COPAIN SAISON DES VINS VIOGNIER

Winery: Copain Wines
Location: California, U.S.A.
Blend: Viognier
Tasting: Wednesday, November 30, 2011 - 4:00 - 7:00 p.m

Every winemaker we have spoken with has had an interesting story behind their chosen profession.  Wells Guthrie’s story, too, is an interesting one.  Wells worked for Wine Spectator in their San Francisco office as a tasting coordinator.  Not only had he fallen in love with wine, but he had a very strong desire to become a winemaker.  He left Wine Spectator and then he and his wife packed up and headed off to the Rhône Valley in France.

It was in the Rhône that two men had an incredible influence on his love of wine and winemaking.  Michel Chapoutier and Jean Louis Chave.  Wells worked as an apprentice to vintner Michel Chapoutier for two years.  You might be wondering why he wanted to work with Chapoutier.  Credentials, quite frankly.  The Chapoutier family has been in the wine industry in the Rhône Valley for more than 200 years.  If you drink wines from this region, then you most likely know the Chapoutier name.  Then there is Jean Louis Chave.  His family has been in the ‘vine’ business since the late 15^th century and is considered to have one of the finest wineries in the region.  Ironically, Jean Louis did his schooling at the University of California Davis.  We can only imagine the depth of the impact that these two ‘star’ Rhône vintners had on Wells.  His French winey name, Copain, in English means ‘buddy/friend’.  He gave it that name because he feels that wine is best shared with friends and family.  Hear hear.

Wells founded Copain in 1999 in the state of California and quickly became known for his big Syrah and received a lot of press.  Like all good winemakers, Wells believe that quality starts in the vineyard.  Over the years the alcohol has lowered in the wines and they have become longer lasting and more, shall we say, elegant.  He wants to be a winemaker forever.   Although they make many lovely wines, we are lucky to have Wells’ Viognier to sample this week.

Wells describes this wine:

“This stainless steel fermented Viognier combines candied lemon rind, subtle white flowers, and dried apricots in a steely mineral nose.  Aromatics carry well to the palate which is clean, crisp and lively with a zesty lemon curd and chalk finish.”

CSPC:                   722095
Winesday Price:

$25.19 (Includes Winesday 10% discount.)

Regular Price:

$27.99

*Price correct at time of printing.  Price subject to change without notice

Rutherglen Estates Burgoyne’s Block MSG

Winery: Rutherglen Estates
Location: Rutherglen, Australia
Blend: 60% Mourvedre, 20% Shiraz, 20% Grenache
Tasting: Wednesday, November 30, 2011 - 4:00 - 7:00 p.m.

Although we did not plan it this way… both of our wines this week have their roots in the Rhône Valley.  They are not made there, of course, but the history leads us back to that region.

“Rutherglen Estates was conceived with the ambition to redefine the traditions of one of the world’s best fortified wine regions, by producing premium table wines from varieties most suited to the climate and conditions of the Rutherglen region.”

In the mid 19^th century, the Rutherglen region of Australia was one of the largest wine producers in the southern hemisphere.  However, they were mostly known for their fortified wines.  The United Kingdon was the recipient of most of these wines, which really isn’t that surprising.  They seemed to have an insatiable taste for all things fortified.  Peter Burgoyne was considered to be a ‘wine pioneer’ in his day and he had the idea to make the Rutherglen region the principal winegrowing area in Australia.  This wine was named in his honour.[1]

Modelled on the Rhône Valley classics, this blend heralds the delightful reunion of these varieties. Although Mourvedre is rarely the dominant variety in these traditional blends, the colour, structure and intensity of flavour from our Mourvedre, allows us to make a unique version, adding an extra gamey and rich dimension to the Shiraz and Grenache. Shiraz offers lovely berry fruit, pepper and colour richness, while Grenache is the strawberry, candy, vanilla and spicy support variety.  This wine is very drinkable, yet is sophisticated and elegant with great length, rounded tannins, truffles, pepper, spice and red berry fruits.”

CSPC:                   738576
Winesday Price:

$18.89 (Includes Winesday 10% discount.)

Regular Price:

$20.99

*Price correct at time of printing.  Price subject to change without notice

Can you believe that next Winesday we will be a mere 18 days from Christmas?  We will be celebrating with two wines from Guardian Peak in South Africa.   We are looking forward to see you this week and next.

The Zuccardi family moved to the Mendoza region some years prior to 1950.  In 1963 Alberto Zuccardi planted his first vineyard in Maipú to show other regional farmers how the irrigation system he designed worked and how it would benefit the agricultural industry.  Little did he know what he would be starting!

