Wine of the Week for July 28, 2008

Miss me? We just returned from a couple of weeks off, visiting kinfolk in the "Mid-west" where I had my fill of shiraz. Time to get back to the interesting and refreshing...

Folinari Regata IGT 2006 - $10.95
Style: W3
Italy

This blend of chardonnay, sauvignon blanc and garganega shows aromas of tree fruits, perfume, ripe apple and a touch of vanilla bean. My notes say "perky", round and nicely balanced, with apple, goose berry and a hint of citrus. Very good body with a long, nicely evolving and refreshing finish. Would go nicely with pork or flavourful seafoods. (LCBO 78014)

A Canadian Moment...

Stonechurch Riesling VQA 2006 - $12.95
Style: W3
Canada: Niagara

This off-dry version presents petrol right off the top, with dried peach and a hint of tart apple. the palate is loaded with ripe apple followed by nuances of peach and grapefruit. Good body and length, and a crisp even finish, it's very nicely done, and don't worry about the sugar. Just pair it with spicy or salty foods. (LCBO 78022)

Wine of the Week for July 7, 2008

McWilliams Hanwood Estate Merlot 2006 - $14.45
Style: R3
Australia

Always a good performer, this deep black cherry coloured merlot shows rich dark berry aromas -- mainly blackberry and blueberry -- with traces of oak and a slight medicinal note. Soft and round on the palate, approaching sweetish, with rich blackberry and cherry flavours supported by soft tannins. Very good body and length with a hit of liquorice on the close. Done in the " modern" style with grace and elegance, it will age nicely over the next 3-5 years. Stick with rich meats of the grill, game birds or wild mushrooms. (LCBO 53702)

A Canadian Moment...

Pillitteri Cabernet-Merlot VQA 2006 - $12.95
Style: R3
Ontario: Niagara

The nose here shows enormous spice, bell pepper, black currants, and a touch of animale. Laid back on the palate, but tasty, with ripe bumbleberry flavour, a cool acidity and just a touch of tannin. With medium body and length, it has a great nose for the price, but you may want to treat is as "R1". A worthy partner for burgers, meatloaf or pizza. (LCBO 349191)

Wine of the Week for June 30, 2008

Alianca Vinho Verde - $8.40
Style: W2
Portugal

Portugal's "green" wine may be the ideal summer sipper. This one shows pale platinum straw colour with aromas of baked lemon, floral and lime on the nose. The palate shows a characteristic fizziness, with lemon-lime candy flavour, medium body and medium length. Very well made and for most of July it's $1 off. Serve with lunch. (LCBO 75663)

Sogrape Gazela Vinho Verde - $8.40
Style: W2
Portugal

The second candidate is a bit lighter, with a delicate nose showing aromas of peach, lime, floral and bath soap. Tangy with lemony-lime flavour on the palate, a bright acidity, and a light spritz. Light bodied and with good length, it requires a good bit of sun to show itself properly. (LCBO 141432)