tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-67053443869903741062024-02-07T03:18:06.612-05:00MarkuncorkedCome along with me as I continue to expand my Sommelier knowledge on all aspects of wine, craft beer and spirits. I'll be reviewing wines, providing food and wine pairings, traveling to vineyards, breweries and a few other surprises. So let's have a glass of wine and share a few laughs while we travel "the long and viny road" of wines.Mark Uncorkedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00430054110820032517noreply@blogger.comBlogger60125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6705344386990374106.post-83722060808966810402022-10-23T16:06:00.002-04:002022-10-23T16:25:45.141-04:00Bourbon. Is it whiskey???<p> <span> I first tried bourbon when I was in my mid-twenties. I really enjoy the sweet caramel flavour that comes from this beverage as well as the smokey aromas of cinnamon, cloves and the significant heat from the alcohol. It's a drink that should not be hurried but rather sipped and shared with friends in front of a fire or on a cool evening sitting on a deck. </span></p><p><span><span> </span>I started proudly drinking Jack Daniels which I always touted as bourbon before I realized that the bottle did not say bourbon anywhere on the label but rather "Tennessee Whiskey". Whiskey? So, I convinced myself that bourbon is not whiskey but some other distilled liquor like whiskey. It was until years later that I began sampling different whiskey styles like Canadian whiskey, rye whiskey, Irish whiskey and scotch (spelled whisky) and realized that I needed to understand what the fundamental differences are between the styles of whiskey. Is bourbon a whiskey or is whiskey a bourbon and where does Tennessee Whiskey fall into the mix.</span></p><p><span><span> </span>What goes into making a bourbon? Like any other distilled beverage there are rules for making bourbon which are mostly defined by state legislation. Here are some of the A,B,Cs for making bourbon.</span></p><p><span><b>A</b> - Bourbon must be made in the USA. Although the residents of Kentucky proudly display that the majority (95%) of bourbon is created in their state. </span></p><p><span><b>B</b> - At least 51% of the mash must contain corn. The rest of the mash can be a mixture of rye and barley. Corn is the key to providing the flavour and aroma profile of bourbon.</span></p><p><span><b>C</b> - The proof after distillation cannot exceed 180 proof. Bourbons are typically double distilled so that the proof does not exceed 180. Corn is key to the signature bourbon flavours and aromas.</span></p><p><span><b>D</b> - Bourbon must be stored in white oak barrels that have been charred on the inside. The bourbon must be aged for at least 2 years before bottling. Aging in barrels gives the bourbon a chance to be absorbed into the barrel during the warm summer months when it expands and then pulled back into the mixture during the cold winter months when the bourbon contracts. This continual expansion and contraction pull the oaks flavours and colours into the bourbon, but it comes at a cost. At least 3% of the mixture is lost each year to evaporation. </span></p><p><span> </span>A Tennessee Whiskey is very similar to the bourbon distilling process with a few differences. The most important difference is that the whiskey is filtered through maple charcoal before being put into charred oak barrels. This is known as the Lincoln County process.</p><p><span> </span>I recently purchased a bourbon from the LCBO (online order) that has a bit of history to it. Blanton's Bourbon was the first distillery to bottle a "single barrel" bourbon in 1984. Most distilleries blend bourbons to achieve a similar taste profile form bottle to bottle. Elmer T Lee, who worked for Blanton's recalled that Colonel Blanton would bottle special bourbons for friends from "honey barrels" stored in specific areas of warehouse H where conditions were perfect for producing an exceptional bourbon. Elmer T Lee decided to share those premium honey barrels in a "single barrel" select bourbon for everyone to enjoy.</p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg13Nmhgym_X_fbJ_I4_BiGxfH4UJip7ngU9C-JFbC_zp_OCpn0WUMYhqm2GxIzYwjCHr7Fd3m2DGehsNdHRIzDegn7BVu0X0_Ri2jAXsXuN3cxC2FzQGtAYs-62PKJDa5JZ6yzKEcxtc5sxvCob3teg5hxsy2oGU4YWLX_2_aM2YQee8AYIy2Kdf8ovw/s619/Blanton_1_v2.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="619" data-original-width="422" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg13Nmhgym_X_fbJ_I4_BiGxfH4UJip7ngU9C-JFbC_zp_OCpn0WUMYhqm2GxIzYwjCHr7Fd3m2DGehsNdHRIzDegn7BVu0X0_Ri2jAXsXuN3cxC2FzQGtAYs-62PKJDa5JZ6yzKEcxtc5sxvCob3teg5hxsy2oGU4YWLX_2_aM2YQee8AYIy2Kdf8ovw/s320/Blanton_1_v2.jpg" width="218" /></a></div><br /><h3 style="text-align: left;"><span><b>Blanton's Original Single Barrel Bourbon</b></span></h3><div><span>93 Proof - 46.5% ABV</span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span>Bottled on May 27 2022 from barrel 636 on Rick 13 from warehouse H.</span></div><div><span><br /></span></div><div><span>No tasting notes on this bottle as I'm waiting for a special occasion to open it.<br /></span><br /></div>Mark Uncorkedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00430054110820032517noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6705344386990374106.post-1612083968899954042021-02-21T12:07:00.000-05:002021-02-21T12:07:05.395-05:00<p> </p><h1><u><span lang="EN-US" style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;">Pinot Noir and
Pinotage</span></u><u><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #00b050;"><o:p></o:p></span></u></h1>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Two
interesting wines with similar roots but very different histories. Pinot
Noir is instantly recognizable as a Burgundy in France, as a blended wine with
Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier to make Champagne, as Pinot Nero in Italy and under many
other names in a variety of countries. It’s also that famous California wine
that the film Sideways elevated to stardom status while simultaneously sinking Merlot sales.
Pinot Noir is known as the “heart break” grape because it’s difficult to grow,
difficult to harvest because of its thin skin and difficult to ferment into a
great wine but when you do it right, the result is a beautiful wine. French
Burgundies tend to be lighter but can be aged for decades while California
Pinot Noir’s are more complex and layered but have a shorter life span. Either
one is a great wine and it pairs well with an assortment food from pork to
salmon. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US">Pinotage started as Pinot Noir but it was
crossed with a Cinsault grape variety by Stellenbosch University to produce a unique wine
that is synonymous with South Africa. Pinotage and Chenin Blanc are considered
the flagship wines of South Africa grown in areas like Stellenbosch and the Western
Cape. Although some South African plantings have been replaced with Cabernet
Sauvignon, Shiraz and Chardonnay due international demand, Pinotage is popping
up in other wine regions like New Zealand and California. It’s a fascinating
wine because it has a unique aroma and flavour but still reminiscent of
Pinot Noir in so many ways.</span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span lang="EN-US">Cigar
Box Pinot Noir – Casablanca Valley, Chile <o:p></o:p></span></u></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK2DMmF9HpQ3DbNrU8ljtpKR-qaaTa4jj3xj3a63G0PuJ-iSeRAOc6quUYxC3qUBQp2WdF20nbE-cEloMQSdDFi-aPTT94T9XVKV53LgHPDrYnN6jQb9HLFt_7yIoR1uWUlVOCbjFTieQz/s800/Cigar_box_Pinot_Noir_sm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK2DMmF9HpQ3DbNrU8ljtpKR-qaaTa4jj3xj3a63G0PuJ-iSeRAOc6quUYxC3qUBQp2WdF20nbE-cEloMQSdDFi-aPTT94T9XVKV53LgHPDrYnN6jQb9HLFt_7yIoR1uWUlVOCbjFTieQz/s320/Cigar_box_Pinot_Noir_sm.jpg" /></a></div><br /><p></p>
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</w:wrap></v:imagedata></v:shape><span lang="EN-US"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Like most
Pinot Noir’s the aroma of fresh berry fruit is subtle with a slight hint of
tobacco and earthiness. It has lively acidity with strawberry and cherry flavours and a medium finish. <o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"><o:p> </o:p></span><u><span lang="EN-US">LCBO - $ 13.00
750ml (545707) </span></u><span lang="EN-US"> </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 72.0pt;"><span lang="EN-US"><o:p> </o:p></span>Available in the
Almonte and Carleton Place LCBO</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 72.0pt;"><span lang="EN-US"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 72.0pt;"><span lang="EN-US"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 72.0pt;"><span lang="EN-US"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 72.0pt;"><span lang="EN-US"><o:p><br /></o:p></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 72.0pt;"><span lang="EN-US"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span lang="EN-US">Ken
Forrester Petit Pinotage – Stellenbosch South Africa</span></u></b></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSRjgY4hMozqVUHwAUHoWP9vllYQhTKGYsXq64brFR-Qlk08bApbbpyhD8oF3LwNjfV_XhqWWhpU_JHR2VOOIulRzR0PSnORzbEtc-jrS5D1K74Hn_l22aXJ3gU0z1q0cYElsVUjbu-9sA/s800/Petit_Pinotage_sm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSRjgY4hMozqVUHwAUHoWP9vllYQhTKGYsXq64brFR-Qlk08bApbbpyhD8oF3LwNjfV_XhqWWhpU_JHR2VOOIulRzR0PSnORzbEtc-jrS5D1K74Hn_l22aXJ3gU0z1q0cYElsVUjbu-9sA/s320/Petit_Pinotage_sm.jpg" /></a></div><br /><u><span lang="EN-US"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></u>Strong earthy aromas mixed with dark
chocolate make this a distinctive wine. Flavours of dark cherry and some cocoa
give this wine a medium to long finish. The wine pairs well with barbecue
pulled pork or pizza<p></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 144.0pt;"><br /></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 144.0pt;"><u><span lang="EN-US">LCBO
-$13.95<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>750 ml<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>(631594)</span></u> </p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 144.0pt;"><span lang="EN-US">Available at
