April 8, 2013 Newsletter
Véronique Rivest – Top-12 Finalist 2007/2010 ‘Best Sommelier of the World’
Wine Tasting / Small-Plates Dinner and Wine-Pairing Experience
Wednesday, April 10, 2013 at 7:00 PM
Restaurant International, Algonquin College, Ottawa ON
Congratulations to Véronique Rivest, who finished 2nd overall in ‘The Best Sommelier of the World’ competition—the top female participant and first ever to finish in top three!
Taste a wine blinded to you and Véronique – learn skills from a champion!
Attend a unique, tutored wine tasting and small-plates dinner, and wine-pairing experience led by celebrity sommelier, Véronique Rivest, double winner of ‘Canada’s Best Sommelier’, winner of ‘The Best Sommelier of the Americas’ 2012, and top-12 finalist of ‘The Best Sommelier of the World’ competition 2007 and 2010.
Learn how it’s done and practice how to do it, while experiencing the rush of tasting six wines with skill and confidence, and then pairing those wines with a small-plates dinner. This unique evening is for novice and seasoned wine-lovers alike.
All proceeds of the evening will go to Véronique Rivest, Algonquin College Sommelier Graduate, National Capital Sommelier Guild Governor and former Algonquin Sommelier Program Instructor, helping defray lost income and expenses incurred during her six year quest.
Free Parking is available immediately in front of Restaurant International ‘H’ Building.
Tickets: $100 + HST per person (no tickets sold at the door)
Purchase tickets here
California Wine Fair
The California Wine Fair visits 6 cities across Canada, venues are often sold out. Purchase tickets now; the admission price includes a tasting of all wines – slated for more than 100 wineries represented and over 430 wines to taste - plus light snacks. No tickets sold at the door.
- Wednesday, April 10th: Calgary, Alberta, Hotel Arts
- Thursday, May 2nd: Halifax, Nova Scotia, Pier 21
You can purchase tickets online at www.calwine.ca now or have questions answered via the California Wine Fair Hotline (905) 336-8932 or 1-800-558-CORK (2675).
Highlights in this winecurrent newsletter include:
• Véronique Rivest event - Introduce yourself if you attend; love to meet you, Vic.
• Exceptional value wines – 
3 wines meet the strict price/quality criteria; one in the Main Release and two following at $12.95, $13.95 and $17.95
• Finding Waldo – this attractive red blend, only $15.95, punches well above its price and hails from Vin de Pays des Côtes Catalanes.
This newsletter highlights reviews from the April 13, 2013 Vintages Release with over 50 wines tasted, spat and reviewed.
You can 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. You can also see the number of bottles available in each store. For Vintages Release wines, the stock should be showing on the site by Friday before a Saturday release with some stores posting before then. For LCBO Portfolio wines, it should closely reflect stock in stores, still, best to phone first.
Vintages Release: April 13, 2013
New Zealand Feature
Oyster Bay Sauvignon Blanc 2012
Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand $18.95 (316570) 13.0% alcohol
Lemon-lime citrus, grassy and pit fruit on the nose, this washes across the palate at full sail with tangy, juicy flavours of lemon drop candy, herbaceous notes and lip-smacking key lime pie flavours. Medium bodied with a silky mouth feel—consistently one of the best-tasting, best-value whites in Vintages Essentials line up. (Vic Harradine)
Oyster Bay Sparkling Cuvée Rosé Non-vintage
New Zealand $21.95 (280172) 12.0% alcohol
This attractive pink-hued sparkler, fashioned from 20% hand-harvested Pinot Noir and 80% low-yielding Chardonnay, was fermented in the Charmat a.k.a. Cuve Close method. It hustles from the bottle with an energetic mousse and aromas of red berry fruit and spice with hints of brioche. It delivers spirited and lively flavours of citrus and red currant interwoven with sweeter and riper cherry on the lip-smacking aftertaste. (Vic Harradine)
Oyster Bay Merlot 2012
Hawkes Bay $18.95 (692343) 13.0% alcohol