In 1976 Alberto’s son, José Alberto, joined the family business.  Not too many years later the brand ‘Santa Julia‘ was born.  The brand was named after José’s only daughter, Julia.  Sebastián, José’s oldest son, and Miguel, his youngest son became involved in the Zuccardi family business in the past decade.  Each is responsible for different parts of the company.  Sebastián is in charge of the estates in the Uco Valley, which produces some of Zuccardi’s top wines.  Miguel has the responsibility of taking care of the Zuccardi family interest in high quality olive oil production.  (all pictured above right)

A visitor’s centre and restaurant was opened in 2001 with daughter Julia (pictured left) taking the reigns.

“From the very beginning, we focused on the achievement of four goals:  Producing the highest quality wines; keeping a constant innovation capacity; working in full harmony with the environment; and being useful to the community we live in”[1]

The Santa Julia vineyards produce Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay along with Viognier, Pinot Grigio and Tempranillo.  The man behind turning these grapes into vino is winemaker Rodolfo Montenegro.  2011 marks Rodolfo’s 30^th anniversary with the winery.  For 15 years he also taught at the Don Bosco Faculty of Enology.

Santa Julia Viognier

For some, the big oaky Chardonnays of old were losing their shine and those people were looking for something with more body but they wanted to nix the 2×4.  Others who enjoyed the lovely Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc were looking for a wine that was a little more substantial but not Chardonnay (poor ol’ Chardonnay).    In came Viognier.  A number of years ago we heard many times that, in Australia, Viognier was going to be the big white like Shiraz was the big red.  It never really happened in Australia.  Viognier, however, can be found all around the world.  When talking about Viognier most think of the Rhône.  In particular, Condrieu.  However, Viognier may be found from the Cape in South Africa to Australia, France, Greece, Italy, Spain, Chile, Argentina, U.S.A, Bulgaria, New Zealand, Japan and Canada.  The grape works well blending with other varieties and is quite capable of standing on its own. [2] Today the soil where our grapes have grown is in Argentina.

Winery: Familia Zuccardi / Santa Julia Winery
Location: Santa Rosa Vineyards, Mendoza, Argentina
Blend: 100% Viognier
Tasting: Wednesday, November 9, 2011 - 4:00 - 7:00 p.m

The grapes for this wine are from the Santa Rosa Vineyard in Mendoza.  The grapes were all hand-picked during the last two weeks of March 2010.

“Santa Julia is one of the most dynamic trademarks which best interpret the new trends in consumer′s preferences.  As a winemaker, I was able to begin this transformation having the support of this Winery′s strategic pillars: innovation and a constant search for product excellence”, says Rodolfo.[3]

Notes from the winemaker:

Colour: A greenish yellow of medium intensity with silver gleams.

Aroma: Very varietal character, fine, intense and complex. Notes of tropical fruits combined with flowers and ripe fruits: roses, peaches, green apples, pears and bananas.

Flavour:Rounded, balanced, fresh and wide in the mid palate. Touches of citrus - orange peel. A long and complete finish.

Food Pairing:

Thai Green Curry with Seafood ; Quick Roast Chicken and Root Vegetables

CSPC:     612317
Price:

$12.99 (Minus Winesday 10% discount.)

*Price correct at time of printing.  Price subject to change without notice

Winery: Familia Zuccardi / Santa Julia Winery
Vintage: 2009
Location: Mendoza, Argentina
Blend: 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Malbec 10% Syrah
Tasting: Wednesday, November 9, 2011 - 4:00 - 7:00 p.m.

“Familia Zuccardi really is all about family, first and foremost. It is not unusual to find a second or even a third generation member of the same family working at the Zuccardi estate. Many investments have been made to ensure that the people who live and work on our estate get the very best care, education and remuneration for their dedication.”[4]

The family states emphatically their commitment to organic production in their vineyards.  Just over 35% of their vineyards have been certified organic.  They believe in energy conservation.  Solar power is gradually rolling out throughout the entire operation.  When they do need to fertilize, they only use “green fertilizers”.  They make their own organic compost consisting of grape skins and pips (seeds) plus goat manure.  They plant vetch and barley to help bring nitrogen back into the soil.  The boxes used to ship their wine are made from recycled material.  The Zuccardi family is also involved with protecting “native birds and wildlife” to “maintain a balance with nature.”[5]

The grapes for this wine were sourced from three vineyards.  The Cabernet Sauvignon was grown in the La Consulta Vineyards.  The Malbec came from the Agrelo Vineyards.  The Syrah grapes were cultivated in the Santa Rosa Vineyards.  Each vineyard’s grapes bring unique qualities to the Santa Julia Magna Corte.

