Michael Speers
Reviews
Joseph Drouhin Côte De Beaune Villages 2010
Burgundy, France$19.00
I had heard good things about this Pinot Noir - it's from a good vintage and an appellation that has started to outperform expectations. And I must say it didn't disappoint.
Being new to the world of wine, I don't have a lot of experience with Burgundy offerings. But I've had good and I've had bad, and I think this is very good.
The aroma is subtle, not overpowering, which I like. Taste wise, it's not very fruity, but still has a fulfilling amount of cherry flavour. This seems more earth dominant.
As for tannins, I guess I would describe them as breezy, except if you suck in some oxygen with the wine, then the tannins explode across the tongue.
This is a very pretty wine to look at and drink. It's what I've come to expect when I drink a red from Burgundy.
It paired well with the coq au vin we had for dinner, which you would seem obvious.
3.5 Stars
(0)G
Castello Del Poggio Moscato
Piedmont, Italy$15.45
Crowd pleaser - that's how I would describe this crackling wine. It's sweet, with its slight sparkle playing the role of inviting host. Fruity in the nose and on the tongue, this is a wine that won't be pigeonholed into the category of dessert wine. Very versatile, it can be enjoyed with light food, as well as fruit salad and even something sweeter. At only 7%, this, too, is a wine that is very drinkable. Luckily, the sweetness keeps your thirst in check. Soft and silky, it's a real treat on the palate.
3.0 Stars
(1000+)G
Carl Reh Riesling Kabinett 2012
Mosel, Germany$9.85
Light and refreshing, this German white has strong green apple and citrus aromas that are very nice. However, I find the green apple taste to be slightly overwhelming. At only 8.5 per cent, this wine could benefit from a tad bit more alcohol to make it a more satisfying, but alas. Still, this Riesling would be nice to drink on a hot day or before dinner. Would prefer something with more punch with food. Tasted in March 2014.
3.0 Stars
(0)A
Boschendal The Pavillion Chenin Blanc Viognier 2011, Western Cape
Western Cape, South Africa$10.95
Very juicy with some nice citrus aromas and flavours. Spice makes itself known as it flows down the throat. Paired well with our Chinese food. Tasted March 2014.
3.0 Stars
(0)G
Quinta Da Aveleda Vinho Verde 2012
Portugal$10.95
Like a lot of Portuguese wines these days, this little gem is very affordable for its quality at just under $10. This Vinho Verde varietal is very refreshing right from the pour, with a clarity and a bit of sparkle that is true to its crispness.
Although not bursting out of the glass, the aromas of grapefruit and a bit of apples give you a preview of how refreshing this wine will be.
At first taste, you are alerted by the nice level of acidity and zest, but it remains very light on the tongue. Doesn't have a lot of length, but I just used that as an excuse to go back to the glass for more.
3.0 Stars
(0)G
C'est La Vie Pinot Noir Syrah 2011, Vin De Pays
Burgundy, France$12.95
Really enjoyed this blend when I first tasted it a few months ago, and I've come back for more on a few occasions. It's the type of wine that seems to appeal to a lot tastes — fans of Pinot and those who like a little bit more spice. A smoky aroma and a nice bit of cherry on the tongue. A bit more tannin from the Syrah may have cranked it up to a better level. Still quite nice around the table.
2.5 Stars
(0)G
Château Ducla Bordeaux Supérieur 2011, Ac
Bordeaux, France$12.90
This Cabernet/Merlot blend is an average effort, but it’s a wine that tastes adequate at first taste.
Aroma is very subtle, with only some cherry and a bit of black currants coming through. It hits the tongue nicely, but lacks any great length.
It paired nicely with the cheeses we were eating: Gouda, Emmental and Australian Cheddar.
Overall, this tasted like what it is: an affordable Bordeaux. Better to spend your money on a similar wine from a lesser known region.
2.0 Stars
(0)G