse. (Susan Desjardins)


Sorelli Vinsanto del Chianti Classico
DOC Vin Santo del Chianti Classico $25.95 (270233) 15.5% alcohol
A rich, amber-gold hue, this tantalizing gem offers aromas of apricot jam, marmalade, dried fruits and honey. Sweet, spicy and tangy, it’s substantial on the palate and nicely balanced, finishing with notes of candied zest and toasted nuts. Sip on its own or with shortbread cookies. (Susan Desjardins)

Sparkling Wine

Graham Beck ‘Premier Cuvée’ Blanc de Blancs Brut 2007
WO Robertson $24.95 (907568) 12.5% alcohol
Produced from 100% Chardonnay, 50% of which was fermented in seasoned Champagne barrels, this is an attractive, creamy sparkling wine. The fine, mouth-filling mousse lifts and carries ripe orchard fruit, fine citrus and butter pastry across the palate. Elegant and refined, this is a delightful sipper for any occasion. (Susan Desjardins)


Tenuta S. Anna ‘Extra Dry’ Prosecco
DOC Prosecco $15.95 (169128) 11.5% alcohol
Offering a fine frothy persistent mousse, this is a lovely crisp Prosecco that delivers an outstanding balance of crisp, fresh, fruit flavours—apple, pear and lemon-lime to the fore—and a bright invigorating texture. The finish is clean, long lasting and refreshing. Match this classic to another—prosciutto and melon. Pick up a few bottles to enjoy with friends. (Susan Desjardins)

Ontario: White Wine

Fielding Estate Winery ‘Unoaked’ Chardonnay 2008 

VQA Niagara Peninsula $15.95 (164491) 12.5% alcohol 

Well paced, well made and well priced—it gained its final half star on value. There are aromas and flavours galore with ripe Bosc pear, lemon-lime citrus and an underlying sense of slate and earthy tones. Mid weight and nicely textured, it keeps its focus throughout the crisp and refreshing finish. Sip on its own or pair with linguine con vongole. (Vic Harradine)


Megalomaniac ‘Eccentric’ Savagnin 2010
VQA Niagara Peninsula $24.95 (273870) 12.9% alcohol
A late-ripening varietal, Savagnin is traditionally used in the production of the ‘vin jaune’ of the Jura region of France. This version offers quite alluring and intricate aromas—floral notes, orchard fruits, fine herbs and an elusive nutty note. Dry, medium bodied, the crisp acidity matches the flavours of orchard fruit and citrus, the nutty note tantalizing through the lengthy, juicy finish. Enjoy with grilled white fish. (Susan Desjardins)


Vintage Ink ‘Rite of Passage’ Chardonnay 2010 

VQA Niagara Peninsula $16.95 (245712) 13.5% alcohol 

Expressive, perfumed aromas—sweet floral, baking spice, apple and lemon-pie filling—herald a medium-bodied, fully textured Chardonnay. Flavours abound on the palate with ripe pear, crisp apple and sweet ripe pit fruit to the fore. It cleans up crisp and refreshing with a mid-length finish showcasing tangy white grapefruit. Pour with clay-baked chicken or slow-roasted pork. (Vic Harradine)

Ontario: Red Wine

Château des Charmes ‘Estate Bottled Old Vines’ Pinot Noir 2007
VQA Niagara-on-the-Lake $18.95 (256834) 13.0% alcohol
Produced using sustainable-vineyard practices, this dry, mid-weight Pinot offers elusive earthy, smoky aromas wrapped around a core of ripe, spiced fruit. Lively and structured, it freshens the palate while offering solid cherry/berry flavours garnished with nuances of herbs and white pepper persisting through the lasting, dry finish. Juicy and tasty with great presence on the palate, it’s a food-friendly choice paired well with Michèle Bosc’s suggestion of lamb burgers with caramelized onions, can also cellar short term. (Susan Desjardins)


