When it comes to buying wine, are you a creature of habiteither because you know what you like or feel theres too much risk heading into unfamiliar territory?
A couple of weeks back saw the first major international tasting of the year. The Import Vintners New Products Salon attracts everyone from servers to buyers and sommeliers, showcasing as many as 300 new products to local shelves, both government and privately run.
Two things struck me about this years event: the number of value wines at every price point, as well as the range of styles and variety, which proves that the thrill of novelty is half the fun.
In short, it pays to be adventuresome and leave that comfort zone behind. You might be surprised what you find.
- Tomero Torontes, Mendoza
If you like aromatics such as Gewurz or Muscat, chances are this Argentinian drop will also appeal. After aromas of floral and orange notes, youll find a crisp, clean and gently mineral palate. Try it with fresh scallops and a light orange citrus sauce. Private stores, $18 to $20.
- Laya 2009
The deal of the day? This intense, juicy and food-friendly blend of Garnacha and Monastrell comes from Almansa in Southern Spain. Well balanced fruit and oak with easy tannins and a long finish. BCLS $13.99.
- Peche Céleyran Cuvée Ombline 2010
Heres a Languedoc cocktailit has Cabernet, Merlot, Malbec, Syrah, Carignan, Grenache and Mouvèdrethats approachable but has definite character with dark berries and good grip. Value priced at BCLS specialty $15.99.
- Paç do Conde 2007
Not fancy but a budget best bet, for sure. From Alantejo (Portugal) comes this Monday night pasta special made with varieties likely unfamiliarexcept for 40 per cent Aragonez (Tempranillo) and 10 percent Cab. Sauv. For $10 to $12 at private stores, you get a drinkable, well made red with bright berry notes, easy tannins and a touch of oak. Its all good for this price.
- Cremaschi Furlotti Syrah Reserve 2006
Nothing unusual, but heres a big Chilean for the bucks with a truckload of black berry fruits, big smoky notes and juicy acidity thats complex with appealing varietal characteristics that define the house style. Another great value wine, especially considering theyve also cellared it for you. Private stores, $17 to $20.
- Alain Jaume Clos de Sixte Lirac 2009
Southern Rhone: think Syrah, Grenache Mouvedre in stylish, complex spicy layers of intense black fruit and smooth tannins that cry out for something charred on the barbecue. $28.99 BCLS, France, specialty.
- Hahn Monterey Pinot Noir 2009
Sweet, ripe cherry, spice and earthy notes with lingering spice and silky tannins through the close. A sure-fire winner that balances new and old world styles. BCLS specialty $21.99
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Quick bites
- Pastis owner John Blakeley has taken over the West Ends Bistro de Paris (formerly the more celebrated Café de Paris), promising to return the classic bistro to its former glory, under a new name, Le Parisien. Its expected to reopen around April 1.
- Bud Kanke has closed Yaletowns Goldfish, to be replaced this summer by Minami, a sibling to downtowns successful aburi (rare seared tuna) specialist Miku.
- In North Vancouvers lower Lonsdale (LoLo), Philippe Ségur has closed his Bistro Chez Michel to assist in running West Vans Chez Michel, while his brother Michel continues to recover from a bone marrow transplant.
- Edible Canada at the Market celebrates Valentines with a sensuous $55 five-course Canuck-love menu featuring the likes of Nova Scotia lobster cakes, Yarrow Meadows duck ravioli, Angus heritage beef cheeks and dark chocolate mousse, kicked off with oysters and a glass of Sumac Ridge bubble. Add $18 for four more wine pairings and its still a deal. Reserve online at ediblecanada.com