the Carleton Place LCBO.<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 144.0pt;"><span lang="EN-US"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US"><o:p> </o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US">Mark Cochrane<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US">Email me at <a href="file:///C:/Users/Mark/Documents/AppData/Roaming/Microsoft/Word/markuncorked@gmail.com">markuncorked@gmail.com</a><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US">Visit my website at <a href="file:///C:/Users/Mark/Documents/AppData/Roaming/Microsoft/Word/www.markuncorked.com">www.markuncorked.com</a><o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US">Follow me on Twitter <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>@markuncorked<o:p></o:p></span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span lang="EN-US">Follow me on Instagram<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>markuncorked66<o:p></o:p></span></p>Mark Uncorkedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00430054110820032517noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6705344386990374106.post-10129626593013334432020-03-12T15:12:00.000-04:002020-03-12T15:16:09.598-04:00St Paddy's Day<br />
<h1>
<u><span lang="EN-US" style="color: #00b050;">St Paddy’s Day !<o:p></o:p></span></u></h1>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Some
of my favorite memories of St Patrick’s day goes back to when my parents hosted
the annual Irish party in their living room. The old Electrohome console stereo
would be blaring Tommy Makem and the Clancy brothers or the Irish Rovers while
we sipped beer and Irish whiskey singing along to the music. My father would regale
to us stories about my grandparents who were both from Ireland. The day would
not be complete without my mothers’ Irish stew and my brother-in-law Doug would
make his delicious Irish soda bread. Those were good times.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>Years
later, the St Paddy’s day party still happens. The location has changed to my
house, the console stereo with LPs has been replaced by a wireless speaker and
a music streaming app but Tommy Makem and the Clancy brothers still belt out
the classics. We try to remember the limericks my father would recite about life
in an Irish village and the rebellion. There’s still plenty of laughs, singing,
some dancing by me (Riverdance impression), some more laughing and a lot of good
memories. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span lang="EN-US">Guinness
Draught Stout<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
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St Patrick’s
day would not be complete without a glass of this iconic beer. It’s dark, rich
and creamy with a slight nutty flavour and a coffee finish. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">Here’s a tip. Angle the glass, pour half
the can and let it settle then pour the rest<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 72.0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 72.0pt;">
<u><span lang="EN-US">LCBO - $3.25
per can (270447) </span></u><span lang="EN-US"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 72.0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 72.0pt;">
<span lang="EN-US">Available in the
Almonte and Carleton Place LCBO<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 72.0pt;">
<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></u></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span lang="EN-US">Smithwick’s
Red Ale<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">Another well known Irish ale made in the
town of Kilkenny. It’s a smooth ale with a nice amber colour producing flavours
of caramel and malt.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<u><span lang="EN-US">LCBO - $2.70
per can (270439)</span></u><span lang="EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">Available at
the Almonte and Carleton Place LCBO.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">If you’re not
into ales or stouts then you can always try a wee bit of Irish whiskey. I could
certainly recommend some great and very expensive Irish whiskeys but there’s
also some moderately priced whiskeys that are quite good. Here’s two distilled
beauties that I find are well priced with a high degree of quality.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US">The Irishman Founders Reserve Irish Whiskey<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US"><br /></span></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSrPw3JGr8n5EyvqP2NCQsAIxK33DSmsV_jIKs52587LXqF96y_TpgmjcBsVPO77RCXFbAHuX31JWuf5SA8VhoMXWBwwuI1dzufRYvAYQcykBjhG4uym7HRKZNA8JrATqGZZainy8uKlgh/s1600/IMG_20200312_0915575+%2528480x640%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSrPw3JGr8n5EyvqP2NCQsAIxK33DSmsV_jIKs52587LXqF96y_TpgmjcBsVPO77RCXFbAHuX31JWuf5SA8VhoMXWBwwuI1dzufRYvAYQcykBjhG4uym7HRKZNA8JrATqGZZainy8uKlgh/s200/IMG_20200312_0915575+%2528480x640%2529.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">I first found this whiskey while we were on
vacation in Galway Ireland. I was chatting with a bartender about Irish whiskey
and he exclaimed that The Irishman Founders Reserve was the best whiskey for
the price. I took up that challenge and tried it a few times. I was pleasantly
surprised by the flavour and finish of this whiskey. It’s smooth with some
butterscotch at the end. The whiskey is 70% single malt and 30% single pot
still with maturation done in Bourbon casks.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<u><span lang="EN-US">LCBO - $54.80 (700m) (402552)</span></u><span lang="EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">Check your LCBO for availability<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US">Writer’s Tears Copper Pot Irish Whiskey<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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</w:wrap></v:imagedata></v:shape><span lang="EN-US">Another classic Irish whiskey from Walsh
distilleries. This whiskey is all malt (no grain), triple distilled in a pot
still and then matured in American oak barrels. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">A smooth whiskey with some vanilla and caramel
flavours<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<u><span lang="EN-US">LCBO - $46.95 (700m) (13057)</span></u><span lang="EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">Available at the Carleton Place LCBO<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-US">Enjoy
St Patrick’s Day and as the Irish say….. Slainte !!!<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<br />Mark Uncorkedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00430054110820032517noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6705344386990374106.post-84915121916308233482019-08-28T09:01:00.000-04:002019-08-28T09:01:14.124-04:00Bourbon, Bourbon, Bourbon !!<br />
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<span lang="EN-US"> Whether it is wines aged in bourbon
barrels, beer stored in bourbon barrels, Irish whiskey aged in bourbon barrels
or the Jim Beam warehouse fire that saw 45000 barrels of bourbon go up in a gigantic
Kentucky bonfire, mash whiskey is in the news. Everything seems to be aged in
bourbon barrels these days. Producers of beers, whiskey and red wine are starting
to see the benefits of ageing their product in bourbon barrels to extract new
flavours and of course some alcohol.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Why
bourbon and not wine barrels you ask? First you need to understand the
difference between a wine barrel and a bourbon barrel. Both are made from oak
but bourbon barrels are charred on the inside to act as a charcoal filter to
remove some of the harshness from the whiskey. Wine barrels on the other hand
are toasted to enhance the flavour of the wine. Once the bourbon liquor is
removed from the barrel after the bottling process, there are some residual
aromas and flavours remaining in the barrel. Storing wine or beer in a bourbon
barrel for a year allows caramel and vanilla flavours to interact and blend
with the beer or wine.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Jameson whiskey which is traditionally stored
in sherry barrels (that’s a topic for another day) is now offering whiskey
stored in bourbon barrels. The whiskey is called Jameson Black Barrel and
offers enhanced flavours of vanilla and nut. These are exciting times for vintners
as they explore the interaction between grapes, tannins, yeast and acidity with bourbon
barrel aging while brewers play with grains, hops and yeast. Consumers on the
other hand are reaping the benefits of this endeavor. The notion of producing
the same product over and over again is being displaced by vintners, brewers
and distillers willing to experiment and inspire us with new ideas.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span lang="EN-US">Stave
& Steel Bourbon Barrel Aged Cabernet Sauvignon, California</span></u></b> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihBzd0jNHxAPa7fBR7myQocsUFvneu4JdRTdP4rk3G-jU9WRYSS8gatkhn-6apYzCaw2okbNOeuJg7LqI4-oSJdvEMtaAE_yTRIO9soDQkVgr3n06ezA1zHMfV0QGL9Q6SQD4N1oqb4aV5/s1600/Steel_Staves+%2528480x640%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihBzd0jNHxAPa7fBR7myQocsUFvneu4JdRTdP4rk3G-jU9WRYSS8gatkhn-6apYzCaw2okbNOeuJg7LqI4-oSJdvEMtaAE_yTRIO9soDQkVgr3n06ezA1zHMfV0QGL9Q6SQD4N1oqb4aV5/s200/Steel_Staves+%2528480x640%2529.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
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</o:lock></v:path></v:stroke></v:shapetype><v:shape id="Picture_x0020_3" o:spid="_x0000_s1027" style="height: 191.5pt; left: 0; margin-left: 0; margin-top: 421.85pt; mso-height-percent: 0; mso-height-percent: 0; mso-height-relative: margin; mso-position-horizontal-relative: margin; mso-position-horizontal: absolute; mso-position-vertical-relative: margin; mso-position-vertical: absolute; mso-width-percent: 0; mso-width-percent: 0; mso-width-relative: margin; mso-wrap-distance-bottom: 0; mso-wrap-distance-left: 9pt; mso-wrap-distance-right: 9pt; mso-wrap-distance-top: 0; mso-wrap-style: square; position: absolute; text-align: left; visibility: visible; width: 143.65pt; z-index: 251661312;" type="#_x0000_t75">
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</w:wrap></v:imagedata></v:shape><span lang="EN-US">It’s a dark rich Cabernet Sauvignon that’s almost
opaque with lots of dark fruit like cherry and plum with some caramel flavour
