This month we met at the home of Elaine Dulmage for a delightful afternoon of tasting some new vintages. Elaine followed the advice of Carol Evans Hammond, the wine expert who writes a column in the Saturday edition of the Toronto Star. She selected the wines of interest and ordered them online. They were ready to be picked up when she wanted them. It is great advice for those of us who are in a quandy when selecting wines for parties or dinners. Her selection was excellent.
Although Elaine selected two white and two red, we are highlighting the two wines that were of particular interest to the group.
Italy, Delle Venezie – Oggi Botter Pinot Grigio, 2021
An inexpensive alternative to a much loved Italian Pino Grigio.
If you love the crisp, cool allure of the ever popular Santa Margherita Pino Grigio Valdagige DOC from Italy (Vintages Essential $22.92) but want to save some coin, try the 2021 Botter Oggi Pino Grigio from Delle Venezie, Italy. It is half the price and excellent value. You will notice subtle scents of sliced pear and lemon before its silky-crisp floor of brisk refreshment.
This wine isn’t fancy but it’s bone dry beautifully balanced and charmingly restrained. The freshness and zing of pinot grigio from Northern Italy give Oggi its light and charming, crowd-pleasing character. Delicate aromas of lees – mushrooms and bread, lead to minerally, banana and nuts flavours. The finish is light and fresh. Serve as an aperitif or pair with garlic and chili prawns or grilled mussels.
12% alcohol, score of 93 from Carol Evans Hammond. Price: $ 11.50. The majority of the wine tasters would buy this wine.
U.S.A., California – Submission Cabernet Sauvignon, 2020
This red blend combines Zinfandel, Grenache, Malbec and Petite Sirah. It remains a bestseller at LCBO Vintages. From prime sites in Sonoma, Napa, Paso Robles and Lodi, it offers floral tones, chocolate, ripe dark plum, smoky oak and nutty tones.
The 2020 Submission Cabernet Sauvignon opens with the fragrance of roasted hazelnuts, muddled berries, mocha and cream. Then it slides in with a sun-drenched rush of cherry vanilla laced with blackcurrant liqueur, a drizzle of dark chocolate, roasted coffee bean, and a touch of tobacco. It is truly delicious and easy to love.
It can be enjoyed with or without food but works well with that fancy grilled rid eye or strip loin steak right off the grill. Pair with lamb burgers or blackened ribs, as well.
14% alcohol, score of 93 from Carol Evans Hammond , Price: $19.95. The majority of our wine tasters would buy this wine.
Probus Club of Kingsway-Islington 