Vintage Ink ‘Mark of Passion’ Merlot - Cabernet 2009

VQA Niagara Peninsula $17.95 (250209) 13.5% alcohol

Opening with a subtle nose of dark roast, spice and espresso roast, this delivers a juicy wash of fruit-forward flavour—red cherry and black currant mingling with spiced blood plum. It’s mid weight with good mouth feel and well balanced throughout. It finishes warm and fruity framed by good moderating acidity and a supple tannin structure. (Vic Harradine)

Ontario: Rosé Wine

Tawse ‘Sketches’ Rosé 2011 

VQA Niagara Peninsula $15.95 (172643) 12.5% alcohol 

Charming salmon pink, this perennial favourite is produced from a blend of Cabernet Franc, Pinot Noir and Gamay. An appealing fresh, floral note and cherry/berry aromas rush from the glass. Dry, medium bodied, deftly balanced, it’s clean, fruity and lively on the palate, the red fruit and juicy texture offering a delightfully tasty, crisp and flavourful finish. Sip away. (Susan Desjardins)

Okanagan Valley, B.C.: White Wine

Mission Hill ‘Reserve’ Sauvignon Blanc 2009
VQA Okanagan Valley $19.95 (57430) 13.5% alcohol
Quite subtle on the nose, less than 20% aged in oak, this Sauvignon Blanc features aromas of fresh citrus, gooseberry and sweet woodruff. Dry and mid weight, silky in texture, the intermingling of citrus, pear, passion fruit and a spiced honey note carry through the lengthy finish to create an alluring and nuanced wine. A good match for roast trout or grilled salmon. (Susan Desjardins)

Okanagan Valley, B.C.: Red Wine

Cedar Creek Pinot Noir 2008
VQA Okanagan Valley $31.95 (273482) 13.9% alcohol
Enjoy the earthy character of this Okanagan Pinot Noir, autumnal notes mingling with roast beet root, red berries and spice. Dry, mid weight and refreshingly crisp on the palate, it has a clean, fresh texture and bright, red fruit flavours—cranberry, red plum and cherry dominate—garnished with notes of spice and white pepper. Delicate hints of toast and cocoa emerge on the finish. A wine designed for food, it’ll pair well with venison tenderloin with mushrooms in a red wine sauce. (Susan Desjardins)

California: White Wine

First Press Chardonnay 2010
Napa Valley $19.95 (199810) 14.5% alcohol
This bold and beautiful, oaked Chardonnay will pour well with your Easter turkey or glazed ham. Offering appealing aromas of vanilla-scented orchard and tropical fruits, it’s dry, round and substantial. A core of orchard fruit, notes of citrus and an attractive nutty character bathe the palate. Well balanced with a lasting, toasty finish, it’s bound to be a crowd pleaser. (Susan Desjardins)

California: Red Wine

Raymond ‘R Collection’ Field Blend Lot No. 7 2009
California $17.95 (265959) 13.8% alcohol
A blend of 7 varietals, this has at its core Cabernet Sauvignon, along with Merlot, Syrah, Petite Syrah and Zinfandel. The aromas of sweet fruit, spice and vanilla presage sweet red and black berry fruit, vanilla and exotic spice. Dry, smooth and round, it’s softly structured, well balanced and approachable, finishing full and fruity. Enjoy with grilled meats or roast beef au jus. (Susan Desjardins)


St. Francis Cabernet Sauvignon 2007
Sonoma County $29.95 (671164) 14.6% alcohol
Produced from hand-harvested grapes and aged 23 months in French and American oak, this is a robust wine offering good depth and structure. Aromas of cedar, cassis, spice and smoke entice. Dry, round and full flavoured, ripe tannin and fine acidity ensure balance. Recurring notes of spice, smoke and cedar bring complexity to the stream of red and black berry fruit persisting through the long dry finish. (Susan Desjardins)

Oregon: Red Wine

A to Z Wineworks Pinot Noir 2009
Oregon $23.95 (229781) 13.5% alcohol
Semi-transparent ruby, this is a lovely cool-climate Pinot Noir that beguiles with earthy, berry and spice aromas. Dry and medium bodied, the texture is silky and lively with bright, red-fruit flavours streaming across the palate mingling with notes of spice and toast through the lingering finish. Enjoy now with mushroom risotto or cellar medium term. (Susan Desjardins)

