The feature this weekend is wines from Chile and Argentina, the fastest growing zones in the world of wine. Wines from these two countries are growing in popularity by virtue of the great value for money they deliver. This said, only one of the wines in the feature made my list.
France, Midi – IGP Pays d’Oc Paul Mas Nicole Vineyard Viognier 2012
Viognier is a grape which makes wines that many appreciate for their aromatic, floral, peach and apricot character and a texture that can be succulent and fat. This wine has the aroma and flavour profile of the type along with a texture that is textbook in its character. The palate is reasonably complex with fruit and herb flavours augmented by the effect of some lees exposure. This is awonderful summer wine for sipping on its own or as an aperitif with canapés.
Extra dry, white wine – $17.95 per bottle
France, Costières de Nîmes –AOC Costières de Nîmes Mas Des Bressades Rosé Tradition 2013
Mas des Bressades has been a favourite of the Vintages buyers for many years due to very fine winemaking and well-priced wines across the full MdesB portfolio. This is deep pink rosé with the texture of a red wine. The body is medium weight, the flavours ripe, bright and fresh and the mouth feel firm and crisp. This will be great wine for summer evening meals on the back deck. Buy lots.
Extra dry, rosé wine – $15.95 per bottle
Chile, Cachapoal Valley – Valle Secreto First Edition Carmenère 2011
This is a concentrated, intense and rich wine with depth of colour, texture and flavours, all of which will make this a wine to save for next winter. It has some of the Carmenère green herbal character but this is subdued against the expressive dark berry, spicy profile. The acid is unusually assertive, the tannins are smooth and the body is medium in weight. This is a very good example of what can be done with Carmenère.
Extra dry, red wine – $18.95 per bottle (Chile Feature wine)
Italy, Tuscany – IGT Toscana Marchesi de’ Frescobaldi Tenuta di Castiglioni 2011
This wine is a blend made of the traditional Bordeaux left-bank black grapes with a small dose of Sangiovese thrown into the mix: hence the IGT classification. It is elegant in its character with plenty of concentrated flavours of blackberry, cassis, vanilla, herbs and spice. The body is medium in weight and the structure is well-balanced with smooth tannins and juicy acid. Very fine, made by a solid maker.
Extra dry, red wine – $21.95 per bottle
Spain Rioja – DOCa Rioja Bodegas Franco Españolas Bordón Reserva 2008
This is a traditional style Rioja red which means it has undergone extensive maturation in old oak barrels. The nose and palate are rich with aromas and flavours of dark berry, cherry, dried fruits with some vanilla and spice. The texture is bright and crisp, which along with the effects of long maturation, makes for a complex and delightful experience. Excellent value!
Extra dry, red wine – $19.95 per bottle
à bientôt…
Copyright© W. John Switzer 2003 – 2014.