In the winemaker’s words:

Colour: Deep red violet with blue hues.

Aroma: Black and red fruits (moor, cherry and plum) mixed with aromas due to age in barrels such as vanilla, tobacco and chocolate.

Flavour: Silky entry with soft and balanced tannins well mixed with black fruit flavours.  Well balanced, great and long finish.

Food Pairing:

Roast Leg of Lamb with Red Wine Jus;  Braised Beef and Mushrooms

CSPC:     743212
Price:

$19.99 (Minus Winesday 10% discount.)

*Price correct at time of printing.  Price subject to change without notice

Our next country has been on our list to visit for quite a while.  The wines of South Africa will be discovered on November 16^th.  Come join us.

[2] Grapes & Wines by Oz Clarke and  Margaret Rand

[3] www.familiazuccardi.com.ar

[4] www.santajulia.com.ar

[5] www.santajulia.com.ar

Vineyards in South Africa usually run between 27° and 34°.  It is very rare that frost makes its presence known in this part of the world.  With a long history of winemaking, the first vineyards were planted in the Cape area in 1655.  The Boekenhoutskloof farm was founded in 1776 in the Franschhoek Valley (see map above).  Fast forward to 1993 when a group of enthusiasts who were committed “to the future of South Africa” started a replanting program.  Syrah Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Grenache, Semillon and Viognier made up the wealth of the vineyards.

What is… and how would one pronounce Boekenhoutskloof?  The translation for the word is “Ravine of the Boekenhout”.  It is pronounced “Book - en - Howed”.  Boekenhout is an indigenous Cape Beech Tree which is very important in furniture making.

The winery has four different labels.  All of which are available in Alberta.  They are “Boekenhoutskloof, The Chocolate Block, Porcupine Ridge and The Wolf Trap”.  Today we have the pleasure of sampling The Wolf Trap.  We hope you enjoy.

The Wolf Trap Red

Winery: Boekenhoutskloof
Location: Franschhoek Valley, Cape of Good Hope,  South Africa
Alcohol: 14.47%
Blend: Syrah 65 %, Mourvèdre 32 %, Viognier 3 %
Tasting: Wednesday, September 28, 2011 - 4:00 - 7:00 p.m.

This year we revisited these wines.  We haven’t had them in  a long time, so it was fun to come back to them again.  In the Spring of 2011 we did some tastings with the wines and it was fun to hear our pleasantly surprised people were.

These wines are made in a Rhône style with Syrah, Mourvèdre and Viognier.  Yes yes.  I know Viognier is a white wine.  No, that wasn’t a printing error.  They just add a wee touch of it and it brings out some wonderful qualities in the wine.  It is so popular that many countries around the world have been making Rhône style wines. Winespectator has coined the phrase “Rhône Rangers” to apply to the California producers who have been making this special blend of wines.

WINEMAKERS COMMENTS:
Both the Syrah and Mourvèdre component come from a Malmesbury vineyard with the Viognier sourced on Boekenhoutskloof. The reds were fermented using selected Rhone strain yeasts. French oak matured with Viognier blended prior to bottling. Egg white fined.

TASTING NOTES:
Abundance of black fruit flavours with hints of violet. Unpretentious easy drinking with smooth tannins and sweet berries on the palate.

CSPC:     714772
Price:

$14.00 (Minus Winesday 10% discount.)

*Price correct at time of printing.  Price subject to change without notice

The Wolf Trap White

Winery: Boekenhoutskloof
Location: Franschhoek Valley, Cape of Good Hope, South Africa
Alcohol: 14.54%
Blend: 67% Viognier, 19% Chenin Blanc and 14% Grenache Blanc
Tasting: Wednesday, September 28, 2011 - 4:00 - 7:00 p.m.

Here is another interesting blend and one that you will remember for a long time.  Fun and refreshing.  With this combination of grape varieties, you know that it will be food friendly.  On the other hand, it would just be fun for a wee sip on the patio/deck.  Yes, I know that we are heading into October, but I enjoy every minute I can get my hands on on the deck.

WINEMAKERS COMMENTS:
A friendly style displaying characteristics of the components in harmony. The Viognier grapes are sourced from a dry-land vineyard in Malmesbury, the Chenin Blanc from Stellenbosch and the Grenache Blanc from the Piekenierskloof near Citrusdal. The Chenin Blanc and Grenache Blanc were barrel matured in French oak, after which the Viognier was blended and the wine was cold stabilized, filtered and bottled.

