Chillin’ With Wine This Summer!

And I do mean Chillin’ literally! Although the weather outside is a little frightful for July, registering at a chilly 12 degrees today, July 9th.   However, there’s no reason your wineglass should have to be empty.

Sauvignon Blanc is one of my favourite summer wines.  It goes with some of my favourite summer foods.  Salads, aappetizers, veggies –  this is my go to wine.   And one of my favourites is the Stoneleigh Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand.  This also brings back some great memories for me.   When I started my quest to become a Sommelier The very first course I took was through the International Sommelier  Guild with Andrew Facey n St. John’s Newfounfland.  And as part of the final exam there was a blind taste test,  and this was the wine.  And I remember being one of the few that identified it during the exam, and I identified it because I loved it so much.   Crisp refreshing citrus notes with hints of grass and vegetal green pepper notes. Great summer wine.

Here’s a staple in my wine rack lately.   This is not only a great wine it’s a great value.  $17.99 here  but it tastes like a much more expensive wine.  This spicy Tempranillo has been aged 10 years in the cellars  before being released.   One word on the label of a Spanish Rioja, will tell you how long it has been aged.  Crianza  has to be aged for three years before release, Reserva has to be aged 5 years before release and Gran Reserva has to be aged a minimum of 7 years.   This is a great example of Gran Reserva, with gorgeous notes of leather, tobacco and vanilla.  Grilled meats and aged cheeses would pair so well.

And my wine of the week…..

Is another Spanish beauty.  The Ergo Tempranillo from Rioja is from a vineyard recently purchased by E & J Gallo from California.   Over the past few years,  E & J Gallo  has been expanding their portfolio by buying smaller wineries.   Bodegas Martin Codax  has a great reputation for quality wines in this region.     Dark cherry flavours with notes of spice and vanilla make for a great wine.  This particular wine is on sale right now at our local liquor store and at $16.99 a bottle it’s a steal of a deal.

Last weekend it was 30° and I was out Sea-Dooing, this weekend it’s  12°    So I guess that means inside chores.

Whatever your plans are for this weekend I hope you enjoy.

Till next week, cheers.

Darlene