WINES OF THE WEEK
UNDER $16
Pinot Bianco 2018, Rubicone, Dogheria, Poderi dal Nespoli, Italy white, $14.60, SAQ # 13425972.
This is quickly becoming my favourite inexpensive white at the SAQ. Shows incredible complexity, with aromatics that range from apples to apricot to white flowers. Like a chardonnay, if you let it warm you’ll get the full benefit of its natural richer texture. Get it before it’s gone, as it sells out pretty quickly.
Grape variety: pinot blanc. Residual sugar: 1.4 g/l.
Serve at: 8-12 C. Drink now. Food pairing ideas: apéritif, seafood pasta, barley risotto with mushrooms and asparagus.
$16-$20
Penedès 2015, Cabernet Sauvignon, Gran Coronas, Torres, Spain red, $19.70, SAQ # 36483.
I’m blown away that this sells for under $20. At five years of age, the wine still tastes pretty young, with subtle notes of blackberry and dried herbs. The tannins are there, super fine and elegant. A touch of dried spice on the finish adds depth. Classy.
Grape variety: cabernet sauvignon. Residual sugar: 1.96 g/l.
Serve at: 18 C. Drink now-2022. Food pairing ideas: T-bone steak with spice, lamb with mustard.
$20-$25
Minervois 2018, Schiste, Château Coupe Roses, France white, $23.45, SAQ # 894519.
Organic. Richly textured, complex aromatics, and a chalky mineral finish that refreshes and adds an exclamation point to each fantastic sip. As it warms, the stone fruit aromatics are tinged with honey and florals, and the mouth gets more voluminous. I can’t say enough good things about this wine. Grape variety: roussanne.
Residual sugar: 1.4 g/l. Serve at: 10-14 C. Drink now-2022.
Food pairing ideas: coquilles St-jacques, steak tartare.
$25 AND UP
Pinot Noir 2018, Refugio, Montsecano y Copains, Chile red, $26.60, SAQ # 12184839.
Very aromatic and fruit-driven. Underneath the crunchy red fruit, you’ll find that Chilean postal code with its minty herbal note. The acidity adds to the extreme freshness. Really youthful and full of energy, but not at all simple. Unique in its expression, and relatively inexpensive for what you’re getting. Grape variety: pinot noir.
Residual sugar: 1.4 g/l.
Serve at: 16 C. Drink now-2022.
Food pairing ideas: apéritif, mushrooms, grilled salmon with herbs.
Every week, Bill Zacharkiw identifies his top wine picks available at the SAQ and offers ideas for food pairings.