tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-23751702943862273822024-03-13T11:07:48.311-06:00The Wine ConcubineI am a courtesan of Cabernet, a mistress of Malbec, a harlot for Hermitage. WSET Advanced lady of the vine. Passionate about learning all I can from climate to cellar. May your glass be full of joy, and your heart be full of love. Cheers!SMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16544043185482474935noreply@blogger.comBlogger99125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2375170294386227382.post-41515735856841075172020-01-26T10:39:00.000-07:002020-01-26T10:39:56.177-07:00A Life in Wine Jan 12 - 24: That Warm, Rose-y FeelingBoy, did it ever get cold here! On January 12, our Siberian neighbours "gifted" us with a cold air mass for the week, plunging our local temperatures into daytime highs of -33C (-27.5F for my American friends), BEFORE the windchill! Extreme cold warnings set into place, threatening frostbite within 5 minutes or less when outside - and I swear one day I got darn close. I spent the majority of the week hibernating:<br />
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Luckily, our extreme cold only lasted a week and we are now happily enjoying temperatures above the freezing mark!<br />
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<u><b>What's In My Glass</b></u> <br />
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Hibernating gave me the opportunity to spend more time tasting wines, and to keep warm, I started with red blends.<br />
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1. <a href="https://www.tarapaca.cl/en/vinos&premios/gran-reserva-tarapaca-organic-wine/" target="_blank">Vina Tarapaca Gran Reserva Organic Wine 2017</a>, Maipo Valley, Chile: A very complex blend of 38% Syrah, 26% Cab Franc, 15% Cab Sauv, 12% Merlot, 9% Carmenere. An ever-evolving flavour profile wrapped around mouthwatering acidity, focused tannins and a surprisingly bright finish. This one definitely kept me warm on the coldest days of the deep-freeze!<br />
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2. <a href="https://www.wirrawirra.com/products/22042-church-block/" target="_blank">Wirra Wirra Church Block 2016</a>, McLaren Vale, Australia: Composed of 52% Cab Sauv, 37% Shiraz, and 11% Merlot. Notes of ripe blackberries, dried blueberries, black pepper and dried currants on the finish. A lush, full body full of velvet tannins and edgy acidity. A very food-friendly wine.<br />
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From there, my palate seemed to "brighten up", and I began to see the cold weather through some rose-coloured wine glasses!<br />
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3. <a href="https://www.campoviejo.com/en/explore-wine/rose" target="_blank">Campo Viejo Tempranillo Rose 2017</a>, Rioja, Spain: A fuller-bodied rose, abundant with red berry flavours supported by mandarin and satsuma, and a slight spicy note on the finish. Refreshing acidity and a lush mouthfeel, this paired really well with calamari. I have yet to taste a wine from Campo Viejo that I haven't liked, they are all well crafted and priced even better!<br />
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4. Georges Duboeuf Beaujolais Nouveau Rose, Beaujolais, France: Starts off with a wonderfully flirty aroma of cotton candy, which carries into the palate along with light citrus flavours and stony minerality. Crisp acidity, but the finish is thin and falls off quickly. Still fun to drink, would be a good summer BBQ party wine! <br />
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<u><b> This Week in Wine</b></u><br />
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<b>BCWineTrends.com: </b><a href="https://bcwinetrends.com/2020/01/21/the-wines-of-british-columbia-raise-a-glass-to-30-years-of-bc-vqa-wine/" target="_blank">Raising a Glass to 30 Years of BC VQA Wine!</a><b><a href="https://bcwinetrends.com/2020/01/21/the-wines-of-british-columbia-raise-a-glass-to-30-years-of-bc-vqa-wine/" target="_blank"> </a></b><br />
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<b>Winetraveler.com: </b><a href="https://www.winetraveler.com/croatia/croatian-wine-peljesac-peninsula/" target="_blank">Croatian Wine & Travel</a><b><a href="https://www.winetraveler.com/croatia/croatian-wine-peljesac-peninsula/" target="_blank"> </a></b><br />
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<b>Wine Enthusiast: </b><a href="https://www.winemag.com/2018/08/17/social-media-alcohol-food-holiday-guide/" target="_blank">A List of All Wine, Beer & Spirits Holidays for 2020</a><br />
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Stay tuned, my next post features a tour & tasting at a gelato factory! Until then, cheers! <br />
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<br />SMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16544043185482474935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2375170294386227382.post-72414270157862144062020-01-13T08:58:00.002-07:002020-01-13T08:58:16.440-07:00A Life in Wine Jan 1 - 11: New Year, New Posts!A new year tends to bring about resolutions: some choose to focus on health, some on personal relationships, among others. Although I don't actively practice New Years resolutions as I'm really good at starting things without seeing them through to finish, there are a couple of areas in my life I'd like to see change. One such area is this blog.<br />
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I got really lazy with posting blogs last year, and I was finding that the article-style posts I was writing were not keeping me motivated. I decided to try a different format this year to see if it would engage me more, as well as you readers. This new format contains 3 new sub-sections to each post:<br />
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1. My week in wine - What's been going on in my world these past week(s)?<br />
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2. This week in wine - links to some other blogs I follow and articles that have been shared with me, for some up-to-date news in the wine world.<br />
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3. What's in My Glass? Wine reviews and recommendations!<br />
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I have a couple of other mini-goals for 2020 when it comes to wine. My local wine school has released a new online course for food and wine pairings, an area I could use more education in. I'm planning to take the course a little later on in the year before I start studying for a Project Management designation at work. There is also a chance I'll be back in Ontario in the fall near the Niagara wine region, and if I'm there during harvest time and logistics allow, I would love to try my hand at helping harvest grapes! I'm looking forward to 2020 and all the opportunities it can bring! <br />
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<b><u>This Week in the Wine World</u> </b><br />
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<b>Wine Enthusiast:</b> <a href="https://www.winemag.com/2020/01/08/australia-fires-wine-damages/" id="id_1464_d6de_996d_7295" target="_blank">The Wine Regions Hit Hardest by the Australian Wildfires </a><br />
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<b>Atlas Obscura:</b> <a href="https://www.atlasobscura.com/articles/history-of-champagne?utm_medium=atlas-page&utm_source=facebook.com&fbclid=IwAR0-f9yTOnSm2B7Tv8NoHT8NdMLxUL8-U5IWh3vtagDgF5FgP-HAe95Ss0U" target="_blank">How an English Energy Crisis Helped Create Champagne Bottles</a><br />
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<b>The Corkscrew Concierge:</b> <a href="https://thecorkscrewconcierge.com/2020/01/tasting-tannat-godforsaken-grapes/" id="id_798c_90a7_4698_556b" target="_blank">More about the Obscure Grape Varietal Tannat and Pairing with Food </a><br />
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<b><u>What's in My Glass</u></b><br />
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The week before Christmas some of my colleagues and I participated in a Reverse Wine Lottery, and our team placed second! Each of us took home 8 bottles. Originally, I was going to post my reviews of each of mine on Instagram (Follow me on IG: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/thewineconcubine/" target="_blank">@thewineconcubine</a>) using the hashtag #EightCrazyNightsofWine, but in true fashion, I only posted my tasting notes of 4 bottles there. My tasting notes from 3 of the remaining 4 bottles:<br />
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<img alt="" height="259" id="id_2df3_570e_49cb_29d2" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/qoEN7k_NN13H6iMlLqXwEuPkHS7avWpbpnfj3QAwoy403MAG5nHtyYtbr7A" style="height: auto; width: 298px;" title="" tooltip="" width="400" /><br />
My loot from the Reverse Wine Lottery<br />
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1. <a href="https://www.portugalvineyards.com/en/staff-pick-wines/1461-quinta-de-cabriz-selected-harvest-red-2016-5604575110024.html" target="_blank">Cabriz Colheita Selecionada Tinto</a>, Dao DOC, Portugal: Aromas and flavours of dried red fruit and toasted hazelnuts intertwined with bright acidity, fine-grained tannins and a smooth finish. Lighter in body than some other reds from Portugal makes this wine great to drink on its own. This wine is priced around $20 CDN, excellent for weeknight sipping!<br />
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2. <a href="https://saxenburg.co.za/wine-shop/" target="_blank">Guinea Fowl Chenin Blanc 2016</a>, Stellenbosch, South Africa: Notes of underripe apricot, pineapple and a hint of ginger leading into a zesty citrus finish. Crisp acidity, dry with a subtle hint of sweetness. Very expressive in style of South African Chenin Blanc and another great value for sipping on its own or pairing with lighter dishes like grilled seafood.<br />
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3. L'Opaline Rose 2017, AOC Coteaux Varois-en-Provence, France: A very pale salmon colour in the glass, reflecting a very light, crisp mouthfeel on the palate. Bright and crisp acidity, with abundant citrus flavours, steely minerality and the slightest hint of baking spice on the bright finish. Best enjoyed on its own-would be great on a hot day!<br />
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Now that the temperatures here have plummeted into a Siberian deep freeze, I plan to spend the next week tucking into some red wine blends to help keep me warm this week.<br />
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Cheers! </div>
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SMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16544043185482474935noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2375170294386227382.post-83200607439876014122020-01-05T11:13:00.000-07:002020-01-05T11:13:31.061-07:00My Top Wines of 2019Happy New Year - and decade, everyone!<br />
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I found myself reminiscing over the entire decade as 2019 drew to a close. If I could sum up my twenty-teens in one word, it would be passion. I found so much of it within the past 10 years:<br />
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January 2010 - Started a new day job position in Airport Operations - Airside Services. This spawned my passion for aviation and the behind-the-scenes magic of airfield operations that continues to this day. I would remain in this position for 8 years.<br />
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March 2011 - My husband and I travelled throughout France and tasted our way through the Bordeaux, Chateauneuf-du-Pape and Champagne regions. While there, I learned about the WSET courses, as well as tasting the legendary Krug Clos du Mesnil vintage 1998 Champagne, kicking off my passion for wine and the deep desire to learn as much about it as I can. This photo was taken minutes before my first sip:<br />
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<pic at="" looking="" me="" my="" notebook="" of=""></pic><img alt="" id="id_f614_8084_54f2_c2ee" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/xgRQz4wP34NhR4B2Ci-1EN4mBRJys6wjovdj4x5dk32UpNDs_wZsvhOjf5k" style="height: auto; width: 298px;" title="" tooltip="" /><br />
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Feb 2012 - My first daughter was born. Although it was tough at times to adjust to life with a newborn at first (<b>no one</b> can truly prepare you for your firstborn IMO!), I experienced a deep love like no other for this beautiful human that we created.<br />
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July 2013 - Took WSET Level 3/Advanced. My course instructor made it very clear to me that she felt I didn't deserve to be there as I didn't work in the industry and that I hadn't tasted enough great wine. Her treatment of me in the course motivated me to make a name for myself and further fuelled my desire to prove her wrong. I passed WSET with distinction and re-branded myself in 2014 as the Wine Concubine, a blog that she apparently knows about. What that means, I don't know, but I consider my goal here as completed.<br />
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December 2015 - My second daughter was born and I spent 2016 on maternity leave from work to be with her, and I truly enjoyed every second of that year! My passion for my children grew immensely and I can't imagine my life now without my children in it.<br />
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August & October 2018 - Quite possibly the biggest year of growth for me in my entire life. Internal corporate restructuring forced me to leave the job I loved deeply and transfer to a new position within the company. Before the position transfer occurred, my husband and I jetted off to Europe to explore the Pfalz, Ahr and Alsace wine regions. Alsace is my go-to region when I'm drinking whites and Cremants, and getting to be in the heart of the region deepened my passion for wine and travelling to as many regions as possible on my own Bucket List.<br />
On October 9, I started in my new position within the airport terminal and develop a new passion; not only for helping make our airport be the best it can be for our passengers, but also to grow my own career and chase a project management designation in 2020! <br />
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Now to 2019's Wines of the Year! Since 2013, I've been putting together a list of my personal favourite wines tasted within the past year. It's a good way for me to remember my favourites, and perhaps you find some new wines or food & wine pairings on my list to try. Here we go:<br />
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<u>Top Red Wines</u><br />
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As my tasting journey continues, I've found that the average price I spend on a bottle of red wine has increased quite a bit. On any given day I find myself spending $30-$35 CDN/bottle on reds, and this list includes bottles that exceed that price point. They are, however, worth the splurge! Australian Cab Sauvs have been stealing my heart as of late and the Bleasdale retails around the $20 price point! <br />
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<insert at="" krug="" looking="" me="" notebook="" of="" photo="" the="">1. <a href="http://winery.abbaziasantanastasia.com/en/the-wines/69-cru-bio-litra.html" target="_blank">Abbazia Santa Anastasia Litra</a> - Sicilia IGT, Italy</insert><br />
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<insert at="" krug="" looking="" me="" notebook="" of="" photo="" the="">2. <a href="http://www.beaurenard.fr/pagesgb/2_1chateauneufrouge.htm" target="_blank">Domaine de Beaurenard</a> - Chateauneuf-du-Pape AOC, France</insert><br />
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<insert at="" krug="" looking="" me="" notebook="" of="" photo="" the="">3. <a href="https://www.prieur.com/en/wine/14/beaune-greves/2005" target="_blank">Domaine Jacques Prieur Beaune-Greves Premier Cru</a> - AOC Burgundy, France</insert><br />
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<insert at="" krug="" looking="" me="" notebook="" of="" photo="" the=""><u>Honourable Mentions </u></insert><br />
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<insert at="" krug="" looking="" me="" notebook="" of="" photo="" the="">1. <a href="https://www.wynns.com.au/en-ca/black-label-cabernet-sauvignon-2017-7300921.html" target="_blank">Wynn's Black Label Cabernet Sauvignon</a> - Coonawarra, Australia</insert><br />
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<insert at="" krug="" looking="" me="" notebook="" of="" photo="" the="">2. <a href="https://www.lcbo.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/en/lcbo/red-wine-14001/bleasdale-mulberry-tree-cabernet-sauvignon-2016-661892#.XhDUs_wTHIU" target="_blank">Bleasdale Mulberry Tree Cabernet Sauvignon</a> - Langhorne Creek, Australia</insert><br />
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<insert at="" krug="" looking="" me="" notebook="" of="" photo="" the=""><u>Top Whites</u></insert><br />
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<insert at="" krug="" looking="" me="" notebook="" of="" photo="" the="">This year seemed to be the “Year of the White Wine” as the list of my most memorable whites almost tripled the list of my Top Reds! These wines are also easier on the wallet than the reds above, ranging in price from $20 CDN (Nk'Mip) to $40 for the Eden Valley and Rioja offerings.</insert><br />
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<insert at="" krug="" looking="" me="" notebook="" of="" photo="" the="">1. <a href="https://www.penfolds.com/en-ca/wines/the-penfolds-collection/bin-51-eden-valley-riesling/2018" target="_blank">Penfolds Bin 51 Eden Valley Riesling</a> - Eden Valley, Australia</insert><br />
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<insert at="" krug="" looking="" me="" notebook="" of="" photo="" the="">2. <a href="https://www.lcbo.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/en/lcbo/white-wine-14002/conde-de-los-andes-blanco-2015-667154#.XhFY5_wTHIU" target="_blank">Conde de los Andes Blanco</a> - Rioja, Spain</insert><br />
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<insert at="" krug="" looking="" me="" notebook="" of="" photo="" the="">3. <a href="https://www.eugene-meyer.fr/nos-vins/vins-traditionnels/p/riesling" target="_blank">Domaine Eugene Meyer Riesling</a> - AOC Alsace, France</insert><br />
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<insert at="" krug="" looking="" me="" notebook="" of="" photo="" the="">4. <a href="http://www.nkmipcellars.com/?method=products.productDrilldown&productID=95a77947-9fff-2e26-bd04-192b005cd484&originalMarketingURL=product/NkMip-Cellars-Winemakers-Pinot-Blanc" target="_blank">Nk'Mip Pinot Blanc</a> - VQA Okanagan, Canada</insert><br />
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<insert at="" krug="" looking="" me="" notebook="" of="" photo="" the=""><u>Top Sparkling Wines</u></insert><br />
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<insert at="" krug="" looking="" me="" notebook="" of="" photo="" the="">You are reading this correctly, I ranked an Alsatian Cremant ahead of an authentic Champagne! I have been very vocal online about my belief in the quality and value of the Cremants from other French regions; taste them yourself side by side to see what your palate thinks! </insert><br />
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<insert at="" krug="" looking="" me="" notebook="" of="" photo="" the="">1. <a href="https://www.gustavelorentz.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/Cr%C3%A9mant-DAlsace-Brut.pdf" target="_blank">Domaine Gustavo Lorentz Cremant d'Alsace Brut</a> - Alsace, France</insert><br />
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<insert at="" krug="" looking="" me="" notebook="" of="" photo="" the="">2. <a href="https://www.moet.com/en-int/moet-imperial" target="_blank">Moet & Chandon Champagne</a> - AOC Champagne, France</insert><br />
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<insert at="" krug="" looking="" me="" notebook="" of="" photo="" the="">3. <a href="https://www.wine.com/product/bodegas-naveran-brut-cava-2016/507765" target="_blank">Naveran Cava Brut, Vintage 2016 </a>- Spain</insert><br />