This is a reliably good dry, mid-full weight Merlot showcasing smoky, toasty, spicy cherry/berry and plum fruit. Nicely balanced, ripe tannins and lively acidity frame concentrated raspberry, black cherry and plum. There’s a touch of spice and a notion of chocolate-coated cherries through the clean, fruity finish. Serve with herbed roast loin of pork. (Susan Desjardins)
Kim Crawford ‘East Coast’ Unoaked Chardonnay 2012
Marlborough/Hawkes Bay $18.95 (991950) 13.0% alcohol
Straw hued and delightfully expressive with aromas of white flowers, citrus and ripe stone fruit, this is a clean, fresh wine. Dry, with a racy backbone of keen acidity, it offers flavours of melon, green apple and tangy citrus, as well as a pithy note that persists on the lengthy, mouth-watering aftertaste. Enjoy with your choice of seafood or lemon roast chicken. (Susan Desjardins)
Kim Crawford Pinot Gris 2011
Marlborough $19.95 (680983) 13.5% alcohol
Fragrant with aromas of peach, melon and orchard fruit, this off-dry wine is light-medium bodied and tasty, with a core of stone and orchard fruit, notes of lime zest and a good frame of fine acidity. An enjoyable sipping wine or one to pair with lightly spiced dishes. (Susan Desjardins)
Portugal Feature
Deu la Deu Alvarinho Vinho Verde 2011
DOC Moncao e Melgaco $19.95 (40642) 13.0% alcohol
Offering a clean, fresh profile, the aromas and flavours of this classic wine are of fresh-cut grassy herbs, pithy citrus and wet stone. Displaying bright acidity, it`s crisp and lively through the palate-cleansing finish. A great choice for pan-fried white fish or seafood. (Susan Desjardins)
Delaforce Touriga Nacional 2009
DOC Douro $18.95 (324517) 14.0% alcohol
Spice box, rich plum and dark berry fruit aromas on the nose, there’s a luscious mouthful of black currant, bittersweet chocolate and spice-laden red cherry showering the palate with good structure and complexity. Value-packed and mid weight with good texture, the lengthy, balanced finish is bolstered by notions of mocha and a dusty tannin underpinning. Poured and paired well alongside rich stew or grilled lamb. (Vic Harradine)
Fracastel ‘Lua Nova Em Vinhas Velhas’ 2010
DOC Douro $14.95 (266882) 13.5% alcohol
Opening with a quiet nose of spiced, mixed field-berry-fruit aromas, this rich and concentrated foot-trodden, unoaked, old-vines, red blend washes over the palate and through the lengthy, lip-smacking finish with deft balance, some complexity and black currant interlaced with dark, juicy cherry. The aftertaste is wreathed in excellent moderating acidity and a solid tannin underpinning. Drink 2014 to 2018. (Vic Harradine)
Quinta de Ventozelo Reserva 2009
DOC Douro $21.95 (21329) 14.5% alcohol
Inky purple, aged 12 months in oak, this blend of the classic port grapes tantalizes with complex aromas—smoke, spice and a mineral nuance wafting over dark fruit. Dry, full bodied and concentrated, it displays a subtle yet firm structure, a lovely velvety texture and rich flavours of plum and black cherry. A model of balance and weight, it finishes long and nuanced with notes of smoky toast. (Susan Desjardins)
Adriano Ramos Pinto Duas Quintas 2010
DOC Douro $16.95 (359893) 13.5% alcohol
The four traditional Port grapes in this Douro blend have coalesced into a tangy, juicy red with aromas of toasty notes, exotic incense and berry fruit. Racy red currant and pomegranate dominate the palate with nuances of spiced black plum and earthiness. It’s medium weight with good mouth feel and a tangy aftertaste underpinned by supple tannin. Pour with sliced, flamed choriço sausage. (Vic Harradine)
Monte Villar Reserva 2011
Vinho Regional Alentejano $14.95 (276105) 14.0% alcohol
An excellent value, this ruby/violet blend of native grape varieties displays remarkable complexity of aromas—vanilla, ripe fresh field berries, dried cherries, mineral and earth. Dry, medium-full bodied, the concentrated dark berry fruit is garnished with a touch of pepper and espresso and framed by fresh acidity and perceptible tannins. The finish is dry, full flavoured and long lasting. Pick up a few bottles and try them over the next several years. (Susan Desjardins)
The Main Release
Champagne
Georges Gardet ‘Cuvée Saint Flavy’ Brut Champagne Non-Vintage
AOC Champagne $37.95 (924654) 12.0% alcohol
