Wine Wednesday: Random Quaffing

"Oh the weather outside is ... balmy?" Doesn't quite have the same ring to it.
"Frosty the Snowman ... melt."

It's hard to get into the Christmas spirit when it's still warm out, with nary a snowbank in sight. I don't miss the shovelling, but it seems odd to be walking around in sneakers in mid-December. And it makes it difficult to explain to a six-year-old that she still has to wear snow pants. ("But MOooooo-ooooom, there's no SNOW!")

 While we wait for a chance of flurries, here are a few random notes on wines I've had lately:


Korbel NV Brut (Sonoma, California) - Not entirely sure how they get away with calling their products 'Champagne', but Korbel has made a name for itself, becoming the best-selling sparkling wine in the United States. This one was all green apple up front, with a fine, tingling mousse, fresh-bread flavours and a faintly sweet finish.

Angel's Gate 2008 Archangel Sauvignon Blanc (Niagara) - Tons of bubbles, wisps of spring blossoms and citrus from the glass; on the palate, a subtle yeastiness with a firm finish.

Luckystone 2010 White (Finger Lakes, NY) - Linen, floral nose; firm acidity with an abundance of tropical fruit and a long, honeyed finish. New Year's Resolution: visit wine country in New York State.

Hinterbrook 2010 Sauvignon Blanc (Niagara) - Not your average s.blanc, this one has a thicker, more glycerin texture to it, with lots of tropical fruit / orange blossom on nose and palate.

Telmo Rodriguez Basa (Spain) - Verdejo/sauvignon blanc blend. Served too cold, but once it warmed up, it showed zesty, invigorating streaks of lemon and minerality. Had this during a pre-course stop at the Lord Elgin hotel, paired with a tasting plate of duck spring rolls, seared scallops n' shrimp on Israeli couscous, and caprese salad. Light, spritzy whites are the way to go with tapas-style munchies.

L'Orpailleur 2010 Vin Blanc (Dunham, Quebec) - I tried this on my first trip to Québec, but this one seemed to be far superior, with the kinks conveniently worked out. Nose of fresh peach and pear, followed by a mouthful of tart apple and citrus, and finishing with a mellow, creamy texture.

Fielding 2008 Red Conception (Niagara) - Blend of cabernet sauvignon, syrah and merlot. This was smooth, slightly tannic, with bold fruit and cedar showing through. Word has it this will be in Vintages in the new year - woot!