Ask Chuck

Name:
Location: Whitby, Ontario, Canada

Born in Malta but in Canada since age 5. Has written three books and presently does several columns about wine and food for various magazines.

Monday, March 28, 2022

These Wines Are Still Tops In Both Price and Quality

 Re-tasting Wines Can Be Full Of Surprises!

I recently re-tasted several wines that I had enjoyed in the past. I found that even though I had supremely enjoyed these wines in the past, to my amazement, they seemed even better this time around.                    

Gran Passione Prosecco    White Sparkling Wine     $15.95    94/100 points     LCBO #16392   

Region:  Veneto, Italy

Grape:   100 % Glera   

Colour:    Golden yellow,  small bubbles, brilliant and clear

Nose:    Fizz, pear/apple/citrus, floral blossom

Palate: Light, fresh, clean with refreshing finish

Comments: Score based on price/quality ration. One of my "go to" favourites. An excellent summer, patio wine by itself or with antipasto, hors d'oeuvres, light meat.

Blue Canyon  Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2019    $19.95     94/100 points        Vintages #17815

Region: Monterey, California, USA    

Grape: Cabernet Sauvignon

Colour: Dark red

Nose: Ripe, dark fruit , vanilla, pepper spice, leather, chocolate nuances

Palate: Full bodied, forward tannin, balanced, nice acidity on the finish which does not challenge the wine 

Comments: A truly nice cabernet with a boldness that does not go "over the top". Nice muscularity of the lean sort. An athlete rather than a body builder.  The power for burgers but the elegance for fine dining with lamb, beef or venison.  

 Cline Family Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon  $22.95   95/100 points   Vintages #24914

Region: Contra Costa County

Colour: Very dark red

Grape: Cabernet Sauvignon

Nose: Ripe dark berries, plum, vanilla oak, pepper, earth, chocolate

Palate: Balanced, full bodied, bold, ripe berry finish

Comments: Definitely one for game. Will also do well with roast beef, pork roast and grilled meat. Score indicative of price/quality ratio. Why pay more if one can get a quality wine at this price? Get a case and keep three to five years.