Argentina: White Wine

Zuccardi ‘Serie A’ Chardonnay/Viognier 2010
Mendoza $14.95 (262097) 13.5% alcohol
This finely crafted, award winner offers tempting aromas—floral, stone fruit, mineral and citrus. Dry, ample and round, it’s well balanced and flavourful with fresh acidity and minerality balancing orchard fruit and citrus zest along with notes of spice-infused toast lingering on the extended finish. Excellent value and a good choice for Easter dinner. (Susan Desjardins)

Argentina: Red Wine

La Posta Estela ‘Armando Vineyard’ Bonarda 2009
Mendoza $14.95 (261586) 13.5% alcohol
Widely planted in Argentina, Bonarda seems to have originated in Savoie, France and is known for producing intensely flavourful wines when from old vines. From a single vineyard planted in 1963, this is loaded with dark fruit aromas that intermingle with tantalizing notes of spiced chocolate and earth. Dry, medium-full bodied, the structure subtly frames and balances the concentrated core of dark fruit, notes of vanilla, cocoa and toast emerging and persisting on a fruity finish. Very nice value and a great choice for grilled meats or meat lasagna. (Susan Desjardins)


Zuccardi ‘Q’ Malbec 2009
Mendoza $19.95 (723478) 14.0% alcohol
Inky with violet notes, this is a well-crafted, cellarable red. Produced from hand-harvested fruit and aged 12 months in French oak, it delivers complexity and value. On the nose, dark fruit, floral notes and spice entice. Mid weight and intense on the palate, the tannins make their presence felt and there’s a freshness in the texture that provides just the right balance and structure for aging. Intriguing notes of espresso roast, vanilla and spice complement the ripe black fruits and flow through an extended, dry finish. Match to robust meat dishes or cellar medium term. (Susan Desjardins)

Chile: Red Wine

Anakena ‘Ona’ Pinot Noir 2010
Leyda Valley $19.95 (269183) 13.5% alcohol
Pinot lovers take note, this award-winner is a great choice for those seeking subtlety and balance. Earthy, floral, herbal and spice notes intermingle with fresh red berries to captivate at the first whiff. On the light side of mid weight, refreshingly dry, the wine replays those lovely red berry flavours while notes of cedar, vanilla and sweet kitchen spice add complexity to the clean finish. It’s wonderful value. (Susan Desjardins)

Australia: White Wine

Yalumba Viognier 2010
Eden Valley $24.95 (954644) 13.5% alcohol
Part of the Easter feature, this luscious, round Viognier is awash in fragrance—lovely floral notes, ripe stone fruit and nuances of clover honey. Dry, medium-full bodied, it’s well balanced, displaying very fresh texture and a notion of mineral matched to rich, spice-infused fruit that lasts and lasts on the finish. A fine match to glazed roast ham. (Susan Desjardins)

Australia: Red Wine

Mount Langi Ghiran ‘Billi Billi’ Shiraz 2007
Australia $17.95 (719575) 14.5% alcohol
If looking for a solid, generous Shiraz that offers great value—this is it. Deep ruby, the aromas of dark fruit, spice and licorice waft from the glass. Dry, medium-full bodied, it’s round, smooth and consistently flavourful with tangy notes of pepper lifting the sweet spiced fruit through the lengthy finish. Enjoy now with barbequed leg of lamb or cellar mid term. (Susan Desjardins)

France: White Wine

Château Roquetaillade ‘La Grange’ Blanc 2010
AOC Graves $14.95 (240374) 12.0% alcohol
Here’s a mouthwateringly good white Bordeaux blend that gets your nose aquiver with gooseberry, citrus and mineral aromas. Dry, mid-weight, the lively acidity provides a clean texture that frames appealing flavours of citrus, passion fruit and mineral. It finishes fresh and long, a perfect match to grilled white fish or a warm green bean and salmon salad with lemon dressing. (Susan Desjardins)

