September 16, 2017 Vintages Release

  
Bernard Massard Cuvée de l’Éusson Brut Non-Vintage
Luxembourg $19.95 (970970) 12% alcohol
This refreshing sparkler is made using the traditional method (that is, using the same protection techniques as Champagne), but includes a non-traditional blend of grape varieties: 40% chardonnay, 35% pinot blanc, 15% pinot noir, and 10% riesling. The result is a clean and crisp sparkling wine that is light gold in colour and has a slightly yeasty aroma with hints of apple and clean minerality. It’s medium bodied with a pleasing fizz and acidity that cleanses the palate, leaving subtle tastes of toast and lemon. This will be well matched with garlic butter shrimp pasta. (Dave Isaacs)

September 30, 2017 Vintages Release

 
Delas Saint-Esprit Côtes du Rhône 2015
AOC Rhône $16.95 (729962) 14% alcohol
This wine is predominantly syrah, blended with small amounts of grenache and mourvèdre. It is medium red in colour with a nose of musty leather, cherry, strawberry, and vanilla. It is medium bodied with mild but perceptible tannins and a juicy tartness that highlights flavours of cherry and white pepper. This is a wine that offers good value year after year. It's drinking very nicely right now, but could be kept in the cellar for another year or two. It does very well when paired with BBQ lamb chops. (Dave Isaacs)

 
Carpineta Chianti Classico Riserva 2012
DOCG Chianti Classico $29.95 13.5% alcohol
This wine is made from 80% sangiovese, with canaiolo and other grape varieties making up the remainder. It is dark red in colour, with a tinge of orange, and has aromas of raisin, dried plums, caramel, and mushroom. It is medium bodied on the palate, with pleasantly silky tannins and flavours of tart strawberry and delicate herbaceous notes reminiscent of sage. There is a long tart finish underscored with gentle tannins. Pair this wine with roasted quail. (Dave Isaacs)