at the end. There’s no increase in alcohol from the bourbon barrels but it
definitely adds character to this wine. A great compliment for BBQ steak or
ribs.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<u><span lang="EN-US">LCBO - $19.95
(541946) </span></u><span lang="EN-US"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">Available in the
Carleton Place and Stittsville LCBO<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><u><span lang="EN-US">2019
Nickel Brook Kentucky Bastard Imperial Stout<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
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</w:wrap></v:imagedata></v:shape><span lang="EN-US">Not exactly a light beer but it is delicious. This
imperial stout is rich and thick with flavours of coffee and chocolate. The
Bolshevik style stout was stored in bourbon barrels for a year so it has picked
up some vanilla flavour and alcohol as well. A stout like this is pretty strong
so watch out as this one has an ABV of 11.9% which makes it roughly twice as
strong as most craft beers. I chose to pour samplers for all my friends so that
they could try a classic imperial stout.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<u><span lang="EN-US">LCBO -
$11.95 (543389)</span></u><span lang="EN-US"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">Available in limited
supplies at the LCBO. It also comes in a four pack.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br />
Cheers !Mark Uncorkedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00430054110820032517noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6705344386990374106.post-33619697865128632022018-08-23T16:02:00.001-04:002018-08-23T16:02:57.962-04:00Cottage Life and the Perth Brewery<br />
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<span lang="EN-US">If you’re one of the fortunate ones that
owns a cottage, is able to rent a cottage or are really lucky and have a nice
relative that lends you their cottage for a week then you can appreciate the
quiet time relaxing by the lake’s edge listening to the waves lap against the
dock whilst sipping on a cold beer. No grass to cut or house repairs to be done
just the occasional swatting of flies as they nip at your ankles. I can’t
imagine anything that is more soothing to the mind than listening to a loon’s
cry across the lake as a gentle breeze cools your face while relaxing in a lawn
chair. When the sun is shining and the weather is hot I prefer beers that have
more of a citrus flavour with some good acidity which makes them taste more
refreshing.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We
were running short on essentials at the cottage like hot dogs, beer and chips plus
we were getting a bit of cabin fever. We decided to organize a side trip to Perth
to pick up more supplies and stop at Perth Brewery to see what they had to
offer in the way of refreshing beverages. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">As we came through the Perth Brewery front
door and viewed the list of beers we knew that making a choice wouldn’t be easy
so some “sampling” would be necessary. The Whalebone Stout with oyster shells
added to the brewing process was interesting and the Oh Canada Maple Lager made
with Temples maple syrup was a real treat but we needed something more
refreshing for the beach.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQSch6z1LnhR01_nQfTeEbp4D9rCinjpIFOB-cv1eUtvqc4gF2YyO8Fuh1EoDzQa2CCIKHpkFh8JK4SA4m4_OpnLcPFnh_JaC7gqzJK4vRvOr23ecy0VOHmng7edhSUVuASXdOWjziDQjn/s1600/Perth_Brew_cans.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQSch6z1LnhR01_nQfTeEbp4D9rCinjpIFOB-cv1eUtvqc4gF2YyO8Fuh1EoDzQa2CCIKHpkFh8JK4SA4m4_OpnLcPFnh_JaC7gqzJK4vRvOr23ecy0VOHmng7edhSUVuASXdOWjziDQjn/s400/Perth_Brew_cans.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span lang="EN-US">After some more sampling we settled on four beers. A grapefruit Radler, a west coast IPA called Calypso, a wheat beer called Summer Squeeze and we couldn’t leave without grabbing a couple of Oh Canada maple ales. It was time to head back to the cottage, throw the beer on ice and get setup for a relaxing afternoon by the lake. A little fun in the sun with some kayaking maybe a swim and then sit back, sip a beer and watch the odd pontoon boat go by. Life is tough.</span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span lang="EN-US" style="font-size: 14.6667px;"><span style="font-family: FuturaA Bk BT, sans-serif;">Cheers !!</span></span></span></div>
<br />Mark Uncorkedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00430054110820032517noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6705344386990374106.post-10819197924781699512018-05-31T09:32:00.005-04:002018-05-31T09:33:44.014-04:00South Africa Wines<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US">The lawn has been cut, raking done and
you’ve plucked as many dandelions as provincial election signs on March Road.
Your lower back is at the point of seizing up or just plain giving out but you
push on because at the end of the day you’ll be able to sit back in a lawn
chair and survey the splendor of your “homestead” in all its crabgrass wonder whilst
sipping a cold beer. But first, you have to search the dark recesses of that
poorly lit garden shed to find it. With a few groans, and a brief fight with a
garden hose you see it. There it is, in all its grease stained and dust covered
majesty….the BBQ! You can almost hear the faint sizzling of sausages and the
smell of barbeque chicken emanating from the grill. It’s calling you like an
ancient pandora’s box to open the lid and look inside. You struggle to free it
and after more than a few swear words the BBQ is pulled on to the deck and
opened. Wow! you should have really cleaned that before putting it away. This
BBQ will need a major makeover to get it back to last year’s grilling glory or
maybe a lengthy burn off will do for now. You’ll definitely need some good
wines to pair with the marinated chicken and steak that you plan on grilling
this weekend. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Here’s a couple of wine suggestions from South Africa that aren’t
typical of the Chenin Blanc and Pinotage varietals they are known for. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><u><span lang="EN-US">2017
Spier Signture Chardonnay – Stellenbosch South Africa<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4B2sontbvBbxqdJ4G0hR3kRmUMlKUPTTGFCM52ixDCuTm7iyRmtKvGegPMJqSZtPUIrRfTG3qRF3UllqwfndmPxrbhE2BVXZipU-PkVl8_AIHHuYk_Lp4s1jFmmTBfO1KBmeDUXzqpA54/s1600/spier_chardonnay_websm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="480" data-original-width="640" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4B2sontbvBbxqdJ4G0hR3kRmUMlKUPTTGFCM52ixDCuTm7iyRmtKvGegPMJqSZtPUIrRfTG3qRF3UllqwfndmPxrbhE2BVXZipU-PkVl8_AIHHuYk_Lp4s1jFmmTBfO1KBmeDUXzqpA54/s320/spier_chardonnay_websm.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">South Africa is
not really known for it’s Chardonnay but the trend over the last decade has
been to switch from more traditional varietals like Chenin Blanc to more
popular wines like Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. This Chardonnay is done in a
California style with a soft texture and some oak. Pear, golden apple, vanilla
and butterscotch are all there which combine for a smooth fruit forward
Chardonnay. Pairs well with garlic marinated shrimp skewers on the BBQ.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<u><span lang="EN-US">LCBO 487181 -
$12.30</span></u><span lang="EN-US"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><u><span lang="EN-US">2016
Big Bill Cabernet Sauvignon – Western Cape South Africa<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCT559C-JeUb9FFKF-d2mDlOeJWT0ZOwjSm89u2atGTN9_k3gyfZwKwHzkrBrpehx_xn2T8NjKEDcGE1CrzzzkItgb6TGcf76rZQMISGlQJSkcbD0Qdf1fXm6cvmGn2zpuQDFQTNwbEqJN/s1600/BigBill_websm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="480" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCT559C-JeUb9FFKF-d2mDlOeJWT0ZOwjSm89u2atGTN9_k3gyfZwKwHzkrBrpehx_xn2T8NjKEDcGE1CrzzzkItgb6TGcf76rZQMISGlQJSkcbD0Qdf1fXm6cvmGn2zpuQDFQTNwbEqJN/s320/BigBill_websm.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">The wine is
actually called “The Legend of Big Bill” which was named after KWV’s original manager,
Bill Millar. KWV winery is South Africa’s oldest winery (originally a coop
winery). This Cabernet is very dark and rich with flavours of plum, menthol and
a hint of dark chocolate. It pairs well with most red meats but I tried it with
a pulled pork dish marinated in Bullseye BBQ sauce.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<u><span lang="EN-US">LCBO 457119 -
$12.95</span></u><span lang="EN-US"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "futuraa bk bt" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt;">Cheers !!</span><br />
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "futuraa bk bt" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span lang="EN-US" style="font-family: "futuraa bk bt" , sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span>Mark Uncorkedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00430054110820032517noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6705344386990374106.post-14633980563273122862017-03-30T15:27:00.002-04:002017-03-30T15:27:39.411-04:001990 Chateauneuf-du-Pape<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span lang="EN-US">A few weeks ago I had the
rare opportunity to open, decant and taste an iconic French wine from the Chateauneuf-du-Pape
region in France. My brother received a gift of a 1990 Chateau de Beaucastel
Chateaneuf-du-Pape wine. He wanted everyone in the family to experience a wine
that had been stored for over 26 years. This is a wine that should be enjoyed
and savoured for its complexity. It’s a complicated mix of grapes like Mourvedre,
Grenache, Syrah, Counoise, Cinsault, Vaccarese, Terret Noir, Muscardin, Picpoul,
Picardan, Bourboulenc, and Roussanne. All of these grapes combined yield a wine
that is both intense and a mosaic of flavours. It’s as complicated as the papal
history of Chateauneuf-de-Pape. </span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-US"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If
we go back to 1990 when the wine was bottled, Margret Thatcher was the Prime
Minister of the UK, Nelson Mandela was released from prison and the U.S.
