The Accardo is made from 100% Sangiovese. The nose is rife with forest berries, plums and cherries and a nice note of spice. It’s bold on the palate with plums, currants, cassis and blackberry to go with liquorice, spice and firm tannins.
Another good Argentinian Malbec showing warm scents of ripe red berry fruit, a pinch of cinnamon, clove and a dash of vanilla. Lightly sweet berry fruit is smoothly laced with milk chocolate and an agreeable mocha note on the finish.
This Riesling possesses a bit more weight than the Sketches but is not as long on the taste buds. The colour, once again, is a pale green/yellow, and a profile of minerals, peach, Asian pear and lanolin resonate on the nose and palate.
The Vinemount appellation might be better known for Riesling production, but there is no denying the quality of this wine. Mid-weight, it starts with red-berry fruits: cherries, strawberries and raspberries. This is followed by graphite, herbs, cassis, violets and spice. The tannins are ripe and well integrated, allowing for immediate drinkability, and it will continue to improve over the next 7 years.
Unabashedly appetizing, tasty, affordable and very quaffable (11.5% alc.). This blend of Sauvignon Blanc (75%) and Sémillon (25%) delivers on many fronts. Fresh apple, crisp citrus and spicy gooseberry. Open now with goat cheese or salads.
Vino Nobile de Montepulciano still struggles in Canada, likely because drinkers confuse the label with the much simpler Montepulciano d'Abruzzo. This comes from the vineyards surrounding the town of Montepulciano and is primarily from Sangiovese (known locally as Prugnolo Gentile), blended with Canaiolo Nero and small amounts of other local varieties such as Mammolo. This house has been biodynamically farmed since this 2011 vintage. Deep, brooding dark cherry, black plum, ink and mulberry notes carry through to the velveteen palate. Mouth-filling ripe and concentrated fruit is well supported by firm, structured tannins. Sweet spices, medicinal black cherry and kirsch linger on the long finish.
Dark ruby, purplish rim. Spicy nose of cinnamon, ripe red fruits, a hint of anise. Soft attack, supple and generous fruit. Velvety middle palate, long finish. Great to drink now and good for 5 to 7 years in the cellar.