Wine of the Week for February 27, 2006

Les Fumées Blanches Sauvignon Blanc 2003 - $9.95
Style: W2
France

Seems like a bit of a mixed metaphor here. Whether Fumé Blanc or Sauvignon, what you get is a character filled wine that shows delicate citrus, canned bean, lanolin and mineral aromas, with a silky smooth palate. Loads of citrus and a crisp acidity on the palate, supported by good body and length. Would be a good partner for ocean fish, schnitzel or chicken Caesar. (LCBO 472555)

Wine of the Week for February 20, 2006

Castillo de Molina Merlot 2002 - $12.95
Style: R3
Italy

I don’t usually find much to recommend in Italian Merlot, but I keep looking hoping that I’ll find something like this. With deep black cherry colour, it shows huge aromas of licorice, leather and dried berries with a hint of vanilla and a touch of barnyard. Very good on the palate, showing smoke and plums, with firm, dusty tannins. Quite full bodied with good length, a splendid nose and a food friendly palate. Try with grilled tuna, a Sunday roast or a rich bean stew. (LCBO 237818)

Wine of the Week for February 13, 2006

Peller Estates Dry Riesling VQA 2005 $ 10.25
Style: W3
Ontario: Niagara

Here's more proof that Ontario is one of the great terroirs for Riesling. With a medium straw colour, this example shows pleasant aromas of peach and perfume and just the right touch of petrol. Very rewarding on the palate, with a fresh and crisp acidity, juicy fruit flavours and a slightly tart close. Medium bodied, with very good length, it offers an authentic Riesling profile at an attractive price. A good partner for quiche, ocean fish, or pork roast with cloves. (LCBO 582817; Also available at Vineyards stores)

Wine of the Week for February 6 2006

Unfortunately, major technical difficulties prevented me from getting out my wine of the week. It took most of the week for the Sympatico tech swat team to track the problem down to a temperamental modem. By the time it was replaced, the week was history. Oh well...

rb