Vintages Release: September 14, 2013
Fielding Estate ‘Estate Bottled’ Pinot Gris 2012
VQA Niagara Peninsula $21.95 (251108) 12.0% alcohol
Lively aromas of pineapple and tropical fruit dance from this mouth-watering beauty. A balanced, refreshing wash of white peach and mandarin orange mingle with lime and mineral tones on the palate. The mouth feel is silky smooth and the finish crisp and lip-smacking good. Good to go sipped on its own and pours well with all manner of pan-seared or grilled seafood. (Vic Harradine)
Vintages Release: October 12, 2013
One + One = Three ‘Cygnus Reserva’ Brut Nature Cava Non-Vintage
DO Cava, Spain $19.95 (352856) 11.5% alcohol
There’s very good value here. This sparkling, organic gem was produced from the holy trinity of Cava grapes— Xarel-lo 40%, Parellada 30% and Macabeo 30%. Lifted aromas of apple and pear interweave with mint and wisps of piquant ginger heralding flavours of apple, mineral/slate and strawberry wreathed in lemon curd and toasty notes. This has good mousse and a delightfully refreshing, lip-smacking aftertaste—certainly a cut above the norm. Pour with steamed mussels or pan-seared fish. (Vic Harradine)
LCBO Release: October 13, 2013
Cattail Creek ‘Estate Series’ Pinot Noir 2010
VQA Four Mile Creek $18.95 (257303) 12.5% alcohol
This is a delightful, top-drawer, Niagara Pinot worth seeking out, again and again. Fragrant, enchanting aromas of cedar, tobacco and piquant spice wreathed in red berry fruit herald an elegant, flavourful, light-on-its-feet gem. It bathes the palate with an elegant wash of red currant and juicy red cherry, spice-laden tang. This is well balanced with good structure and a lip-smacking finish and aftertaste. Pour with smoked duck breasts, roast chicken or turkey. (Vic Harradine)
Vintages Release: October 26, 2013
Fielding Estate ‘Estate Bottled’ Riesling 2012
VQA Beamsville Bench $18.95 10.0% alcohol
One of my favourite Riesling styles from a top-notch producer—what’s not to like? The lifted, lively nose—mineral/slate, key lime and pit fruit—heralds a glorious gusher of lip-smacking flavour with tangy grapefruit, orange peel and lemon curd to the fore. Showcasing lovely sweet and tang on the aftertaste, it’s lively, crisp and refreshing throughout. Pour alongside a spicy Asian dish or pan-seared scallops. (Vic Harradine)