VVL Release Saturday May 10, 2008

Hello Everyone!

Well Vintages is at it again – showcasing pinot noir in this Saturday's release. This is hit & miss grape at the value-end of the spectrum. We tasted ~ 20 pinots from different regions around the world. Of course, we loved the $40 Burgundian – but not enough for it to merit mention on this list. Consequently there is nary a pinot to be seen on the list. If you are pinot fans – we recommend that you visit the nearest Vintages to get a recommendation from a Product Consultant.

SPARKLING WINES

616441 Henry of Pelham Cuvee Catharine Brut (VQA Ontario) $29.95

This is a fantastic sparkling wine rivalling those hailing from Champagne. Toast, apple and citrus highlight this very dry fizz. Grab a dozen oysters and a bottle and you are set!

WHITE WINES

453472 Chateau Des Charmes St. Davids Bench Gewurtztraminer 2006 (VQA Ontario) $19.95

This is absolutely lovely. Great fruit extraction, full-bodied with a round, mouth-filling lingering finish. Floral notes abound. This would be excellent paired with spicy foods.

687921 Calatrasi Accademia del sole Viognier 2006 (Sicily) $13.95

It is still a tad chilly out, so we are not recommending white patio sippers yet. This is quite full-bodied with strong pear notes. Like most Italian wine – I is best served with food.

RED WINES

681197 Del Fin Del Mundo Reserva Malbec 2005 (Patagonia) $12.95

Cassis and cocoa nose rich on ripe dark fruit makes for an excellent priced quaffer. Taste the difference in this Patagonian gem.

017111 Finca Flichman Expressiones Reserve Shiraz/Cabernet Sauvigon 2006 (Mendoza) $15.95

Full bodied and smokey, concentrated flavours of berry fruit abound with a touch of spice and oak and a nice lengthy finish.

590745 Chilensis Reserva Syrah 2005 (Maule Valley,Chile) $11.95

This excellent priced Syrah features dark fruit and oak. It's an okay everyday wine to pair with casual dishes, pizza, pasta, burgers.

070748 Château Planѐres Cuvée Prestige 2005 (Midi – AC Côtes du Roussillon) $14.95

Syrah, Mourvѐdre and Grenache offering up loads of dark fruit and spice makes for a food friendly wine.

>$25 (Barely)

43810 Chateau St-Andre Corbin 2005 (St. Emillion, Bordeaux) $25.95

This is not to opened now, lay it down for at least 8 years and you will be amply rewarded. The tannins are currently gum-gripping – hence the cellaring reco. Black cherry, mint and licorice make this a very interesting wine!

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