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<insert at="" krug="" looking="" me="" notebook="" of="" photo="" the=""><u>Top Values</u></insert><br />
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<insert at="" krug="" looking="" me="" notebook="" of="" photo="" the="">White wines swept the category this year. So many great values to be had, ranging from an off-dry blend to complex, full-bodied whites. I encourage those of you who swear to hate white wines to give some of these a try!</insert><br />
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<insert at="" krug="" looking="" me="" notebook="" of="" photo="" the="">1. <a href="https://cdn.vin.co/_clients_folder/hugel/_gentil_2018__gb_pdf_27959.pdf" target="_blank">Domaine Hugel Gentil White Blend</a> - AOC Alsace, France</insert><br />
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<insert at="" krug="" looking="" me="" notebook="" of="" photo="" the="">2. <a href="https://www.amalaya.com/white/" target="_blank">Amalaya Torrontes-Riesling</a> - Salta, Argentina</insert><br />
<insert at="" krug="" looking="" me="" notebook="" of="" photo="" the=""><br /></insert>
<insert at="" krug="" looking="" me="" notebook="" of="" photo="" the="">3. <a href="https://www.fairview.co.za/product/goats-roam-white/" target="_blank">Fairview Cellars “Goats do Roam” White Blend</a> - Western Cape, South Africa</insert><br />
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<insert at="" krug="" looking="" me="" notebook="" of="" photo="" the="">4. <a href="https://static1.squarespace.com/static/5a7b9c64f09ca46868b6bd2b/t/5c171544f950b7d4a373fd16/1545016649705/2018+Kono+Marlborough+Sauvignon+Blanc.PDF" target="_blank">Kono Sauvignon Blanc</a> - Marlborough, New Zealand</insert><br />
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<insert at="" krug="" looking="" me="" notebook="" of="" photo="" the=""><u>Top Food and Wine Pairings</u></insert><br />
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<insert at="" krug="" looking="" me="" notebook="" of="" photo="" the="">The Okanagan wine region in Canada produces outstanding food-friendly wines that pair extremely well with local dishes and this list truly reflects that. Hopefully one day the rest of the world will get to know these wines; for now, I recommend you visit both Alberta and British Columbia to see our natural beauty, Canadian hospitality, unique local food, and exquisite wines. </insert><br />
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<insert at="" krug="" looking="" me="" notebook="" of="" photo="" the="">1. <a href="https://www.laughingstock.ca/product/Syrah-2017" target="_blank">Laughingstock Syrah</a> with Elk Striploin Steak (Okanagan, BC)</insert><br />
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<insert at="" krug="" looking="" me="" notebook="" of="" photo="" the="">2. <a href="https://shop.schramsberg.com/SHOP.AMS?LEVEL=BOT&PART=NVH14" target="_blank">Schramsberg Blanc de Blancs Brut</a> with Goats Cheese Gougeres (North Coast, California)</insert><br />
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<insert at="" krug="" looking="" me="" notebook="" of="" photo="" the="">3. <a href="https://www.nataliemaclean.com/wine-reviews/bernard-massard-cuvee-de-lecusson-brut-methode-traditionelle-rose/203349" target="_blank">Bernard-Massard Cuvee de l'Ecusson Brut Rose</a> with Spring Parmesan Frittata (Moselle, Luxembourg)</insert><br />
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<insert at="" krug="" looking="" me="" notebook="" of="" photo="" the="">4. <a href="https://wildgoosewinery.com/wine-shop/" target="_blank">Wild Goose Vineyards Gewurztraminer</a> with Roast Turkey (Okanagan, BC)</insert><br />
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<insert at="" krug="" looking="" me="" notebook="" of="" photo="" the=""><u>Wineries of the Year</u></insert><br />
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<insert at="" krug="" looking="" me="" notebook="" of="" photo="" the="">I like to recognize the wineries that interact with their followers on social media, as well as produce quality wines. After almost a decade on social media, I find this is still the exception rather than the rule. These wineries do an excellent job of both:</insert><br />
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<insert at="" krug="" looking="" me="" notebook="" of="" photo="" the="">1. J. Lohr Wines - Paso Robles, California. IG and Twitter: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/jlohrwines/?hl=en" target="_blank">@jlohrwines</a></insert><br />
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<insert at="" krug="" looking="" me="" notebook="" of="" photo="" the="">2. Wild Goose Vineyards - Okanagan Falls, BC, Canada IG: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/wildgoosewine/" target="_blank">@wildgoosewine</a> </insert><br />
<insert at="" krug="" looking="" me="" notebook="" of="" photo="" the="">Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/wildgoosewines?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor" target="_blank">@wildgoosewines</a></insert><br />
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<insert at="" krug="" looking="" me="" notebook="" of="" photo="" the="">3. Vino Montefioralle - Tuscany, Italy Twitter: <a href="https://twitter.com/montefiorallewi?lang=en" target="_blank">@MontefioralleWi</a> Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/montefioralle/?hc_ref=ARReXSyhtjQ1GHzS7g3Uhcua6y_emlbN06F50N2uJ-5odKbgrGSAFaU1qCChOj8uvDo&ref=nf_target&__xts__%5B0%5D=68.ARDxqdjh7zSBIZ4ixWhrrnnjOU6hE6746cRB7yL9DPDIW4_aCjW7AMuAF8e4fmQ4rGi_4zUFE-b517Xym0wb1klWxQ4dhbLcBCE8GX3GfwEUM29OE53Jrrs4N6jhnBbVqPEvrmFMQGcaGJj_ktTbx3EahYTzbAEf9qXwLxapnIBjdqLnTOjxtrbF2eB7fvR191-XzZELMjtmMo-qp1Gz6jL60CvMQeNHs6ItQAqc4RelvpLEFpCvQa6QmXZRTiL0uXOu-x-bbqlvr-jH7W6Sx7oQCPRWzP373I9X2vNJ1Tl1VT9bxcqmub1rcg6A2idXZ_AERlmGgBUiYBsRDZF_Fb4d3Vu-XerzpgHUrxKddJ-9Xo-M4WdBO1BW1SYpyTpR-jrqtkn8Y2h3nEHo3vAbNZEr0JjscCJsq6vQKnbt9CBoeEQQVcE1q7Wr6-hl&__tn__=kC-R" target="_blank">Here </a></insert><br />
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<insert at="" krug="" looking="" me="" notebook="" of="" photo="" the="">So what's next for 2020? I'm excited to announce a new format coming to my blog posts. I found that writing essay-style long articles was becoming less enjoyable for me to write. The new format will consist of 3 mini-segments in each post, which will hopefully allow me to write more frequently. </insert><br />
<insert at="" krug="" looking="" me="" notebook="" of="" photo="" the="">Stay tuned!</insert><br />
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<insert at="" krug="" looking="" me="" notebook="" of="" photo="" the="">Wishing you all the best in the year - and decade - ahead! May your glass be full of good wine, and your heart be full of happiness and joy. Cheers! </insert>SMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16544043185482474935noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2375170294386227382.post-14969900171071298692019-06-28T09:51:00.008-06:002019-06-28T16:02:51.550-06:00Eh! Syrah, Syrah!I'm a proud Canadian. What's not to like about living here: thousands of kilometres of natural beauty from coast to coast, we make 80% of the world's supply of Maple Syrup, we dominate each Winter Olympics in medals - and hey, for you believers, Santa Claus lives here ;)<br>
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Canadian wines are no exception to this list above. Although they aren't found widespread out of the country, our wine regions grow and create wines from a multitude of varietals, some of which are Chardonnay out of the Niagara region (where the annual International Cold-Climate Chardonnay conference, i4C, is held), Gewurtztraminer out of the Okanagan, and the sweet wines vinified in Quebec. In this post, I'm going to focus on the rapidly-growing popularity of Syrah in the Okanagan region.</div>
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British Columbia's vineyards are fairly young when it comes to the wine world; the first vines were planted in the early 1860s in order to make wine for the first settlement in the area. It wasn't until the mid-1970s, when experimental plantings of Merlot, Chenin Blanc, and other international varietals occurred, that diversity in the vineyards took off. Syrah plantings began shortly after, marking the oldest vines in the area at or under the age of 40 (like me!). The Syrah vines flourish best in the southern sub-regions of Oliver and Osoyoos due to higher average temperatures required for ripening; however, successful Syrah wines are also found north of Penticton on the Naramata Bench and in the Okanagan Falls regions.<br>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguzlSQ1Phjkea8ya0jnf7np0h9ysEnQb8sZMVQ7m9wVByIhIOhyphenhyphenB9J60jLFmF0o26nnsqA7l6lDips9bglO8yMCvR3kSg8f8i-vHQDTdg4oLJcROZ8JpcEJSOtObw2HWotcmSoezD26Fg/s1600/851550121.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="492" data-original-width="380" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguzlSQ1Phjkea8ya0jnf7np0h9ysEnQb8sZMVQ7m9wVByIhIOhyphenhyphenB9J60jLFmF0o26nnsqA7l6lDips9bglO8yMCvR3kSg8f8i-vHQDTdg4oLJcROZ8JpcEJSOtObw2HWotcmSoezD26Fg/s400/851550121.png" width="307"></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image from <a href="http://okanagan.com/">Okanagan.com</a>. The Naramata Bench wine region is located Northeast of Penticton.</td></tr>
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<a href="http://www.laughingstock.ca/assets/client/File/Syrah%202011%20profile.pdf" target="_blank">Laughing Stock Vineyards Syrah 2011</a> contains an ever-evolving flavour profile that includes stewed red cherries, cinnamon, and a hint of black licorice. A well-structured body of racy acidity and silky-smooth tannins lead into a finish that speaks to its oak aging. This wine is an excellent accompaniment with grilled game - we paired it with Elk striploin steak and were not disappointed!<br>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSsEMdE0va-f1Bjd_3IBJT8wFd1DPVsxn_2TeDjUtR0MaK9DWkkBYKITi9VUaG7K44Lt_3AvcSUKruyZgQ0hDJNhqqILQCPi4kmnBeHPmpSeGZv24Uri8qHg5cqDaJOIkgl2oTlojY4b8/s1600/IMG_3509%255B1%255D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSsEMdE0va-f1Bjd_3IBJT8wFd1DPVsxn_2TeDjUtR0MaK9DWkkBYKITi9VUaG7K44Lt_3AvcSUKruyZgQ0hDJNhqqILQCPi4kmnBeHPmpSeGZv24Uri8qHg5cqDaJOIkgl2oTlojY4b8/s320/IMG_3509%255B1%255D.JPG" width="240"></a></div>
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Also located on the Naramata Bench near Laughing Stock is <a href="https://www.hillsidewinery.ca/product/2015-Syrah-Copy" target="_blank">Hillside Winery.</a> Their 2015 Syrah is bold up front, with focused acidity and muscular tannins. The body becomes more smooth and lush mid-palate, while maintaining complexity of flavour throughout. Notes of black plum and fresh raspberry evolve into a graphite finish. I consumed on its own; however, would be a wonderful accompaniment to aged cheddar.<br>
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Further south into the Osoyoos Region, <a href="https://www.mooncurser.com/assets/client/File/MC-TastingNotes-Syrah-2015.pdf" target="_blank">Moon Curser's Syrah 2015</a> is brighter in style, with lively acidity and a smooth, clean finish. Notes of ripe plum, ground black pepper, and a hint of cloves create an expressive, succulent mouthfeel alongside lively acidity and velvety tannins. This Syrah is versatile enough to enjoy with a variety of foods, but is light enough that it can be enjoyed on its own.</div>
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Finally, the <a href="http://www.paintedrock.ca/product/2016-Syrah?pageID=95B0D4E1-9A67-6CC5-BB27-18E9CCC66D67&sortBy=DisplayOrder&maxRows=10&" target="_blank">2013 Painted Rock Estate Winery Syrah</a> is composed of fine-grained tannins, a rich mouthfeel, notes of dried cranberry, red cherries, and a smoky cedar finish. Unfortunately, it fell a little flat despite decanting for almost 2 hours prior to tasting. I suspect I let this sit in cellar too long. With all of that said, the link above is for their 2016 Syrah and this newly released vintage will be easy to enjoy!</div><div><br></div><div>I found it intriguing to note that the majority of these wines expressed flavour profiles that differ quite a bit from the telltale flavours of Syrahs, but those wines all exhibited similar notes and structure to eachother - perhaps this is the Okanagan style developing! </div><div><br></div><div>There are so many reasons I love Canada, and I am proud and grateful to get to live here, enjoy breathtaking landscapes, eat Canadian food and drink Canadian wine. I’m excited to see what the future has in store for all of our wine regions, and as time goes by, the future of our own unique style. </div><div><br></div><div>For those of my readers in the USA, a happy early Independence Day. And for the proud Canadians everywhere, Happy Canada Day! May you celebrate by enjoying all that our beautiful country has to offer! <br>
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SMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16544043185482474935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2375170294386227382.post-76009804520342521422019-04-06T12:07:00.001-06:002019-04-06T12:07:26.544-06:00A Romance with RiojaI am in love with Spanish wine, especially Rioja.<br />
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This isn't the first time I've shared this <a href="http://www.wineconcubine.com/2017/08/weekly-wine-down-august-1-7-wine-in.html" target="_blank">sentiment</a>, and I'm sure it won't be the last time, either! Wines from Rioja reflect high quality and craftsmanship, while offering accessibility for all wine lovers at reasonable prices. <br />
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On Thursday, February 21, I was fortunate enough to attend a Wines of Rioja reception in preparation for one of Calgary's largest annual wine festivals, aptly named Winefest. Winemakers and Rioja representatives came together to share their passion and knowledge of this prestigious region with local wine media, writers and bloggers such as myself. Here are my personal standout wines of the tasting:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPfhdppiEX2zVWpbVV5otkXEe47xPS-cU7tXuzRVRhBoJ-_20y_ZKlvuwebsM25bDB5Gj9VRp7lSkZqeQSH004vd16aCv7Jhnz_3nBrSRDKpEcYIWZO85mscfOJqTdamrUGqe8k27mlk8/s1600/IMG_2781.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPfhdppiEX2zVWpbVV5otkXEe47xPS-cU7tXuzRVRhBoJ-_20y_ZKlvuwebsM25bDB5Gj9VRp7lSkZqeQSH004vd16aCv7Jhnz_3nBrSRDKpEcYIWZO85mscfOJqTdamrUGqe8k27mlk8/s320/IMG_2781.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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The <a href="http://www.bodegasollauri.com/en/#vinos/1" target="_blank">Conde de los Andes Blanco</a> 2015 is composed entirely of the Viura varietal. An intriguing vibrant gold colour in the glass, melon and vanilla aromas invite you in to a complex palate that also offers notes of kiwifruit, fresh pear and a hint of white blossom. The tannins are fine-grained and well integrated, with mouthwatering acidity leading into a long, bright finish. This is a stunning sipper that would marry well with a wide variety of savory foods, and has the potential to age in cellar for 5-10 years.<br />
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The <a href="https://valserrano.com/en/producto/valserrano-reserva-2013/" target="_blank">Valserrano Rioja Reserva </a>2012 carries a bouquet abundant with red fruit, molasses, and hazelnuts into a body consisting of prominent yet velvety tannins and a smooth, rich body. The uncompromised quality and care the family takes in crafting their wines is clearly evident with each sip. <mention etc="" history="" of="" property="" the=""></mention><br />
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The true highlight of the reception was the <a href="https://www.cvne.com/en/ct-vino/imperial-reserva/" target="_blank">CVNE Imperial Rioja Reserva </a>2014. This stunning treasure boasts a lush, full body, silky-smooth tannins and racy acidity, combined with flavours of red currants, plum and black olives. The finish is long and sultry, with a hint of baking spice. Pairs well with a myriad of cheeses and charcuterie, but also fantastic on its own!<br />
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The wines I tasted that fabulous, fun February evening reaffirm my love for Spanish wines, and the memories of this wonderful experience will last well into the future. Rioja wines are an excellent choice to bring to a dinner party, curled up in front of the fire on a cold night, or even on a weeknight after a rough day at work! To learn more about the Rioja wine region, its terroir and upcoming events in your area, please visit <a href="https://us.riojawine.com/en/">https://us.riojawine.com/en/</a><br />
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Special thanks to Tiffany Pence, Dhane Chesson and Ana Fabiano for their wonderful hospitality and passion for sharing Rioja wines with the world.<br />
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Cheers!SMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16544043185482474935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2375170294386227382.post-73068633723637424452019-01-30T14:53:00.001-07:002019-01-30T14:53:39.995-07:00My Top Wines of 2018Happy New Year's everyone!<br />
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2018 was another year of struggling in my "day job" career at our local airport. Internal company restructuring forced me to move positions in the early Autumn. Although I have now settled into my new position, and have integrated myself well into my new department, there will always be a place in my heart for the position I came from.<br />
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With all that said, the true highlight was spending my last few weeks of summer in Europe! We travelled through the Pfalz, Alsace, and the Ahr wine regions, soaking in the view of sun-kissed vineyards, tasting everything we could get our hands on, and indulging in the local dishes that pair so spectacularly with those wines. You can read about my European adventures <a href="http://www.wineconcubine.com/2018/09/a-tour-tasting-at-weingut-geheimer-rat.html" target="_blank">here</a> and <a href="http://www.wineconcubine.com/2018/10/cremant-tour-de-france-stage-3-alsace.html" target="_blank">here</a>. Other highlights include attending my first media event, a <a href="http://www.wineconcubine.com/2018/03/a-food-and-champagne-pairing-with-veuve.html" target="_blank">lunch</a> with winemaker Gerard Bertrand of the Veuve Clicquot champagne house, and my first ever collaboration, a blog <a href="http://bcwinetrends.com/2018/01/28/moon-curser-vineyards-smugglers-quirky-varietals-osoyoos/" target="_blank">post </a>on bcwinetrends.com about one of my favourite wineries in Okanagan region, Moon Curser Vineyards.<br />
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Every year since 2013, I've dedicated my first post of the new year to sharing my favourite wines from the previous year. The categories haven't changed as I've decided to keep both the "Social Media Wineries of the Year" and "Wine Bloggers to Follow" lists. There are so many excellent resources out there to learn from!<br />
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<b><u>Top Red Wines of 2018</u></b><br />
<b><u><br /></u></b>Sadly, the majority of my top red wines this year came from aging in my cellar, so the actual vintages themselves may not be widely available. However, I do encourage you to try any of these reds should you find any on your local store shelves. Price points range from $30 - $50 CDN, and worth every penny!<br />
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1. <a href="https://www.brotte.com/en/fine-wine-chateauneuf-du-pape-2010-red-domaine-barville-cambie/" target="_blank">Domaine Barville "Brotte" </a>2009: Chateauneuf-du-Pape, France<br />
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2. <a href="https://www.tenutefolonari.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/10/BOLGHERI-ROSSO.pdf" target="_blank">Campo al Mare Bolgheri </a>2007: Tuscany, Italy<br />
