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February Archive

Concha y Toro Rarely Misses

Posted on February 5, 2007

Wine of the Week
Concha Y Toro 2006 Trio Sauvignon Blanc **** ($14.15, LCBO #678656)
Casablanca Valley, Chile

The Trio line joins the LCBO general list en masse—or at least in triplicate—with this new sauvignon, plus two reds (see below). This bright, genteel screw-capped sauvignon hails from three vineyards in the maritime Casablanca Valley, although the closest to the ocean called Lo Ovalle is coolest and contributes most to this blend. Lovely proportion and integration among the citrus (lime-grapefruit), tree fruit (pear, passion fruit) and herbal elements (lemongrass, fresh dill). It’s mid-weight, fresh, bright and rounded for easy drinking, with very good length. Delicious, and a great way to move summer ahead on your calendar.

Suggestions from the Valentine Sommelier

Posted on February 12, 2007

Wines of the Week
Miguel Torres of Spain offers both a red and white San Valentin. They are both gentle, well made, easy going wines that will fit comfortably into any modest Valentine tête-a-tête. San Valentin 2005 Garnacha ***1/2 ($13.75, Vintages 673541) is cuddly, jammy, slightly peppery red grenache for sipping and casual meals. San Valentin 2005 Parellada *** ($13.75, Vintages 673988) is an aromatic, fresh, soft dry white from the Spanish grape variety that forms the backbone of Spanish cava.

Chablis' Comeback

Posted on February 20, 2007

Wine of the Week
Pommier 2004 Côte De Lechet Chablis 1er Cru **** ($32.95, Vintages 23747)
From a small domain run by the married team of Denise and Isabelle Pommier, who began production on a small family property using traditional techniques, then switched to partial barrel fermentation in 1998. Apple/pear fruit quality is nicely ripe, with a touch of vanilla, herbs and spices. Medium weight, with terrific grip and balance and a lime, mineral and spicy finish that hits excellent length. Very enjoyable now, should please through 2010.

Vintages Pumps up Web Offerings

Posted on February 26, 2007

Wine of the Week
Maison Chanson 2005 Bourgogne Pinot Noir **** ($19.00, www.winetrader.ca)
Encountered at a Burgundy tasting at the Fairmont Royal York on February 17, this spiffy, lighter pinot noir heralds the very fine quality and firm elegance of Burgundy’s 2005 vintage. Others (see below) tasted that day and since have confirmed that it will be a classic. Nifty aromas combine ripe cherry, vanilla, wood spice and pine. It’s light to medium bodied, slender and seamless with a slightly tart finish. Very good length. Best 2008 to 2011. Available by the case only from Hanna & Sons, but you’ll not regret having it at your beck and call when a lighter pinot is required. See other well priced 2005s below.

David Lawrason

David Lawrason

David Lawrason has worked full time as one of Canada's leading, independent wine writers and educators for over 20 years. He was the founder of Wine Access magazine and Globe and Mail wine columnist for 13 years before becoming resident wine guy at Toronto Life, where he pens a monthly column and writes an exhaustive review of LCBO general listings for the annual Food and Wine Guide. As a wine educator he has taught sommelier programs at George Brown, Humber and Niagara Colleges, and has run popular public courses in Toronto since 1988. He has visited every major wine major producing country in the world, while focusing recently on the booming Canadian wine scene, as founder of the Canadian Wine Awards program, and Canadian wine columnist for Wine Access.

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