WINES OF THE WEEK

Gonzalez Byass & Co.

Castell de Vilarnau Brut Reserva Cava Penedes, Spain ON $14.95 (515254) Here’s another remarkable and great value Cava, this one from family owned Gonzalez Byass. The multicoloured wrap label on the bottle might not strike everyone’s fancy, but the crisp and refreshing sparkling wine inside promises to please most palates. It’s fruity and fun, which means it’s pretty much tailor-made fornholiday entertaining.

La Ferme du Mont 2015 Premiere Cote Cotes du Rhone Rhone Valley, France ON $17.95 (251645) Here’s a serious Grenache blend that is delightfully rich and complex. Look for ripe fruit and spicy flavours on the charming nose and palate. It’s nicely structured and has nicely balanced acidity and tannin (the textural element in wine that imparts a bitter sensation) that makes it enjoyable now or a candidate to cellar for two or three years.

Cantina di Negrar 2015 Corvina Verona, Italy ON $9.85 (519199)

Corvina is the dominant grape used to produce Amarone and Valpolicella. It’s increasingly being used to produce onegrape wines, like this light and juicy red from the Cantina di Negrar cooperative. Sweet cherry, peppery and floral notes add charm to this affordable red, which would pair nicely with meat lover’s pizza or spaghetti and meatballs.

Miguel Torres 2014 Altos Ibericos Crianza Rioja, Spain ON $14.95 (527291)

Coming from one of Spain’s best known wineries, Altos Ibéricos is an enjoyable red wine is produced with 100 percent Tempranillo. The mix of juicy fruit and cedary notes (from aging in American oak barrels) makes for an enjoyable red wine that’s flavourful with appealing smooth texture. This bottle is even more attractive considering it’s on sale for $12.95 at LCBO outlets until Dec. 31.