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3. <a href="http://www.wineconcubine.com/2014/01/petite-sirah-star-of-californias.html" target="_blank">Stargroves Petite Sirah</a> 2008: Paso Robles, California<br />
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4. <a href="https://www.bench1775.com/assets/images/products/media/InfoSheet_2014CabFrancCL2141.pdf" target="_blank">Bench 1775 Cabernet Franc 2014</a>: Okanagan, BC, Canada<br />
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<b><u>Top White Wines of 2018</u></b><br />
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Riesling dominated my white wine consumption for the year, what with travelling to the heart of Riesling country and all! Three of the top 4 wines are of this versatile varietal, with a sleeper hit from Australia mixing it up. Most of these wines are priced between $20 and $35 CDN, with the St. Urbans-Hof priced around $60 CDN, and so worth it!<br />
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1. S<a href="https://www.kenswineguide.com/wine_review/St-Urbans-Hof-2011-Bockstein-Ockfen-Spatlese-Riesling" target="_blank">t. Urbans-Hof Bockstein Spatlese Riesling</a> 2011 - Mosel, Germany<br />
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2. <a href="https://www.tawsewinery.ca/products/15434-riesling-sketches/" target="_blank">Tawse Sketches Riesling 2015</a> - Niagara Peninsula, Ontario, Canada<br />
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3. <a href="http://www.3sisterswinery.com/?method=products.productDrilldown&productID=3421F099-D963-A9B8-457A-102A0F82F82B&originalMarketingURL=product/Three-Sisters-Bench-White" target="_blank">Three Sisters Bench White 2016</a> - Okanagan, BC, Canada<br />
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4. <a href="http://www.tahbilk.com.au/buy-tahbilk-wine-online/tahbilk-2016-marsanne.html" target="_blank">Tahbilk Marsanne 2016 </a>- Australia<br />
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<b><u>Top Rose Wines of 2018</u></b><br />
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I spent a lot more time quaffing on rose this past summer than I have in the past. Rose all day, am I right?! The unofficial king of Rose wines, Cotes du Provence, made an impact on my list; however, the top spots went to the New World for their lush and concentrated offerings. Price points range between $18 and $32 CDN, making these gems affordable any time of year! <br />
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1. <a href="https://belleglos.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2018/03/2017-Belle-Glos-OeildePerdrix-Pinot-Noir-Blanc-Fact-Sheet.pdf" target="_blank">Belle Glos Pinot Noir/Blanc Rose</a> 2016 - Sonoma, California<br />
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2. <a href="http://www.sperlingvineyards.com/assets/sv-tn-pnrose16.pdf" target="_blank">Sperling Vineyards Pinot Noir Rose 2016</a> - Okanagan, BC, Canada<br />
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3. <a href="https://www.chapoutier.com/cotes-du-rhone-rose,belleruche-2017,wine,108.html" target="_blank">M. Chapoutier Belleruche Rose</a> 2016 - AOP Cotes du Rhone, France<br />
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4. <a href="https://www.winemag.com/buying-guide/s-de-la-sablette-2017-rose-cotes-de-provence-296598/" target="_blank">S de la Sablette Rose</a> 2016 - AOP Cotes du Provence, France<br />
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<b><u>Top Sparkling Wines of 2018</u></b><br />
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It was a French sweep this year thanks to my #cremanttourdefrance journey in the late spring/early summer. Although the JL Schwartz cremant is not widely available, the rest are priced between $25 and $65 CDN.<br />
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1. <a href="https://www.taittinger.com/sites/default/files/2018-12/Brut%20R%C3%A9serve_0.pdf" target="_blank">Champagne Taittinger </a>- Reims, France<br />
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2. <a href="http://www.domaine-schwartz.com/vins-alsace-67/Nos-Cremants/Cremant-d-Alsace-Chardonnay-Vin-Biologique-36.html" target="_blank">Domaine JL Schwartz Cremant d'Alsace Chardonnay </a>- Alsace, France<br />
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3. <a href="http://www.champagnepommery.com/en/champagne-pommery/champagnes" target="_blank">Champagne Pommery Extra Brut</a> - Reims, France<br />
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4.<a href="http://www.langlois-chateau.fr/the-cremant-de-loire-blanc-brut/" target="_blank"> Chateau Langlois Cremant de Loire Brut</a> - Loire Valley, France<br />
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<b><u>Top Value Wines of 2018</u></b><br />
<b><u><br /></u></b>I fell in love with my top value wine as soon as I tasted it; in fact, it's become one of my go-to white wines when I need a weeknight bottle or a patio sipper in summer! All 4 of these picks are worth tasting if you haven't already done so, and will only cost you $25 CDN or less!<br />
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1. <a href="https://www.alsace-willm.com/product/pinot-blanc/?lang=en" target="_blank">Willm Pinot Blanc</a> 2016 - AOP Alsace, France<br />
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2. <a href="https://www.chateautanunda.com/wines/grand-barossa-cabernet-sauvignon-2017" target="_blank">Chateau Tanunda Grand Barossa Cabernet Sauvignon</a> - Barossa Valley, Australia<br />
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3. <a href="https://www.ste-michelle.com/our-wines/2017-riesling" target="_blank">Chateau Ste Michelle Riesling</a> 2016 - Columbia Valley, Washington<br />
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4. <a href="https://www.willowpark.net/products/1884-reservado-malbec" target="_blank">Bodegas Corihuela 1884 Malbec</a> 2016 - Mendoza, Argentina<br />
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<b><u>Top Food and Wine Pairings of 2018</u></b><br />
<b><u><br /></u></b>The Pinot Noir varietal shows up in 3 of the 4 top wines in this category as it is such a food-friendly wine! This year's top pairings isn't very vegetarian-friendly, but the JJ Adenauer and Burrowing Owl wines would work just as well with vegetarian alternatives like a "beyond meat" burger or veggie flatbread. The JJ Adenauer isn't widely available in Canada (just yet, anyways...I've heard rumours...), but the others are worth the splurge at prices between $30 and $60. Your taste buds will not be disappointed!<br />
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1. <a href="https://wirwinzer.de/2017-neuenahrer-spaetburgunder-halbtrocken-weingut-adeneuer.html" target="_blank">JJ Adenauer Spatburgunder 2017</a>, paired with Pancetta & Onion "Flammkuchen" (flatbread)<br />
Ahr Valley, Germany<br />
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2. <a href="https://www.veuveclicquot.com/en-ca/our-champagne/champagne-extra-brut-extra-old" target="_blank">Veuve Clicquot Extra Brut Extra Old</a>, paired with Pork Hock over Apricot Press<br />
AOP Champagne, France<br />
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3. <a href="https://www.burrowingowlwine.ca/wine/pinot-noir-2/" target="_blank">Burrowing Owl Pinot Noir 2015,</a> paired with Caramelized Onion & Mushroom Burgers<br />
VQA Okanagan, BC, Canada<br />
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4.<a href="http://m.familleperrin.com/8HL9TE/web" target="_blank"> Famille Perrin "Les Christins" 2015,</a> paired with Sirloin Beef Roast<br />
AOP Vacqueyras, France<br />
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<b><u>Wineries of the Year</u></b><br />
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This category is dedicated to wineries that not only produce quality wines, but also regularly interact with their social media followers. Make sure to like and follow these wineries, and if you happen to see their wines in your local store, why not pick up a bottle for your next quaff?<br />
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1. <a href="https://www.bassermann-jordan.de/" target="_blank">Dr von Bassermann-Jordan</a>: Pfalz, Germany<br />
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2. Champagne Taittinger: Reims, France (link above in Top Sparkling Wines List)<br />
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3. <a href="https://www.hesscollection.com/" target="_blank">Hess Winery</a>: Napa Valley, California<br />
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<b><u>Wine Bloggers to Follow</u></b><br />
This is my list of must-read (or watch) bloggers that I've started to follow in the past year. Each blogger on this year's list represents a specific wine region, with a youtube vlogger that focuses on value wines rounding out the list.<br />
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1. <a href="http://www.grapevineadventures.com/" target="_blank">Grapevine Adventures</a> - Katarina, a native from Sweden, moved to Italy and travels the country, exploring all the food and wine that makes Italy the gastronomic powerhouse that it is today. She also gravitates towards some of the wines and regions "off the beaten path", and I have learned so much more about Italy from her than what I have learned in books and other blogs so far!<br />
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2. <a href="https://vinosocial.wine/" target="_blank">VinoSocial</a> - Nancy Croisier, a native Washingtonian, shares her passion for Washington wine in all of her blog posts. She also creates recipes that she pairs with the wines she reviews, and they are must-tries in your kitchen! Pair this with a friendly & knowledgeable writer, and you have a recipe for success!<br />
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3. <a href="https://blog.jordanwinery.com/" target="_blank">Jordan Estate Winery</a> - This is by far the most all-encompassing blog I have ever seen created and run by a winery! Jordan Estate covers it all with categories including "Out and About", "Behind the Scenes", "Photo Essays", and more! Posts are uploaded regularly, with notifications sent out on their social media pages to keep you well-informed.<br />
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4.<a href="https://www.youtube.com/c/wineonthedime" target="_blank"> Wine on the Dime</a> - Do you prefer to watch vlogs over reading blogs? Wine on the Dime is by far my favourite vlogger to follow. Stuart shares his passion for finding excellent value wines ($15 USD or less), with a quirky twist here and there. Most of the videos are 5 minutes or less for those who prefer shorter wine tasting videos (like me), and there are many great recommendations with a ton of videos found on his channel!<br />
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Let me know what you think if you try out any of these wines, and feel free to share any you loved most in 2018 in the comments. I'm always open to new suggestions!<br />
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Cheers!<br />
<br />SMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16544043185482474935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2375170294386227382.post-67700516319078411982018-12-15T10:08:00.001-07:002018-12-15T10:08:52.997-07:00Falling for Napa Valley Cabernet SauvignonAutumn is now giving way to winter in the majority of the northern Hemisphere, with some localities having already seen snowstorms! After surviving a record-breaking Snowmageddon in early October, our area has by and large enjoyed a comfortable fall season.<br />
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It is right around this time that a good chunk of winelovers everywhere, myself included, start to focus their palates on red wines again. In the past, I've gravitated towards <a href="http://www.wineconcubine.com/2014/09/red-wines-for-wintry-weatherand-romance.html" target="_blank">Italian Reds</a> and Spanish Riojas. This year, I decided to focus on the Cabernet Sauvignons from Napa Valley; specifically, the 2014 and 2015 vintages.<br />
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Although Napa Valley can trace their winegrowing history as far back as the late 1600s, it wasn't until the 1960s, when an abundance of vines were planted in the valley, that winemaking really surged. After the successful wins in the Judgement of Paris in 1976, the region became highly regarded and esteemed as one of the top wine regions in the world. Bordeaux varietals rule the valleys and surrounding mountain slopes, with Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc white wines crafted here as well. Bottle prices tend to soar here due to the high cost of land and grapes, the prestige of the region, and with extensive care taken in the winemaking process to ensure the highest quality wines. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBssrQSkW1IeZPRKM8E06PaTph64CE-y_5p8pV39SjAGQiEcxSpkh70H5YT24acVcNJ8ruWKjX5oQ_pQdkW3u70fZYksupdfjBO5KHl8bwBg4HGGJ8EbXJWLDBmOISptVhofOCl-Eey-Y/s1600/IMG_2110.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBssrQSkW1IeZPRKM8E06PaTph64CE-y_5p8pV39SjAGQiEcxSpkh70H5YT24acVcNJ8ruWKjX5oQ_pQdkW3u70fZYksupdfjBO5KHl8bwBg4HGGJ8EbXJWLDBmOISptVhofOCl-Eey-Y/s320/IMG_2110.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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1. Robert Craig Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley 2014<br />
Although this beauty is composed primarily of Cabernet Sauvignon, a blend of 10% Merlot, 8% Petit Verdot, 4% Cabernet Franc and 2% Malbec joined in the fun. This created a big, bold, well-structured wine abundant with flavours of dried currants, blueberries and a hint of smoke towards the long, lively finish. Bright acidity and supple tannins make this wine approachable now, with the potential of aging another 5-7 years, at minimum. Pair this with your next ribeye or baseball steak!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSbQdhRVogLL6vpaTgA4z3I0utJVUc7oFV4wBUdz4oFVTvXbS8MiQjq_20t5p2jf6SFw2MJ6zEYykMBd8JPFNnqi4_TP1atcvjYis7u-lSpk3iAfpYElOn9DBiiKVo8F2vRfltZpcnyEQ/s1600/IMG_2141.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSbQdhRVogLL6vpaTgA4z3I0utJVUc7oFV4wBUdz4oFVTvXbS8MiQjq_20t5p2jf6SFw2MJ6zEYykMBd8JPFNnqi4_TP1atcvjYis7u-lSpk3iAfpYElOn9DBiiKVo8F2vRfltZpcnyEQ/s320/IMG_2141.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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2. <a href="https://shop.stsupery.com/SHOP.AMS?LEVEL=BOT&PART=CS15SS7" target="_blank">St. Supery's 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon</a> boasts muscular but focused tannins, and powerful acidity that smooths out during the long, bright finish. I found lots of red fruit flavours here: red currants and cranberries, changing to red licorice and charred oak notes mid-palate. This Cabernet Sauvignon is very approachable on its own but would also pair well with a variety of foods like charcuterie, cheese, and barbecue.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUMxi-d8bIp5rZbw953weJBXZVQJSeDbF1WWSe6h_9No4c9eUoPwEIFigkzPNKGTK81A19uFevCeO_mMXyZJbpqiUxMDeKCkVfpFQqKHH-VwMvjlkXCQysx3gowLUBYLtXovN0gWrxrEU/s1600/IMG_2085.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUMxi-d8bIp5rZbw953weJBXZVQJSeDbF1WWSe6h_9No4c9eUoPwEIFigkzPNKGTK81A19uFevCeO_mMXyZJbpqiUxMDeKCkVfpFQqKHH-VwMvjlkXCQysx3gowLUBYLtXovN0gWrxrEU/s320/IMG_2085.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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3. <a href="https://www.hesscollection.com/wine/napa-valley-allomi-cabernet-sauvignon/" target="_blank">Hess Collection's "Allomi" Cabernet Sauvignon 2015</a> shows a beautiful, deep purple colour in the glass. The mouthfeel is very smooth and lush, with notes of black currant and vanilla hints wrapped around velvet tannins. This was my personal favourite of the tasting, and was very much enjoyed by my "wine tasting squad"as well!<br />
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One final Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon that is worth trying, is Freemark Abbey. I tasted their 2011 vintage last year, and it also blew me away! Tasting notes <a href="http://www.wineconcubine.com/2017/07/the-wines-of-freemark-abbey_28.html" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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Any of these beauties are worth the splurge and would be a wonderful addition to your Christmas table, whether you pair it with prime cuts of beef, a charcuterie and cheese platter, or enjoy them on their own in front of a roaring fire. After all, everyone deserves to treat themselves over the holiday season!<br />
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This will be the last post of 2018 for me. Thank you to all who take the time to read and share my posts; it means a lot to me. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to you and yours, from "me and mine"!<br />
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<br />SMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16544043185482474935noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2375170294386227382.post-66620348466663513192018-10-15T22:25:00.010-06:002018-10-24T20:59:52.156-06:00Cremant Tour de France Final Stage: Cremant de Bourgogne<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Summer has now left Alberta and replaced it with a record setting 32.8cm snowfall on October 2! YUCK! Now that my palate is naturally craving the warmth of red wine, it's time to wrap up my Cremant Tour de France mini-series. The last stop? Burgundy.<br />
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Burgundy 's homeland grapes are the same as the varietals required for crafting Champagne: Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. In fact, the Cremant de Bourgogne appellation takes their vinification seriously: only hand-harvesting the grapes, utilising the same pressing process as in Champagne, and you must declare your production of Cremant in March, just before the growing season begins! The fruits of these labors are evident in the glass: elegantly structured, refined in style, and punches well above their weight when it comes to QPR!<br />
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I kicked off the warm weather season this year with Henri de Villamont Brut Blanc de Blancs. Composed solely of Chardonnay, this wine boasted abundant autolytic flavours of toasted hazelnuts and brioche, with an appealing hint of banana custard towards the long finish. Bright and lively mouthfeel, I enjoyed it immensely on its own!<br />
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The Bailly Lapierre Cremant de Bourgogne contains an intriguing blend of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Aligote and Gamay Noir, creating a palate of green apple, stony minerality, and freshly baked bread. Surprisingly delicate bubbles, but a bright acidity and citrus finish keep a well-structured balance. An excellent choice for weeknight bubbly!<br />
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The final bottle of my Cremant Tour de France was the same as my first glass ever of Cremant: Louis Bouillot Rose. Prominent notes of strawberries, raspberries and mandarin oranges, refreshing acidity, a bright mouthfeel and a true joy to sip! I prefer to enjoy this gem on its own-over, and over, and over again!<br />
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I truly enjoyed tasting my way through the Cremants of France, no matter what appellation they are from! They are an excellent alternative to Champagne when you don't want to spend a fortune, and pair extremely well with an array of food. The next time you feel like imbibing in bubbly, why not give a Cremant a try? You won't be disappointed.<br />
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I would love for you to share your Cremant tastings with me, either by commenting on this post or through the hashtag #cremanttourdefrance on twitter. I hope you enjoy your sips as much as I enjoyed mine.<br />
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Until next time, cheers all!</div>
<br />SMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16544043185482474935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2375170294386227382.post-2932167164477343512018-10-01T08:42:00.000-06:002018-10-01T08:42:45.683-06:00Cremant Tour de France Stage 3: Alsace<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Now that <a href="http://www.wineconcubine.com/2018/07/cremant-tour-de-france-stages-1-2.html" target="_blank">Stages 1 & 2 </a>of my Cremant tour de France are complete, I celebrated Stage 3 by tasting my way through the Cremants of Alsace, in person! </div>