This has an attractive nose of mineral, floral and heady citrus notes. There’s a lovely attack on the palate with a rush of white grapefruit and green apple flavours infused with spice and mineral nuances. It’s medium in weight and texture and offers a lingering finish that’s zesty and clean. There’s enough oomph for it to be paired with light appetizers and the very attractive price allows it to be served as the welcoming wine at large, upscale gatherings. (Vic Harradine)
Ontario: White Wine
Rosehall Run ‘Cuvée County’ Chardonnay 2010
VQA Prince Edward County $21.95 (132928) 13.5% alcohol
This was barrel fermented then aged in French oak 14 months with 1/3 new barrels. Perfumed aromas of toasty oak, nutty notes and ripe apple abound. It’s racy, tangy and brimming with key lime, white peach and pear interwoven with lemongrass and wisps of oak. Mid weight and nicely textured, the aftertaste brims with a crisp, refreshing line of acidity, oaky notes and minerality. Good now, better 2014 – 2016. (Vic Harradine)
Viewpointe Estate Auxerrois 2011
VQA Lake Erie North Shore $14.95 (327239) 12.5% alcohol
From a dramatic boutique estate winery on the shore of Lake Erie comes this lovely pale gold wine, tantalizing the nose with delicate aromas of stone and tropical fruit, pear and flowers. Just off-dry, the flavours are quite intense—pineapple, ripe yellow plum, apricot and juicy nectarine. It’s a very tasty wine with a fine balancing seam of acidity and a delicious fruity finish. A good choice to sip on its own or to savor with lightly spiced dishes. Available exclusively through the LCBO, previous vintages of this wine have quickly sold out at the winery – don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy it this spring and summer! (Susan Desjardins)
Ontario: Red Wine
Château des Charmes ‘Paul Bosc Estate Vineyard – Equuleus’ 2010
VQA St. David’s Bench $40.00 (319525) 14.0% alcohol
This über-premium red blend—50% Cab Sauv, 25% Cab Franc, 25% Merlot—is produced only in top vintages and was hard to spit. Rich, dark berry fruit, cherry cola, chicory and dusty earthiness on the nose, it coats the palate with rich, robust flavours—cassis, briary berry and black, juicy cherry interlaced with spice, fennel and sweet vanilla underpinned by still-resolving tannin. It’s structured with good complexity, the aftertaste lingers with minerality and excellent acidity. Pour after a three-hour aeration/decant or be rewarded for patience with 5-star wine; pop corks 2015-2022. (Vic Harradine)
Fielding Estate Cabernet Franc 2011
VQA Niagara Peninsula $21.95 (36194) 12.5% alcohol
Calling all Cabernet Franc lovers, this is a wonderfully flavourful, deftly crafted red. Complex aromas include a floral note, hints of roasted red pepper, mineral and sweet spice and a rush of red berry. Dry, medium bodied and tangy, displaying firm tannins, lively acidity and depth of red and black berry fruit. Spice, herbal notes and a hint of chocolate add complexity, garnishing the long-lasting, earthy, flavourful finish. Serve with grilled meats and vegetables. (Susan Desjardins)
Norman Hardie ‘County’ Pinot Noir ‘Unfiltered’ 2011
VQA Prince Edward County $35.00 (125310) 12.1% alcohol
‘A classic County profile’ is how Norman Hardie describes this refined, medium-bodied wine. A clear ruby, the nose offers complex aromas—red cherry, wild strawberry, earth, mineral and a touch of spice. Dry, silky in texture, it’s nervy and racy, the bright red berry fruit mingling with earthy notes, mineral and hints of dried herbs. A great wine to pair with duck and cherry sauce. (Susan Desjardins)
Ontario: Rosé Wine
Featherstone Rosé 2012
VQA Niagara Peninsula $14.95 (117861) 12.0% alcohol
Produced from Gamay and Merlot, the deep rosy salmon color of this tasty Rosé portends the intensity of aromas and flavours. Bursting with ripe red field berries and cherries, apple skin and mineral notes, it also exhibits hints of spice and pepper. Dry, mid weight, all that juicy flavour is balanced with lively acidity right through the lasting flavourful finish. A versatile, value-driven wine that will delight on its own or paired on a warm spring day with a balsamic beef and strawberry salad. (Susan Desjardins)
California: Red Wine
Beaulieu Vineyard ‘BV’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2010
Napa Valley $25.95 (987420) 14.5% alcohol
