Top Picks

top picks

GREG GRACEFFO

CUSTOMER PICK

Reassi 2016 Sparviere Cabernet Sauvignon/Cabernet Franc Veneto, Italy ($24.99): This red blend hails from the Euganean Hills of Veneto. The Cabernet Franc grapes are left to sun dry in the vineyard, then handpicked with the Cabernet Sauvignon grapes once mature, resulting in notes of cherry and cassis. The Cabernet Franc makes Sparviere versatile for pairing: we enjoyed it with grilled steak Florentine. Not only is Sparviere exclusive to Manitoba, Banville & Jones is the only retailer in North America selling this wine!

JENNY VANDENDRIESSCHE

STAFF PICK

Pascual Toso 2016 Limited Edition Malbec Mendoza, Argentina ($19.99): Pascual Toso Limited Edition is a delicious Malbec from one of the oldest wineries in Argentina. It reveals aromas of dark berry and smoky spice with accents of vanilla and clove. This is a medium-bodied dry red wine with gentle acidity and firm tannins that pairs well with roasted meats and vegetables. A wonderful choice for Manitoba dinners as fall turns to winter.

SARALYN MEHTA

STAFF PICK

Enrique Mendoza 2017 La Tremenda Macabeo/Moscatel Alicante, Spain ($24.99): My current favourite is great for the deck in the summer with substantial body to hold up to winter meals as well. On the nose, this wine shows hints of apricot, peach, citrus, and pear. The palate is lush and round with notes of melon, stone fruit, and citrus. Its lingering finish will make you want to come back to this memorable wine time and time again.

RICK WATKINS

STAFF PICK

Rizzi 2016 Barbera D’Alba, Italy ($28.99): This is the best Barbera D’Alba I have ever tasted. First produced in 1974, this vintage might be the crowning glory. It is very floral on the nose with hints of violet and rose petals. Black fruits come with some aeration and lead to a delicious palate. In the mouth, there is black raspberry, black cherry, and a taste of citrus orange zest. Drink now through 2021.

GARY HEWITT

STAFF PICK

Hewitson 2015 Baby Bush Mourvèdre Barossa Valley, Australia ($29.99): The 15-year old Baby Bush vineyard is a scion of the oldest Mourvèdre vines in the world, the Old Garden vineyard (planted in 1853), also worked by Hewitson. Young and vibrant with rich, dark berries, dates, and warm earth, Baby Bush is a lovely ribbon of aromas and flavours leading to a persistent, juicy finish. The pedigree is clear.

JOSIE DUTHOIT

STAFF PICK

Cliffhanger 2018 Riesling Mosel, Germany ($18.99): This fun Riesling is created on the steep, sloping vines that lace Germany’s Mosel River by four crazy, passionate winemakers. This white is off-dry on the palate with plush lemon and crunchy apple notes. It is a delightful sipper on its own or excellent with spicy Thai food and flavourful Indian cuisine.