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Located on the eastern border with Germany, Alsace contains 15,621 hectares of vineyards. (Source: <a href="http://backinalsace.com/">backinalsace.com</a>). Approximately 23.3% of grapes harvested from the vineyards are used to make Cremant d'Alsace bubbly. In 2017, 32,125 bottles of Cremant wine were made, 80% of which remained in France due to domestic demand! </div>
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Our first stop along our tasting journey was Domaine Klipfel, in the small town of Barr.</div>
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The estate was founded in 1824 by Martin Klipfel. In 1830, he procured the prestigious Clos Zisser vineyard, which is used today for their Vendage Tardive (late-harvest) and Selection de Grains Nobles (grapes affected by "Noble Rot", botrytis, made into lusciously sweet dessert-style wines). Klipfel crafts their Cremants in the Methode Traditionelle style, using Chardonnay and Pinot Noir either as single-varietal bottles, or a mix of the two.<br />
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Klipfel's Blanc de Noirs Cremant d'Alsace opens up with a nose of green apples and continues into a palate of lemon zest and steely minerality. The bubbles were aggressive up front, but settled down into a creamy mousse mid-palate, leading into a clean finish.<br />
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I am all about the high quality and the unique, sometimes extraordinary quality that comes from smaller, lesser-known producers. Located in the small Alsatian town of Heiligenstein, Domaine J.L. Schwartz lives up to this quality!<br />
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Our tasting at J.L Schwartz started off with their Cremant d'Alsace Brut Rose. A lively bouquet composed of strawberries and navel oranges, intertwines with refreshing acidity and delicate mousse on the palate to create a delightful mouthfeel. Unfortunately, the finish dropped off rather quickly, but it did make me want to take more sips quicker to compensate! </div>
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The standout Cremant of the day for both my husband and I was the Brut Chardonnay! The varietal's flavour profile is well represented here, with an intriguing blend of underripe banana and navel oranges along with stony minerality. There is a lively mouthfeel that doesn't overpower, full of delicate mousse and refreshing acidity. Very elegant in style, and very approachable!</div>
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Our day of Cremant tasting ended at Domaine Julien Dopff au Moulin. Regarded as one of the pioneers of Cremant d'Alsace, Julien Dopff attended the Universal Exhibition in Paris in 1900, where he learned about "Methode Champenoise". He made it his mission to experiment with Alsatian varietals, and Dopff au Moulin now dedicates a considerable amount of their wine portfolio to Cremant d'Alsace bubbly.</div>
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The Dopff au Moulin Rose expresses more autolytic notes than other Cremants d'Alsace I have tasted. But it doesn't overpower the abundant flavours of underripe red fruit on the palate, the creamy mousse, or the bright acidity. Very well-structured and refreshing!</div>
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Finally, the 2013 Blanc de Noirs Brut marries notes of dried red fruit and toasted almonds with crisp acidity and aggressive, but not off-putting mousse. Very elegant in style, and very food-friendly.</div>
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Cremant d'Alsace offers a variety of sparkling wine created in the Methode Traditionelle, yet can also express a wide array of flavour profiles. There are many excellent Cremants available throughout the world, and even though only 20% of all bottles are exported, you will likely find a variety of Cremants available in your local wine stores.</div>
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Stay tuned as I wrap up my Cremant Tour de France later this month with Cremant de Bourgogne! </div>
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SMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16544043185482474935noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2375170294386227382.post-22723124716536919472018-09-05T09:46:00.000-06:002018-09-05T11:43:49.901-06:00A Tour & Tasting at Weingut Geheimer Rat Dr. von Bassermann-Jordan<style type="text/css">
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Deep
in the heart of the Pfalz wine country, located just off the famous
“Weinstrasse” (wine street), a 300 year-old estate watches over the nearby vineyards in anticipation of the upcoming harvest. The Weingut Geheimer Rat Dr. von Bassermann-Jordan has created a legacy of internationally acclaimed Rieslings within a small town called Deidesheim. I was fortunate
to receive a tour and tasting at the estate with Sebastian Wandt, Sales Manager, in late August.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Our
tour started with a drive into the vineyards where Bassermann-Jordan grows their
grapes. The estate owns plots of vines within 10 "Erste Lage" (the equivalent to Premier Cru) and 10 "Grosse Lage" (Grand Cru equivalent) vineyards. This year was very hot,
with little precipitation – very similar to the 2003 growing
season. Harvest will be starting extra early this season; the week after my visit, in fact, to ensure the
grapes are at optimum ripeness and to maximize concentration in the
resulting wines. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">From
there, we returned to the estate for a tasting. I was surprised to
learn that Sauvignon Blanc is gaining momentum within the Pfalz region.
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Bassermann
Jordann’s Sauv Blanc is abundant with tropical fruits like
underripe pineapple and passion fruit, alongside nuances of the
traditional grassy notes towards the finish. Refreshing acidity and a clean finish make this wine perfect for those who prefer a more
fruit-forward style of Sauvignon Blanc.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">A drier style of Riesling
is generally preferred within the community of the Pfalz, and this</span> <a href="https://www.bassermann-jordan.de/weine/detail?id=72" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">2017 Deidesheimer Kieselberg Riesling</span></a><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">represents this style well with racy acidity, and stony minerality mid-palate. Combined with a complex flavour profile of white peach, melon and a hint of tropical fruit, this is a must-try for anyone who
loves dry Riesling!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">My
personal favourite of the tasting was the 2017 Deidesheimer Leinhole Riesling Spatlese. Incredibly fresh and clean, with ample stone fruit aromas, bright acidity and honeyed stone fruit leading into a long, lush finish. The wine is on the sweeter side as Spatlese means "Late Harvest", but not cloyingly sweet at all. This Riesling will pair extremely well with desserts like strudels and fruit pies, and is equally as delectable on its own!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">From
there, we journeyed into the cellar. Built in 1822, the cellar has expanded as the
estate grew in both side and wine production. A full library containing wines of each vintage from 1880 onward is contained here, and is also fully functional with stainless steel tanks and aging racks for the winemaking process. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Bassermann-Jordan's wines are widely available internationally and through North America and offer a wide range of Rieslings that will fit your palate, as well as other varietals including Sauvignon Blanc, Spatburgunder, even Sekt! Special
thanks to Sebastian for the tour and tasting. I wish
Bassermann-Jordann a successful harvest, and a successful vintage in their wines!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Cheers!</span></div>
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<br />SMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16544043185482474935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2375170294386227382.post-16931165665198310612018-07-26T08:35:00.000-06:002018-07-26T08:35:19.181-06:00Cremant Tour de France Stages 1 & 2: Cremant de Limoux & Cremant de BordeauxI really need to start blogging more often.<br />
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The Tour de France is almost over already, and although I won't be making it past an estimated stage 5 (pending the amount of Cremants I can find from the Loire Valley in my area), I feel like I am way behind. Life has been crazy hectic in the Concubine household for the past few months: my husband was studying for an exam he wrote in late June and I solo parented so he could focus on studying, and then a plethora of visitors visited the unofficial "Concubine B&B" (now that would be one heck of a name for a B&B!) for a few weeks afterwards. Now that life is calming down a bit, I finally have time to kick off my <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23cremanttourdefrance&src=typd" target="_blank">#cremanttourdefrance </a>and share my tastings!</div>
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I decided to start Stage 1 in the <a href="https://www.languedoc-wines.com/en/languedoc-decouverte/les-aoc-du-languedoc/aoc-limoux" target="_blank">Limoux AOP</a>. Located 25km south of the village of Carcassonne, the climate here is influenced by cooling breezes from the Atlantic Ocean, and four varied terroir styles due to its proximity to the Pyrenees foothills. Limoux is also the birthplace of a grape varietal called Mauzac, which is credited to have <a href="http://www.blanquette-delmas-bio.com/blanquette-de-limoux-origine-des-bulles" target="_blank">created the first sparkling wine</a> by the monks of St-Hilaire in 1531. Because of this, Limoux is best known for its sparkling wines. Cremant de Limoux bubblies are generally made using a blend of up to 90% Chardonnay and Chenin Blanc. Secondary grape varietals like Mauzac and Pinot Noir are allowed in the blend to a maximum of 20% (Pinot Noir is allowed up to 10%). Cremant de Limoux is vinified using "Methode Traditionelle", which means that a second fermentation occurs within the bottle, the same way official Champagne is crafted. </div>
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One of the most prominent wineries to craft Cremant de Limoux is Domaine Delmas, located 20 minutes south of Limoux in the village of Antugnac. Their focus is on both Cremant and Blanquette de Limoux wines, but also vinify a still Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.</div>
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The <a href="http://www.blanquette-delmas-bio.com/la-gamme-bio-delmas/cuvee-des-sacres" target="_blank">Cuvee des Sacres Delmas</a> is composed of Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc, Pinot Noir and Mauzac. Honeyed notes of banana, melon, and a hint of toasted almonds dance on the palate. The bracing acidity on this cremant, as well as the aggressive mousse, pairs well with rich cheeses and seafood in cream sauce. But don't let the intensity fool you; this gem is very approachable and easy to drink!</div>
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Limoux is also known for creating another type of bubbly named "Blanquette de Limoux". Blanquette wines are vinified from the Mauzac grape, with a bit of Chardonnay blended in. The wine is aged for 8 months on its lees in old oak barrels. </div>
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The 2011 Cuvee Memoire Blanquette de Limoux also starts off with aromas of honeyed stone fruits, but the flavour profile changes to green apple, lime zest and a strong, steely backbone on the palate. Delicate bubbles (aka "mousse") and crisp, yet refreshing acidity round out the mouthfeel, leading to a strong finish. I enjoyed the Cuvee Memoire on a hot summer's evening, relaxing on my back deck. It was the perfect pairing!</div>
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From there, my tour traveled east to Bordeaux. Cremant de Bordeaux was established as an appellation in 1990. The wine varietals allowed in the blend are Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, Ugni Blanc, Colombard, and Muscadelle, creating a more unique flavour profile than what can be found in other Cremant appellations.<br />
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And a very unique flavour profile was delivered with the Xavier Milhade Cremant de Bordeaux! A blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and Muscadelle, prominent floral aromas lead into notes of navel oranges and cantaloupe melon, encased in a mineral mid-palate. The acidity was racy, with delicate mousse. This wine was a treat for me as Cremant de Bordeaux wines are very hard to find in my location!<br />
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Now that I have cycled through the better part of Southern France, it's time to head north towards the Loire Valley. Stay tuned for Stage 3, in the coming few weeks! </div>
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SMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16544043185482474935noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2375170294386227382.post-58948479301146162252018-05-29T08:17:00.001-06:002018-05-29T08:17:04.603-06:00A Tour of Southern Rhone RedsIn the spring of 2011, My husband and I were fortunate enough to tour and taste our way through Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Gigondas and Rasteau. From the moment I stepped into the vineyards of Chateauneuf-du-Pape, I immediately fell in love with the region.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo taken outside of Moulin de la Gardette's Tasting Room, Gigondas, March 2011.</td></tr>
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There are so many reasons to fall in love with the Southern Rhone wine region of France: The Mediterranean climate, the history and architecture, the local cuisine, and of course, the wine! The Southern Rhone encompasses a large area of sub-appellations, as per the map below:<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My apologies for the not-so-good photo, this was taken off of one of my wine posters hung in my basement.</td></tr>
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My father is also a huge fan of Chateauneuf-du-Pape wines, but hasn't had a lot of experience with the other sub-appellations. So when he came for a visit in mid-April, we dipped into my wine cellar, pillaged one of our local wine stores, and performed a "taste-off" to see which sub-appellation(s) we liked best.<br />
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<u>1. <a href="http://m.familleperrin.com/8HL9TE/web" target="_blank">Famille Perrin Vacqueyras "Les Christins" 2015</a></u><br />
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Concentrated and complex, with notes of cranberries, red cherries, baking spice and a hint of the tell-tale fleshiness that Southern Rhone wines are known for (my WSET Adv teacher referred to them as "Chateauneuf-du-poop" because she's classy like that). Bright acidity and velvety tannins make this beauty very approachable. You could enjoy Les Christins on its own, but it also pairs spectacularly with heavier red meats like sirloin tip beef roast.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkCTOnvo07tF-WZsxwySPa5GzVZVRJzrzOvFtmdaFbbPHRC4PgCnnowSwqMksR8pNdDCTbRwNC1GCmW3Fd7itWeGjAzno8gUKIEBoYT4P_24ntZxf2rpqAhuamjyX1cYPgO8PPr_bvkYM/s1600/IMG_0306.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkCTOnvo07tF-WZsxwySPa5GzVZVRJzrzOvFtmdaFbbPHRC4PgCnnowSwqMksR8pNdDCTbRwNC1GCmW3Fd7itWeGjAzno8gUKIEBoYT4P_24ntZxf2rpqAhuamjyX1cYPgO8PPr_bvkYM/s400/IMG_0306.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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<u>2. Chateau de Saint Cosme Gigondas 2015</u><br />
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I was fortunate enough to obtain 2 of the last bottles in my local area after this wine was ranked 5th overall on Wine Spectator's <a href="http://top100.winespectator.com/2017/" target="_blank">Top 100 List of 2017</a>. Smooth and lush mouthfeel, consisting of red cherry, leather, cigar box and medicinal hints. The acidity is still fairly sharp but the tannins are soft and well-integrated into the body. This baby needs at least 1 hour in the decanter to open up, and she'll need a good 7 years minimum in the cellar, but still reflects the true flavour profile of a Southern Rhone red wine. My second bottle won't see the light of day for another decade, I'm excited to see how the wine develops!<br />
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<u>3. <a href="http://www.chateaupesquie.com/upload/vin/fiche/Chateau_Pesquie_Terrasses_Rouge_2015_English.pdf.pdf?PHPSESSID=a422380faa7240e9280334c14a6c579e" target="_blank">Chateau Pesquie Terrasses AOP Ventoux 2015</a></u></div>
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The nose opens up to ripe blackberries and barnyard aromas. Ground cloves and a charcoal finish join the palate, along with focused tannins and mouthwatering acidity. Sadly, the charcoal finish falls off rather quickly. This wine did not speak to my palate, but my dad and husband thought it was decent! Definitely worth tasting.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUWNxWqwb8XPUfWC44S0-UBG1_FL3rs4J-6QME9mZVe08xMlcPJK8lWm26KX79EyGlI46AG1tidqOukOmdoSUpGsa82rFXMj1au0jkh015q95gz0pKj-PQbuCMaIHKek2_MYGN-Xj8bgc/s1600/IMG_0315.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUWNxWqwb8XPUfWC44S0-UBG1_FL3rs4J-6QME9mZVe08xMlcPJK8lWm26KX79EyGlI46AG1tidqOukOmdoSUpGsa82rFXMj1au0jkh015q95gz0pKj-PQbuCMaIHKek2_MYGN-Xj8bgc/s400/IMG_0315.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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<u>4. <a href="https://www.brotte.com/en/chateauneuf-du-pape-old-vines-fine-wine-terroirs-rayas-beaurenard/" target="_blank">Domaine Barville Brotte AOC Chateauneuf-du-Pape</a> 2009</u></div>
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This wine is showing its age with aromas of dried cherries and dried tobacco. However, the palate still shows bright acidity and a long, lively finish. A flavour profile that includes a hint of smoke and a charcoal backbone adds complexity and depth to the rich body. Absolutely stunning, and if you can find this vintage, worth the splurge (estimated price in CDN is $42).</div>
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There were a few other bottles we tasted from the AOC Cotes du Rhone and Rasteau; however, they did not make the short list for this blog post.</div>
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It was almost unanimous, but the surprising favourite of our tasting tour is...</div>
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<b>Famille Perrin "Les Christins" Vacqueyras! </b></div>
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Here is how we ranked our top 4 choices:</div>
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<b><u>Sara's Rankings</u> </b> <u><b>Dad's & Husband's Rankings</b></u></div>
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1. Domaine Barville CNDP 2009 1. Famille Perrin Vacqueyras 2015</div>
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2. Famille Perrin Vacqueyras 2015 2. Domaine Barville CNDP 2009</div>
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3. Chateau de Saint Cosme Gigondas 2015 3. Chateau Pesquie Terrasses Ventoux 2015</div>
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4. Chateau Pesquie Terrasses Ventoux 2015 4. Chateau de Saint Cosme Gigondas 2015</div>
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We may not return to the Southern Rhone anytime soon, but our fond memories of the region and our love for their wines will stay with us forever. And we can always buy more Rhone wines anytime we like!</div>
