
The long awaited Spring season is finally here! And while the weather forecast for this weekend is rain, the change in season is always a good indicator to shift what we are eating- more BBQ and salads – Yes Please! And, with that, comes a shift in what we drink. I love the change in seasons, because I definitely shift my wine picks accordingly. Just in time for the May long weekend, here are some spring favourites at the LCBO!
Local Gems
I will always be a big supporter of our local winemakers- why not drink what is made in your own backyard? Here are some great ideas for local gems.
Light, refreshing, off dry and easy drinking. A great patio wine with lots of versatility!
A great red that is versatile with lots of red fruit. This was a Gold Medal Winner at the Ontario Wine Awards.
Flat Rock Cellars Riddled Sparkling 2010 $34.95
An amazing value for age and quality, and it is hard to find. This is a toasty sparkling wine with notes of vanilla, lemon and brioche. A delight if you can get your hands on some!
Rosé
It seems as though our LCBO doesn’t want us to drink Rosé all year long, something we disagree on! But if you are a Rosé lover, now is the time to stock up. These will go quick, but they are great for all summer long!
A Provençal style rosé with lots of minerality and some strawberries, a great aperitif before dinner.
Ogier Cotes du Ventoux Rosé $14.25
A Côte du Rhone Style Rosé that packs a punch with ripe strawberries, raspberries, watermelon, it is fruity and delicious. A great pairing with grilled meats and seafood.
Muga Rosé 2017
Spanish style rosés are fun and a must try. This one is full of red fruit, dry and easy drinking. Tappas are calling for this wine.
Patio Reds
Sitting outside in your backyard on a warm evening, doesn’t mean giving up on red wines. These have their place- especially with any grilled red meat on the bbq or a cooler evening by a fire. They are easy drinking, and match really well with anything from a juicy burger, to a rib eye steak.
Rutherford Hill Merlot 2014 $39.95
While the name says Merlot, there is some syrah in this wine- it gives some structure. Full of black fruit, and structured tannins, this would be a winner with a good steak.
Rex Hill Pinot Noir 2014 $42.95
Definitely a treat. This Oregon Pinot Noir has the true character of the region, medium bodied with silky tannins, and full of plums. Want to get wild? Try is with a grilled salmon off the bbq. It won’t disappoint.
Sister's Run Old Testament Cabernet Sauvignon 2015 $16.95
This Australian Cab sauvignon screams for some BBQ ribs. A delicious dark fruit, vanilla and spice, easy drinking and not overly complicated.
Balbás Reserva 2005 $22.95
This great Ribera del Duero is a full bodied red that packs a punch with charred oak, lots of dark fruit. Amazing with some grilled lamb!
Whatever you decide to drink this Spring, enjoy it with some friends and family. Take a moment to enjoy what you have in your glass!
Want to learn more about wine? Why not host your own wine event and sip and savour the differences with the company of your choice! Email me, Danielle@newagenonnawineandfood.com or Follow me on Instagram @NewAgeNonna .
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