Black pepper, mixed spice and dark berry fruit on the nose, this dishes up an even-handed, nicely structured wash of black currant, blueberry and dried currant flavours garnished with spice and notions of fennel. There’s good balance, good value and good flavour throughout. Pour with grilled beef steak. (Vic Harradine)
Easton Zinfandel 2010
Amador County $22.95 (328377) 14.5% alcohol
Royal purple, intensely aromatic with concentrated spiced black fruit and a lovely floral note, this is a dry, full-bodied wine. Quite firmly structured, the ripe fruit flavours are focused—blueberry, black cherry and blackberry—with a nuances of spice and toast. A very approachable wine with an ample fruity finish , this will go well with barbequed back ribs now, or in a few years. (Susan Desjardins)
Argentina: Red Wine
Alfredo Roca ‘Reserva de Familia’ Pinot Noir 2010
San Rafael, Mendoza $19.95 (301275) 13.0% alcohol
Aged 9 months in oak, displaying a garnet hue, this gem of a wine offers attractive aromas of cherry/berry garnished with notes of vanilla, spice and toast. Dry, silky in texture, it has a lovely core of ripe fruit—raspberry, cherry and blackberry—mingling with notes of spiced oak and earth. Approachable, with fruit deftly balanced by fresh acidity and fine tannins, it delivers a lengthy, dry yet smooth finish. (Susan Desjardins)
Chile: Red Wine
Perez Cruz ‘Reserva’ Cabernet Sauvignon 2010
Maipo Valley $8.95 (311753) 375 ml 14.0% alcohol
Served up in a half bottle—just right for sharing—this dense purple Cabernet displays complex, enticing aromas of red and black berry, roasted red pepper, cocoa, cracked pepper and herbs. Dry, medium-full bodied, it has an earthy character that brings out notes of mint and cedar over plum and cassis. There’s clean freshness on the palate, soft tannins and an intriguing hint of savoury dark chocolate on the lengthy finish. The full bottle is available as a Vintages Essentials product. (Susan Desjardins)
Australia: White Wine
Brokenwood ‘Cricket Pitch’ Sauvignon Blanc/Semillon 2011
Australia $18.95 (662627) 12.0% alcohol
From an über-premium, Hunter Valley producer, this jumps from the glass with lifted aromas of gooseberry, honeysuckle and racy citrus. A tangy river of nerve and verve streaks across the palate with tangy, key lime, lemon yoghurt and pineapple to the fore. The crisp, refreshing finish is lip-smacking good seeking out milk-marinated, pan-seared scallops, grilled calamari or lemon sole. (Vic Harradine)
Australia: Red Wine
Pirathon Shiraz 2010
Barossa Valley, South Australia $29.95 (130278) 14.5% alcohol
Rosewood, Asian spice and ripe berry fruit aromas abound on the nose before unleashing rich, concentrated flavours of sweet, ripe mulberry and cassis with mocha and espresso roast. It’s a crowd pleaser with medium weight, a creamy smooth mouth feel and a lingering, balanced finish that’s complex and full of charm. Aerate/decant two hours pouring with grilled rack of lamb. (Vic Harradine)
Pyrenees Ridge ‘Ridge Red’ Shiraz 2010
Victoria $17.95 (311381) 14.0% alcohol
Aromas of red berry fruit, spicy oak and cherry notes provide segue for concentrated, structured, palate-bathing flavour—black currant, juicy black plum and kitchen spice wreathed in lively acidity. Mid weight, nicely textured and oozing charm, it finishes tangy, fruit-laden with touches of elegance. Supple tannin does not get in the way, ready to go now on its own or pour with grilled, lamb tenderloins. (Vic Harradine)
Two Hands ‘Angels’ Share’ Shiraz 2011
McLaren Vale, South Australia $29.95 (009480) 15.6% alcohol
Here’s a hi-octane Shiraz with loads of appeal for tasty, fruit-bomb lovers. Dark and brooding in the glass—almost opaque—aromas barrel forward with dark berry fruit, spicy, vanillin oak and nuances of dark plum compote and kirsch liqueur. Mid-full weight and fully textured, there’s plenty more of the same on the warm, fruit-laden aftertaste. (Vic Harradine)
France: White Wine
Bachelder Bourgogne Chardonnay 2010
AOC Bourgogne $29.95 (272005) 13.0% alcohol
Aromas of minerality, citrus and floral tones dominate the aromas on this well-paced, beautifully balanced Chardonnay. It’s crisp, dry and refreshing on the palate—tangy lemon-lime, nutty notes and succulent white peach—framed by good weight and mouth feel. The finish lingers with racy, lip-smacking goodness. Pour on its own as an aperitif or alongside roast chicken or pork. (Vic Harradine)
