We had a wonderful Mother’s Day last weekend and a relaxing time with family here at home. As for the upcoming Victoria Day long weekend, I don’t believe that we have any big plans. To be very honest, a few days spent doing absolutely nothing will be a welcome relief.
Last week I purchased several bottles to taste over the
coming weeks. In the process I've stumbled upon a really enjoyable Pinot Gris from a familiar (Gewurztraminer) producer in Alsace . Reaching for something less familiar at the
wine shop, I’ve also found you a flavour-packed red blend from South Africa to
pair with meat on the grill this weekend.
Our Wine Spot this week highlights a wine that a friend from Windsor refers
to as his ‘social juice’. It think you
will agree with his choice…
Red
2011 Boschendal, The
Pavillion, Shiraz Cabernet – Western
Cape , South
Africa
A smoky nose, with noticeable vanilla and stewed black fruit
that precedes a combination of sweetness and spice (the two sensations
compliment each other perfectly). In a
word, this is delicious; and for the price, an incomparable bargain. A touch of heat on the finish reinforces the
14% alc, but otherwise very enjoyable. Try it alongside barbequed ribs, burgers or even spice-rubbed chicken.
$11.95 (222299) General List (very dry)
White
2009 Pierre
Sparr, Pinot Gris Reserve – Alsace , France
One of the better Pinot Gris products that I have tasted recently. Aromas of very ripe stone fruit such as apricot and peach followed
by a rather full mouth-feel due to the lower than expected minerality. The finish brings
to mind interesting tastes of orange creamsicle – remember buying those from the Dickey Dee
guy?
$14.95 (983395) Vintages (dry)
James, a friend of North of 9 from Windsor, Ontario has sent us a very agreeable label for this week’s Wine Spot. He calls this one his ‘Social Juice’ and
recommends that you sip this crisp white ‘anytime the mood grabs you’ – I like
the sound of that! He also suggests that
quick and easy finger foods such as cheese and crackers or warm appetizers pair
perfectly with this hot little Chilean lip-smacker! I’ll throw in the suggestion of goat cheese in phyllo pastry
myself – yum!
Chile | 750 mL bottle
LCBO 159954 | $10.45
Thanks for the Wine Spot James – Cheers!
~> I’d love to hear your thoughts on a food & wine
pairing: What is your favourite
dish? And which wine highlights the
flavours of the food? Send me a quick note with your thoughts and I’ll publish it in a future edition of Wine for the
Weekend.
Have a wonderful Victoria Day!