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So what's next for the Wine Concubine? It's time to start my major tasting project of the year; I'll be conducting a "Cremant Tour de France" over the next few months, ending in Colmar, France with Cremant d'Alsace! Stay tuned, up first is Cremant de Bourgogne!</div>
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Cheers!</div>
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<br />SMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16544043185482474935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2375170294386227382.post-44857310903330587572018-04-27T08:34:00.000-06:002018-04-27T08:34:12.297-06:00The Expressions of Pinot Noir Through the Okanagan Wine Region<div>
When I started my wine education journey, I was in love with Pinot Noir. Almost every wine I purchased was Pinot Noir. But as I began to learn about Burgundian wine, I realized that I couldn't afford most everything outside of AOC Bourgogne. I became frustrated and abandoned my love for Pinot Noir. In fact, I was so frustrated that I almost wrote a blog post about why Burgundy turned me off of Pinot altogether!</div>
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Some of the people I discuss wine with on Twitter (aka my "Tweeps") have been drinking a lot of Pinot Noir lately, much of it from New World regions like New Zealand and California. Their tasting notes inspired me to revisit more affordable Pinots, and where better for me to start than my personal favourite, the Okanagan region of Canada!</div>
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There are 7 sub-regions within the <a href="http://winebc.com/discover-bc-wine-country/okanagan-valley/" target="_blank">Okanagan Valley</a>: Osoyoos, The Golden Mile Bench, Oliver, Okanagan Falls, The Naramata Bench, Peachland/Summerland, and Kelowna/Lake Country. Each sub-region reflects different nuances with respect to climate and terroir; therefore, the flavour profiles of Pinots from each sub-regions will likely express themselves differently. I set out to discover how each Pinot Noir expresses itself within most of these sub-regions. </div>
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<b><u>1. Oliver - <a href="https://www.burrowingowlwine.ca/wine/pinot-noir-2/" target="_blank">Burrowing Owl Pinot Noir 2015</a></u></b></div>
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Located close to one of the only desert micro-climates in Canada, I was intrigued to see how the "diva grape" would fare in a terroir consisting of deep, sandy soils fed by glacial meltwater deposits. I was pleasantly surprised! Approachable yet complex and elegant in style, Burrowing Owl's 2015 Pinot Noir opens with notes of wild strawberry, dusted with hints of fresh herbs and baking spice. A silky smooth body leads into a bright cranberry finish. The wine was an amazing pairing with mushroom and garlic burgers with caramelized onions and wilted spinach!</div>
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<b><u>2. Okanagan Falls - <a href="https://www.nighthawkvineyards.com/" target="_blank">Nighthawk Vineyards Pinot Noir 2015</a></u></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxb7lyNJE8HNhCBePKRnXbO1bT1dkHkr-Cc4A0AlREkdyv0eaAg7Cqx-oY0HU66_GPM_olzUIW1UdcvrST6DeZiLXadbruXLDUl22Iz-43zLS0na7HqARiuIf9Ifrt-vrDoBINzqB0YlY/s1600/nighthawk_pinotnoir_15w.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="750" data-original-width="744" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxb7lyNJE8HNhCBePKRnXbO1bT1dkHkr-Cc4A0AlREkdyv0eaAg7Cqx-oY0HU66_GPM_olzUIW1UdcvrST6DeZiLXadbruXLDUl22Iz-43zLS0na7HqARiuIf9Ifrt-vrDoBINzqB0YlY/s320/nighthawk_pinotnoir_15w.jpg" width="317" /></a></div>
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Tasting notes contributed by Julian Park, <a href="http://bcwinetrends.com/">BCWineTrends.com</a>:<br />
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"This medium-bodied Pinot is as smooth as velvet. The estate Pinot Noir features delicate hints of ripe cherries and raspberries, vanilla bean, and the minerality distinctive to the high-altitude Okanagan Falls vineyard. Finished in Tuscan concrete tanks creating a textured savoury mouthfeel. My favourite pairing is with BBQ salmon. 13.5% alcohol."</blockquote>
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<b><u>3. Naramata Bench - <a href="https://www.bench1775.com/assets/client/File/Info%20Sheets/2014%20Vintage/2014%20BENCH%20PinotNoir.pdf" target="_blank">Bench 1775 Pinot Noir 2014</a></u></b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPe2Oeb0x2-IQNIwSH6U7KD0XSEVI3SlU2DSh6_Vz4evfCLxcETHLfL0e4akwgI4o81k7DBqkc3v5QIWg9ZDXvPPOP0GjbiemuTfYsMi97-BbGiCdA-pDaii1cGf7cNLcp6YWKrJaKvKI/s1600/IMG_0353.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPe2Oeb0x2-IQNIwSH6U7KD0XSEVI3SlU2DSh6_Vz4evfCLxcETHLfL0e4akwgI4o81k7DBqkc3v5QIWg9ZDXvPPOP0GjbiemuTfYsMi97-BbGiCdA-pDaii1cGf7cNLcp6YWKrJaKvKI/s320/IMG_0353.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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A soil composition of lime-rich silt and cooling lake breezes on the Naramata Bench create an ideal climate and terroir for early ripening red grapes like Pinot Noir. Bench 1775 uses this to their advantage by crafting a refreshing and juicy Pinot, abundant with red fruit flavours and silky, fine-grained tannins. A small amount of Syrah (6.4%) adds in a spicy element, which you'll find from mid-palate through the lively finish. I enjoyed this Pinot on it's own, and plan to enjoy it again and again in the future!<br />
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<u><b>4. Kelowna - <a href="http://www.sperlingvineyards.com/assets/sv-tn-pn15-web.pdf" target="_blank">Sperling Vineyards Pinot Noir 2015</a></b></u><br />
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Tasting notes contributed by Julian Park, BCWineTrends.com: </div>
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"Alcohol 12.5%, pH: 3.68, TA: 5.3g/L. Hand harvested in October from Dijon clones 114, 777, and 828; sorted and co-fermented in small lots. After a gentle pressing, the wine was aged in large format barrels. This is a bold Pinot Noir, the result of the hot 2015 East Kelowna summer. Aromas of violets and jammy plum and flavours of ripe raspberries and spicy black cherries. The texture is silky." </blockquote>
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<b><u>5. Lake Country - <a href="https://exnihilovineyards.com/product/pinot-noir/" target="_blank">Ex Nihilo Pinot Noir 2016</a></u></b><br />
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The soil in the Ex Nihilo vineyards contain limestone with some shale, ideal for the growth of Pinot Noir grapes. Ex Nihilo's 2016 PN offering boasts complex aromas of red fruit, forest floor, and a hint of asparagus. These flavours continue into the palate, along with silky smooth tannins and refreshing acidity with a hint of zip. This acidity stays bright through the fresh raspberry finish. This wine is extremely food friendly and would be an excellent pairing with tapenade-stuffed pork tenderloin, among other earthy style dishes. I sampled this beauty at the winery last August. Click <a href="http://www.wineconcubine.com/2017/09/a-food-wine-pairing-with-ex-nihilo.html" target="_blank">here</a> to learn more about Ex Nihilo Vineyards, winemaker Jay Paulson, and their wine portfolio.<br />
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It was very interesting to discover that each sub-region shows a slightly different flavour profile on their Pinot Noirs, but the structural consistency and quality remains very high throughout the Okanagan wine region. Price points range between $30 and $40 CDN, but worth the slight splurge!<br />
It's nice to know that I can still taste some excellent Pinot Noirs close to home with some great QPR.<br />
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So what's next for the Wine Concubine? I tasted a wide variety of red wines from the Southern Rhone throughout the past month when my dad came to visit. I'll be sharing our notes, and revealing our surprise favourite of the tasting. Stay tuned!<br />
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Cheers!<br />
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SMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16544043185482474935noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2375170294386227382.post-66705995699710757142018-03-26T11:45:00.001-06:002018-03-26T11:45:45.903-06:00A Food and Champagne Pairing with Veuve ClicquotIt was a cloudy and cold day in Calgary when six wine writers gathered at the Yellow Door Bistro to pair some of Veuve Clicquot's most food-friendly champagnes with gastronomic lunch delights. The dreary weather outside did not affect the air of excitement at our table as we were joined by Veuve's passionate, vibrant winemaker, Bertrand Varoquier.<br />
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Born and raised in Reims, Bertrand was naturally drawn to Champagne. He graduated with a degree in Oenology at the Universite Reims Champagne Ardenne in 2002 and has since worked as a winemaker in the Loire Valley, Chablis (Burgundy), as well as two other Champagne houses. He started at Veuve Clicquot in 2013, with a focus on red wine vinification. Stout beers like Guinness are his drink of choice when he is not drinking wine, and he travels 6-8 weeks out of the year to share both is passion as well as the spirit of the house all over the world! To learn more about Veuve Clicquot's history and vinification methods, click <a href="http://www.wineconcubine.com/2011/03/veuve-clicquot-great-story-of-triumph.html" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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<u>First Course: Pork Hock & Apricot Press, with Veuve Clicquot Extra Old Extra Brut</u><br />
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<u><br /></u>A creamy, rich mouthfeel is what sets the Extra Old Extra Brut champagne apart from the others in Veuve Clicquot's line. Prominent notes of toasted brioche, toasted almonds and a hint of lemon zest make this champagne extremely food-friendly. The succulent acidity married really well with the richness of the pork hock and the apricot press enhanced the subtle fruit flavours in the champagne nicely. This was easily my favourite pairing of the luncheon, and I can't wait to try out some different food pairings with the Extra Old Extra Brut in the future!<br />
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<u>Second Course: Poached B.C. Sablefish, West Coast Oyster Veloute with VC Vintage Brut 2008</u><br />
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<u><br /></u>The 2008 harvest was considered one of the best growing seasons for the "delicate diva" grape, Pinot Noir, creating Veuve Cliquot's 65th vintage champagne in house history. A blend of 61% Pinot Noir, 34% Chardonnay and 5% Pinot Meunier brings forth a delicate palate of green apple, lemon zest, almonds mid-palate and just a hint of the yeasty flavours the house is known for. This vintage is best paired with delicately-flavoured foods such as scallops, whitefish and crab. Unfortunately, this pairing was my least favourite of the luncheon. The veloute sauce was very heavy, and drowned out the delicate body and flavours of the champagne. I ended up saving my glass for after the main course so I could truly appreciate the beautiful flavour profile on its own.<br />
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<u>Third Course: Whipped Almond Panna Cotta, Rhubarb Ravioli with Veuve Clicquot Rich</u><br />
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Veuve Clicqot has a new, cocktail-style champagne that they crafted last year in 2017. The focus of Rich (pronounced "REEsh") is to enjoy a more fresh, lighter style of champagne. The best way to enjoy Rich is to serve over ice, infused with mixology-style garnishes such as pineapple, ginger, and bell pepper. Rich is ideal for hot summer days, patio parties, and would be a great accompaniment for a romantic picnic lunch! This gem paired wonderfully with the dessert, with the stone fruit notes complementing the strawberry and rhubarb flavours. The acidity of the champagne played nicely with the rich flavours of the dish, and cleansed the palate perfectly. I left the luncheon well satisfied, with the lingering tastes and memories burned into my memory! Click <a href="https://rich.veuve-clicquot.com/" target="_blank">here</a> to learn more about Veuve Clicquot Rich.<br />
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Luncheons like these also bring together a network of like-minded people, and I was pleased to connect with fellow wine writers Peter Vetsch, and Raymond Lamontagne. Peter's blog is titled Pop & Pour, click <a href="https://popandpour.ca/" target="_blank">here</a> to read his well-written tasting notes, as well as the other local wine events he has attended.<br />
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Special thanks to Jordan Cameron at Moet-Hennessy, Christy and all the staff at Hotel Arts/Yellow Door Bistro, and especially to Bertrand Varoquier of Veuve Clicquot for bringing some much needed sunshine into my life during this long, cold winter!<br />
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Cheers everyone!SMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16544043185482474935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2375170294386227382.post-76600011534374758682018-02-11T10:37:00.000-07:002018-02-11T10:37:11.742-07:00The Bubbly Side of ProseccoIt's a little belated, but Happy New Year's, everyone! I hope that 2018 has started well for you all!<br />
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I continue to maintain (and embrace) the Ketogenic way of eating. In case you missed the back story, you can find it in this <a href="http://www.wineconcubine.com/2018/01/my-top-wines-of-2017.html" target="_blank">post</a>. Many people have asked me how I maintain ketosis as a wine lover/wine blogger? I have done some research on the net grams of carbs of all wines. I will have to restrict my consumption of sweet and red wines, but this infograph shows the most keto-friendly options:<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Photo Courtesy of ruled.me</span></td></tr>
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As you can see, sparkling white wines are the most keto-friendly! This means that I'll be focusing a LOT of time on Prosecco, Cremants (the non-Champagne sparkling wines of France), and other New World bubblies to keep on track. There may also be a future post on Pinot Blanc later this year comparing Alsatian wines vs New World!</div>
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Let's start with Prosecco. I spent last Autumn tasting and learning more about Prosecco and the region it comes from in Italy. Nestled high on the hills of Valdobbiadene in the NE corner of Italy, the Glera grape, formerly known as Prosecco, is grown here<climate composition="" etc="" soil="" weather="">. Prosecco's bubbles are made in a method called "Charmat"; this means that the second fermentation occurs in a sealed tank, instead of in the bottle like Champagne<xxx>. This creates a sparkling wine that shines with floral and light stone fruit aromas and flavours.</xxx></climate></div>
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The Villa Sandi "Il Fresco" Prosecco DOC is abundant with white blossom on the nose, and carries a flavour profile full of fresh gala apples, underripe pineapple, and an intriguing candied grapefruit finish. Delicate and fresh, with a slightly creamy mouthfeel. Great value for the price, I paid under $20 for this gem! </div>
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The Val D'Oca Prosecco Superiore DOCG shows a more playful side of Prosecco, with zippy acidity, delicate but lively mousse, and notes of pear, navel oranges, and a hint of white peach on the finish. Beautifully crafted and a real crowd-pleaser!</div>
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The Desiderio Jeio Brut Prosecco DOCG is more elegant in style, with flavours of lemon zest, green apple, and a bright, citrus finish. An intriguing hint of fresh white bread mid-palate adds depth, creating a food-friendly bubbly that pairs well with lighter dishes like chicken and salads.</div>
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Finally, the Col de Salici Prosecco Superiore DOCG reflects the traditional flavour profile of Prosecco, along with added complexity from notes of fresh almonds and a steely backbone. Crisp and clean acidity combined with creamy mousse on the palate creates elegance and a Prosecco with finesse!</div>
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What I loved about the Prosecco tasting is its lively, fresh style, and the QPR compared to other sparkling wines. I did find, however, that Prosecco is pretty straightforward across the board. There didn't seem to be a lot of nuances that made each bottle unique. With that said, Prosecco is easy to enjoy and you're guaranteed consistency in most of the bottles you buy!</div>
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So what's next? I am moving my proverbial "Bubbly Train" back north to France to taste my way through the Cremants (French sparkling wines made outside of the Champagne region) of Alsace, Burgundy, and the Loire Valley. Stay tuned for more bubbly fun from the Wine Concubine!</div>
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Cheers! </div>
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<br />SMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16544043185482474935noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2375170294386227382.post-89809622535876289322018-01-05T10:00:00.002-07:002018-01-05T10:00:46.339-07:00My Top Wines of 2017<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Yep, this pretty much sums up my year. After suffering a grand mal seizure on April 29, I spent the rest of the spring undergoing medical tests, and was diagnosed with Epilepsy in late June. Here in Alberta, the law states that you must be seizure-free for 6 months after the original one before you can drive again. This meant I struggled for months trying to find a way to and from work, which caused me a ton of stress. On top of that, I was offered a layoff package at the same time I was doing all the medical tests. I love my day job and shed lots of tears, along with countless panic attacks. Luckily, the package was voluntary and I am still in my position, although I now fear that the tables may turn at work again.<br />
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With that said, I have taken these lemons and made lemonade, so to speak! In order to ensure I never have another seizure, I switched over to the Ketogenic lifestyle, which was used to treat seizure disorders in the 1920s and 1930s before anti-seizure meds were developed. If you're not familiar with it, here is some information on <a href="https://www.ruled.me/guide-keto-diet/" target="_blank">Keto</a>, <hyperlink> and the health benefits attached to it. What it does mean is that in order to stay in my net carbs range, (total carbs - fiber) I do have to cut down on the wine drinking. However, with only 1.9g of net carbs per glass, I turned to Prosecco in the fall! I love the floral aromas, and can imbibe a little more as the price point is much lower than Champagne (not that there's anything wrong with Champagne!) Stay tuned for a blog post on my Prosecco tastings in 2018!</hyperlink><br />
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When it comes to the wine world, 2017 became the year of the Winemaker for me. I toured and tasted my way through the Lake Chelan, WA wine region, as well as the Osoyoos & Oliver "Golden Mile" VQA of the Okanagan. I received my first ever bottle sample, and had private tours and tastings of Tsillan Cellars, Moon Curser Vineyards and Ex Nihilo Winery. This really helped me through an otherwise stressful time in my life. And of course, tasting lots of wines helped too!<br />
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Each year I release a list of the top wines I've tasted in 2017. Just as in previous years, I'm changing up the lists. I'm adding a category named "Social Media Wineries of the Year", dedicated to the wineries that regularly engage and communicate with their followers. I'm also adding a "Wine Blogger of the Year" category with my recommendations on some of my favourite wine blogs that I follow.<br />
