At our July meeting, we enjoyed a variety of refreshing wines from California. Of course, because we met via Zoom, we all tested different types of wines, some particularly suited for sipping in the California climate. Every member enjoyed their particular selection and most sampled varieties that were not their first choice with remarkable results. We are getting bolder and more adventuresome as we continue our quest to taste many wines from around the world.
Dreaming Tree Chardonnay, California
Reviewed by: Pat and Murray Wood
This month we sampled Dreaming Tree Chardonnay, a California wine. Pale straw in color with flavors of nectarine, baked apple, and nice toasted marshmallow notes. Rich and fruity upfront, finishing crisp and elegant. This is a well-balanced, medium-bodied and is a great example of what can be done with this varietal on the Central Coast. It is 13.5% alcohol and listed as very dry. It cost $17.95 at the LCBO. We enjoyed it very much and hope that you find our selection enjoyable as well.
Ravenswood Old Vine Zinfandel California, 2017
Reviewed by: Joan and James Rayner
We were pleasantly surprised by this wine since it is a Zinfandel; Joan likes hearty red wines with lots of tannins and the usual Zinfandel come across like a light rosé. This wine is a deep red with lots of flavour to accompany roast beef, spiced meats or barbecued ribs. A reviewer in Wine Enthusiast magazine describes it this way: “smoky, charcoal aromas lead to rich, concentrated flavours of blueberry and dark chocolate in this full-bodied, well-structured wine.” He also suggests that this wine could be put down and allowed to further mature. Score: 92 points.
The label calls this wine “big and unapologetic”.
This wine has recently been added to the Vintages Essential list.
Alcohol content: 13.5% LCBO Price: $19.95
Josh Cellars Sauvignon Blanc, 2019, North Coast, California
Reviewed by: Mary Mulligan
The price of this wine at the LCBO is $18.95 and the Alcohol/Volume is 13.5%. It has a sugar content of 4 g/L and its sweetness is described Extra Dry. The style of the wine is Aromatic and Flavourful.
Josh Cellars was founded by Josh Carr, who started off as a sommelier at a French Restaurant. Though he released his first wine in 2005, it was not until 2009, after some mishaps, that Josh Cellars really launched. At that time, Mr. Carr was selling cases from his van.
It is made from grapes sourced from premium California growing areas. Quite aromatic and bright, with flavours of ripe pear, fresh fig, chamomile and gooseberry with an herbal note. On the palate, this is medium bodied, smooth and balanced with a soft and refreshing finish. Pair with herbed seafood or white meat.
Probus Club of Kingsway-Islington 