Château Favray Pouilly-Fumé 2011
AOC Pouilly-Fumé, Loire Valley, France $21.95 12.5% alcohol
Herbaceous, flinty and floral notes aromas herald lemon-lime, ripe pineapple and orchard fruit riding a racy river over the palate. It’s mid weight and nicely textured with a crisp, mouth-watering aftertaste. Well balanced and brimming with fruit flavour and good moderating acidity, it delivers on all counts. Pair with dressed arugula under crumbled chèvre. (Vic Harradine)
France: Red Wine
Château de Fonbel 2009
AOC Saint-Émilion Grand Cru $37.85 (196451) 13.5% alcohol
Black berry, leather and Asian spice on the nose, it coats the palate with rich, concentrated briary berry, cassis and cherry clafoutie garnished with spice and roasted herbs. It’s medium-full bodied with generous mouth feel and a solid tannin underpinning on the lingering aftertaste. Drinkable now after a three-hour aeration/decant, better 2016 to 2022. (Vic Harradine)
Château la Croix de Queynac 2009
AOC Bordeaux Supérieur $15.95 (138636) 13.0% alcohol
Deep ruby, this award-winning wine offers depth of flavour and very nice value. The aromas are very ripe berry fruits, spice and cedar, with a sweet note of dried fruits. Dry, medium-full bodied, ripe tannins and a fine measure of acidity balance plush berry fruit, sweet spice and a trace of toasty vanilla that carries through the long-lasting dry finish. Enjoy this attractive blend now or over the next couple of years. (Susan Desjardins)
Le Cirque Grenache/Carignan/Mourvèdre/Syrah 2011
Vin de Pays des Côtes Catalanes $15.95 (277079) 14.5% alcohol
This appealingly fruit-forward wine offers ripe flavours of red and black berry, spice, smoke and licorice. Dry, medium-full bodied and smooth, the concentrated flavours of raspberry, blackberry and cherry shine through, with a touch of sweetness and the warmth of white pepper persisting on the fruity finish. At this price, pick up a few bottles to enjoy now or over the next few years. (Susan Desjardins)
E. Guigal Gigondas 2009
AOC Gigondas $31.95 (331900) 14.5% alcohol
Principally Grenache, blended with Mourvèdre and Syrah, this classic Guigal wine is remarkably fresh in texture, enticing with intriguing aromas—fresh-turned earth, white pepper, sweet kitchen herbs, red plum and berries. Dry, full bodied, with a refined, subtle structure, the clean, fresh berry flavours shine through, while the notes of spice and herbs add complexity. Beautifully balanced, deftly crafted, it offers attractive warmth on the lasting finish. Enjoy it now with grilled meats, but plan to cellar. (Susan Desjardins)
Italy: Red Wine
De Angelis Rosso Piceno Superiore 2009
DOC Piceno $14.95 (324756) 13.0% alcohol
This is a nice value and interesting blend of Montepulciano and Sangiovese grapes from the Marche region. It’s slightly pungent on the nose, floral notions, earth, ripe berry, herb and spice aromas wafting from the glass. Dry, mid-weight, it’s tasty, creamy and fresh, showcasing red cherry, plum and berry, sweet spice framed by fine acidity and ripe tannins. Serve it with roast garlic pork. (Susan Desjardins)
Resta Salice Salentino 2009
DOC Salentino $14.95 (324731) 13.0% alcohol
A lifted nose of dried fruit, pipe tobacco and dark cherry/berry fruit aromas provide introduction to a lively river of red fruit—current, cranberry and cherry—interlaced with spice and sprigs of herbs. Mid weight with nice texture, the lengthy dry finish is racy and lip-smacking. This pours well with meat-laden pizza or pasta in tomato sauce. (Vic Harradine)
Carpineto Spolverino 2011
IGT Toscana $17.95 (317149) 13.0% alcohol
A classic of the Chianti region, yet this well-crafted dry wine loses its denomination under screw cap. There’s a fine fusion of aromas on the nose—tobacco, spice, cedar and berry. Lively acidity and subtle tannins underpin ripe, spiced cherry/berry fruit while a touch of toast persists on the dry, clean tasty finish. Enjoy with a tomato-based pasta. (Susan Desjardins)
Spain: Red Wine
Marqués de Cáceres Tinto Reserva 2005
DOCa Rioja $24.95 (702761) 14.0% alcohol