France : Red Wine

Château du Périer 2008
AOC Médoc $16.95 (35634) 13.0% alcohol
A well-defined, Bordeaux blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, this ruby gem intrigues with mineral, floral qualities that marry with aromas of red fruit and spice. Dry, mid-full weight, the perceptible drying tannins and fresh acidity frame flavours of field berries, spice and subtle herbal notes. Displaying a long, dry finish, this is a candidate for the cellar. (Susan Desjardins)


Château la Fleur Terrien 2009
AOC Lussac Saint- Émilion $14.95 (199059) 13.5% alcohol
Predominantly Merlot with the Cabernets playing a supporting role, this is a remarkably well-priced Bordeaux blend. Deep ruby, fragrant with black cherry, berry, earth and cedar, it’s mid-weight, dry and quite interesting. Perceptible tannin and lively acidity balance berry fruit enhanced by notes of cocoa and spice. It finishes clean, dry and toasty. Very good value, it’s a match for Easter roast lamb. (Susan Desjardins)


Hecht & Bannier Côtes du Roussillon-Villages 2008
AOC Côtes du Roussillon-Villages $22.95 (142802) 15.0% alcohol
This blend of Grenache, Mourvèdre, Carignan and Syrah offers depth of colour and flavours. There’s complexity on the nose—smoke, herbal and floral aromas, a mineral component and rich dark fruit. An intriguing wine that brings you back for another taste, it’s subtly structured and satiny in texture, showcasing dark fruit and enticingly complex flavours of herbs, toast and tangy pepper. It finishes dry and tantalizing. Pick up a few bottles to enjoy now and to sample over the next few years. (Susan Desjardins)


Galévan Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2009
AOC Châteauneuf-du-Pape $41.95 (251603) 14.5% alcohol
This is quite a striking Châteauneuf from winemaker Coralie Goumarre, whose Rhône blend ‘Paroles de Femme’ was featured in an earlier Vintages release. Grenache forms the base, with Mourvèdre and Syrah in support for this dry, full bodied and earthy wine. The nose is autumnal in character—forest floor, mushroom, herbs. The palate is structured with perceptible tannins, fresh acidity and compelling flavours of cherry/berry fruit, plum, herbs, spice and cocoa. Weighty yet fresh on the finish, it’s a match for rich roast meat dishes and will cellar medium term. (Susan Desjardins)


Les Dolia ‘Laudun’ Côtes du Rhône-Villages 2009
AOC Côtes du Rhône-Villages $18.95 (271999) 14.0% alcohol
A drink-me-now blend of Grenache and Syrah, this ruby-hued red offers appealing aromas of berry fruit, herbes de Provence and mineral notes. Dry and mid weight, it displays a tangy, peppery texture, a ripe generous fruit core and toasty smoky notes, finishing clean, fresh and fruity. Enjoy it with roast beef tenderloin this Easter. (Susan Desjardins)


Xavier Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2009 

AOC Châteauneuf-du-Pape $39.95 (244814) 14.5% alcohol 

Use of 3 varietals (Grenache, Mourvèdre and Syrah) from decades-old vines grown on 3 different terroirs, brings complexity to this classic blend. Subtle, enticing aromas drift from the glass—sandalwood, red berry, cherry and hints of menthol with herbes de Provence layering on complexity. The shyness is overcome on the palate. Dry and full bodied, this is a beautifully balanced red with weight and warmth highlighting a frame of ripe tannin and clean vivid berry flavours. Intensely flavourful, peppery notes and nuances of roasted coffee beans persist on the extended finish. Enjoy now with bison bourguignon or cellar long term. (Susan Desjardins)

Germany: White Wine

Studert-Prüm Riesling Spätlese 2007 

Präditkatswein Wehlener Sonnenuhr $24.95 (114777) 9.5% alcohol 

This is the 12th generation of the Studert family cultivating vines in this area since 1581. There are mineral and sharp spicy notes on the nose while the flavours are all about ripe tree fruit—yellow plum, ripe pear and juicy nectarine. This is medium weight with a silky-smooth texture and lengthy fruit-forward finish. (Vic Harradine)

