Bethany Harpur
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Followers (4)
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Following (4)
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Reviews (21)
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Bethany Harpur is an Ottawa-based freelance writer, editor and sommelier. Her blog, Second Ferment, speaks volumes about her passion for wine and how it "pairs well with life". She is a vocal advocate for wines made (not just 'cellared') in Canada, particularly from the Niagara and Prince Edward County regions. She is a graduate of the Algonquin College Sommelier program (2009) and Carleton University’s School of Journalism (1999).
When she's not writing about wine, Bethany works for the federal government in communications. She is also a wife and a mom to two daughters.
Reviews
Antonin Rodet Meursault 2005, Ac
Burgundy, France$36.50
The nose is all brandy and butterscotch, typical of the Côte de Beaune. Flavours of syrupy sweet poached pears, with medium weight and low acid. There's a bit of bitterness, like flint, on the finish, but it's short-lived.
3.5 Stars
(0)V
Palliser Estate Pinot Noir 2006, Martinborough, North Island
New Zealand$29.95
Bing cherry, syrup, roses and licorice on the nose, with a bit of a stemmy/licorice flavour. This one was done in a more modern style of vinification, giving off fuller fruit and less of the earthy, barnyard notes for which pinot noir is renowned. Well balanced, with medium weight, a dry, peppery mouthfeel and pleasant tannins. Long, maraschino cherry finish. (www.2ndferment.blogspot.com)
3.5 Stars
(0)V
Terra D'aligi Tolos Montepulciano D'abruzzo 2004, Doc
Abruzzo, Italy$29.95
Lots of chocolate and raspberry liquor on the nose. Solid acid, low and pleasant tannins, bit of a dusty mouthfeel. Medium-to long finish.
3.5 Stars
(0)V
Cakebread Cellars Chardonnay 2006, Napa Valley
California, Usa$57.95
Deep straw in colour, clear and polished with a tight rim. Nose was all about tropical fruit and floral notes. On the palate was where it showed best: lemon pie filling with soft hints of apple, oak and butter. Light-bodied, with medium to high acid; I'm going to bet this spent most of its life in steel tanks. Unfortunately, the fruit fades too quickly on the finish, leaving just the acid lingering in the mouth. Paired it with a creamy fettucine alfredo topped with grilled shrimp and fresh Parmigiano-Reggiano. Read more at www.2ndferment.blogspot.com
3.5 Stars
(0)V
Elephant Hill Syrah 2008, Hawkes Bay, North Island
New Zealand$23.95
Complex nose of medicinal herbs, tobacco and pencil lead, with an undercurrent of blackberries and raspberries. Juicy, plump fruit flavours with well-balanced acids and tannins. Lingering berry finish with a bit of a charred note on the end.
3.5 Stars
(0)V
Salentein Reserve Malbec 2006, Uco Valley, Mendoza
Argentina$17.95
Smells like violets, cherry, chocolate, cedar and alcohol. Striking warmth in the mouth, full-bodied with pleasant tannins and medium acid, with a flawlessly balanced finish.
3.5 Stars
(0)V
Robert Mondavi Private Selection Pinot Noir 2007
California, Usa$17.95
(Review of the 2007 Private Selection) Soft, round tannins, well structured, overflowing with bright, ripe red berry. Silky mouthfeel, plush finish. Good match with garlic-roasted leg of lamb.
3.5 Stars
(0)G
Chandon Blanc De Pinot Noir Sparkling, Traditional Method, California
California, Usa$32.95
Sweet nose of strawberry and raspberry, light and juicy mouthfeel with delightful, tight bubbles.
3.0 Stars
(0)V
Le Clos Jordanne Village Reserve Pinot Noir 2006, VQA Niagara Peninsula
Ontario, Canada$30.00
Fantastic example of Niagara Pinot Noir. Typical earthy must on the nose, with lots of fruit. Sleek, supple texture, well balanced, with soft tannins and a flawless finish. Serve with pork tenderloin or lamb chops.
3.0 Stars
(0)V
Le Clos Jordanne Village Reserve Chardonnay 2006, VQA Niagara Peninsula
Ontario, Canada$30.00
Aromas of butter cream icing, banana and vanilla bean, followed up with butter, baked apple and smoky goodness on the palate. Very well-balanced, with a silky mouth feel. More apple on the long, smooth finish.
3.0 Stars
(0)V