WEEKEND WINE PICKS
Bottega Il Vino dei Poeti Prosecco Brut N/V, Treviso, Verona, Veneto, Italy $17.99 I 87/100 UPC:
8005829000646 Bottega is a vibrant producer of sparkling, and the Poeti is an excellent example of what can be done with a little care at this price point. There’s a small bump of residual sugar, but it disappears into the brut dry flavours that mark the mid-palate and the finish. Red and green apple, subtle flowers float among the creamy textures and the citrus-lined finish. Well made, ready to drink, and affordable, it touches all the bells. Try this with some cream cheese and salmon for something unique. Widely available. Authentic.
The Doctors’ Sauvignon Blanc 2018, Marlborough, South Island, New Zealand $17.99 I 88/100 UPC:
9419056160155
Dr. John Forrest has been pursuing the concept of low-alcohol Sauvignon Blanc for more than a decade. His Doctors’ label, launched in 2012, is front and centre at 9.5 per cent. This bone-dry version of the intense kiwi, gooseberry, passion fruit style might seem stark to some, but attracts others in droves. It is fun to sip, and at lunchtime it allows for the rest of the day to proceed in order. Try this with fish tacos or fresh steamed clams.
Karp-schreiber My Karp Off Dry Riesling 2018, Mosel, Germany $19.99 I 88/100 UPC:
626990216230
The Karp family has been farming grapes and making wine in the Mosel since 1664. That’s 356 years. In 2018 this showed its “off dry” moniker with a bright, honeyed, sweet lime note. The attack is ripe with a sweet and sour mid-palate of soft, lemon-sprayed peach. It has that Mosel elegance and lightness in the back end. Pair this with spicy sushi rolls, Indian curries, or soft cheeses.
Spier Seaward Cabernet Sauvignon 2017, Western Cape, South Africa $19.99 I 87/100 UPC:
819457001320
Spier strives for purity of fruit in its wines, never an easy task at this price point. The Cabernet Sauvignon does present some impressive clean, pure Cabernet aromas and flavours led by blackcurrant and black cherries, with a dusting of cedar and sweet oak. Easy sipping and ready to drink, it delivers all you could want at this price point: good value, and a perfect match for flank steak.
Felino Malbec 2018, Mendoza, Argentina $20.99 I 89/100 UPC:
897941000974
Felino is a rambunctious Malbec made with a mix of fruit from the Valle de Uco and Lujan de Cuyo. Big dark plums, crushed raspberries, black licorice and supple mid-palate is balanced with oak and soft, lightly smoky tannins. A winter stew or a summer mixed grill of pork and beef would be the match. Price reduced through Sept. 5.