TASTING NOTES:
Fruit blossom, spices and almond flavours, followed with a well textured palate with nice weight and a rounded finish.  The wine has a lingering aftertaste with subtle wood flavours.

CSPC:     140582
Price:

$14.00 (Minus Winesday 10% discount.)

*Price correct at time of printing.  Price subject to change without notice

Back to Europe we head next week for a couple of neat wines for Thanksgiving.  Can you believe it is almost Thanksgiving?  Wow… where did the time go.

Richard wasn’t with me when I tried the Botalcura Syrah Malbec for the first time.  I was in Calgary volunteering at a dog show and there was a dinner on the Saturday night where the Botalcura was served.   The people at our table thoroughly enjoyed it, so I thought it would be a great wine to try on a Winesday.

The birth of the winery began with a Chilean businessman (Juan Fernando Waidele) who loved wine and a French winemaker (Philippe Debrus).  When the two men met in 2000, Botalcura Winery soon followed.  The town of Botalcura is located about 3 hours south of Santiago.  The town is set amongst the rolling hills of the Coastal Range in what is known as the Maule Valley.

“The word Botalcura means “large stone” in Mapundungun, the language of Chile’s native Mapuche people. Something hard and solid as rock speaks of the power of the gods and of what’s enduring.”

“Along with the constant search of excellence in our wines, Botalcura Winery has always been committed to our surroundings.  We focus in 3 essential issues: community, economy and environment. By taking care of these 3 items, we want to contribute and achieve sustainable development, and obtain improvements in our people’s quality of life, in our town and on our planet.”[1]

Botalcura El Delino Reserve Syrah/Malbec

Winery: Botalcura
Location: Central Valley, Chile
Blend: 58% Syrah, 42% Malbec
Tasting: Wednesday, August 24, 2011 - 4:00 - 7:00 p.m

When I had a wee sip of this for the first time, I knew right away why people were oohing and ahhing at that dinner.  This is a nice easy drinking wine with lots of fruit up front and a touch of spice.  It would go great with our Alberta beef.  When I arrived home from Calgary I picked up a bottle and opened it up for Richard and I to try together.  Richard said the same thing.  ‘I can see why the people at the show really enjoyed it.  It is easy drinking.’  This little wine has garnered the attention of a few others, as well.  Take a look.

• Stephen Tanzer - International Wine Cellar *87 Points
• Decanter World Wine Awards *Commended
• International Wine Challenge *Bronze Medal

The folks at Botalcura say this:

“Aromas:  Complex and alluring, with ripe blackberry, black cherry, violets, black pepper and nutmeg. Flinty, with rich, toasted oak and vanilla.”

“Palate:  Broad entry leading to a round, mouth-filling middle, with full but soft tannins. Very elegant, with approachable balance, fine acidity, and fullness from the alcohol/glycerol elements. This wine showcases the synergy between these two great varieties. The Syrah lends grip and structure, while the Malbec provides color, aromatic complexity, and voluptuous body. The result is a remarkably intense, fruity, and voluminous wine. It has been barrel aged to complement the luscious grape flavors.”

Food Pairing:

Herb-Rubbed Top Sirloin Steak with Peperonata; Salt-and-Pepper Rib Eye; Spiced Lamb Chops

CSPC:     728051

Botalcura Chardonnay Viognier

Winery: Botalcura
Vintage: 2010
Location: Central Valley, Chile
Blend: 62% Chardonnay, 38% Viognier
Tasting: Wednesday, August 24, 2011 - 4:00 - 7:00 p.m.

Chardonnay (see left) and Viognier (below right)… neat combination.  The hot days and cooler evenings of the Central Valley are like heaven to these grapes.  The acidity, the flavours and everything is made all the better when you have those wide swings in temperature.  Look at it this way… when we have a hot day, there is nothing quite as wonderful as the cooler temperatures of the evening.  Our bodies get a chance to cool down and get ready for the next day.  Grapes are no different.  They like the break too.

When they hand-pick these grapes they are able to pick the best grapes for the wine.  Although there are upsides to machine harvesting, nothing replaces looking at the grapes and picking only the ones that are ready.

Winery Notes:

“Aromas:  The attractive nose recalls white tree fruits such as apricot, peach, and pear, joined by notes of grapefruit and tangerine, delicately balanced with toast and vanilla.”

“Palate:  Soft and attractive, with broad balance on the mid-palate, delicate top notes, and a characteristic slight bitterness on the medium finish. This is a uncomplicated wine for everyday enjoyment.  It brings together the respective charms of Chardonnay and Viognier: the first provides voluptuousness in the mouth and the second, the intensity of flavors. The result is a captivating and original blend with solid fruit expression and a soft, but full mouthfeel.”

