Purplish. Inviting nose of red fruits, a mild touch of oak. Only medium body, typical of the vintage. There is a nice fruity attack: the middle palate is a bit firmer as the tannins show a little grip leading into the finish with notes of fruit stones. Ready to drink on sandwiches or hamburgers.
Unlike most cognacs, which have added caramel for colour and sweetness, this unusual brandy takes its pale amber colour only from the oak in which it has been aged. The result is light and fruity, with a nose of fresh sugar cane, sweet corn, raisins, coconut and pears. The fruitiness continues on the palate, with mouth-watering acidity and a bit of alcohol burn. A refreshing and natural change from heavy, over-manipulated versions.
From the quintessential garagiste with the unpronounceable (to me, anyway) surname Jean-Philippe Janoueix, this medium-deep beet-red wine has a complex and prominent nose of violets, strawberries, cassis and Dutch liquorice, which with time in the glass opens additionally to figs and raisins. Full-bodied with lots of fruit, including cranberries, black and blueberries, it is well-balanced with soft tannins. Long finish. Huge value.
This new general-list (LCBO) CNP is an absolute steal for under $30. High octane (15.5%), there is plum, kirsch, raspberry, black pepper, anise, lavender, smoked meat and earth to be found both on the nose and palate. There is a rich texture, great persistency and ripe tannins. Pair with barbecued dry-rubbed ribs or grilled lamb chops. Drink over the next 5 years.
Deep plum-red. Seductive nose of strawberries, blackberries, cranberries and sweet tea. In the mouth there is dense cassis and sweet oak — this is almost Californian in style. Full-bodied; will be a stunner in another couple of years. Served with roasted pheasant scented with absinthe and juniper berries, it was hard to say which was better — the food or the wine.
This is one very elegant Champagne (25% barrel-aged Chardonnay in the blend). Straw colour; creamy nose of white flowers, apple, ginger and a leesy note; round on the palate, very dry; white peach and green apple flavours, finishing with a nutty, chalky note.
Medium-deep garnet, with cherry aromas and violet and pronounced spicy bouquet. Medium-bodied, lots of sweet fruit with balancing acidity. A complete southern France package, and a good fruity match for a nice greasy tourtière with lots of nutmeg and cloves.