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<b><u>Top Red Wines of 2017</u></b><br />
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This year was all about high-priced red blends, with the exception of this beautiful Cab Sauv from Napa. Price points in CDN range between $45 and $70, but are so worth the splurge!<br />
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1. <a href="http://www.cantemerle.com/index.php?page=vin&ppage=millesimes&vintage=2010" target="_blank">Chateau Cantemerle 2010</a>: AOC Haut-Medoc, Bordeaux, France<br />
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2. <a href="http://www.domainedenalys.com/en/our-wines/classique-rouge-2008/" target="_blank">Domaine de Nalys 2008:</a> AOC Chateauneuf-du-Pape, France<br />
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3. <a href="http://www.wineconcubine.com/2017/07/the-wines-of-freemark-abbey_28.html" target="_blank">Freemark Abbey Cabernet Sauvignon 2011</a>: Napa Valley, California<br />
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4. <a href="http://www.laughingstock.ca/?method=pages.showPage&PageID=5d1a342d-0a64-711e-7c00-daef73f42f17&originalMarketingURL=Our-Wines/Red" target="_blank">Laughingstock Winery Portfolio</a> 2007: Naramata Bench, Okanagan, BC<br />
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<b><u>Top White Wines of 2017</u></b><br />
<b><u><br /></u></b>Napa Valley takes the top white of the year, ending France's reign from past years. Germany nabs 2nd place, France makes its usual appearance, and Greece rounds out the list. All of these wines are priced at under $50, with Stag's Leap's Viognier priced around $30 CDN!<br />
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1. <a href="https://www.stagsleap.com/our-wines/napa-valley/viognier/2016" target="_blank">Stag's Leap Viognier 2014</a>: Napa Valley, California<br />
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2. <a href="http://zenzenwinesusa.com/estate.htm" target="_blank">Dr Zenzen Auslese Riesling 2006</a>: Mosel, Germany<br />
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3. <a href="http://www.pfaffenheim.com/en/product/00010000000188-tradition-gewurztraminer-aoc-alsace-2015-75cl" target="_blank">Pfaffenheim Gewurztraminer 2014</a>: AOC Alsace, France<br />
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4. <a href="http://www.sigalas-wine.com/english/" target="_blank">Domaine Sigalas Santorini 2012</a>: Santorini, Greece<br />
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<u><b>Top Value Wines of 2017</b></u><br />
<u><b><br /></b></u>This year is all about the easy-to-find bottles, at or under the $20 price mark. Chile continues to dominate this category from years past - don't pass the Chilean section the next time you are in your local wine store, I promise you won't be disappointed!<br />
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1. <a href="http://www.vignoblesdubard.com/chateau_laulerie.htm" target="_blank">Chateau Laulerie Malbec 2015</a>: AOC Bergerac, France<br />
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2. <a href="http://www.marquesdecasaconcha.com/category/vinos/cepas/cabernet-sauvignon/" target="_blank">Concha y Toro Marques de Casa Concha Cabernet Sauvignon</a> 2012: DO Puente Alto, Chile<br />
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3. <a href="https://www.14hands.com/wines/essentials/2016-pinot-gris" target="_blank">14 Hands Pinot Gris 2014</a>: Columbia Valley AVA, Washington<br />
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4. <a href="http://www.conosur.com/vinos/bicicleta-viognier/" target="_blank">Cono Sur Bicycleta Viognier 2016</a>: Colchagua, Chile<br />
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<u><b>Top Wine and Food Pairings 2017</b></u><br />
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1. <a href="https://exnihilovineyards.com/product/merlot/" target="_blank">Ex Nihilo Merlot</a> with Dark Chocolate (Lake Country, Okanagan, BC)<br />
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2. <a href="http://www.gerard-bertrand.com/en/grand-terroir-la-clape-red/" target="_blank">Gerard Bertrand "La Clape" 2013</a> with Braised Chicken Thighs in Mushroom Sauce (AOC Languedoc, France)<br />
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3. <a href="http://www.beronia.com/en/classics-range/reserva/" target="_blank">Bodegas Beronia Rioja Reserva 2012</a> with Grilled Lamb Chops (Rioja, Spain)<br />
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4. <a href="https://www.kingestate.com/wines/release/2013-king-estate-pinot-gris" target="_blank">King Estates Pinot Gris 2013</a> with Shrimp & Bacon Scampi (Eugene, Oregon)<br />
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<b><u>Social Media Wineries of the Year</u></b><br />
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1. <a href="http://www.conosur.com/home/" target="_blank">Cono Sur Vineyards and Winery</a> - Chile<br />
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2. <a href="https://vivancoculturadevino.es/es/" target="_blank">Bodega Vivanco</a> - Rioja, Spain<br />
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3. <a href="http://www.mooncurser.com/" target="_blank">Moon Curser Vineyards</a> - Osoyoos, BC<br />
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4. <a href="http://www.mezzacorona.it/en-us" target="_blank">Mezzacorona Wine</a> - Trentino, Italy<br />
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<b><u>Top Wine Blogs to Follow</u></b><br />
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1. <a href="http://thecorkscrewconcierge.com/" target="_blank">The Corkscrew Concierge</a> - Kat, a lawyer based out of Houston, does a tremendous job with wine tasting notes, wine and food pairings, and dining recommendations.<br />
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2. <a href="http://johnfodera.com/about/" target="_blank">Tuscan Vines</a> - John Fodera takes you on a wine-fueled journey through Italy, with detailed, yet comprehensible tasting notes. He also provides gourmet recipes to pair with the Italian gems he reviews!<br />
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3. <a href="http://wineandcheesefriday.com/" target="_blank">Wine and Cheese Friday</a> - Looking for that perfect wine and cheese pairing? Maria has a recommendation for you! She provides tasting notes on both wine and cheese, and offers a wine and cheese day calendar that you can add to your google account or Outlook calendar, so you don't miss a day to celebrate!<br />
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4. <a href="http://bcwinetrends.com/about/" target="_blank">BC Wine Trends</a> - Julian Park is THE #1 source for information on wines from his home region, in my opinion. BC Wine Trends includes local wine region news, wine & winery statistics, and recommendations on Okanagan wines.<br />
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So what's next for this year? I've decided to name 2018 as my "Year of Cremant", pillaging all my local wine stores for as many as I can find. Why not, the price is right! There are also possibilities for more wine tasting travels, and potentially returning to wine school to obtain my level 1 Sommelier certificate!<br />
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Finally, I'd like to thank you all for following my wine journey throughout 2017 and from past years as well. I wish you all the greatest success, joy, health and happiness in 2018.<br />
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Cheers!<br />
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<b><u><br /></u></b>SMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16544043185482474935noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2375170294386227382.post-77790952297913556512017-09-21T09:57:00.001-06:002018-04-23T12:40:18.649-06:00A Food & Wine Pairing with Ex Nihilo VineyardsEvery once in awhile a bottle of wine will come along and stop you in your tracks, take your breath away, and make you want to hug or compliment the winemaker (if you happen to find yourself in their presence). This mind-blowing moment happened to me in late February, when I tasted Ex Nihilo's Merlot at our local Winefest trade show. I still remember it's lush flavour profile of ripe red fruit and smoky undertones, it's smooth mouthfeel and racy finish. It turned out that Jay Paulson, the mastermind behind the bottle, was there and not only did I compliment him, I also hugged him to show my sincerity!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaBgdkW-bNd7JvIcgrLsWDBvu5LDqM87-eXYXsR5AhvV_LBj0RWe-5B_lqBF-ZT3ePY2LYhr60_0pK83xCNBYD5eFvBoLR0UPd6pllL2xpt6QATAUrUWakV1HQ9X-YcJvw_gl4B0rP0ow/s1600/IMG_8634.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaBgdkW-bNd7JvIcgrLsWDBvu5LDqM87-eXYXsR5AhvV_LBj0RWe-5B_lqBF-ZT3ePY2LYhr60_0pK83xCNBYD5eFvBoLR0UPd6pllL2xpt6QATAUrUWakV1HQ9X-YcJvw_gl4B0rP0ow/s320/IMG_8634.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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I reunited with Jay in late August for a one-of-a-kind wine tasting in the Ex Nihilo cellars, complete with food pairings. This is what was waiting for me when I arrived:<br />
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Meaning "Out of Nothing", the name Ex Nihilo winery was inspired by a sculpture bearing the same name on the Washington, DC, Cathedral. Jay, along with his lifelong friend Jeff and wife Decoa, ventured into Lake Country, BC in 2003, and purchased 10 acres of land in 2004. The first vines were planted in 2007, and the winery officially opened in 2010. A former cattle rancher, Jay was thrown into the chaos of winemaking. With that said, sometimes the greatest things come out of chaos, and the wines crafted by Jay are all an excellent example of that. Although I tasted the majority of the 2015 wine portfolio, I'm providing the notes for my favourite wines of the tasting...or else I'd be writing forever!<br />
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The <a href="https://exnihilovineyards.com/chaos/" target="_blank">2015 Chaos Bianco</a> carries notes of apple jelly, honeysuckle, and lime curd framed by spicy acidity and a long, sultry finish. A well-structured blend of 50% Riesling, 25% Gewurztraminer and 25% Pinot Gris, this gem pairs well with mild curries, pasta primavera and light cheeses.<br />
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Thanks to cooling lake breezes and shale-like soils similar to Burgundy, Pinot Noir grows very well in Lake Country. The <a href="https://exnihilovineyards.com/product/pinot-noir-small-lot-barrel-reserve/" target="_blank">2015 Pinot Noir Reserve</a> opens with aromas of cherry preserves that carry through to a spicy palate of forest floor and vanilla, due to aging in 30% American oak. The plush mouthfeel continues through the elegant finish. <br />
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And of course, the <a href="https://exnihilovineyards.com/product/merlot/" target="_blank">2015 Merlot</a> stole my heart with an ever-evolving flavour profile of ripe red fruit, black cherries and a hint of charred cedar. Cocoa tannins and racy acidity round out the smooth, full body, ending in a long, complex finish. I paired the Merlot with a heart of dark chocolate, and it seriously melted my actual heart! The full body of the Merlot complemented the weight of the dark chocolate perfectly, and the succulent mouthfeel married beautifully with the cocoa notes in the chocolate.<br />
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If you find yourself in Lake Country, BC, make sure to stop by Ex Nihilo for a tasting and perhaps even a bite at the Chaos Bistro. I promise, you won't be disappointed!<br />
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My sincere and humble thank you to Jay Paulson for setting up an amazing afternoon of wine <a href="https://exnihilovineyards.com/tastings/" target="_blank">tasting</a>, food pairings, and excellent conversation. This is a day I will cherish as long as I live.<br />
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Cheers!SMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16544043185482474935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2375170294386227382.post-46947577262545717672017-08-24T11:57:00.002-06:002017-09-27T11:40:08.454-06:00The Passion Behind Tsillan CellarsPassion can be found all over the wine world. Those who are willing to put their blood, sweat and tears in tending to the vines, as well as spending countless hours in their production facilities crafting well-structured wines, will tell you it's a labour of love. But the passion that Devon Griffith, Assistant Winemaker at Tsillan Cellars, has for wine is by far the greatest I have ever encountered!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo Courtesy of Tsillan Cellars</td></tr>
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Born and raised in the nearby town of Manson, Washington, his family has grown world class tree fruit in the valley
for the last 100 years. It has been a dream of Devon's from the very
beginning to follow in their footsteps, with a history of hard work and passion. The opportunity to work at Tsillan Cellars fulfilled this desire to
the utmost degree. After graduating from
Washington State University with a degree in Viticulture and Enology, he came back home to the roots of his passion. One day he hopes to own his own winery in the area. He will no doubt succeed with the passion and knowledge he possesses!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not technically the entrance, but this is some of the beautiful architecture found throughout the winery!</td></tr>
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Walking through the well-architectured entrance and into the gorgeous tasting room of Tsillan Cellars, one would think that this is a more upscale, almost intimidating winery. However, this is not the case. The staff warmly welcomes everyone who walks in, and are happy to show all guests the beauty in Tsillan's wines. Here are some of the standouts I was fortunate enough to taste:<br />
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<u>1. Nudo Chardonnay 2016</u><br />
<u><br /></u>This unoaked Chardonnay opens with aromas of white peach and a stony mineral edge. The lively body contains a refreshing mouthfeel intertwined with notes of gala apples, lime zest and more of that beautiful white peach flavor! Refreshing acidity and a long, zesty finish make this beauty perfect for summer sips on a patio!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A serene moment of reflection with the Bocciolo di Rosa on the dock of the lake!</td></tr>
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<u>2. </u><u>Bocciolo di Rosa 2016</u><u> </u><insert dock="" drinking="" me="" of="" on="" pic="" the="" this="" wine=""></insert><br />
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Meaning "Rose Bud" in Italian, this rose is composed of 100% Syrah and carries a breathtaking flavor profile of strawberries, mandarins, white peach, and a hint of wild roses. A steely mineral backbone adds complexity and body, leading into a pure, clean finish.<br />
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<u>3. Tsillan Cellers 2014 Winemaker's Select Malbec</u><br />
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Malbec grows and produces fabulous wines in Lake Chelan, and dare I say - it was better than any Argentinian Malbec I have ever tasted! Deep ruby in color, <rephrase> notes of ripe blueberries, cocoa, black pepper and a hint of flint. The full-bodied, lush mouthfeel contains racy acidity and smooth tannins, and the long, sultry finish will leave you wanting more!</rephrase><br />
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We then toured around the vineyard and production facility. The soils here are granite-based, which is why Rhone varietals like Syrah and Grenache grow so well in Lake Chelan. The sun's aspect into the North Shore of the lake is key for achieving ideal Brix levels. We sampled a few of the Cabernet Sauvignon grapes on the vine and Devon estimated harvest to be the 2nd week of September. Here are some photos of the production facility and barrel room:<br />
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It is clearly evident from the way Devon spoke about both viticulture and the winemaking process how much he loves what he does, which is really refreshing in this day and age. His dedication to his craft and his love for wine is contagious and inspiring! I can't wait to see how far his vine-laced path will take him in the future- in fact, I'm sure he will bring Tsillan Cellars and the Lake Chelan AVA to new heights!<br />
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Click <a href="https://tsillancellars.com/" target="_blank">here</a> for more information on Tsillan Cellars Winery, including their tasting room offerings, the exquisite Sorrento's Ristorante and much more!<br />
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<ending 3-4="" and="" ashtyn="" devon="" for="" gratitude="" hospitality="" including="" kind="" sentences="" their="" to=""></ending>A huge thanks to both Devon and Ashtyn for coordinating my tour and tasting at Tsillan Cellars, I will cherish the memories of that day for the rest of my life. Cheers!<br />
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<b>Update from Devon:</b> Harvest began on September 9th, with Syrah grapes destined for our future sparkling rose! It is currently speeding its way through
primary fermentation, and will go into terrage for three years before it is
released in the traditional Methode Champenoise style. We then commenced picking our Pinot
Grigio, which we finished on September 20th. We just picked our first ever Dolcetto! It came from third leaf vines, which although
still young yielded amazing fruit! I
just pitched the yeast to it a few hours ago, and as of now it may be included in a blend with another Piedmont native
varietal, Barbera, which is set for release in
2019. If it comes through as a beautiful
stand alone wine, we may end up crafting a single varietal wine from it. Up next we plan on picking all
of our Chardonnay and Gewurztraminer.<br />
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SMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16544043185482474935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2375170294386227382.post-55991721429671924982017-08-24T11:29:00.004-06:002017-09-03T18:29:43.263-06:00WineGirl Wines: An Interview with Angela Lake Chelan AVA (pronounced "shell-LAN") is a wine region that's starting to gain popularity in Washington State, as well as the United States and southern BC. One of the younger AVAs in the USA, the first production vineyard was planted in 1998, and the first bottles were released in 2002. Currently there are more than 20 wineries within the AVA, releasing wines of promising popularity with varietals including Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, and aromatic whites including Riesling, Pinot Gris and Gewurztraminer. In 2004, a talented young winemaker stepped onto the scene and has since become a standout producer in the region. Her name is Angela Jacobs.<br />
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Angela found her passion of wine while working part-time for an Italian restaurant. After obtaining her degrees at the University of Washington, she set out to learn winemaking skills from across the globe. When she returned, she purchased 2 tons of wine grapes from the Red Mountain area, licensed her first winery in Seattle and began producing Viognier, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. WineGirl Wines was the 16th winery to open its doors in Lake Chelan. I had a chance to sit down with Angela in the WineGirl Wines tasting room to learn more about the AVA, as well as taste some of the wines she creates.<br />
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<b>1. What was the wine that kicked off your passion?</b><br />
Archery Summit Pinot Noir 1996. I think I still have the bottle!<br />
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<b>2. Your bottles are beautifully labelled! Who does the artwork, and what is the story behind them?</b><br />