The lifted bouquet of incense, toasty bits and rose petal jumps from this rich, smooth and deftly balanced gem. There’s a river of tang—red currant and sour cherry—interlaced with ripe mulberry and briary berry interwoven with kitchen spice. Medium weight with good mouth feel, it finishes, lengthy, dry, balanced and charming, fruit forward and lip-smacking good. (Vic Harradine)
Upstream in winecurrent
Vintages Release: May 11, 2013
Zantho St. Laurent 2010
Qualitätswein, Burgenland, Austria $15.95 (315556) 13.0% alcohol
The first thing you’ll like about this red is the re-usable glass enclosure—no corkscrew needed. The next things are the aromas and flavours. Spice-infused, black plum compote and dark berry fruit provide segue to a nicely paced and well-balanced river of dark cherry and plum interwoven with black currant flavours. It’s medium weight and nicely textured with a dry, fruity aftertaste. Great with grilled meat—burgers, steak or gourmet sausage. (Vic Harradine)
Wines in Vintages
Rust En Vrede Cabernet Sauvignon 2009
WO Stellenbosch, South Africa $24.95 (921767) 14.5% alcohol
This is rich and luscious with excellent structure and a long life ahead of it. Aromas of cedar, eucalyptus, graphite and black currant segue a focused stream of mouth-watering, palate-coating cassis, briary berry and spice mingling with black licorice and espresso roast. It’s mid-full weight with good mouth feel and a lengthy finish of chocolate, cherry and still-resolving tannin. Six clones of Cab Sauvignon were fermented and aged separately for 18 months in French oak, one-third new, then blended, bottled and held an additional nine months before release. Enough tannin here to warrant a three-hour decant
or three additional years in the cellar. (Vic Harradine)
Domaine J. Laurens ‘le Moulin’ Blanquette de Limoux Brut Non-vintage
AOC Blanquette de Limoux, France $16.95 (180323) $16.95 12.0% alcohol
This sparkling wine does just that, dishing up a nose of yeasty notes, citrus and peach before unleashing a profusion of glorious bubbles riding a wave of flavour—succulent white peach, racy lemon yoghurt and zesty pineapple. The crisp, refreshing aftertaste makes its mark as this pours well as an aperitif or alongside roast fowl or seafood. It has the oomph and charm to handle both. (Vic Harradine)
New in the LCBO Portfolio
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)
New in Ontario Wineries
Riverview Cellars – Order the following by the case of 12—mixed, if you like—with daily free delivery in Ontario to your home or office from Riverview.
Red Wine
Rivers Cellars ‘Salvatore’s Reserve’ Malbec 2011
VQA Niagara-on-the-Lake $29.95 13.0% alcohol
A rare wine for Niagara, this inky purple Malbec was aged 12 months in American and French oak. Concentrated, perfumed aromas of sweet dark fruit mingle with floral notes, a touch of sweet vanilla and a whiff of graphite. Dry, medium-full bodied, the ripe flavours of berries and plum are nicely balanced by a bright fresh texture and velvety tannins. Notes of cinnamon toast, coffee bean and dried herbs add complexity through a savoury, fruity yet dry finish. Serve with grilled red meats and vegetables or cellar medium term. (Susan Desjardins)
Riverview Cellars Merlot 2011
VQA Niagara River $19.95 14.8% alcohol
Aromas of black cherry, berry, plum, earth, and the scent of rose drift from the glass. Dry, medium-full bodied, the wine is loaded with flavours of plush dark fruit, sweet spice, red licorice and a hint of dark chocolate. Firmly structured yet creamy in texture, it displays a nice balance of rich ripe fruit, ripe tannins and fresh acidity. Savour the dry, long-lasting finish. Serve with prime rib. (Susan Desjardins)
White Wine
Riverview Cellars ‘Angelina’s Reserve’ Chardonnay 2011
VQA Niagara River $19.95 13.0% alcohol
Baking spice, sandalwood and charred toast on the nose, this dishes up a medium-bodied, creamy-textured river of racy lemon-lime and mineral-laced, pineapple tang. The aftertaste lingers, crisp and lively with notions of oaky tones. Versatile at the table; pair with lemon chicken, fish or seafood and a squish of freshly squeezed lemon. Just bottled and good now; better in 3 or 4 months. (Vic Harradine)
Riverview Cellars ‘Bianco’ Riesling-Gewürztraminer 2011
VQA Niagara River $13.95 12.5% alcohol