Italy: Red Wine

Cantina Tollo ‘Aldiano’ Montepulciano d’Abruzzo Riserva 2007 

DOC Montepulciano d’Abruzzo $16.95 (51706) 14.0% alcohol 

Inky purple, full bodied and loaded with aromas and flavours of ripe dark fruit, spice box and vanilla, this is a well-crafted approachable wine. Soft tannin and acidity provide sufficient structure to balance the focused fruit and the finish delights with notes of pepper, licorice and spice-infused chocolate. Enjoy with meaty tomato-based pasta. (Susan Desjardins)


Fratelli Giacosa Nebbiolo d’Alba 2009
DOC Nebbiolo d’Alba $15.95 (268664) 13.0% alcohol
Semi-transparent garnet, this is a stylish, fine Nebbiolo that entices with aromas of red berry fruit, leather and earth. Dry, mid-weight, red fruit flavours mingle with a whiff of herbs and a mineral quality. Fresh in texture with perceptible tannin, it’s juicy through the long, fresh finish. Italian grilled vegetables or an earthy risotto are good matches. (Susan Desjardins)


Castellani ‘Vignetti di Campomaggio’ Rosso 2007 

IGT Toscana $19.95 (72371) 13.0% alcohol 

This nicely balanced blend of Sangiovese and Canaiolo displays engaging aromas of cherry cola, red fruit, spice and vanilla. Dry, medium-full bodied, there’s lovely balance, fresh acidity and ripe tannin framing bright red fruit and notes of cocoa. Tantalizing vanilla persists on the clean lengthy finish. Match to pasta in tomato-based sauce or a medley of herbed roasted tomatoes, artichokes and chicken. (Susan Desjardins)


Tasca d’Almerita ‘Lamùri’ Nero d’Avola 2009
IGT Sicilia $17.95 (568089) 14.0% alcohol
Here’s an engaging ruby-toned red offering appealing aromas of sweet, dark fruit, vanilla and floral notes. Medium bodied, it’s fresh, lively, well framed and balanced, the bright red fruit flavours adorned with notes of spice and vanilla. Juicy in texture, it delivers a dry, lengthy, refreshing finish. This will easily cellar medium term. (Susan Desjardins)


Corte Pavone Brunello di Montalcino 2005 

DOCG Brunello di Montalcino $49.95 (237263) 14.5% alcohol 

The involved and evolved bouquet includes berry compote, earthiness, floral notes and a hint of leather. Dry and full bodied, displaying a firm structure and bright acidity, the berry notes replay on the palate garnished with a grind of black pepper. The finish is dry, long and mouthwatering. Good to age 3-5 more years or decant for an hour or two prior to serving with a rare steak. (Susan Desjardins)


Antolini Morópio Amarone della Valpolicella Classico 2006 

DOC Amarone della Valpolicella Classico $34.95 (247957) 16.0 % alcohol 

Garnet in hue, this dry, full-bodied Amarone is powerful, quite opulent and beautifully balanced. Aromas of dried fruits, spice-laden red fruit and vanilla spill from the glass. Rich and concentrated on the palate with intense spice and pepper notes, it offers fresh texture and well-integrated tannin. The harmony of structure and intensity carries through on the lengthy, spiced, fruit-laden finish. This is good value with further aging potential. (Susan Desjardins)


Corte Majoli Ripasso Valpolicella Superiore 2008
DOC Valpolicella $16.95 (84061) 13.5% alcohol
Ruby-garnet hued, this offers classic aromas of dried fruit, as well as spice and black plum. Dry, medium-full bodied, the aromas replay on the palate with an added hint of herbs and pepper. All components are in balance, tannin and oak well integrated, fresh acidity matched to rich fruit flavours with all providing a lengthy, savoury finish. Serve with braised chicken thighs or roast pork. (Susan Desjardins)

Spain: Red Wine

Finca Sobreño Crianza 2008
DO Toro $17.95 (40360) 14.5% alcohol
This Tempranillo is excellent value, whether enjoyed now or in the future. Deep-ruby garnet, it’s produced from hand-harvested grapes from the producer’s oldest vineyards and aged in American oak. It entices with aromas of cedar, balsamic, sweet, ripe, dark fruit and subtle-floral notes. Dry, medium-full bodied, structured and robust, the perceptible tannin and lively acidity are a match for the ripe fruit, exotic spice and notes of espresso roast. The lingering finish is warm and spicy. Enjoy with roasted stuffed peppers or classic paella. (Susan Desjardins)