A Canadian artist named Francine Delgado, based out of Vancouver. Originally the labels were drawn in a style similar to Disney Princesses, but I preferred the pin-up style of girl so we changed it. I also wanted to showcase the natural beauty of Lake Chelan, so the backgrounds consist of our natural attractions such as Chelan Butte and Wapato Point.<br />
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<b>3. How would you describe this year's growing season?</b><br />
It's been a good growing season so far, the dry heat hasn't affected the vines because of irrigation. Harvest will likely begin around mid-September this year.<br />
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<b>4. Which of the wines you create are you most proud of?</b><br />
I prefer to produce wines that appeal to the local demographics. For example, I started to make a sweet Gewurztraminer when visitors from nearby Leavenworth requested more sweet wines.<br />
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<b>5. One of the varietals you grow is Tinta Roriz, in which you use to produce a Port-style wine. What was the inspiration and story behind choosing this varietal?</b><br />
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I wanted to do something different in a more mechanical sense, and a Port fills that with fortifying the wine as well as some aging. Originally I wanted to use Touriga National, but in the end I chose Tinta Roriz, which is the Portuguese name for Tempranillo. Port also fills the sweet wine need in the area.<br />
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<b>6. The 2011 vintage was known to be cool and rainy throughout the West Coast. Was this the case in Lake Chelan, and how did your vines and wines fare during this difficult growing season?</b><br />
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Rain continued into June and the grapes didn't really ripen. I had to pull our 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon from the tasting room when it was released as I feel it's too young to drink now, but the wine would be good for aging.<br />
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We then tasted the 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon. Deep ruby in colour, a bouquet of red currant, stewed green peppers and a hint of charcoal leads into a palate that shows more red fruit like raspberries, with a hint of tobacco leaf on the finish. The tannins are focused and well-integrated, marrying well with the mouthwatering acidity to create a complex, full body. This wine spoke to my palate now, and will also evolve in the cellar for 5-7 years. Try pairing this wine with a slow roasted cut of AAA beef, and you will see how well this wine can shine with food!<br />
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Angela's dedication and passion are well reflected in the wines she produces, and combined with the natural terroir of the AVA, the sky is her limit. She will do great things as Lake Chelan gains popularity within the USA, and potentially worldwide as the wine market grows.<br />
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Thank you Angela, for sitting down with me and showing me the wines Lake Chelan has to offer. Cheers!</div>
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SMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16544043185482474935noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2375170294386227382.post-21648571845689135422017-08-10T09:02:00.002-06:002017-08-10T09:02:35.281-06:00Weekly Wine-Down August 1-7: The Wine in Spain Falls Mainly On My LipsI used to think that the quality of Spanish wines wasn't comparable to French and Italian wines. I once mentioned this to a fellow winelover at a Vintage Port tasting I attended with him a couple of years ago. He laughed, and said I must try more of them to really appreciate the wine's quality through it's terroir, and "bang for your buck".<br />
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I am so glad I listened to him!<br />
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Over the past few years, I have found some wonderful Spanish gems, and after focusing on more Spanish wines in the past month, here are some of my personal favourites with a few other producers to try out.<br />
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Spain's wine regions spread sporadically throughout the entire country. A wide variety of red, white and rose wines are produced. The most notable regions include:<br />
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-Rioja: The most well-known region in Spain, oaked red wines made from grape varietals Tempranillo and Garnacha (aka Grenache) are produced here. The Ribeira del Duero and Toro also feature some wonderful expressions of Tempranillo.<br />
-Jerez: Home of Sherry wine made in a variety of styles<br />
-Catalunya: This is where Spain's signature sparkling wine is produced, called Cava. Some notable wine appellations nearby are Priorat and Montsant, which offer red wines with elegance and structure.<br />
-Rias Baixas: The maritime climate coupled with mineral-rich soil is the perfect homeland for a white wine called Albarino, which carries aromas of stone fruits and melons combined with a mineral structure and zesty finish.<br />
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<u>White Wine: Albarino</u><br />
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August 1st was considered "Albarino Day" in the winelovers' world, and my sister-in-law and I celebrated with an interesting take on the varietal. Deep gold in colour, the Pirueta contains aromas of honeydew melon and orange blossom tied into a palate of underripe pear and grapefruit<insert book="" from="" here="" notes="" tasting="">. The body shows more weight than most Albarinos, with</insert> a blend of mouthwatering acidity and zesty finish. Pairs extremely well with lighter cheeses like havarti.<br />
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Another good Albarino to try is <a href="http://pacolola.com/productos/paco-lola/" target="_blank">Paco & Lola</a>, which is lighter in style and offers flavours of red apple and crisp citrus. The label is created to catch your eye in store, adorned with black and white polka dots!<br />
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<u>Rose Wines</u><br />
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The "dog days of summer" allow for Rose wines to really shine as they pair well with the sunny summer heat. Bodegas Breca delivers a dry rose called Garnacha de Fuego that delivers<tasting notes="" required=""> excellent value perfect for sipping on a hot summer day! Bright and refreshing, with notes of papaya, fresh strawberries and minerality mid-palate. Note: All rose wines should be consumed within 24 hours of opening-otherwise, they lose all their flavour.</tasting><br />
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<a href="http://www.bodegasmuga.com/en/muga-rosado/" target="_blank">Bodegas Muga</a>, based out of the Rioja region, also produces a dry rose that is fuller in body, with concentrated citrus and fresh red berry flavours.<br />
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<u>Red Wines: Rioja</u><br />
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And speaking of Rioja, this is the trademark red wine that comes out of Spain. Most are composed of the grape varietals Tempranillo and Garnacha, with Graciano and Mazuelo sometimes blended in. An oaked white blend is also made here; however, I'll focus on the reds this time.<br />
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There are 4 types of Rioja red wines: Joven wines are bottled the year after the grapes are harvested, Crianza wines must age for 2 years with 6 months of that in oak barrels, Reserva wines are aged for a minimum of 3 years with 12 months in oak, and Gran Reserva wines must be aged for at least 5 years, including 6 months in oak.<br />
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The <a href="http://www.beronia.com/en/classics-range/reserva/" target="_blank">Beronia Rioja Reserva</a> 2014 is an expressive blend of wild strawberries, red roses, coffee and an earthy note that leads into the long finish. Lively acidity and mocha tannins add structure and complexity. The 2014 is still showing its youth, and would be a wonderful addition to the cellar for another 3-5 years! Pairs well with grilled red meats like lamb chops.<br />
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Other Rioja wines to try include <a href="https://www.campoviejo.com/ca/wines" target="_blank">Campo Viejo</a> Rioja Reserva and <a href="http://www.vinabujanda.com/en/product/crianza/" target="_blank">Vina Bujanda</a> Rioja Crianza.<br />
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The next time you stop by your local wine store, stop by the Spanish aisle and give some of these value-packed gems a try. I can't say I've ever had a bottle from Spain that I didn't like! You just might find this to be your wine truth as well ;)<br />
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Stay tuned for next week's wine-down, when I focus on the Reserve line of Mission Hill's wines.<br />
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Cheers!<br />
<br />SMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16544043185482474935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2375170294386227382.post-55859348818329050762017-07-31T10:34:00.000-06:002017-07-31T10:34:14.853-06:00Weekly Wine-Down July 24-31: All About New World RedsNow that I've finally created my own Wine Concubine Facebook page, I'm starting a new segment to help drum up some more likes, called the Weekly Wine-Down. Special thanks to Li at the Wining Hour on Twitter for unknowingly helping me with the name!. Each week I will post mini versions of tasting notes based on the wines I tasted, and recommend for your drinking pleasure.<br />
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Saturday night was a mini family reunion with my Aunt, Uncle & cousins who live 3 hours north of me. My uncle is also a winelover, who lives by the adage "Life is too short to drink bad wine". After a quick trip to the local farmer's market, we sat down and tasted some impressive red wines from the Okanagan, as well as a Zinfandel from Lodi. Here are the standouts:<br />
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1. <a href="https://www.burrowingowlwine.ca/wine/meritage/" target="_blank">Burrowing Owl Meritage 2012</a>, Oliver, BC: A pronounced nose of ripe raspberries and dusty earth lead into a body of mouthwatering acidity and fine-grained, well integrated tannins along with notes of juicy blackberries, stewed green bell peppers & forest floor. The finish is long and sultry, with a marked flavour of dried currant. Decant for 1.5-2 hours to allow the complex flavour profile to open up!</div>
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2. <a href="https://blastedchurch.com/wines/cabernet_merlot_2015" target="_blank">Blasted Church 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon/Merlot Blend</a>, Okanagan, BC: Known for their eye-catching labels, all of Blasted Church's wines are great choices for quality, and this one is no exception! A beautiful deep purple colour in the glass with aromas of black fruit and black pepper. The body is well rounded with fresh acidity, ripe tannins and a long, juicy finish. For those of you who prefer red wine over whites, I recommend this for sipping on the patio with a sirloin steak, or grilled Italian sausage!</div>
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3. <a href="http://www.michaeldavidwinery.com/product/2014-EARTHQUAKE-ZIN-12/750ML" target="_blank">Earthquake Zinfandel 2014</a>, Lodi AVA, California: Aromas of raspberry preserves and a hint of flint will invite you in to taste an intriguing flavour profile of red fruit, black licorice and cocoa powder. The licorice essence lasts well into the long, smooth finish. Fresh acidity and focused tannins round out the body. Due to it's 15% abv alcohol content, this wine is best with grilled red meat, hard cheeses like cheddar, and even dark chocolate! We decanted for 30-45 minutes as well.</div>
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Special thanks to my Aunt & Uncle for their amazing hospitality, enjoyment of this blog and for all the love and support they've given me throughout my wine journey. </div>
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This Tuesday is an upcoming wine day featuring a varietal called Albarino. Click <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PrP-BQpS8M4" target="_blank">here</a> to learn a little more about it (at the 2:00 mark), and stay tuned for tasting notes on Spanish wine next week!</div>
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Cheers!</div>
<br />SMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16544043185482474935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2375170294386227382.post-43178912425561129402017-07-28T12:38:00.000-06:002017-07-28T12:38:10.515-06:00The Wines of Freemark AbbeyI'm not much of a fan of California Cabernet Sauvignon.<br />
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Maybe this is because I'm used to drinking lower priced Cabs, but it's probably because I can't afford the high prices the majority of Napa County demands. Earlier this Spring, I sampled a few Cabernet Sauvignons from neighbouring Sonoma County's Alexander Valley, but was left largely disappointed.<br />
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Then I tried Freemark Abbey's 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon, and I was proven wrong.<br />
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Established in 1886, a widow named Josephine Tychson became the first recorded female winemaker in Napa Valley when she built the original cellar building and cleared the surrounding land to plant vines. In 1939, three businessmen changed the name of the estate from Lombarda Cellars by melding their names Freeman, Marquand Foster and Albert Ahern. This is when the name Freemark Abbey was born. Fun fact: Freemark Abbey was one of the 12 wineries that entered, and defeated French wines in the "Judgement of Paris" blind tasting in 1976!<history: 1975="" a="" couple="" facts="" founder="" france="" fun="" like="" of="" tasting="" the="" year=""></history:><br />
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The 2011 growing season was harsh on winemakers throughout Napa Valley. Consistent rain into harvest made rot an issue in many of the vineyards, generating extremely low yields. These conditions made the vinification process a real challenge, but rumour has it that some expressive, age-worthy wines were on the market. Freemark Abbey proved this to be true with their 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrTr-LwALFbrHQIozQJTHve920Eh8EQqrFSqiSW59x7hjeGZuCygCu-i5IsYIMfl-kXVOcvjhvs7XhORKbZTHE2g3b-HvM-hdQtG2XumpTuANsUR0Jkq_IEewaphjQDEXCxY6TKEjcWDI/s1600/freemark-abbey-cabernet-sauvignon-2011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="752" data-original-width="300" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrTr-LwALFbrHQIozQJTHve920Eh8EQqrFSqiSW59x7hjeGZuCygCu-i5IsYIMfl-kXVOcvjhvs7XhORKbZTHE2g3b-HvM-hdQtG2XumpTuANsUR0Jkq_IEewaphjQDEXCxY6TKEjcWDI/s320/freemark-abbey-cabernet-sauvignon-2011.jpg" width="127" /></a></div>
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A bouquet of dried red currant and ripe red cherries leads into a complex flavour profile that includes stewed green bell peppers and a hint of fennel on the finish. Silky tannins and bright acidity add finesse and body. This wine would be an excellent pairing with steak and roast beef, but I recommend using a higher end grade and cut to really blow your mind!<br />
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What amazes me most about this wine is the price point. Although Freemark Abbey still fetches a higher price for the 2011 Cab Sauv, their's is low compared to other Napa Valley wineries. The retail price in Canadian dollars is $54. I was so impressed that I decided to taste 2 more wines in their portfolio!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2qtLTcVvL3B_6tI6Ep-ODccL-sztc4M70BoAvOwvMj_Km5fdp1VplDd-46kxrz_GUls1EgRNg6OeONNivOCi2WSPY-WDRGKoq0UUqgADIuteFKZNQ-WcVl9PoD5wcL5gpmHo83suyDYI/s1600/FA+Merlot+11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="225" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2qtLTcVvL3B_6tI6Ep-ODccL-sztc4M70BoAvOwvMj_Km5fdp1VplDd-46kxrz_GUls1EgRNg6OeONNivOCi2WSPY-WDRGKoq0UUqgADIuteFKZNQ-WcVl9PoD5wcL5gpmHo83suyDYI/s320/FA+Merlot+11.jpg" width="133" /></a></div>
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Freemark Abbey's 2011 Merlot shows a smoky side with notes of flint accompanying a palate of fresh cherries and herbs. The red fruit flavours last right into the long, rich finish, reflecting a more fresh style than the Cabernet Sauvignon. In fact, I really enjoyed this wine on it's own!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_KS6jve4GHia4psbTUN7SIplE6rBIR5kZect4AhNuH9ZuUfgncuiUJE1RZjExnycYo8oZPgD4H9Js8GDQj9fErU6-AxZ7fWaAjai-90hesgCuddvfp246ctM9epYNZolXmELaWyAEgtk/s1600/IMG_9225.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_KS6jve4GHia4psbTUN7SIplE6rBIR5kZect4AhNuH9ZuUfgncuiUJE1RZjExnycYo8oZPgD4H9Js8GDQj9fErU6-AxZ7fWaAjai-90hesgCuddvfp246ctM9epYNZolXmELaWyAEgtk/s320/IMG_9225.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Finally, the 2013 Chardonnay offers intoxicating aromas of ripe bananas with a hint of vanilla to reflect aging in oak<xx mos="" years="">. Lush in style, with a body that includes stewed pineapple and an intriguing tinge of guava. A creamy mouthfeel and soft, focused tannins round out the palate. This wine is incredibly food friendly and would marry well with poached salmon, or chicken in a mustard cream sauce. </xx><br />
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Sometimes the splurge on wine is worth it, and sometimes it can let you down. In this case, I wasn't disappointed once. I know the quality will be there if I bring a Freemark Abbey bottle to a dinner or gift it to a fellow winelover. So if you haven't tasted this gem in Napa Valley, make sure you do-you won't be disappointed either.<br />
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Cheers!<br />
<br />SMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16544043185482474935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2375170294386227382.post-9875763122705039952017-04-05T12:04:00.000-06:002017-04-05T12:04:07.595-06:00To Cellar, or Not To Cellar in Uncertain TimesOur senses have been bombarded lately with all the news hype surrounding Brexit, President Trump, and the plethora of natural disasters plaguing the globe. And don't forget the media trend of apocalyptic TV series like The Walking Dead to add to the atmosphere of doom and gloom. If you are like me, you've chosen to "turn off" in a digital sense and focus your energy on reading, studying, or hobbies. A lot of my wine studies this year have drawn me to issues related to wine cellaring.<br />
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I currently own a 100 bottle cellar with wines ranging in value from $35 through to over $1,000. Granted, my cellar is only composed of 3 wooden racks that hold 75 bottles each enclosed in a concrete room; nothing fancy like what you see in Wine Spectator every month. However, the cellar means more to me than just bottles in a concrete room. Many of the bottles enclosed have memories attached to them. The Chateauneuf-du-Pape and Gigondas wines were purchased on our trip to France in 2011. My Krug Clos du Mesnil Champagne tells the story of my oldest daughter's birth and my triumph over those crazy, foggy first weeks of motherhood. The problem lies in when to consume these wines-and in today's tumultuous times, should I even bother with a cellar?<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My wine cellar. It's not pretty, but it's functional-and doesn't allow for aliens or zombies to get in easily!</td></tr>
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Many factors come into play when maintaining a wine cellar. Questions to ask yourself include:<br />
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"How many bottles can I manage?"<br />
