Wine of the Week for November 23, 2009

Peller Family Series Chardonnay VQA 2008 - $10.95
Style: W1
Canada: Niagara

A delightful bargain that shows yummy citrus, quince and pear aromas with hints of butter and oak. Quite firm with a taut acidity, ripe tree fruits, citrus and butter with a smokey close. Very good body and length, and a good match for roast chicken or flavourful fish. (LCBO 582825; Vineyards stores)

Wine of the Week for November 9, 2009

French Tom Shiraz 2005 -$13.95 ($12.95 until Nov )
Style: R2

France

Look for chocolate tones at the rim of the deep black cherry robe. The nose suggests something soft and gentle, with sweet grass, cocoa, violets, and cherry aromas. Not so intense on the palate, with ample blackberry and prune flavours, soft tannins and a tangy acidity. Medium body and length; it's a good mid-week wine that will pair nicely with BBQ, especially ribs. (LCBO 115675)

Wine of the Week for November 2, 2009

Cavallina Grillo-Pinot Grigio IGT 2008 - $9.95
Style: W3

Sicilia

There are subtle aromas of talc, green gage and just a touch of peach here. Very smooth on the palate, with a firm, slightly tart acidity supporting green apple and plum flavours, and good body and length. A great little wine for the price, although some may find the tartness a bit trying. Try with roast chicken, gnocchi, or smoked salmon. (LCBO 123166)

I recently posted Chapter 7 of my little wine novel. In this "episode", a winemaker comes to visit and to answer all questions.Read it at The Oenophile Next Door