This wine is meant to be enjoyed at a young age.  Within two years of bottling is recommended.

Food Pairing:

Grilled Chicken Breast; Seafood Pasta with Cream Sauce

CSPC:     728050

Next week we have a “Sweet-Tea” treat for you to try.

What’s new in the Don Sebastiani & Sons winery? Well, in this case we should say ‘what is not so new?’.  Mind you the vintages are new, but Pepperwood Grove was one of the first wines that DS&S (Don Sebastiani & Sons) had in their portfolio a decade ago.  The wines back then were known for good taste and good value.  That hasn’t changed.

We last visited Don Sebastiani & Sons in July 2010, so it is about time that we made a trip back.  Since we last talked about this family, Don Sebastiani’s father was inducted into the 2011 Vintner’s Hall of Fame.  August would have been very proud.

Négociant is the term used to describe this company.  Sounds French, and it is.  Basically a Négociant is a wine merchant who purchases grapes etc from growers and then produce the wine under their own name.  It is good for the farmers, because they sell their crop and it is good for the company so that they can get the best for their label (s). In this particular case, the grapes come from different areas of California.   Today we are trying two of the Pepperwood family.

Pepperwood Grove Syrah

Winery: Don Sebastiani & Sons
Location: Sonoma, California, U.S.A.
Blend: Syrah
Tasting: Wednesday, April 27, 2011 - 4:00 - 7:00 p.m

The winery describes this wine: ”This Syrah is a deep red-violet color, with expressive aromas of blueberry pie, jammy fig and bramble, and a hint of that classic pepper and leather syrah character. Juicy on the palate, blueberry and tart cherry flavors mingle with tobacco leaf and red currant. Tart fruit is well-balanced with chewy, soft tannins and dark secondary flavors, finishing powerfully with a touch of espresso and lingering aromatics. The depth and character of this Syrah make it an excellent every-day wine for the wine enthusiast.

“The first wine made by Don Sebastiani & Sons, Pepperwood Grove represents old Sonoma to the Sebastiani Family. While every winemaking region has its own story, they all share a common way of life. Today, we source grapes from all over the world to find the best wine at the best price in order to spread that sense of place with families everywhere.”

Food Pairing:

Roasted Venison Stew with Parsnips and Carrots;  Smoky Bacon Pasta Sauce

CSPC:     566539
Price:

$14.50 (Minus Winesday 10% discount.)

*Price correct at time of printing.  Price subject to change without notice

Pepperwood Viognier

Winery: Don Sebastiani & Sons
Location: Sonoma, California, U.S.A.
Blend: Viognier
Tasting: Wednesday, April 27, 2011 - 4:00 - 7:00 p.m.

“Pale straw color with aromas of lemon zest and jasmine with a hint of pink grapefruit. The palate is full with green apple, light cinnamon & clove flavors which underscore the ripe apricot and peach nectar and finishes with honeyed tropical notes.”  That is how winemaker Greg Kitchens describes this wine.  We have visited with Viognier in the past a few times and I am sure we will visit with this grape again.  It is very food friendly… pairing with lightly spiced Thai food.  It is hard to believe that a mere 45 years ago in the Rhône Valley in France, there were only 8 hectares of Viognier vines.  Of course today there is quite a bit more than that.  In California the grape has gained in popularity.  It is known as an aromatic grape variety and can rival Chardonnay for its weight and food pairing.  Come by and try this fun wine and try one of the recipes below.

Food Pairing:

Green Curry Chicken; Chicken Tetrazzini; Spicy Tuna Roll

CSPC:     575449
Price:

$13.99 (Minus Winesday 10% discount.)

“Price correct at time of printing.  Price subject to change without notice

Chile, Chile, Chile.  We are heading off to see Diablo next week!  Come join us.

Ever since I was a wee child, I have always had this fascination with the continent of Africa.  The people, the land, the animals and now the wine. We are visiting this beautiful country today.  It is located right on the very tip of the continent.

Some of you may remember many years ago when we used to see a number of South African wines in the liquor stores.  They were quite popular at that time.  They disappeared for a very long period, because of the embargo that was placed on the country.  When the embargo was lifted and they came back, it took a little while for people to get in touch with them again.  Now we see so much from this country.  We have almost 400 listings for South African products in Alberta.  Wines (including sparkling and fortified) comprise about 99.99%, but we can’t forget liqueurs, beer and there is even a cooler.

We are travelling to the Swartland region today.  The agriculture in this region includes not just vineyards, but olive groves, wheat fields and canola fields.

