What We’re Drinking in May
The Spring Trade Wine Tastings are in full swing, and we’ve been sucking up every last drop. (All in the name of research, of course).
There are some great picks in the LCBO this month, so let us not delay in telling you about the wines we think are tops.
Duckhorn Sauvignon Blanc Napa Valley, California 2010
$29 Vintages 94375
This has a bit of Semillion added to the blend to lend a rounder, creamier feel to the normally racy Sauv Blanc. A touch of oak aging also gives a bit more depth and dimension. Don’t get us wrong, it’s still a fresh and vibrant wine filled with tropical fruit notes like mango and guava, mixing with lip smacking lemon and pink grapefruit citrus, but without the searing green acidity that seems to go hand in hand with a lot of Sauv Blanc these days.
Stratus Cabernet Franc, VQA Niagara Peninsula, ON 2008
$38.20 Vintages 665034
This was served at a dinner Stratus invited us to a few weekends ago. The descriptors being tossed around the table about wine were “elegant,” “finesse” and “balance,” and to that we say check, check and check. With a nose of black cherry, smoke and earth, and flavours of cassis, dried leaves, mineral and dark earth, supported by smooth, fine tannin this is definitely a top Wine Sisters pick. Try it with seared duck breast, roast beef tenderloin or braised rabbit.
Vignerons de Bel Air Crepuscule Beaujolais, France 2010
$15.95 Vintages 159749
An inviting and easy going red filled with ripe red raspberry and cherry fruit, fresh minerality and a touch of rose-floral notes. For the price you should stock your summer cellar and enjoy slightly chilled with grilled tuna, mushroom stuffed pork loin or simple sausage.
La Cappuccina Soave, Italy 2011
$13.95 Vintages 81489
A really pretty Soave that’s perfect for lazy long weekend sipping. Surprisingly weighty for a Soave, this has a creamy texture and ripe flavours of peach, nectarine and mandarine orange followed by some white flower a bit of lanolin. Frsh acidity make it a nice match to triple creme cheeses, fried seafood or grilled chicken and vegetables.