invaded Panama. So a lot has happened in the world since this wine was originally corked. It’s almost a piece of history or a marker in time. Since this bottle
had been sitting for a quarter century (hopefully stored correctly) it needed
to be decanted properly as there would be substantial sediment in the wine
which you definitely don’t want to drink. </span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">This is where the story goes slightly off
the rails. Somewhere during the day my brother had sent a text message asking
me to bring a decanting set so that we could properly decant the wine. Well,
needless to say I failed to notice that I had a text message so when I showed
up at the door he asked “Did you bring it?” to which I answered with a puzzle
look on my face “Bring what?” “Did you get my text message?” to which I
answered while reaching for my cell phone, “What text message?” Rather than
drive for 45 minutes back to my house we decided to “MacGyver” a decanting set
which consisted of an empty clean wine bottle, a funnel, a strainer, an
unbleached coffee filter and a steady hand. The first hurdle was to get the
cork out without breaking it into a million pieces. Slowly we inserted the
corkscrew and then tried pulling it out like two surgeons removing an engorged
gall bladder. Unfortunately, the cork broke half way out and I was forced to go
back in several times with the corkscrew. After some grunting and many curse
words, it finally came out with a bit of tartaric crystal deposit on the bottom
of the cork (see cork picture). </span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">We then assembled the improvised decanting set and
started carefully pouring the wine like it was nitroglycerin. There was some minor
spillage which was followed by more blasphemy but we managed to decant most of the
wine. The bottle had substantial sediment in the bottom (see picture) which
didn’t end up in the decanted bottle. A job somewhat well done so we let the wine sit for an
hour to breathe before tasting it.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Needless to say it was well worth the wait. After a quarter century the
wine had changed from a dark red to a garnet colour with a well defined water
line around the edge of the glass. The aroma was distinct and earthy in nature
but no sign of spoilage. After taking the first sip we stared at each other for
a few seconds with mouths full of 26 year old blended wine expecting someone’s
face to go sour but we were pleasantly surprised that the Chateauneuf-du-Pape
had a mid to long finish of sour cherry and an almost raisin flavour. As I sat at
the dinner table looking at the iconic wine swirl in my glass and savouring the
last drops I reflected back on the events of 1990. The music group Milli
Vanilli had an almost cult following on the pop charts. Hmmm.. I guess some
things age better than others.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-US">If you would like to buy your own piece of
history and age it for a quarter century, you can purchase a 2014 Chateau de
Beaucastel Chateauneuf-du-Pape at the LCBO for $89.95 (711317)</span></div>
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Chateau de Beaucastel – Chateauneuf-du-Pape, France</span></b></div>
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Mark Uncorkedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00430054110820032517noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6705344386990374106.post-61505682862870461062017-02-06T17:30:00.000-05:002017-02-06T17:30:22.977-05:00Love that Broadhead Beer !! I like craft beer and I've tried a lot of them (trust me). Every once and awhile you come across an exceptional beer. It may not be the particular style you prefer like an IPA, lager or an amber ale but this particular brew really strikes your flavour buds in a way that makes you want more. The only thing that's missing when you drink this beer is a summer patio and a warm gentle breeze. I recently had dinner at the Brew Table in Bells Corners and they were serving a craft beer from Broadhead called "Blueberry Blonde". The blueberry aroma and taste was subtle but very satisfying. I liked it so much that I had two pints with dinner. <br />
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I searched the LCBO and Beer store but was unable to find it. Alas, here's the bad news. Broadhead is not brewing it anymore as it was a single production run. Hopefully they will come to their brewing senses and ferment a few more kegs for us to enjoy.<br />
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Cheers !!Mark Uncorkedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00430054110820032517noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6705344386990374106.post-86431295058491354932016-09-19T19:49:00.000-04:002016-09-19T19:49:00.066-04:00Tales from the Big Red Dirt - Part 2 You can't go on vacation to Prince Edward Island and tentatively try the local seafood so I decided to jump into the feast that PEI offers with both feet. There were samples of raw oysters, quahogs (clams) with chorizo sausage, lobster rolls, haddock and scallops. It was a seafood smorgasbord with a generous sampling of local craft beers brewed on PEI and they were exceptional.<br />
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Beach Chair Lager became a familiar friend when I had seafood. A nice light lager with a refreshing crispness that didn't overpower the seafood. I had this lager with steamed quahog clams and raw oysters.<br />
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The beer is produced by the PEI Brewing Company in Charlottetown PEI. Visit their website at <a href="http://peibrewingcompany.com/our-beer-selection/">peibrewingcompany.com/our-beer-selection/</a> <br />
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A dark reddish brown ale with good body, not too hoppy and dark flavours of caramel and some nuttiness at the end. Very drinkable while sitting on a deck watching the ocean waves roll onto the beach.<br />
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The beer is produced by Upstreet brewery in Charlottetown PEI. Visit their website at <a href="http://www.upstreetcraftbrewing.com/the-beer">www.upstreetcraftbrewing.com/the-beer</a><br />
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Cheers ! Mark Uncorkedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00430054110820032517noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6705344386990374106.post-12946256081407065142016-09-12T16:58:00.000-04:002016-09-12T16:58:52.404-04:00Tales from the Big Red Dirt - Part 1Edmundston .... I know that it's not in PEI and yes Margaret there are no vineyards in that part of New Brunswick but it is a two day drive and I'm not going to arrive in PEI all bleary eyed so that I could save on one night hotel. We decided to stay in this nice New Brunswick town and try a local restaurant recommended by the hotel staff. The waitress at the restaurant called Station 127 suggested I try her favorite local craft beer called Petit Sault Louis XVII Amber ale. Well it did not disappoint my tastebuds at all. In fact, it was really quite good. Refreshingly crisp, not to hoppy and had a nice long finish of toasty caramel.<br />
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It was a good way to start my PEI vacation. It was so good, I had two of them with my dinner. If you're every travelling to or through Edmundston NB give Les Brasseurs du Petit Sault a try. It's available in the New Brunswick Liquor stores.<br />
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Les Brasseurs du Petit Sault web site is <a href="http://petitsault.com/en/">http://petitsault.com/en/</a><br />
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Next stop PEI<br />
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Cheers!Mark Uncorkedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00430054110820032517noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6705344386990374106.post-58272879019986511522016-07-07T16:22:00.003-04:002016-07-07T16:22:17.589-04:00The Mighty Zinfandel I know... A Sommelier is supposed to like all wines but I have to admit that I have particular fascination with California Zinfandel's. Zinfandel is dark in colour with rich aromas of blackberry, vanilla and
other dark fruit with "jam like" flavours that pair well with most BBQ
meats such as pork ribs, steak or flame broiled burgers. Zin wines have a unique colour, aroma and flavour that meld together to form what I think is a superior red wine. Zinfandel wines from Lodi, Paso Robles and Dry Creek regions of California produce some of the best fruit forward Zins that I have ever tasted. Since Zinfandel is so closely related to it's Italian cousin Primitivo, I find myself indulging in wines from the Puglia region as well as California. Some Puglia wine producers are starting to label their wines as Zinfandel even though they are Primitivo based.<br />
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Here's some of my favourite Zinfandel wines<br />
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<u><b>The Wanted Zin - Puglia, Italy IGT</b></u><br />
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A Primitivo wine aged in American oak from Italy being sold as a Zinfandel. This wine is not quite like the California Zin but it is quite good.<br />
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(LCBO 416487) - $14.10<br />
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<u><b>Paso Creek Zinfandel - Paso Robles, California</b></u><br />
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One of my favourite Zins from California and it's reasonably priced. Fruit forward flavours of plum and mocha. It has a long lasting jammy finish that leaves you wanting more. A great wine for sipping or with a barbecued steak. <br />
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(LCBO 279810 - $16.75)<br />
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<u><b>Victor Old Vine Zinfandel - Lodi, California</b></u><br />
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Another decently priced Zinfandel with grapes sourced from 100 year old vines which is supported by the dark and rich flavours of blueberry and vanilla.<br />