Winemaking in South Africa can be traced back to the mid 17^th century when The Dutch East Indian Company settled into an area now known as Cape Town.  Vineyards were originally planted for grapes and to make wine to help ward off scurvy for sailors.  The first governor of the Cape, Jan van Riebeeck, planted a vineyard in 1655.  The first wine that was made from grapes in the Cape region was on February 2, 1659. (southafricanwine.co.za)  They have come a long way since then.

The Lammershoek vineyards and winery are family owned and run.  There are 96 ha (approximately 237 acres) that make up the property.  “Legend has it that the name Lammershoek, meaning “lamb’s corner”, originated from the fact that ewes with their young lambs sought shelter in the forests surrounding the farm, when threatened by the Black Eagle - in Cape Dutch called the “Lammervanger”. (Lammershoek website)

Lammershoek Pinotage

Winery: Lammershoek
Location: Paardeberg, Swartland, South Africa
Blend: 100% Pinotage
Tasting: Wednesday, November 10, 2010 - 4:00 - 7:00 p.m

Pinotage is South Africa’s signature variety.  It was developed almost a hundred years ago by crossing two French varietals: Pinot Noir and Cinsault (known in South Africa as Hermitage).  So why these two grape varieties?

Pinot Noir is known in the Champagne region in France, but is probably best known for the wines that come from the Burgundy region.  It can be one of the toughest grapes to grow (hence the name ‘heartbreak grape’), but in the right year under the best of conditions (the recent vintage of 2009 was exceptional) Pinot Noir can produce some of the most incredibly elegant wines. It likes a bit of a cooler climate with warmer days and cooler evenings.

Cinsault (Hermitage) likes the heat and is an abundant variety.  It also grows in France in the Rhône and Languedoc-Roussillon regions.  You may know Cabernet a lot better than Cinsault (san-so), but in France Cinsault far outnumbers Cabernet Sauvignon in planted acres.

Enough of the history… back to South Africa.

The grapes for this wine are all hand harvested.  Before they sort them the grapes are cooled overnight.  “The vineyards are currently being converted to sustainable and organic farming with a focus on getting soil and vine in balance. No chemical fertilizer has been applied in 5 years with organic composting preferred. Fungicide and pesticide sprays have also been reduced to an absolute minimum.”

Lammershoek describes this wine:  “The wine is rich with a red berry character prominent on the nose. A hint of oak and warm spices typical of reds out of the Paardeberg also impress. The wine is fresh and elegant with typical Pinotage tannin structure dominant on the finish. The wine is a more serious example of Pinotage and shows the ability to age well.”

Food Pairing:

Barbequed Ribs; Beef Stew; Roasted Venison

CSPC:     736896
Price:

$22.99 (Minus Winesday 10% discount.)

*Price correct at time of printing.  Price subject to change without notice

Lammershoek Roulette Blanc

Winery: Lammershoek
Location: Paardeberg, Swartland, South Africa
Blend: 48% Chenin Blanc, 41% Chardonnay, 11% Viognier
Tasting: Wednesday, November 10, 2010 - 4:00 - 7:00 p.m.

The first time Richard and I sampled this wine was at our friends’ 30^th anniversary celebration this summer.  We had seen the wines on the shelf, but had not had a chance to try them.

This is a very interesting blend of grape varieties.  Each one brings something special to the table.  South African Chenin Blanc is known to be a little bit lighter and it has some nice acidity. Chenin Blanc in South Africa is also known by a different name… Steen.  The Chardonnay grape is very popular all around the world, because it is relatively easy to grow.  It has the fruit, the power and the minerality.  Viognier, brings the aromatics to wines and leaves the big acidity at home.  It can be a little difficult to grow, but it is drought tolerant.

The tasting notes from Lammershoek:  “The nose shows hints of green apples and zesty citrus. The palate weight is wonderful-rich Paardeberg Chenin Blanc balanced beautifully by a zingy acid. The finish lasts forever. There is a slight increase in the Chardonnay component in 2008 which adds a lovely creaminess to the palate.”

As mentioned in the notes on the Pinotage, these vineyards are also being converted to sustainable and organic farming.

Food Pairing:

  Chicken with a cream sauce; Barbequed Shrimp skewers with a butter glaze; Grilled trout; Roasted veal.

CSPC:     736895
Price:

$22.99 (Minus Winesday 10% discount.)

*Price correct at time of printing.  Price subject to change without notice

Wine country in Ontario is our next stop.

