Wine of the Week for June 26, 2006

Roberts Rock Chenin Blanc-Chardonnay 2005 - $9.95
Style: W1/W2
South Africa

Better check the price of this one. The LCBO database pegs it at $7.95 (current on special at $6.95) but I know I paid $9.95. The colour is a full honey-straw. The nose presents honey, peach, citrus and baked apple aromas. The palate is crisp yet full, round and creamy smooth, dominated by grapefruit and somewhat reminiscent of chablis. Body and length are both good. I'd suggest pairing it with full-flavoured fish or pork tenderloin. (LCBO 501304)

Wine of the Week for June 19, 2006

Rene Barbier Tempranillo-Merlot 2004 - $8.95
Style: R3
Spain: Penedes

Tempranillo is the grape behind Rioja, Ribera del Duero, and other Spanish delights, and it lends itself well to a paring with Merlot. With a rich garnet colour, this one shows aromas of pepper, cardamom and cherry. Rich and juicy on the palate, very round and mellow yet character filled, showing dark berry flavours and soft tannins, and good body and length. This is a terrific value and would go well with lamb, portobellos or poultry straight off the grill. (LCBO 640193)

Wine of the Week for June 12, 2006

Nederburg Sauvignon Blanc 2005 - $10.75
Style W2
South Africa

There's oodles of oomph here. The nose is dominated by ripe grapefruit and passionfruit, with a hint of asparagus. The palate is wonderfully juicy and mouthfilling, dripping with grapefruit flavour, with a solid acidic core. Rather full with excellent length, it would partner well with quiche, grilled tuna or vegetarian dishes. (LCBO 382713)

Wine of the Week for June 5, 2006

Cave Spring Gamay Noir VQA 2003 - $12.95
Style: R1
Ontario: Niagara

The challenge was to find a red wine that would go with stuffed peppers and pork tenderloin. This spicy gamay turned out to be an inspired choice. Heady aromas include pepper, raspberry and sweet cherry. It’s quite crisp on the palate, with a firm acidity, pepper and cherry flavours, and a fine rib of tannin. Medium-plus body with excellent length. Given what you'd pay for a comparable beaujolais, they're practically giving this one away. (LCBO 228569)