The king of Prince Edward County seems to be a master of delivering fresh, elegant, flavourful, layered and complex wines while maintaining incredible drinkability. We need to get over the “heavier is better” mentality and this wine goes a long way to help the cause. Remarkably, the alcohol content of this wine is only 10.9%.
I’ve always thought that Ontario could make world-class rosé and in a couple of cases, we do. Southbrook Connect Rosé 2010 is not your run-of-the-mill pink wine at $18.95 a bottle. This one is deep pink with an orange tint. It has a nose of strawberry compote and flavours of strawberries and redcurrants. Full in the mouth with a touch of sweetness in mid palate, it has enough citrus acidity to finish dry and clean.
Japan’s whiskies went from unknown to insanely coveted to unavailable seemingly overnight. Apparently this even caught Japanese distillers off guard. Stocks of aged whiskies literally evaporated, leaving producers with a void to fill; a hole that has been plugged largely by malt and grain whisky blends. This, however, is not a bad thing, as Japanese blends are more approachable - in both price and profile - than age-specific single malts. Suntory’s Toki is a good example. This is a complex, fruity dram, with herbal notes; Asian pear, green apple, sweet grain, mint, and vanilla nuances. Impeccably balanced, with toasted grain, ripe pear, subtle honey, and a gentle smoky note. Blended whiskies often get ignored. Don’t ignore this.
A blend of Merlot, Petit Verdot, Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon showing blackberries, cherries and plum flavours with hints of vanilla, cedar and spice, elegant tannins and a fresh finish.
90% Sangiovese plus 10% Malvasia Nera, Colorino, Merlot and Cab Sauv. Ruby red with garnet rim. Aromas and flavours of floral, violets, herbal, forest underbrush and red berries. Well-balanced and structured, with a minerally spine and liquorice on the finish. Poised for barbecue fare.
Credited with reinstating and introducing a dying-off grape, Yalumba now has the greatest plantings of Viognier in the world. This vintage of Y Series brings the classic lush apricot, jasmine, ginger and honeysuckle to a rich, spicy and full palate. At 14.5% alcohol, this can and absolutely should be paired with protein — think ahi tuna tataki with papaya salad.
Once again award-winning California winery, Kendall-Jackson proves its reliability with its delicious (and very affordable) Chardonnay at just under $20. Aromas of warm vanilla and honeyed orchard fruit will greet you at first. Luscious pineapple, ripe papaya and juicy mango flavours follow, dancing in your mouth. Round, supple and creamy mouthfeel with subtle hints of toasted oak and buttered brioche. Lively acidity pushes through on the finish providing a harmonious and balanced wine. Very approachable, exceptionally food-friendly and terrific value makes it the perfect staple for the festive holiday celebrations or any other day.