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(LCBO - 438531 - $17.25)<br />
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<br />Mark Uncorkedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00430054110820032517noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6705344386990374106.post-51796215191582666422016-02-19T16:50:00.004-05:002016-02-19T16:50:58.364-05:00What kind of Port should I buy?Port has been around for centuries and I noticed this year that there seems to be a rising interest in different types of port. The most common question I was asked over the Christmas season was "What is a good port to serve?" Well... They're all good. It's like asking, "What is a good wine to serve?" Do you like red, white, rose, sparkling or dessert? It all depends on your taste. So lets review the most common types of port so that you can try them and then decide for yourself.<br />
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<u><b>So what is port?</b></u><br />
Port is a wine that has a grape spirit or brandy added to fortify it which increases the alcohol level to between 19 and 22%. Fortifying port wine was started during the French-English wars when wine shipped from Portugal spoiled during the voyage to England. Spirit alcohol was added as a preservative.<br />
Port is synonymous with Portugal (specifically the Douro region) although a few countries like Canada, Australia and California produce "port style" wines as well but not nearly as good as the port from the Duoro. Red ports are made primarily from the Tinto Roriz and Touriga Nacional grapes. White port is made from Viozinho, Gouveio, Malvasia, Rabigato grapes. <br />
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Here's a brief description of each port style with an example<br />
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<u><b>Vintage </b></u><br />
No doubt that this is the absolute top tier of ports and the price point reflects the quality. The best grapes from the best vineyards go into this port which is only declared about 3 times per decade. A dark rich flavoured and unfiltered port (decanting required) that should be consumed within a few days after opening or it will start to go downhill. Vintage port if stored properly can be aged up to 50 years.<br />
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<u><i>2003 Quinta do Noval Vintage Port (LCBO - 251967) $130.25</i></u><br />
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<u><b>LBV or </b></u><u><b><u><b>Late Bottle Vintage</b></u></b></u><br />
A mainstream port that is filtered and ready to serve. It also has a much longer shelf life after opening so you can hold onto it for awhile without worrying about it going stale.<br />
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<i><u>2009 Taylor Fladgate Late Bottled Vintage Port (LCBO - 46946) $16.00</u></i><br />
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<u><b>Tawny and Old Tawny </b></u><br />
Tawny port is a blend of Ruby port and White port. Old Tawny ports are much more complicated as the port is a careful blend of aged Tawny ports and then bottled as 10, 20 or 30 year Old Tawny ports.<br />
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<i><u>Graham's 10 Year Old Tawny Port (LCBO 404012) $25.95</u></i><br />
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<u><b>Ruby</b></u><br />
As the name indicates this port is ruby coloured. The youngest of ports with a more fruit forward flavour and a minimum 3 years in a cask before it can be bottled and sold.<br />
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<i><u>Sandeman Ruby Port - (LCBO - 23366) $15.45 </u></i><br />
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<u><b>White Port</b></u><br />
A semi-sweet port. Unlike the dark fruit like fig and nutty flavours of an LBV or Vintage port, a white port has more citrus (orange) and honey flavours<br />
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<u><i>Calem Lagrima White Port (LCBO - 912568) $16.95</i></u><br />
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To make it more confusing, there is also Colheita, Crusted and variations of Reserve ports which are less common but you may want to try them as well.<br />
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Cheers! <br />
Mark Uncorkedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00430054110820032517noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6705344386990374106.post-67160749080037528602015-11-04T15:44:00.002-05:002015-11-04T15:44:41.775-05:00Guilty Pleasures Guilty pleasures.... You know, that song on the radio that you can't resist singing along to even though you wouldn't dare have it in your cellphone music selection on the off chance that someone might see it. That junk food that starts calling your name from the vending machine and you have to shoulder check to make sure no one sees you buying it. We all have a form of a guilty pleasure lurking in our subconscious but we have to keep it hidden so that it doesn't overwhelm our rational thinking. <br />
For me it's a particular grape. As a Sommelier, we supposed to be as objective as possible when selecting wines. Always keeping an open mind, trying different wines and don't let personal preferences distort your judgement. That can be hard to do sometimes when the guilty pleasure demon starts to take control of your thought process. It happens to me when I'm looking for a wine, I inevitably start drifting towards the California section in search of a good Zinfandel. It's my guilty pleasure for sure. <br />
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<u><b>2012 Brazin B(Old) Vine Zinfandel, Lodi California (LCBO 256750 - $19.95)</b></u><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnNTZr5qERMs7SVZg3Yrxjn3IA2SujnSclOzMnVU_MnQrEuuzeMoIiM_bYV6iiAXHxmVeP91-hrvoFQYjmTRP03HGUMVQ3u3gnsvW3bHLpx-zwPOhxBhJIl53B6qWetfzPaooBkRootUFB/s1600/Brazin_Lodi_Zinfandel_websm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnNTZr5qERMs7SVZg3Yrxjn3IA2SujnSclOzMnVU_MnQrEuuzeMoIiM_bYV6iiAXHxmVeP91-hrvoFQYjmTRP03HGUMVQ3u3gnsvW3bHLpx-zwPOhxBhJIl53B6qWetfzPaooBkRootUFB/s200/Brazin_Lodi_Zinfandel_websm.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
This Zinfandel comes in 2 versions, Lodi and Dry Creek valley. I tried the Lodi version which was loaded with aromas of spice, cedar and dark fruit. It's a dark red wine rich with flavours like cassis and dark stewed fruit. A long fruit flavour finish with some spice at the end.<br />
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A great wine to serve with BBQ steak or take it to a Christmas party.<br />
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Cheers !Mark Uncorkedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00430054110820032517noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6705344386990374106.post-3397826434513193942015-07-27T11:49:00.000-04:002015-07-27T11:49:23.030-04:00Cartwright Springs BreweryCartwright Springs Brewery (<a href="http://csbeer.ca/">csbeer.ca</a>) had their grand opening at the craft brewery just outside Pakenham Ontario and my only suggestion to improve their sales of craft beer is .... get a bigger parking lot because it looks like you're going to be busy. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-2wJJR-qaOg_Qzmv4xm2fDtwaBmsKBR5FnXGR621NL5OSkwwmzIHGikvDJOQBSTc_YPaA3lFJJPd0c1QAFXivJ5-l5Mn1HoEgIPsxqDuUJlfNIQjRmk91xSPdLTTiJTlTcQNwuYwQ_IIz/s1600/Cartwright_Springs_carlineup_websm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-2wJJR-qaOg_Qzmv4xm2fDtwaBmsKBR5FnXGR621NL5OSkwwmzIHGikvDJOQBSTc_YPaA3lFJJPd0c1QAFXivJ5-l5Mn1HoEgIPsxqDuUJlfNIQjRmk91xSPdLTTiJTlTcQNwuYwQ_IIz/s320/Cartwright_Springs_carlineup_websm.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
The turn out for the grand opening located at 239 Deer Run Road was huge and for good reason. Owner Andre Rieux and business partner Eduardo Guerro were pouring samples of great beers like their Northern IPA, Maple Porter, SMASH ale, Kolsch and a Bitter. The beer sample lineup in the tap room was 3 and 4 deep most of time and if you weren't sampling the ales inside, the BBQ outside was cooking up pork sandwiches to have with your beer. A picture perfect day to sample beer, snack, talk about beer and enjoy the weather. For those that like to explore, Andre offers a tour of the brewery, property and spring. <br />
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What makes this brewery so unique is the water used for making the beer is sourced from a artesian spring located on site.The spring water is so good that they have a tap for sampling the spring water. It's quite refreshing but I'll stick with the ales thanks. Cartwright Springs also makes a Maple Porter which uses local maple sap instead of water. This gives the porter a unique maple aroma but leaves the porter with it's strong (8.5% ABV) dark chocolate flavour and a bit of nuttiness at the end. <br />
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So here a list of Cartwright Spring brews you might want to try.<br />
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<b>Maple Porter</b> a dark rich seasonal porter with significant kick to it. (8.5% ABV) <br />
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<b>SMASH Ale</b> which stands for "single malt and single hop" is a refreshingly crisp lighter ale. (5% ABV and 24 IBUs)<br />
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<b>Norther IPA</b> (my favourite) is a darker IPA with rich flavours and tropical notes. (5.6% ABV and 26 IBUs).<br />
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<b>Kolsch</b> ale is a lighter German style ale with a creamy finish (5% ABV and 20 IBUs).<br />
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Cartwright Springs offers a Bitter as well<br />
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Cheers !Mark Uncorkedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00430054110820032517noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6705344386990374106.post-53614737780680245832015-04-26T15:06:00.000-04:002015-04-26T15:06:14.958-04:002015 Eat Drink Spring Wine and Food FestivalWine, Craft Beer and food trucks within a few feet of each other. It's the perfect trifecta to enjoy a Friday night at the Eat Drink Spring wine and food festival held on April 17th and 18th 2015 at the EY Centre in Ottawa. Here's my picks for the best food, wine and beer selections at the show.<br />
