Dark ruby. Perfumed nose on notes of ripe red berries. Fresh fruity taste, balanced acidity in a medium- to full-bodied mid-palate. Definitely well made but without individuality or expression of a particular terroir.
At the time of writing, the LCBO carried 178 Malbecs — not all from Argentina, but mostly. So, what to choose? Well, this is one of the best values in terms of price/quality. Dense purple in colour, it offers a cedary plum bouquet with mocha-chocolate notes. Medium- to full-bodied and dry, it’s well-structured with spicy plum flavours riding on lively acidity.
An ever-noble Tuscan aristocrat. Deep ruby in colour with a cedary, tobacco nose augmented by aromas of cherries, oak spice and a note of violets. Medium-bodied, dry, elegant and beautifully balanced with ripe plum and cherry flavours flowing over the palate with lively acidity. Lovely mouth feel and a long, lingering finish.
Pale yellow. Pleasant nose of yellow fruits (peach, apricot). Intense fruity taste, smooth texture; balanced. Finish is lifted by acidity. Drink now.
Lifted cherry and berry notes, followed by lively cherry and strawberry on a plush and rounded palate with earthy undertones, restrained oak and well-integrated tannins.
This straightforward bench Riesling dishes out lime, crushed rock, bergamot, mineral, grapefruit and a slight hint of C02, at this early stage. The palate is tangy with just the right amount of residual sugar, taking the edge off. Crack it open tonight with sushi or a spiced ceviche.
Jim Cuddy, Blue Rodeo’s front man, has partnered with Tawse to create his own brand. This Chardonnay is mid-weight and features green apple, citrus, yellow peach, spice and vanilla. Splendid length with a mineral backbone and a slight creaminess round the package out.