Wine of the Week for August 24, 2009

Durbanville Hills Sauvignon Blanc 2008 - $11.95
Style: W2

South Africa

There seems to be an increase in selections in the under-$10 category. I hope this trend continues with gems like this one. Look for rich grass, gooseberry and passionfruit on the nose. The palate is racy, with a cleansing acidity, passionfruit flavour and just a touch of citrus. Very good body and excellent length; this would be ideal to partner with salads or shellfish. (LCBO 22251)

Wine of the Week for August 17, 2009

Santa Alicia Carmenere Reserve 2008 - $11.95
Style: R2

Chile

The colour here is deep black cherry. The nose is a bit closed right now, but still offers up aromas of black berry, plum and “oil skin” with evident oak. The palate is very smooth, with soft tannins and chocolate/cherry flavours, medium body and length. This is a well made and elegant wine that will show well in time or, if you prefer, serve it with roasts, lamb or turkey. (LCBO 309302)

Wine of the Week for August 3, 2009

McWilliams Chardonnay 2007 - $9.95
Style: W1

Australia

Medium lemon-straw colour. Rich oak right off the top, with subtle apple, butter and butterscotch aromas. Quite round and soft, with a perky acidity, sweet oak and butter atop apple. Very good body, a long finish fading to a lemony close. Quite the bargain, and a good match for chicken salad, chicken Kiev, or hollandaise. (LCBO 91744)

Think global; drink local ...

Pelee Island Rosé 2007 - $10.95
Style: Z

Canada: Ontario

The label here says Chambourcin, which is a great little hybrid grape that’s coming on strong in Ontario. Look for delicate aromas of raspberry, orange zest and just a touch of spice. The palate is quite robust for a rosé, with just a hint of sweetness supporting red licorice and strawberry flavours, and a perky acidity. Very good body and length. Terrific stuff -- a good all-rounder that would suit assorted sandwiches or antipasti. (LCBO 529354)