Lifted, lovely aromas of lychee nut, exotic spice and hi-toned orange zest abound. A gusher of tropical fruit and blood orange is wreathed in spice with a spray of grilled pineapple and lemon citrus on the palate. Mid weight with good texture, it finishes off-dry, charming and lip-smacking good—pour alongside sushi or spicy Asian cuisine. (Vic Harradine)
Riverview Cellars Gewürztraminer 2011
VQA Niagara River $18.95 (319830) 13.2% alcohol
This award winner is highly perfumed and enchanting with aromas of tropical flowers, lychee, rosewater, preserved ginger and candied citrus. Just off-dry, the ginger offers a spicy touch while tropical notes, lychee and rosewater replay, all deftly balanced by fine acidity. This is an intensely flavourful wine that delivers that classic, persistent, pithy tang on the silky finish. Enjoy it with lightly spiced dishes or, as suggested by the winery, with seafood saffron risotto. (Susan Desjardins)
Riverview Cellars Pinot Grigio 2011
VQA Niagara River $13.95 12.5% alcohol
Straw-hued and delicate, this easy-drinking wine gently proffers floral notes and aromas of melon, pear and crisp ripe apple. Off dry, zippy, fresh and fruity, offering a clean, fresh finish, it’s a delight as a sipper, or would pair well with light salads or poached fish. A great value. (Susan Desjardins)
Riverview Cellars Riesling 2011
VQA Niagara River $16.95 11.0% alcohol
Sun-ripened orchard fruit, peach, citrus and mineral aromas lift from the glass. Medium bodied and finely balanced, this Riesling is clean and fresh on the palate, barely off-dry, offering tasty flavours of lime and tangerine, apricot and pear balanced by a seam of crisp acidity. It finishes tangy and refreshing with a pleasing touch of residual sugar. Enjoy with fish, lemon garlic chicken or creamy Brie. (Susan Desjardins)
Pillitteri Estates Winery Cabernet Sauvignon 2010
VQA Niagara-on-the-Lake $20.00 12.5% alcohol
Charred toast, cedar and forest-floor aromas herald a smooth and silky, palate-bathing wash with cassis, dark cherry and field berry fruit to the fore. It’s mid-full weight and brimming with ripe, dark fruit. It’s robust and raunchy on the dry finish with loads of fruit and excellent acidity underpinned by perceptible tannin. Aerate/decant three hours before pouring. Order online for daily home or office delivery from Pillitteri. (Vic Harradine)
Pillitteri Estates Winery Cabernet Franc 2010
VQA Niagara-on-the-Lake $18.00 13.5% alcohol
Introducing itself with delicate aromas of red berry fruit and kitchen spice, it washes over the palate with mixed red berry fruit, sour cherry and sprigs of savory herbs and spice. It’s medium bodied and finishes up framed by good moderating acidity and perceptible tannin. Aerate/decant for two hours pouring alongside pulled pork slathered with mild salsa. Order online for daily home or office delivery from Pillitteri. (Vic Harradine)
Strewn ‘Premium’ Cabernet Franc 2010
VQA Niagara-on-the-Lake $23.00 13.4% alcohol
Strewn is on quite a roll. Spice-driven aromas of dark berry fruit, vanilla and charred toast beguile. Rich and luscious with good structure and charm, it bathes the palate with succulent black berry, spiced black plum and racy red currant. It’s mid weight with nice texture throughout while the complex aftertaste layers on notions of tangy red cherry underpinned with ripe, supple tannin. Well balanced and very good value—aerate a couple of hours before pouring. Order by the case for daily home or office delivery by phone 905-468-1229 or online from Strewn Winery. (Vic Harradine)
Strewn ‘Terroir Strewn Three’ 2010
VQA Niagara-on-the-Lake $33.00 13.4% alcohol
This holy trinity of Bordeaux blends—Merlot 40%, Cabernet Franc 40%, Cabernet Sauvignon 20%—is absolutely delicious. The lifted and lovely nose of exotic incense, charred toast and black, briary berry heralds palate-coating rich and luscious waves of flavour with spice-laden black currant, cassis and dark cherry to the fore. Medium-full bodied with generous mouth feel, the balanced and beautiful aftertaste brims with full-bore fruit, fine-grained tannin, spice and a boatload of charm. What’s not to like? Order by the case for daily home or office delivery by phone 905-468-1229 or online from Strewn Winery. (Vic Harradine)
Cheers, Vic and Susan