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<u><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Food Truck winners</b></span></u><br />
The Grilled Cheeserie food truck served up a "Lobster grilled cheese sandwich" that was so good, I went back for a second serving. Honourable mention goes to the the wood fired pizza oven truck (Flatbread Pizza) that made a three cheese pizza covered with arugula and balsamic syrup. Very good.<br />
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<u><b>Craft Beer Winners</b></u><br />
Perth Brewery crafted a "Maple Eh ale" with real maple syrup from local suppliers. If you love maple syrup then you really like this brew. It's a light amber coloured ale with a caramel aroma and lots of maple flavour. Honorable mention goes to the Broadhead Long Shot white wheat ale. A refreshing crisp wheat ale with some good citrus and coriander flavours.<br />
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<u><b>... and some good wine</b> </u><br />
Since there were no vineyards represented at the show. I will list a couple of wines that I thought were impressive.<br />
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<u><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Guy Saget Sancerre Sauvignon Blanc - Loire France</b></span></u> ($21.95 LCBO - 319657)<br />
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Good minerality in this French Sauvignon Blanc. Pale straw and almost clear, the wine has all of the typical vegetal aromas associated with a Sauvignon Blanc but the citrus flavours of grapefruit really stand out. An easy drinking summer wine in your backyard.<br />
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<u><b>Kilikanoon Killerman's Run Shiaz - Claire Valley Australia</b></u> ($19.95 LCBO -925453)<br />
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Another impressive Shiraz from Australia. Dark fruit jam flavours with a good amount of black pepper at the the end of a long fruit finish. This wine would pair very well with BBQ pork ribs or braised beef short ribs. An excellent wine for taking to a BBQ.<br />
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Cheers !Mark Uncorkedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00430054110820032517noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6705344386990374106.post-6893446183710032882015-02-10T15:19:00.001-05:002015-02-10T15:19:39.657-05:00Wine Lineage Since taking up my pursuit (aka obsession) with wine, I have been encouraging my daughters to try different wines from regions outside the mainstream selection of wines being offered by the LCBO. My mantra to them has always been, "Explore the world of wine. It's not all Chardonnay and Merlot out there." I think that they have embraced that ideology and selected some really good wines from time to time.<br />
Over the years my family has been doing blind tastings trying to stump each other with our wine selection. The wine bottle is hidden from view (usually in a paper bag) and a glass is poured. You have to guess the varietal of the grape, the country it came from and if you are really good... the region. Sometimes clues are given to help and we've all become quite good at guessing the type of grape and country.<br />
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So without further delay, here are my daughters excellent picks for this week. Well done girls!<br />
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<u><b>Frisky Zebras Sauvignon Blanc - South Africa </b></u><br />
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An interesting Sauvignon Blanc from South Africa that doesn't have the same acidity or crispness that you would expect. The wine lends itself to a softer version of a Sauvignon Blanc with all the usual pear, stone fruit and citrus flavours associated with this grape. It has a nice citrus and honey flavour with a medium finish. <br />
<b>Price under $10 at the LCBO (237685)</b><br />
This wine would pair well with seafood tacos or a summer salad while listening to Rock Lobster by the B-52s<br />
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<u><b>2011 Seven Falls Cabernet Sauvignon - Wahluke Slope, Washington State</b></u><br />
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Wahluke slope is located in the Columbia Valley region of Washington state. Seven Falls is primarily Cabernet Sauvignon (87%) with 10% Syrah and 3% Merlot added and aged half and half in new and old oak for 18 months. It's a bold dark red wine with an almost opaque colour. This Cabernet Sauvignon has firm aromas of cherry, mocha and some menthol. Rich flavours of dark fruit and cherries with some black pepper at the end yield a rich texture and a long dark fruit finish. <br />
<b>Price under $20 at the LCBO Vintages (360222)</b><br />
This wine would pair nicely with BBQ steak or ribs while listening to the greatest hits of The Band <br />
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Mark Uncorkedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00430054110820032517noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6705344386990374106.post-64101142451479115762014-11-18T21:07:00.002-05:002014-11-18T21:07:54.424-05:00Wine Pairing with Pumpkin Squash SoupDid you ever stumble upon a wine and food pairing that seemed unlikely but turned out to be a winner? Sometimes you think a wine should work well with a dish but the wine is either too strong and it over powers the flavours of the meal or maybe the dish is too spicy and the wine tastes like water. Wine and food pairing can be hit and miss at times even when the pairing rules tell you that a wine should work well with certain foods.<br />
Recently, I was tasting a Zinfandel from Paso Robles California that I planned on writing up in this blog when my son-in-law Ben offered to make us dinner. The main course was a delicious rich pumpkin and squash soup garnished with chopped chili infused pistachios. Sounds good?...It was rich, smooth and delicous. Normally I would pair a hearty or rich vegetable based soup with a Malbec or Sauvignon Blanc but I had already opened the Zin so I decided to try it.<br />
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The 2012 Paso Creek Zinfandel paired really well for a couple of reasons.<br />
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<li>The spiciness of the chili infused pistachios gave the soup a bit of "hotness" which seemed to mellow out the relatively high alcohol content (14.5% ABV) of the Zinfandel. This brought out the dark fruit of the wine.</li>
<li>The nuttiness of the pistachio's blended with the dark fruit of zinfandel and the creaminess of the soup blended together to produce a rich smoothy texture.</li>
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It was an unplanned wine and food pairing that turned out to be a pleasant surprise.<br />
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<u><b>2012 Paso Creek Zinfandel - Paso Robles California</b></u><br />
Aromas of dark fruit, dark chocolate and some spice. The dark fruit continues in the flavour with some mild tannins and a long fruit finish of black cherry and spice.<br />
<b>Price under $20 LCBO Vintages (279810)</b><br />
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Mark Uncorkedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00430054110820032517noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6705344386990374106.post-71687139970838698322014-10-28T20:57:00.000-04:002014-10-28T20:57:51.601-04:00Vacation BeersI was recently on vacation in the southern USA and I had an opportunity to try some different beers while we toured around the beaches of North Carolina. Here's a sample of the suds I tried while slurping oysters and munching on crab cakes.<br />
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<u><b> Landshark Lager</b></u> - A favourite of mine when I travel south. It's a lighter lager like Corona but without the bitterness at the end. You can stick a lime in it but I prefer it plain because it's crispness and smooth after taste make this the ideal beach beer. <br />
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Website : <a href="http://www.landsharklager.com/default.aspx">www.landsharklager.com/default.aspx</a><br />
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<u><b>Jack O'Traveler Pumpkin Wheat Ale</b></u> - This wheat ale is a shandy inspired brew which gives the pumpkin flavours a kind of pumpkin pie sweetness. Easy drinking and not overwhelming. <br />
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Web site : <a href="http://travelerbeer.com/beers/jack-o-traveler/">www.travelerbeer.com/beers/jack-o-traveler/</a><br />
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<u><b>Magic Hat Scream Pumpkin Ale</b></u> - Really enjoyed this beer as it had flavours of pumpkin, nutmeg and some cinnamon. There's was a nice crispness to it with a full flavour of pumpkin.<br />
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Web site : <a href="http://www.magichat.net/elixirs/wilhelmscream/">www.magichat.net/elixirs/wilhelmscream/</a><br />
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<u><b>Blue Moon Pumpkin Ale</b></u> - A nice clear golden coloured crisp ale with flavours of pumpkin and spice. Not a heavy pumpkin ale which allows it to pair nicely with a turkey dinner or a burger. <br />
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Website - <a href="http://www.bluemoonbrewingcompany.com/Home">www.bluemoonbrewingcompany.com/Home</a>Mark Uncorkedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00430054110820032517noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6705344386990374106.post-69964956270018941312014-06-06T15:14:00.002-04:002014-06-06T15:14:47.366-04:00Things I've learned since becoming a SommelierHere's some tidbits of wisdom I've picked up while becoming a Sommelier.<br />
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<ul>
<li>Never try to use plastic food wrap after a bottle of Amarone. It ends with some swearing, a whole bunch of plastic wrap in a ball and food that will probably go stale by morning.</li>