New in Vintages

Tabalí ‘Reserva’ Sauvignon Blanc 2011
DO Valle del Limarí $14.95 (662999) 13.5% alcohol
Clear with a yellow-green tinge, this wine is a nice value offering lifted aromas of gooseberry, lemongrass, tropical fruit and citrus. Dry, clean and crisp, subtle minerality accents a vivid fresh texture and tangy concentrated flavours of citrus and green plum. Juicy and refreshing, with a lasting aftertaste, it’s a match for grilled white fish or a pizza garnished with goat cheese. (Susan Desjardins)


Medeiros Vinho Regional Alentejano 2009
Alentejano $16.95 (268789) 15.0% alcohol
A blend of Aragonez (Tempranillo), Syrah, Touriga Nacional and Cabernet Sauvignon, aged 12 months in oak, this inky wine entices with aromas of leather, cedar and vanilla, subtle berry fruit and notes of sweet spice and herbs. Dry, medium-full bodied, it’s vibrant on the attack and fresh textured. Lively concentrated sweet spice-infused fruit is framed by slightly drying tannins. This is a well crafted and well priced wine that finishes with lingering warm notes of vanilla and cedar. Enjoy with roast meats. (Susan Desjardins)

New in the LCBO Portfolio

Château des Charmes ‘St. David’s Bench Vineyard’ Sauvignon Blanc 2010
VQA St. David’s Bench $14.95 (391300) 13.0% alcohol
Attractive floral and vegetal notes intermingle with the pungency of citrus and a mineral quality in this introductory vintage. Dry, crisp and fresh, this medium-bodied, straw-green Sauvignon Blanc displays clean minerality and replays zesty citrus—grapefruit and lime to the fore—with hints of passion fruit and fresh-cut green pepper. Vibrant and refreshing on the finish, match with grilled sockeye salmon marinated in lemon, Dijon mustard and maple syrup. (Susan Desjardins)

New in Ontario Wineries

Rosewood Merlot 2010
VQA Niagara Escarpment $22.20 13.5% alcohol
Ruby violet, this enchanting red offers beguiling aromas of black fruit, spice, chocolate-coated roasted nuts and a whiff of smoke. Dry, medium-full bodied and quite plush, the texture is smooth and fresh, the tannin ripe and pliant while the rich dark fruit’s paired perfectly with spice and tangy pepper. There’s subtle earthiness and a hint of peppery warmth on the toasty finish. Give it time to further integrate, then match to grilled beef tenderloin with wild mushroom sauce. Available to purchase or for home or office delivery from Rosewood Estates. (Susan Desjardins)


Rosewood ‘Reserve’ Chardonnay 2009
VQA Beamsville Bench $28.20 14.0% alcohol
Winner of a silver medal at Intervin, this pale-golden Chardonnay was hand harvested, naturally fermented and aged 12 months in French oak. Buttery, toasty, nutty aromas waft over ripe orchard fruit, pineapple and vanilla. There’s a masterful balance of fruit, oak and fresh acidity, a creamy, fresh texture and great mélange of concentrated stone and orchard fruit with well-integrated savoury toasty oak and a lingering hint of caramel on the finish. Pair with creamy pasta with grilled chicken or cellar 2-4 more years Available to purchase or for home or office delivery from Rosewood Estates. (Susan Desjardins)


Rosewood Mead ‘Royale’ 2008
Product of Canada $18.20 12.5% alcohol
Straw hued, the subtle aromas of this slightly sweeter mead include savoury, slightly pungent notes, honey and a floral note reminiscent of summer clover. Lush and silky in texture, the palate is elegantly restrained—preserved apricot, herbal notes and subtle honey flavours dominate. An intriguing marriage of a dry texture and sweet, tangy flavours, it works well between courses or after dinner with Canadian cheddar. Available to purchase or for home or office delivery from Rosewood Estates. (Susan Desjardins)

Cheers, Vic and Susan