"Am I cellaring bottles for financial gain, or for personal pleasure?"<br />
"What methods and resources do I use to track their development?"<br />
"Am I comfortable with the risk associated with my bottles' values?"<br />
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What about a contingency plan? Zombie-apocalypses and President Trump's initiatives aside, other risk factors include household fires, floods, and other acts of God. Are you prepared to forego tasting your viticultural treasures if any of the above happen, even if you insure your bottles?<br />
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In the event of a slower catastrophe like Zombies or a plague, my contingency plan is to lock myself in the cellar, drink as many of the wines as I can from most treasured to least, and let nature take it's toll. I'm still working on a plan for the quicker-moving events.<br />
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Many wine blogs and publications discuss drinking those treasured bottles now, foregoing special events to ensure you get to enjoy them now. It's an interesting concept; on one hand, you will definitely enjoy them and the risk of the wine going past it's prime is reduced. On the other hand, how much will you enjoy that phenomenal bottle on a weeknight, or another time where you might be more rushed? In my opinion it's worth exploring, especially when sampling a wine where more of the same bottles exist in the cellar; however, I still prefer a special occasion to crack open those one-off bottles so I can really indulge in the experience.<br />
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Even though none of us know what's going to happen next, I do know that I want to enjoy these bottles while I can and relive the joy and memories these wines have brought me. No matter what your wine cellar goals are, may yours bring you joy now, and in the time to come.<br />
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Cheers!<br />
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SMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16544043185482474935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2375170294386227382.post-54492811787987260532017-02-07T16:01:00.002-07:002017-02-07T16:01:49.594-07:00Concha y Toro's Cabernet Sauvignon WinesStarting each new year, I begin a major wine research project of focus. In the past I've started projects on new world Pinot Noir, Champagne, Alsace whites, and this year I kick off 2017 as my year of New World Cabernet Sauvignon. This year I will focus my red wine tastings on Cab Sauvs from Chile, California, Washington State, Australia and Canada (can't forget the home wine region, of course!) The first project kicked off during the holiday season, where my husband, father-in-law and I tasted 4 of the Cabernet Sauvignons crafted by Chilean wine powerhouse Concha y Toro.<br />
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Founded in 1883, Concha y Toro is regarded as one of the oldest and most well-known wineries in Chile. With a wide variety of experienced winemakers at the helm, Concha y Toro is making waves in the wine world, most notably with Cabernet Sauvignon. Click <a href="http://www.conchaytoro.com/?lang=en_us" target="_blank">here</a> to learn more about the winery in detail.<br />
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So what makes Chile such a great hotbed for growing remarkable Cabernet Sauvignon?<br />
The DO Puente Alto is located very close to the foothills of the Andes mountains, containing a variety of soil types including alluvial, stony, and a gravel sub-soil. Just like in Bordeaux, the vines have to struggle for their nutrients, which in turn creates wines with solid structure and surprising complexity.<br />
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<img alt="" id="id_d901_31e7_b4f6_f083" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-WuJlY708Kk4/WJAXX0S7tZI/AAAAAAAACLs/aRnLlhyIxDM/%25255BUNSET%25255D.png" style="height: auto; width: 298px;" title="" tooltip="" /> </div>
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The first wine we tasted in the series was Casillero de Diablo<xxx>. The grapes are grown in the Central Valley region of Chile. </xxx>Concentrated and straightforward, the <a href="http://www.conchaytoro.com/descubre-vinos/vinos-premium/casillero-del-diablo-cabernet-sauvignon-en/" target="_blank">Casillero de Diablo Cab Sauv 2015</a> offers red currant and blueberry flavours in a plush body of lively acidity and ripe tannins. There's a slight musky hint on the finish, adding a touch of complexity. This is an ideal wine for newbies to start on Cab Sauv, and a great wine to bring to a Halloween party, if you're punny like me!</div>
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<img alt="" id="id_8c6d_87d7_8646_3ff2" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-owSesb5QZcA/WJAXYfK81iI/AAAAAAAACL4/_pi1fsk-Lyk/%25255BUNSET%25255D.png" style="height: auto; width: 298px;" title="" tooltip="" /><br />
Next we tasted the revered <a href="http://www.conchaytoro.com/descubre-vinos/fine-wine-collection/marques-de-casa-concha-cabernet-sauvignon-en/" target="_blank">Marques de Casa Concha, 2012</a> vintage. This Cabernet Sauvignon is some of the best value you can find for under $20 CDN, and one of my go-to favourites. The grapes are grown in the DO Puente Alto, and with both a climate and soil similar to Bordeaux, this wine delivers on all fronts! Complex flavours of ripe blueberries, red and black currants surround a body brimming with silky soft tannins, lively acidity and a hint of charcoal and leather on the finish. This beauty is drinking well now, but shows aging potential of another 3-5 years. <br />
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<img alt="" id="id_ba65_ba3f_ca3b_943f" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-3Xjtetrl8iw/WJAXYCgaCiI/AAAAAAAACLw/e6DYN6YxUYE/%25255BUNSET%25255D.png" style="height: auto; width: 298px;" title="" tooltip="" /><br />
Concha y Toro also produces a more rustic, unfiltered Cabernet Sauvignon with it's <a href="http://www.conchaytoro.com/descubre-vinos/fine-wine-collection/terrunyo-cabernet-sauvignon-en/" target="_blank">2008 Terrunyo Las Terrazas</a>. With fruit from one of their oldest vineyards, they crafted a bold wine containing flavours of dried cherries and black currants, alongside a hint of dried tobacco leaf mid-palate. Earthy tannins and mouthwatering acidity create a full body that follows through the long, persistent finish. Newer vintages will hold well in cellar for approximately 5 years, but the 2008 is dangerously close to past prime. Strong meats and hard cheeses will pair best with this gallant gem!<br />
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<img alt="" id="id_f0d4_1938_7e00_f2fe" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-HYltiSVbo6Q/WJAXYa-VjoI/AAAAAAAACL0/JTO-RIJduTI/%25255BUNSET%25255D.png" style="height: auto; width: 298px;" title="" tooltip="" /><br />
Finally, we come to the pinnacle Cabernet, the esteemed, highly rated <a href="http://www.conchaytoro.com/descubre-vinos/fine-wine-collection/don-melchor-en/" target="_blank">2010 Don Melchor</a>. Wine Spectator ranked it as the #9 wine of the year in 2014, and Concha y Toro earned their spot with a finessed body full of black currant, tomato leaf and a sultry hint of smoke. The silky tannins are well integrated and linger through the smooth finish. Decant for 1-2 hours before enjoying, and pair this with a Ribeye or Filet Mignon!<br />
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It is easy to see why Concha y Toro is a benchmark winery for Cabernet Sauvignon in Chile. By using the best quality grapes from their esteemed vineyards, each sub-brand of their wines are consistent in body and flavour, allowing them to produce a house style of quality that will be hard to replicate by others. Enjoy the fruits of Concha y Toro's labour, whether you are new to red wines, a wine geek, or a wine conoisseur-they have a wine for you. Cheers!<br />
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<marques 2014="" amp="" casa="" concha="" cs="" de="" from="" notes-mention="" points="" rating="" tasting="" values="" ws=""></marques></div>
SMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16544043185482474935noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2375170294386227382.post-63187507185653901372017-01-01T15:25:00.002-07:002017-01-01T15:25:30.045-07:00My Top Wines Tasted in 2016Most people will be happy to see 2016 go-after all, if we could have one drink for each celebrity who passed away or other bad news story aired on the news, we'd all be blasted drunk. But for me, 2016 was one of my best years as an adult. On the family front, I spent the year at home with my 2 young daughters. I watched my baby girl grow into a curious, active toddler, and saw my oldest daughter start kindergarten at school. I will be sad to see 2016 go as I return to my non-wine day job in 2017. Back to reality...<br />
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I also had a good year in the world of wine. I considered 2016 as "my year of Champagne", and I tasted my way through a variety of non-vintage bruts from some of the well known houses of Reims and Epernay. Red and white wines from France also dominated my palate, along with New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc and Bordeaux blends from the Okanagan. You will see plenty of wines from all of these regions on my top wine list for 2016, along with a few surprises! And with that said, let's get down to business.<br />
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<u>Top Red Wines</u><br />
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I tasted so many great red wines this year, it was hard to narrow down this list to just a top 5. Prices range from $20-$35 CDN for all wines except for the top wine, which is $70 +.<br />
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1. <a href="http://www.smith-haut-lafitte.com/docs/en/ft/Haut-de-Smith_Fiche-Technique-Rouge-2005.pdf" target="_blank">Les Hauts de Smith by Chateau Smith Haut Lafitte 2005</a> - Pessac-Leognan AOC, France<br />
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2. <a href="http://www.tedeschiwines.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Corasco_ING.pdf" target="_blank">Tedeschi Corasco Appassimento 2010</a> - Venezie IGT, Italy<br />
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3. <a href="http://www.wineconcubine.com/2016_08_01_archive.html" target="_blank">Domaine Lafage Tessellae Old Vines GSM 2013</a> - Cotes du Roussillon AOC, France<br />
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4. <a href="http://www.blacksagevineyard.ca/index.cfm?method=pages.showPage&PageID=684651B7-9E7C-98D7-C809-64797E997229&originalMarketingURL=Wines" target="_blank">Black Sage Vineyards Zinfandel 2012</a> - Okanagan, British Columbia<br />
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5. <a href="https://blastedchurch.com/wines/syrah_2014" target="_blank">Blasted Church Syrah 2014</a> - Okanagan, British Columbia<br />
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<u>Top White Wines</u><br />
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As per usual, France takes the #1 spot for my white wine of the year - and unlike previous years, almost swept the category! A New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc takes the final spot. Prices range from $22-$35 CDN.<br />
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1. <a href="http://www.drouhin-vaudon-chablis.com/en/index.php#/FicheVin?idVin=9&idMillesime=59" target="_blank">Joseph Drouhin Vaudon Chablis 2012</a> - Chablis AOC, France<br />
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2. <a href="http://cdn.vin.co/_clients_folder/perrin/_ft_miraval_blanc_varois_2015_en_pdf_14671.pdf" target="_blank">Chateau Miraval Blanc Coteaux Varois 2014</a> - Cotes du Provence AOC, France<br />
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3. <a href="http://www.domaine-lichtle.com/en/index.php?page=wines" target="_blank">Domaine Francois Lichtle Pfersigberg Grand Cru 2008</a> - Alsace AOC, France<br />
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4. <a href="http://www.villamaria.co.nz/wines/product-details/villa-maria-cellar-selection-marlborough-organic-s" target="_blank">Villa Maria Cellar Selection Sauvignon Blanc 2015</a> - Marlborough, New Zealand<br />
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<u>Top Champagne & Sparkling Wines</u><br />
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This year's focus was on Brut Champagne, so the list is dedicated accordingly. You are looking to spend $45-$70 CDN on these bottles, but definitely worth the splurge for a special occasion!<br />
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1. <a href="https://www.polroger.com/en/champagnes/2/brut-reserve" target="_blank">Pol Roger Brut Reserve N/V</a> - Epernay, France<br />
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2. <a href="https://www.perrier-jouet.com/uk-en/champagne-collection/grand-brut-uk" target="_blank">Perrier-Jouet Grand Brut N/V</a> - Epernay, France<br />
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3. <a href="https://fr.moet.com/Champagnes-Moet/Moet-Imperial" target="_blank">Moet & Chandon Imperial Brut N/V</a> - Epernay, France<br />
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4. <a href="http://www.taittinger.com/#/en/TheChampagnes/CuveesGallery/BrutLaFrancaise" target="_blank">Taittinger Brut N/V</a> - Reims, France<br />
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<u>Top Sweet Wines</u><br />
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Since my husband is a Port aficionado, Port is the go-to for fortified wines in our house. However, Canada dominates this year's list, with the remaining 3 spots. As most of the wines on this part of the list were gifts, I can't officially comment on price, with the exception of Cave Springs' Late Harvest Riesling; the price in CDN is $30.<br />
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1. <a href="http://www.quintadovesuvio.com/store/quinta-do-vesuvio-vintage/quinta-port-1994" target="_blank">Quinta do Vesuvio Port 1994</a> - Portugal<br />
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2. <a href="https://www.kalala.ca/shop/wines/2013-chardonnay-icewine/" target="_blank">Kalala Chardonnay Icewine 2013</a> - Okanagan, British Columbia<br />
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3. <a href="https://wineshop.cavespring.ca/sweet" target="_blank">Cave Springs "Indian Summer" Late Harvest Riesling 2010</a> - Niagara, Ontario<br />
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4. <a href="http://www.blacksagevineyard.ca/index.cfm?method=pages.showPage&PageID=684651B7-9E7C-98D7-C809-64797E997229&originalMarketingURL=Wines" target="_blank">Black Sage Vineyards "Pipe" 2007</a> - Okanagan, British Columbia<br />
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<u>Top Value Wines</u><br />
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This is where white wine really shone this year. I wasn't expecting that I would like these (with the exception of Wynn's CSM-I drink at least one bottle of it every year) but they did not disappoint! As per usual, these wines retail for under $20 CDN.<br />
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1. <a href="http://www.batasiolo.com/eng/product/moscato-dasti-d-o-c-g-bosc-dla-rei/" target="_blank">Batasiolo Moscato d'Asti Bosc d'La Rei 2015</a> - Moscato d'Asti DOCG, Italy<br />
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2. <a href="https://www.wynns.com.au/our-wines/wynns-coonawarra/cabernet-shiraz-merlot" target="_blank">Wynn's Coonawarra Cabernet-Shiraz-Merlot 2010</a> - South Australia<br />
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3. <a href="http://www.colinasdeuruguay.com/CDU-Ficha-albari%C3%B1o-2015-ENG.pdf" target="_blank">Colinas de Uruguay Albarino 2015</a> - Garzon, Uruguay<br />
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4. <a href="http://store.missionhillwinery.com/product/5VY-Pinot-Blanc" target="_blank">Mission Hills 5 Vineyards Pinot Blanc 2013</a> - Okanagan, British Columbia<br />
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5. <a href="http://www.peleeisland.com/Pelee_Island_Wine_Tasting_Notes/Gewurztraminer%20NON%202014.pdf" target="_blank">Pelee Island Gewurztraminer 2014</a> - Pelee Island, Ontario<br />
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<u>Best Pairing</u><br />
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Italy takes the top 2 spots as Italian wines are made to be extremely food friendly. Blasted Church's Syrah grabs another spot on my list, as a divine pairing for Filet Mignon. The Porca de Murca Portuguese red is priced under $20 CDN, making it the best value in this category. All other wines listed here are priced between $24-$65 CDN, worth the splurge! <br />
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1. <a href="https://winecollective.ca/products/13807-brigaldara-soave/" target="_blank">Brigaldara Soave 2015</a> with Brioche Lobster Roll<br />
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2. <a href="http://www.tenuteambrogioegiovannifolonari.com/en-doc-bolgheri-rosso.htm" target="_blank">Folonari Campo al Mare Bolgheri 2007</a> with Zuppa di Fungi<br />
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3. <a href="https://blastedchurch.com/wines/syrah_2014" target="_blank">Blasted Church Syrah 2014</a> with Filet Mignon<br />
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4. <a href="http://www.lcbo.com/lcbo/product/porca-de-murca-red-2013/445080#.WGlmPPkrLIU" target="_blank">Porca de Murca Tinto Douro 2013</a> with Cauliflower-Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms<br />
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5. <a href="https://www.veuveclicquot.com/en-ca/our-champagne/yellow-label-brut-champagne" target="_blank">Veuve Clicquot Brut Champagne N/V</a> with Smoked Salmon Eggs Benedict<br />
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<u>Winery of the Year</u><br />
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This is the first year I have awarded this category on the blog. There are 2 criteria I use in order to select the winery:<br />
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-Their wines must be listed in at least one category above<br />
-They must be interactive with their followers on social media.<br />
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When deciding whether or not to use this category in years past, winners would have included producers such as Donnafugata, Tommasi, and Concha y Toro.<br />
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Therefore, the winery of the year is...<a href="https://blastedchurch.com/" target="_blank">Blasted Church Winery</a>, located in Okanagan, BC!<br />
Honourable mention goes to <a href="http://www.taittinger.com/#/en/SpiritOfAHouse/Characters/Today/Today" target="_blank">Champagne House Taittinger</a> in Reims, France!<br />
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Thank you both so much for sharing your passion for your wines & champagnes with all your winelover fans!<br />
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So what's coming up for me in 2017? It's looking to be a busy one!<br />
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-Return to wine school in April to become a Canadian Wine Scholar<br />
-Potential travel to the Okanagan and Washington State for wine touring & tasting,<br />
-My Year of...New World Cabernet Sauvignon. Including regions of Chile, California, Washington State, Okanagan, BC, and possibly Australia and South Africa.<br />
-Other projects include white wines from smaller Old World countries like Greece & Austria, and producer-focused blog posts<br />
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Hopefully you find this post useful when looking for recommendations, and maybe try a wine you haven't had before on this list or see a pairing idea you like. Cheers to a successful 2016, and I look forward to sharing more of my passion and thirst knowledge quest in 2017!<br />
<br />SMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16544043185482474935noreply@blogger.com0