Map Courtesy of the Washington Wine Commission

I can’t tell you how many people are so surprised when I tell them about wineries in Washington. They are so shocked and most of them had no idea that wine was made in this lovely northwestern state. So when I tell them that in 2009 the 600th winery was registered, well you could just about pick them up off of the floor. Washington is an area to be reckoned with, for sure. The wine industry here is relatively young, but the Washington is now the second highest producer of wine in the United States next to California.

I have heard the expression ‘Washington = Merlot’. While that is true, Washington wineries also make wonderful wines from Syrah, Viognier, Riesling, Pinot Noir and Cabernet Sauvignon to name just a few. Lucky us, we get to try a Syrah from Duck Pond Cellars and a Viognier from Desert Wind (by Duck Pond Cellars).

Winery: Duck Pond Cellars
Vintage: 2007
Location:Washington, U.S.A.
Alcohol: 13.5%
Blend: 96.3% Syrah, 3.7% other red varieties
Tasting: Wednesday, August 11, 2010 - 4:00 – 7:00 p.m.

It is amazing how far one can come in just 17 years. That is how old Duck Pond Cellars is. In that relatively short period of time, they have amassed 14 wines. Like most wineries, we are not able to get all of them here in Alberta, but we have two lovely ones… the Columbia Valley Syrah and the Willamette Valley Pinot Noir. The Rhone Valley (France) grape varieties seem to do quite well in Washington and the Syrah is a good example of that.

The vineyard where these grapes come from is called Desert Wind Vineyard (see map). It is located on East side of Washington in the area known as Wahluke Slope. This is a hot hot area. Considered to be the hottest area in the Columbia Valley. The vineyard is situated on 520 acres and the vines have an underground irrigation system to assist Mother Nature. Although this area can get up to 110F in the summer, it can dip down to 14F in the winter, giving the vines a chance to get a good winter sleep. The other area where some of the grapes are sourced is called the Sacagawea Vineyard, which is also located in the Columbia Valley.

This wine has been aged for 11 months in both French and American Oak. The French oak brings out the subtle flavours and the American oak adds a bit more ‘oomph’. That ‘oomph’ gives it an edged that helps to match it with so many different types of food. Spice and rich red berries like raspberries and a little bit of vanilla on the side, are the notes that stand out to me in this wine.

Now this time of year our minds go to the BBQ for a lot of food, because we spend so much time outdoors, and who wants to cook inside anyway!!! There are a few suggestions for the BBQ you may not have tried before. Stretch it out a little and head to your best butcher or fish shop and give these a try.

Food Pairing:

Grilled Tuna; Grilled Venison; Mushrooms and Wild Mushrooms; Grilled Duck.

CSPC: 719100
Price:

$15.99 (Minus Winesday 10% discount.)

*Price correct at time of printing. Price subject to change without notice

Winery: Desert Wind
Vintage: 2008
Location: Columbia Valley, Washington, U.S.A.
Alcohol: 13%
Blend: Viognier 100%
Tasting: Wednesday, August 11, 2010 - 4:00 – 7:00 p.m.

It was just last month that we sampled a Viognier and the response was so great that we decided to tempt your tastebuds again with this nice one from Washington.

You are probably reading this and thinking that you just read the name ‘Desert Wind’ when we wrote about the Syrah… and you would be right. In fact, the Desert Wind Winery is owned by the same family who owns Duck Pond Cellars. Like many wineries, Duck Pond has their second label. Desert Wind produces 15 different wines and we are lucky to get the Viognier here in Alberta. The first vintage was produced out of Desert Wind in 1997 and the Desert Wind Winery itself opened its doors in 2006.

Now you already know that Viognier makes an aromatic and full-bodied wine. This wine has only a touch of oak, so it still has that wonderful crisp acidity and nice fruit flavours of peach, pear and some tropical fruit. It even has a little bit of orange blossom too. Oh the food pairing for this wine is wonderful. In keeping with the BBW theme that we have going on… try roasting the nuts on the BBQ!

Food Pairing:

Roasted nuts (BBQ style); Lobster; Grilled or roasted pork; Grilled Chicken with a lemon butter sauce.

CSPC: 646083
Price:

$22.99 (Minus Winesday 10% discount.)

*Price correct at time of printing. Price subject to change without notice

Who wants to go to Portugal? Pick me… that we where we are heading next week.

Don Sebastiani & Sons

Who knew that a man who has a Degree in Government from USF and served as a California Assemblyman for three terms, would end up being in the wine industry for over three decades!  Well that describes Don Sebastiani’s life… in a nutshell.

