Wine of the Week for July 30 2007

Twin Fin Pinot Grigio 2006 - $14.15
Style: W3
California

The nose shows lush tropical fruits, lemon drops, dried peach and traces of spice and herbs. The palate seemed a bit hollow at first, due to being over chilled, but it filled out nicely as it progressed, showing peach, pear, apple and apricot flavours, with a juicy fruitiness and a fine acidity. Very good body and length with a citrusy close. A delightful rendition that will go nicely with stir fry, veggie wraps or as a "vin de porch". (LCBO 38323)

Wine of the Week for July 23 2007

Henry of Pelham Cabernet Franc 2005 - $14.15
Style: R1
Canada: Niagara

Ah, the lowly cab franc grape … often dismissed as a “poor cousin” to cab sauv, this grape shows both class and elegance, given the opportunity. The nose here is quite vegetal, with aromas of grass, blackcurrant, vanilla and more. The palate is rather juicy, with a firm acid spine, moderate tannins and bright berry flavours. Pretty young at this point but it promises to evolve nicely over the next 3-5 years. Classic cab franc that will go well with shellfish, pork, aged cheeses or shepherds pie. (LCBO 27839)

Wine of the Week for July 16, 2007

Trapiche Malbec-Cabernet Rosé 2006 - $9.15
Style: Rosé
Argentina

This brilliant candy-apple pink summer offering shows spicy citrus and red berries with a trace of pine. The refreshing palate is dominated by strawberry accompanied by a light spritz and a crisp close. Light, easy and pure refreshment. (LCBO 36426)


Worth Looking For

Pascual Toso Malbec 2004 - $12.95
Style: R2
Argentina

Quantities are limited on this one, so if you see a bottle on the shelf, grab it. The nose shows lush aromas of spice, damp wood, and dark berry mash, with touch of plum. Soft, smooth and round on the palate with a firm acid core, silky smooth tannins, and loads of berry and plum flavours. Body and length are both quite good. If you're feeling adventurous, put a few bottles away for a couple of years. (LCBO 35170)

Wine of the Week for July 9, 2007

Fetzer 'Valley Oaks' Pinot Grigio 2005 - $11.95
Style: W3
California

There's a rich cocktail of aromas here: spice, gooseberry, and grapefruit with nuances of apricot and vanilla. The palate is mouth-watering with a citrusy acidity and loads of peach flavour. Very good body and length, with a pleasantly tart close. This juicy fruit-bomb would be terrific at any chill level. A perfect partner for the grill, including seafood, poultry or pork on a stick (LCBO 34041)