week of November 25

Forty Creek Confederation Oak Reserve rye - “Forty Creek Confederation Oak is the colour of old gold and is a very full bodied whisky.  To the nose it is a big whisky with constantly evolving aromas and flavours. Beginning with a maple-raisin-vanilla-fig, layers of praline, banana, butter cream, honeyed nuts, marzipan, spice and orange blossoms. As it lingers, dark dried fruits and anise evolve. On the palate it has a very rich entry; soft, round and dry. Full bodied with vanilla, butter cream and pepper spice which is nicely framed with oak, walnut and smoke.  An exceptional finish that has great depth. A long lingering finish with fading spice and white pepper.   Excellent balance and vibrant flavour. A whisky to sip and cherish.”  (notes from John Hall)

Tommy Guns Reposado tequila

Skyy Infusions Raspberry flavoured vodka

Mudshake Eggnog

Boddingtons Pub Ale - “Boddingtons is a refreshing, smooth beer renowned for its golden colour, full-bodied flavour and malty, moreish taste with smooth, tight creamy head.” (tasting notes)

Wild Rose Sampler 12 pack (Alberta) - “Each SAMPLER 12 PACK contains two of six of our fabulous bottled brews. That means you can “sample” our Velvet Fog, WRaspberry Ale, Brown Ale, WRed Wheat Ale, SOB and IPA … or share them with your friends.”  (website)

Grant Burge Filsell Shiraz 2009 (Australia) – “The 2009 Filsell Shiraz is a refined and elegant wine, displaying more ethereal characters than previous vintages. An incredible depth of colour gives some indication as to the vibrant aromas which arise from the glass, which has lifted notes of ripe raspberries, sweet spices (nutmeg and cinnamon) and choc-mint layered subtly with aniseed and freshly baked bread. The palate is fine, with seamlessly integrated tannins and rounded acidity. The concentration and length of flavour is excellent, with sweet red berry fruits, spice and milk chocolate lingering on the palate well after tasting. A slightly different style of Filsell which reflects the conditions of the vintage, this beautiful wine can be enjoyed now or can be cellared for 10-12 years. Partner it with aromatic dishes such as lamb Kofta or braised beef cheeks.” (tasting notes – website)

Francois Martenot Cote de Beaune Village 2009 (France) – “Brilliant ruby colour, some amber glints at the edge of the glass. The nose combines ripe fruits and sweet spices aromas. The approach is supple while keeping its freshness. This Côte de Beaune Villages goes superbly with red and roasted meats, and cheeses.”  (tasting notes)

Mission Hill Compendium 2008 (Canada) - “…very focused and concentrated with deep aromas of both red and dark berries, cedar, sandalwood, and hints of dried herbs. The palate is rich and full bodied with complex flavours of plum and sundried blackberries, along with classic southern Okanagan notes of dried earth and wild sage. With ample tannins and fresh acidity, this wine will cellar well and be a perfect foil for rich meats or game.” (tasting notes)

 

Elkschnaps Jaktbitter herbal liqueur
Dr. Zenzen Vino Noire (Germany)
Sottano Cabernet Sauvignon (Argentina)
Granville Island English Bay Pale Ale
Fundador brandy
Mount Gay Eclipse XO Old rum