The Innocent 2019 Swartland, Lammershoek
A lovely blend of old vines Chenin Blanc (66%) with Viognier (19%) that adds volume and Sauvignon Blanc (15%) for its intense aromatics. Lively acidity and reasonable alcohol (12%) translates into a very easy drinking white. The fruity nose (pear and apple) is enhanced with floral and mineral hints. A very refreshing trendy high acid white, that is light bodied but surprisingly flavourful. A hint of bitterness on the finish adds length. A perfect match with grilled shrimp with basil. Enjoy !
Country : South Africa
Price : 19,60 $
Code SAQ: 14447946
Score : 88/100
This (DOCG) appellation merits our attention. A superb Sicilian red is made with Nero d’Avola (60%) and Frappato (40%). It’s amazing nose is curiously reminiscent of ripe and evolved Pinot Noir : red berry aromas enhanced by floral animal and spicy hints. In a traditionnal seductive style : medium bodied, velvety texture, great balance and good length. Maybe a bit expensive, but worth every penny! Should be perfect for many holiday feasts : turkey, pasta, veal, pork, cold cuts and cheeses. Will also make a great gift for your favorite oenophile!
You must experience this outstanding organic/biodynamic red from Savoie! From a sun soaked vintage (2018), made entirely with Mondeuse, with no added sulfites (natural), it’s a charmer. According to La Revue du Vin de France : «This Savoie vintage offers exceptional richness. Many remarkable whites and especially reds from Mondeuse and Jacquère». Deeply coloured, intense fruity and floral aromas, with surprising extract (richness) for this region and grape variety! Don’t miss this superb red that will match perfectly with the classic bavette à l’échalote.
Not an easy task to find good, affordable Pinots ! This lovely example from Austria delivers the goods ! Deeply coloured (for Pinot), the nose exhibits charming field berry aromas enhanced by flowery, spicy and smoky scents. Fruit forward with good balance, and a hint of bitterness that adds freshness and length. Pair this characterful Pinot with grilled veal and wild mushrooms. Enjoy !
Unfortunately too many consumers ignore/neglect Italian white wines. Here is a flavourful yet elegant example from the Adriatic region of Marches that should impress. Obviously made with Verdicchio (100%), it’s nose exhibits charming fruity (apple) and mineral scents. Fresh, tasty, well balanced and very dry, It will marry perfectly with a shrimp risotto. Enjoy!
This organic red, from an original blend of Grenache, Tempranillo, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Graziano, is quite seductive. A medium bodied rojo from Navarra that is ultra ripe, rich and very flavourful. Regardless of the hint of residual sugar (4,2 gr/li), it remains balanced and easy drinking. The nose bursts with jammy field berries, ripe plums and sweet spicy scents. Fans of fresh and delicate reds abstain ! This sun soaked red will marry perfectly with an Italian sausage and grilled red pepper pizza. Enjoy !
This lovely blend of Chardonnays from the Mâconnais, Côte Chalonnaise, Côte de Beaune and northern Burgundy (probably Auxerrois), is fermented in stainless steel tanks and new oak barrels. The nose displays charming fruity aromas (apple and pear) with subtle oak and floral hints. Quite full and flavourful for this appellation, a slight bitter finish adds freshness and length. This balanced and fresh Chardonnay will match perfectly with shrimp with sesame and bok choi. Enjoy!
A solid red from the Kekfrankos grape, also known as Blaufrankisch in many countries such as Germany and Austria. This Hungarian version offers much more depth and richness. The nose displays ripe berries and dark plums with smoky and spicy hints. A very flavourful red offering jammy flavours that linger. Pair this original red with sautéed beef with vegetables. Enjoy !
The most planted white varietal in South Africa, this superb and affordable Chenin displays a typical fruity (apple) and floral nose. An easy drinking white, surprisingly flavourful with good balance and length. Try this charming Chenin with simply grilled shrimps. Enjoy!
A well priced red that should not be missed! This classic GSM (Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre) blend confirms the trend of less concentrated and more elegant reds being produced in Australia. Typical nose displaying ripe berry fruit with a hint of smoke. Quite charming, medium bodied, soft textured, with good balance and length. This lovely red will match perfectly with simply grilled lamb chops. Enjoy!