Wine of the Week for February 21, 2011

Two Vintages offerings this time, and both well worth searching out.

James Oatley “Tik Tok” Chardonnay 2008 - $ 14.95

Style: W1

Australia

Look for delicate aromas of tropical fruits, apple, pear, and melon with just a hint of mineral. Obvious oak on the palate, with more tropical fruits, a whiff of smoke and a crisp acidic close. Very good body and length. Juicy yet mellow and flavourful -- very approachable. Try with BBQ bird, ocean fish, or pork. (Vintages 187104)

Currently 188 LCBO stores have 6 or more bottles (according to on-line database)

Calamus Estate Unoaked Chardonnay 2008 - $ 13.95

Style: W1

Canada: Niagara

The nose presents lush citrus, tropical fruits, butter, and toast. Slightly racy, with gobs of fresh ripe fruits, pineapple, and ripe grapefruit. Quite big and long, with a tangy, spicy close. Top drawer stuff, and definitely under-priced. Try with roast pork or bird. (Vintages 210062)

Currently 52 LCBO stores have 6 or more bottles (according to on-line database)

Wine of the Week for February 7, 2011

Can you use Good, Bargain, and Pinot Noir in the same sentence? Sure!

Red Truck Pinot Noir 2008 - $ 13.95
Style: R1
USA: California

Medium-ruby coloured with a touch of  mahogany. Rather fruity on the nose, with plum, red currant, cola, and a hint of spice. Nippy on the tongue -- sweetish -- with negligible tannins, ripe dark cherry and red currant flavours and a zingy close. Good body and very good length. Quite a nice wine, decent value, with some cellar potential. Try with any sort of bird or antipasto.(LCBO 177931)

Currently  LCBO stores have 6 or more bottles (according to on-line database)

A Canadian Moment ...

Stone Church Niagara Pinot Noir 2008 - $ 13.95
Style: R1
Canada: Niagara

Light Ruby with a hint of brick at the rim, showing delicate aromas of red berries with nuances of cedar, vanilla and spice. Somewhat bitter but pleasantly so, with flavours of prune, plum, cheery, some spice, and just a hint of tannic. Pretty good body and length, it's a decent offering though slightly on the bitter side. Packed in a "Eco" bottle (i.e. Lighter glass). A good match for charcuterie and soft cheeses. (LCBO 201707)

Currently  LCBO stores have 6 or more bottles (according to on-line database)