A cross between Riesling and Pinot Bianco created by Dr. Manzoni, Manzoni Bianco is likely the most popular and successful of the Manzoni crossings. Delicately aromatic with fresh zippy acidity, spice, green apple, stone fruit, focussed and linear. Pair with pork, shellfish and rich cheeses.
The 1685 in the name refers to the date this winery was founded, and today Boschendal is one of the grandest, largest estates on the Cape. Shining with bright lemon curd, this Chardonnay was selected from Stellenbosch, Elgin and Boschendal farm in Franschhoek. Grapes were whole bunch pressed and cold settled for 2 days before some of the puffy solids were added back into the clear juice. It then underwent partial natural fermentation in 30% stainless and 70% French oak (12% new), where it remained on primary lees for 10 months. Regular battonage amped up the mouthful of this creamy wine, one already generous with wood. Thankfully there is a tight backbone of lemon and stones to right this and keep it from feeling too fat. Green apple, wood spice, and the ever present zippy citrus hold this aloft, to a warming finish. Great value for a fresh, lightly oaked Chardy.
Intense floral, blueberry and raspberry aromas and flavours. Sweet and fortified to 16% alcohol, with a rich tangy texture. Finishes with some lingering sweet tannins. Suited to pair with dense chocolate cakes. It’s recommended to serve at 20˚C, but I preferred cellar temperature.
Clear, star-bright. Stainless steel fermentation and aging, so very fresh on the nose, highlighted by white flowers, white peach, ripe pear and tropical spice notes. Rich, round mid-palate. Clean and minerally from start to finish, with a lingering, appetizing salty tang. Pair with a seafood salad.
The Canadian Club 42-Year-Old Chronicles Issue No. 2 “The Dock Man,” and Canadian Club 43-Year-Old Chronicles Issue No. 3 “The Speakeasy” were both tasted virtually with Canadian Club Brand Ambassador Tish Harcus. Both versions are, in a word, stunning. The 42-year-old offers up a nose of intense ginger, vanilla, biscuit, butterscotch, citrus fruit, and flower blossom. In the mouth, it shows amazing balance and elegance, with flavours suggesting mild anise, caramel, vanilla bean, and clove.
Very pale. Shy nose with ripe fruity notes and a hint of petrol. Expressive on the palate, light body, good balance and a nice fruity taste. Good quality and an unbeatable price.
Recently released in select markets, Woodford Reserve’s rye doesn’t sway from the brand’s trademark delicacy and balance. Intricate on the nose with fresh peaches and mint, orange peel, vanilla roiboos and hints of dusty silo. Engaging in the mouth, tasting of honeyed granola, sweet tea and dark chocolate and a long, methol-spiked finish fading sweet to dry and back again. An exceptionally pretty whiskey.