week of 25 May 2012

SkinnyGrape Pinot Grigio (Canada) – “This light-bodied wine has a soft approach, a clean, pure fruit expression, and a splash of refreshment.  Tree-fruit flavours of apple, pear, yellow plum and a touch of citrus dance on the palate and linger through on the finish.”  tasting notes    This wine has 80 calories for a 5oz glass serving (that’s a decent serving size ;)

Luigi Bosca de Sangre (Argentina)- “Dark, bright red. Currant, licorice and graphite aromas lifted by violet. Sweet, rich and juicy, with good energy to the flavors of black fruits, licorice and violet. Higher-pitched and more primary than most of the current Luigi Bosca reds, showing less nutty oak today. Finishes with a firm tannic structure and very good length.”   90 POINTS – STEPHEN TANZER’s  JAN/FEB 2011 

Chariot Gypsy white wine (California) – “This 2010 … is a delicious blend of Chenin Blanc, Riesling and Muscat from exceptional California vineyards.  Features intense aromas of apricot, peach, honeysuckle and green apple with delightful nectarine, peach, tangerine and melon flavors.  Excellent acidity and nicely textured on the mid-palate, this wine is a perfect aperitif or as a companion to a range of meals.  A perfect everyday wine!”  tasting notes

Chariot Gypsy red wine (California) – “…a delicious blend of Syrah, Carignane, Sangiovese, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon from great vineyards in the Napa Valley, Sonoma, San Joaquin, and Monterey counties.  Displays a dark garnet color with a clear violet edge.  With mixed fresh berry aromas raspberry and strawberry, and hints of white pepper and pastry.  It’s very clean and lively with juicy berry fruit, firm acidity and a touch of smooth tannin.  Excellent and versatile food wine particularly well suited for pork chops and poultry.  A perfect everyday red wine!”  tasting notes

Primal Roots red blend (California) – “The 2010 Red Blend has aromas of mocha, vanilla, and spice that give way to a silky texture along with rich flavors of raspberries and chocolate that are truly uninhibited.”  tasting notes

St. Austell Clouded Yellow ale (UK) – “Pale yellow in colour and naturally bottle conditioned, the beer may be poured cloudy by gently swirling the last few inches to rouse the natrual yeast sediment.  Alternatively, clear beer can be decanted carefully leaving the yeast behind.  Serve cool in a long glass to experience the true citrus overtones which have been delicately flavoured with whole spices and vanilla.” -tasting notes   Gold Medal – Taste of the West – 2011 & Silver Medal – International Beer Competition – 2010