Wine of the Week for August 7, 2006

Chateau Bel Air 2004 - $10.95
Style: R3
France: Bordeaux

The robe here is a rich ruby garnet. Look for classic Bordeaux aromas, albeit of the 'price adjusted' variety, including dark berries, dried fruits and cedar with a modest gamey note. The palate is subdued but serviceable, with young tannins, medium body and length. This is a good mid-week wine and may improve over 6 months to a year in the cellar, or throw a steak or ribs on the BBQ and settle in with a good book. (LCBO 665430)


If you happen to be within an easy commute of a Colio store (there are 14 in Ontario), there is a bargain to be had in their current offerings.

Colio Riesling VQA 2005 - $9.99
Style: W3, Off-dry
Ontario: Erie North Shore

Light steely straw colour. The nose here is complex, showing perfume, floral, citrus, green apple and traces of petrol. Soft, round and creamy on the palate, with mainly citrus flavours and a pleasantly tart acidity on the close. With good body and length, this bodes well for Erie North Shore rieslings. May have the potential to age well.