From the February 19th 2011 LCBO Vintages Release
This weekends LCBO Vintages Release focuses on the ‘King of Grapes’, Cabernet Sauvignon. Grown throughout the world, ‘Cab’ reflects the area in which it is grown and dependant on latitude and winemaking technique used, the resultant wines from one county to the next can be quite contrasting – I have a good one for you to try. You will also find in the release, several examples of the other great grapes such as Chardonnay and Shiraz and overall, this weekend presents some very interesting tasting opportunities.
My ‘Selections’ this weekend include two red: the first of which is a fun Shiraz from south Australia followed by a another red, this time from Bordeaux and the first wine available in Ontario from the highly acclaimed 2009 vintage. Of course, I have two white for you as well: a fantastic Alsatian Gewurztraminer and a Chardonnay from Chile in addition to a lovely bottle of Sherry and finally, an unbelievable bargain from Burgundy for your cellar.
Red:
2008 Jim Jim, Shiraz
Very reflective of the big Aussie style; dark fruits on the nose: current, cassis, though not as much spice as one might expect of the variety. Full bodied, with great fruit and lots of chocolate; lip-smacking good wine here. LCBO # 682005 / $15.95 (D)
2009 La Patache, Bordeaux
Lovely ruby red colour with hints of raspberry on the nose. Medium bodied and rather modern for Bordeaux but not in the heavy California sense; smooth structure and easy drinking. A blend of 85% Cab Sauv with 15% Merlot. LCBO #217307 / $14.95 (XD)
White:
2008 Domaine Saint-Rémy Réserve, Gewurztraminer
The North of 9 tasting group sampled five different ‘Gewurtz’ last week at our monthly tasting session and unfortunately this Alsace label was unavailable at the time. Wonderful fruit – peach, lychee, and some grapefruit; sweeter than most with great balance and a lovely aftertaste. Nice on its own or with an Asian dish. I really enjoyed this! LCBO # 061150 / $18.95 (MD)
2009 Viña Los Vascos, Chardonnay
This Chilean winery is managed by the great French estate of Lafite which produces what is arguably the most sought after label in Bordeaux. Here in Chile though, Lafite is striving for something of a more modernistic approach. The wine is very clean almost transparent in colour; unoaked with pronounced green apples and lemon on the nose followed by more of the same taste. Good acidity will pair this wine with many rich foods. LCBO # 206342 / $13.95 (D)
Fortified/Dessert
Gonzalez Byass, Elegante Sherry
This is a nice wine to sip before dinner with a variety of old cheeses. Elegante is sherry made in the Amontillado style which means the wine is relatively oxidized. The initial aroma is more of a nuttiness than the typical sherry tang. Soft and delicate in the mouth. Quite nice. LCBO 196816 / $14.95 (MD)
One for the Cellar
2007 Nicolas Potel, Les Grèves, Beaune 1er Cru
Burgundy, France is the home of Pinot Noir and this wine is from the vineyard of Les Grèves which is classified as a premier plot of land for both its soil and exposure. Expect a medium body with notes of sour cherry, raspberry, and a touch of black pepper on the finish. Burgundy reds are best consumed with food. Premier cru Burgundy at this price is very rare. A lovely wine indeed but let it sit for a while. Enjoy it after 2012. LCBO # 196899 / $29.92 (XD)