If you are thinking that this name looks familiar, you would be right on the money.  It was just last week that we were talking about Samuele Sebastiani, Don’s Grandfather, who started Sebastiani Vineyards and Winery.  For a period of 15 years, Don sat as the CEO of the family winery.  After that time, he left to continue his love of wine in a company that Don and his brother-in-law Roy Cecchetti started in 1986.  In 2001 Roy decided to pursue some other interests.  That is when the company name changed to Don Sebastiani & Sons (the sons being Donny and August).

By the time that 2004 rolled around, the company was producing one million bottles of wines.  Just one year later in 2005, the winery was named “American Winery of the Year” by Wine Enthusiast Magazine.  A mere two years after that the company was  producing two million cases of wine.  All the while keeping with their philosophy of “bringing upscale, but moderately priced wines” to consumers like you and me.

Greg Kitchens has been the winemaker at Don Sebastiani and Sons since 2001 after working at Beaulieu Vineyards and the Sebastiani Family Winery in Sonoma County.

Greg says “We make great tasting wines by taking an aggressive approach to winemaking.  The team spends many early mornings and late nights in the vineyards and wineries where we produce our wines.  This way all our wines get the attention that they deserve and the payoff is in the bottle.”  Let’s just see, shall we…

Winery: Smoking Loon Wine Co.
Vintage: 2007
Location: California, USA
Alcohol: 13.5 %
Blend: Viognier
Tasting: Wednesday, July 14, 2010 - 4:00 - 7:00 p.m.

Don & Sons produce a number of different labels.  Two of which we can get here in Alberta (Smoking Loon and Pepperwood Grove).  The wines we are sampling on Wednesday were part of a group of wines started by the company a decade ago.

What the heck is Viognier (VEE-ohn-YAY) anyway?  The history is a little grey, but one can say that it was very popular in the Rhône region of France for quite a number of years.  It fell out of favour for a while, but it is coming back again.  California (where Smoking Loon calls home) and Australia, have been planting a number of acres with the grape.

The Viognier grape makes a dry, full-bodied and aromatic wine.  When people get a whiff of the wine they think it might be sweet, because of all the nice floral aromas that are abundant.  Then they try the wine and are pleasantly surprised that it is in fact dry.    I have done a couple of tastings with Smoking Loon Viognier and the outcome has been very similar each time.  People are very happily surprised about how much they enjoy the wine.  Even some serious red drinkers like it, because of the layers of flavours.  Apricot, white peach, guava and a touch of honey are some of the flavours of this wine.

Food Pairing:

Butternut squash risotto; roasted chicken; chicken with a cream sauce; white fish; slightly spiced dishes (Thai).

CSPC:     715029
Price:

$16.99 (Minus Winesday 10% discount.)

*Price correct at time of printing. Price subject to change without notice

Winery: Smoking Loon Wine Co.
Vintage: 2007
Location: California, USA
Alcohol: 13.5 %
Blend: Cabernet Sauvignon
Tasting: Wednesday, July 14, 2010 - 4:00 - 7:00 p.m.

We had a little white, now for a little red.  Well, it is not so  little truthfully.  After all, it is a Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabs are not known for being petite.  Cabernet Sauvignon is one of the grape varieties that most people have heard of.  It is grown in almost every wine country around the world.  One thing you will notice is that the alcohol is not overwhelming.  The Smoking Loon Cabernet, like the Viognier, is 13.5% ABV (Alcohol By Volume).  The flavours will come out nicely in this wine and won’t be overpowered by the alcohol.

Now you know what is coming next… decant this wine.  Get it out of the bottle, even if you pour it out into a glass and let it sit for about an hour.  As we have said many times before, this gives the wine a chance to set all those great flavours and aromas free.

I am going to digress for a quick moment.  A few years ago I was doing a tasting in Edmonton and this young gent and I were chatting about decanting wine.  He felt it wouldn’t do much good.  I said “Let’s put it this way… if you were stuck in a bottle for a couple of years or more, you’d need a little airing out wouldn’t you?”  He got a great chuckle out of that.  Back to the wine…

This Smoking Loon Cabernet Sauvignon offers lots of ‘flavours on the nose”: Raspberry and dark plum with a touch of some herbs (oregano) will be noticed.  When you taste this wine you will get blackberry, red berries, red currants, rounded off with lighter tannins.

Now what do all of these nice flavours mean for food pairing?

Food Pairing:

Chocolate (dark); beef stew (if you have never done it on the BBQ, try it); aged cheese; Gorgonzola; Grilled lamb; beef with some rosemary and/or thyme.

CSPC:     715030
Price:

$16.99 (Minus Winesday 10% discount.)

*Price correct at time of printing. Price subject to change without notice

California to Argentina is not too far a jaunt for next week.
Come join us.