<li>Being a Sommelier does not mean that you're from an African country whose primary export is pirating oil tankers.</li>
<li>The more Chianti I drink the more likely that I will do a Hannibal Lecter impersonation</li>
<li>Decanting that fourth bottle of wine during a dinner party usually ends with a lot of spillage.</li>
<li>Put a lock on your wine cellar door. Trust me on this one.</li>
<li>After a few tastings of different Irish whiskeys, my voice begins to sound a lot like the Lucky Charms Leprechaun </li>
<li>Gewurztraminer is German for "difficult to pronounce wine"</li>
<li>Never lick the outside of a tasting glass even if it's really good wine. </li>
<li>Getting your Sommelier certification does not mean that you passed the "drinking test"</li>
</ul>
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Here's my wine picks for this week<br />
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<u><b>2008 ValleAndino Syrah Reserva Especial - Colchagua Valley Chile</b></u><br />
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Great deep purple colour in this wine. Rich aromas of smoke, spice and dark fruit. Flavours of dark currants, pepper and that richness that Syrah / Shiraz has long established. A long full bodied finish of fruit and some tannins.<br />
<b>Price is under $14 (LCBO Vintages - 272682)</b> <br />
BBQ sausages would pair nicely with this wine<br />
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<u><b>2012 d'Arenberg "The Hermit Crab" - McLaren Vale Australia</b></u><br />
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With 55% Viognier and 45% Marsanne making up this lively little blend it was easy to find the aromatic notes of apricot and honeysuckle. Nice citrus flavours with a little pear and the 14% aged oak on the Viognier side gives it a nice medium long finish with some softness. <br />
<b>Price is under $20 (LCBO Vintages - 662775)</b><br />
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I paired this wine with a BBQ sauce and maple syrup glazed salmon fillet with roasted red potatoes<br />
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Mark Uncorkedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00430054110820032517noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6705344386990374106.post-69068624289748281342014-05-07T15:19:00.001-04:002014-05-07T15:19:59.938-04:00For a Good FriendEarlier this year, my brother-in-law and good friend passed away. He appreciated wine as much as I do and not only loved to discuss wine but the region it came from and it's history. On his last trip to France, he drove many kilometers out of his way to bring me back a bottle of Sauternes from a local vineyard in the Bordeaux region because he and his wife thought I might like it. That's the kind of person he was and will be remembered as. A kind and gentle man who always tried to make everyone's life a little bit better. I will truly miss our long chats about wine and history.<br />
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I would like to dedicate this posting to my friend and brother-in-law Doug who is dearly missed by all his family and friends. Here are a couple of his favourite varietals.<br />
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<b><u>Perrin & Fils Les Sinards Chateauneuf du Pape - Chateauneuf du Pape, France</u></b></div>
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Where else could you find such a distinctive wine produced in the heart of the Rhone valley and cloaked in Papal history. A blend of 70% Grenache with some Syrah, Mourvedre and Counoise. A deep dark rich red wine with a long cherry finish with some pepper. Some noticeable tannins on the finish<br />
<b>Price - under $35 (LCBO Vintages - 926626)</b><br />
Great with Sunday roast beef dinner<br />
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<b><u>2009 Montecillo Crianza La Rioja - Rioja Spain</u></b></div>
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100% Tempranillo grapes aged in American oak for 12 months and stored in bottles for further aging. A dark red wine with aromas of ripe red fruit like cherries and some cedar. Lots of cherry flavour with a firm tannic structure that doesn't overpower the long cherry finish. Excellent wine to sip while listening to flamenco guitar music on a warm summer night<br />
<b>Price - under $15 (LCBO - 144493)</b><br />
Pair this wine with your own little tapas bar of olives, aged cheeses and fresh bread.<br />
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<br />Mark Uncorkedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00430054110820032517noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6705344386990374106.post-64085370530823158452014-01-29T14:42:00.001-05:002014-01-29T14:42:15.338-05:00Bargain Wines - Part 2Some people like shopping for electronics, some like a good book or magazine and some people are into shoes. Myself...I enjoy surfing the shelves of my local liquor store. I came across another gem from the LCBO clearance sale that's on till February 2nd 2014. I almost missed it as it was on the bottom shelf in the corner of the Vintages section. A nice Aussie Chardonnay from the Margaret River area of south western Australia.<br />
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<b><u>2011 Brookland Valley Verse 1 Chardonnay - Margaret River, Australia</u></b><br />
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Everything an Australian chardonnay should be. Sur lie aging for six months, some malolactic fermentation to soften the texture and a little oak to bring out the butterscotch gives you a great straw coloured chardonnay with flavours of pink grapefruit and some pear.<br />
<b>Price - $14.25 (originally $17.95 - save $3.70) - Vintages</b><br />
This wine paired well with a pork tenderloin prepared in a Greek style sauce with feta.<br />
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Cheers !!Mark Uncorkedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00430054110820032517noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6705344386990374106.post-907200581938352662014-01-27T15:13:00.000-05:002014-01-27T15:13:31.175-05:00Bargain Wines It's that time of year at the LCBO when they put the end of bin wines on clearance and there are usually some terrific bargains to be had. You need to do a little research before heading to your local LCBO as not all stores have the same selection of wines. I use the product search tool on the LCBO web site or the Vintages web site (see my home page for a link) to search for some good bargains. The bigger the outlet, the more wines will be available so if you have a Saturday afternoon to kill, you could try one of the bigger stores and look through the Vintages section for some great wines. The price discount can be anywhere from $1.50 to $5 per bottle depending on the original listed price. More expensive wines ($40 and up) will have bigger discounts.<br />
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Here's one that my wife found and it's a great buy at $14.25 (save $4.70)<br />
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<b><u>2009 Familia Mayol Malbec - Lujan de Cuyo, Mendoza Argentina</u></b><br />
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Oak aged for 12 months this dark and rich Malbec has aromas of cherry, spice and some menthol. The wine really excels in the flavour end with dark cherry, some spice and a long smooth finish of cherry.<br />
<b>Price - originally $18.95 but on sale for $14.25 (Vintages) </b><br />
Pork tenderloin, beef short ribs or most BBQ dishes would work well with this wine.<br />
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Cheers !!Mark Uncorkedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00430054110820032517noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6705344386990374106.post-62574609406109604322014-01-14T14:25:00.002-05:002014-01-14T14:25:19.797-05:00A New Year and New ResolutionsIt's a brand new year and that means that it's time to make some resolutions. A time to reflect on changes we'd like to make in our lives and maybe new paths to follow. The usual promises to shed some pounds and get in shape. It's either lose weight or figure out a way to work jogging pants into my daily wardrobe.<br />
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I was out for a New Years day dinner at a local restaurant and found myself talking to the waiter about wine. He was very enthusiastic about wine and asked for my recommendation on a good red wine to buy. I pondered for a few seconds before suggesting a nice California Zinfandel which I thought he would like. After the waiter left I started to rethink my suggestion. Here's a guy that obviously enjoys wine so my job as a Sommelier is not necessarily to tell him what to buy as it is to stoke that fire of enthusiasm for wine. So I called him back to the table and said "Forget about the wine that I told you buy. My recommendation is that you try different wines. Go outside your comfort zone. Maybe try a Zweigelt from Austria or a Primitivo from Italy, maybe a Rioja from Spain, a port from Portugal or a Baco Noir from Ontario. Try as many different wines as possible."<br />
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So my new year resolution is to suggest to you as reader of my blog to try new wines. Be bold, be daring and try wines that you wouldn't normally buy. Here's a few suggestions to get you started.<br />
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Try a ...<br />
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<li>Sauvignon Blanc from the Marlborough region in New Zealand</li>
<li>Malbec from the Mendoza region in Argentina</li>
<li>Chardonnay from the Sonoma County or Central Coast region of California</li>
<li>Riesling from the Alsace region in France</li>
<li>Amarone from Veneto region of Italy</li>
<li>Baco Noir from Ontario</li>
<li>Gamay Noir from Prince Edward County</li>
<li>....keep trying different wines</li>
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Cheers !</div>
