How I make my selections...

Rarely will I publish a review of a wine that I did not enjoy; my taste is purely individual, as is your own. If I write about a particular wine, I do so because I also want you to try it.

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Wednesday, February 1, 2012

Wine for the Weekend

  
Seasonal confusion ~> it’s February 1st – the rink looks like a swimming pool and there are bulbs peeking through the soil!  I suggest we find comfort and familiarity in good food and fine wine – Cheers

Two tasty bottles for you in this edition of Wine for the Weekend: the first is a full-bodied red from the Mendoza region of Argentina to enjoy with a hearty meal, while the second is a commonly grown white variety in Europe though we rarely see it produced with any element of finesse here in North America … Niagara’s own Bosc family have done a very fine job of introducing Aligoté here in Canada.       

Enjoy,
Tyler


Red
2009 Trivento Amado Sur – Mendoza, Argentina

This Malbec dominated blend of Bonarda and Syrah just exudes the new-world southern hemisphere style of winemaking; redish/purple in the glass with aromas of dark fruit such as black currants and blueberries.  A hint of initial sweetness brought on by the blueberry element and then it becomes slightly tart reflecting more of a cranberry flavour.  The finish is quite long with dusty dry tannins and a hint of lingering black pepper spice.  A big wine for sure that will pair nicely with a richly prepared red meat dish.
$15.00 (37036) Vintages (dry)



White
2009 Chateau des Charmes, Aligoté – Niagara, Canada

Ah, this is fun! Some of you may recognize Aligoté as the white grape variety that plays second-fiddle to Chardonnay in France’s Burgundy region.  This early ripening grape does well in cool climates and thus Canada’s Niagara peninsula is ideal for the production of a clean-lined Aligoté with vibrant acidity and refreshing lemon and pear flavours.  The finish has a pronounced herbal spice element combined with a chalky dryness. Sip it solo or try with a cream-based soup for lunch this weekend. 
$10.65 (284950) LCBO General List (dry)