Wine of the Week for May 7, 2007

Fonte Al Sole Toscana I.G.T. 2003 - $13.15
Style: R3
Italy: Tuscany

Deep garnet coloured with a touch of mahogany. The nose is very earthy combined with leather, dried cherry and a hint of animale. Very nicely balance on the palate, with moderate tannins, firm acidity, cherry/strawberry flavour and an earthy close. Very good body and length. A splendid example and an exceptional stand-in for quality chianti. Try with hearty stews, firm cheese or game fowl. (LCBO 18994)


Worth Looking for...

Stoney Ridge Bench Cabernet Franc VQA 2004 - $13.05
Style: R1
Canada: Niagara

This one reminds me more of Pinot Noir or Bourgeuil, with wood, red currant, vanilla and pickle juice on the nose. Light on the palate, sweetish on the uptake, with a solid acid spine, fine tannins and gobs of blackberry flavour. It would be amusing to cellar a few bottles for 2-3 years. Too bad it's been discontinued at the LCBO. (LCBO 525691)