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<br />Mark Uncorkedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00430054110820032517noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6705344386990374106.post-22368806350354048712013-12-08T15:53:00.000-05:002013-12-10T12:50:26.000-05:00T'is the Season for WineHo Ho Ho !! It's that time of year again. There's Christmas parties to attend, a gift for the boss (even if he doesn't deserve it) or a special gift for that someone special. Luckily I have an "inside man" at the North Pole who has the list of best wine buys for the Christmas season. I've looked through the list and pulled out all of the best wines with prices that won't make you cringe like Scrooge<br />
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So let's get started with a couple of sparkling wines to start the party season.<br />
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<u><b>Mumm Napa Cuvee Brut Prestige - California</b></u><br />
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A blend of mostly Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, this California sparkling wine is assembled in the traditional method of making champagne. It's a medium bodied sparkling wine with good effervescence and a nice "biscuity" aroma. Citrus and stone fruit coupled with a creamy mouthfeel make this an above average sparkling white wine. Serve it chilled to your guests as they arrive for the party. Pairs well with most seafood appetizers and dips.<br />
<b>Price - under $26 (LCBO - 217273)</b><br />
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<b><u>Val D'Oca Presecco Superiore DOCG - Valdobbiaedene Italy</u></b><br />
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A Bright, clear and crisp sparkling wine from Italy. Nice effervescence with a fruity refreshing crispness. The wine is made from 100% Glera grapes done in a champagne style.<br />
<b>Price - Under $16 (LCB0 - 340570)</b><br />
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How about some white wines for parties and appetizers.</h4>
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<b><u>2012 Fairhall Downs Single Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc - Marlborough New Zealand</u></b><br />
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A classic Sauvignon Blanc from the Marlborough region with aromas of lemon, lime and that distinctive New Zealand vegetal bouquet. Pale yellow colour with a crisp and clear taste of grapefruit pith and lime. Great for turkey dinner or with appetizers.<br />
<b>Price under $19 (LCBO Vintages 990580)</b><br />
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<b><u>2010 Ghost Pines Chardonnay - Sonoma, Napa and Monterey Counties California</u></b><br />
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A classic full bodied Chardonnay. The grapes are sourced from vineyards in Sonoma (70%), Napa (20%) and Monterey (10%) and then they get the full treatment of sur lies aging, malolactic fermentation to soften the wine and storage in french and american oak. Golden in colour with aromas of pear, apple and vanilla. Flavours of butterscotch, honey and vanilla and a soft mouthfeel. Makes for a nice gift or for a Christmas party<br />
<b>Price - under $20 (LCBO - 308122)</b><br />
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Some red wines to keep you warm a night.</h4>
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<b><u>2010 Chateau de Galifay Cairanne - Cotes du Rhone Villages, France</u></b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq5mgT-6pT6mTJ4YfI6PNP33GhlO4y9F6z_AtwB-ftlpAAXBjnbFNCWmt0JAHL-5UHrNTXYfaGOBC5W7VlovlgMXu_VOLQBFwYye1jb9mBczK2D6h4QHEPFMGVVhh7N_9ustUM8Giykcte/s1600/Chat_du_Galifay.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq5mgT-6pT6mTJ4YfI6PNP33GhlO4y9F6z_AtwB-ftlpAAXBjnbFNCWmt0JAHL-5UHrNTXYfaGOBC5W7VlovlgMXu_VOLQBFwYye1jb9mBczK2D6h4QHEPFMGVVhh7N_9ustUM8Giykcte/s200/Chat_du_Galifay.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
A nice blend of Grenache and Syrah grapes gives this Cairanne a dark ruby red colour with aroma's of mint, blackberry and some spice. It has a medium to full bodied mouth feel with flavours of cherry and plum. The wine has mild tannins and a medium to long cherry finish. I nice wine to serve with roast beef or Swedish meatballs<br />
<b>Price - $16 (LCBO Vintages 290080)</b><br />
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<b><u>2010 Seghesio Zinfandel - Sonoma County California</u></b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyUzJO_KoKLDPRPMI5u3Pec-1DxeL4D2mzAVit2ucIi5rpQkRUPvPNtksH4nptSD8PxQczvqichL7Xct8O6EanYw0DXJEqd_is3BwRGUsrvJjJdnzFPCrjMm0mnNgsmYi6sv6zvxQXcFSe/s1600/Seghesio_Zin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyUzJO_KoKLDPRPMI5u3Pec-1DxeL4D2mzAVit2ucIi5rpQkRUPvPNtksH4nptSD8PxQczvqichL7Xct8O6EanYw0DXJEqd_is3BwRGUsrvJjJdnzFPCrjMm0mnNgsmYi6sv6zvxQXcFSe/s200/Seghesio_Zin.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
Looking to suck up to your boss for a promotion ? Buy him a bottle of this premium Zinfandel and he'll know that you know how to spot a good buy. This wine is of consistently high quality year after year. Flavours of black licorice, dark fruit and pepper with mild tannins and a long finish of fig and blackberry. A great sipping wine in front of the fire while you decorate the tree.<br />
<b>Price - under $30 (LCBO Vintages - 942151)</b><br />
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<b><u>2011 The Wolftrap Syrah (blend) - Swartland South Africa</u></b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik465URtsOCYfGpk60lXIOOy6tmVeBxI_p95MIy4WbsZR5QElygH4sgYZdGb6mmHzaq2zrzh_bYzP7p-mLpvlO3MvWhD4Uo-22H6pMI-3xlGK3ScovbBMaNyCpcj1lIWsKYlP52tzBYLns/s1600/Wolftrap.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik465URtsOCYfGpk60lXIOOy6tmVeBxI_p95MIy4WbsZR5QElygH4sgYZdGb6mmHzaq2zrzh_bYzP7p-mLpvlO3MvWhD4Uo-22H6pMI-3xlGK3ScovbBMaNyCpcj1lIWsKYlP52tzBYLns/s200/Wolftrap.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">A big bold South African blend of 65% Syrah, 32% Mourvedre and 3% Viognier yields a dark red wine with aromas of blackberry and some black pepper with rich flavours of dark fruit. The Syrah has a long dark fruit finish with some fairly mild tannins.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Serve this wine with beef ribs or a Sunday roast</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: small;">Price under $14 (LCBO 292557) </span></b></div>
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<b><u>Good Value Wines</u></b></h3>
Whether you're having a party with lots of guests or hosting Christmas dinner and don't want to run out before the turkey is served, here's a list of wines at reasonable prices.<br />
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<b>Jackson Triggs Chardonnay </b>(750 ml) - $10.05 (LCBO - 328518)<br />
<b>Lindeman's Bin 85 Pinot Grigio</b> (750 ml) - $10.95 (LCBO - 668947)<br />
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<b>Cono Sur Bicicelta Pinot Noir</b> (750ml) - $10.95 (LCBO - 341602)<br />
<b>Graffigna Centenario Reserve Malbec</b> (750 ml) - $13.95 (LCBO - 230474)<br />
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Enjoy the holidays and please don't drink and drive.<br />
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Cheers<br />
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<br />Mark Uncorkedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00430054110820032517noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6705344386990374106.post-51112866931674903972013-10-11T15:38:00.001-04:002013-10-11T15:38:51.140-04:00Kim Crawford Wine tasting - Oct 2 2013What a great day! It's a warm sunny October afternoon and Natalie Maclean invites me to Maxwell's Bistro on Elgin Street in Ottawa to sample some great wines from Kim Crawford vineyards including their new sparkling wine "Fizz Methode Traditionelle 2009" which will hopefully make it into LCBO stores in the near future. The chef at Maxwell's Bistro prepared a variety of delicious plates to be paired with the wines while we had a chance to talk to Kim Crawford winemaker Anthony Walkenhorst about their wines.<br />
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<u>Here's the lineup of Kim Crawford wines we sampled</u><br />
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<b>Kim Crawford Fizz Methode Traditionelle 2009</b><br />
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<b>2013 Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc</b><br />
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<b>2013 Kim Crawford Small Parcels Spitfire Sauvignon Blanc</b><br />
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<b>2012 Kim Crawford Unoaked Chardonnay</b><br />
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<b>2012 Kim Crawford Pinot Noir</b><br />
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<b>2007 Kim Crawford Small Parcels Rise & Shine Pinot Noir</b><br />
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The interesting part of this wine tasting was the contrast between the regional variety wines like Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir and the "Small Parcels" Spitfire Sauvignon Blanc and Rise & Shine Pinot Noir. They're all great wines but the Small Parcels Sauvignon Blanc with it's pronounced minerality and the increased new oak content in the Pinot Noir take the Small Parcels wines to the next level in aroma, taste and finish. The Unoaked Chardonnay was a real treat. I was expecting a crisp citrus type of chardonnay but the 80% malolactic fermentation produced a softer fruit filled and aromatic wine that would work very well with most chicken and seafood dishes. It paired nicely with the shrimp tempura we were served.<br />
I really enjoyed talking to Anthony Walkenhorst in about grape harvesting, the different yeasts that are used in their signature Sauvignon Blanc wine and the selection of new and used oak in the Pinot Noirs. It was a relaxing few hours talking about New Zealand, grape harvests, winemaking and enjoying some great Kim Crawford wines.<br />
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Special thanks to Kim Crawford wines, Maxwell's Bistro (great food !) Natalie Maclean and Constellation Wines for hosting the event. <br />
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Cheers !! </div>
Mark Uncorkedhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00430054110820032517noreply@blogger.com0