top picks

CUSTOMER PICK: CHRISTA MOTTOLA

Les Vins de Vienne 2016 Crozes-Hermitage Amphore d’Argent Rhône, France $39.99

Syrah is centre stage in this delightful wine made from hand-picked grapes from quarter-century-old vines. The grippy tannins are balanced nicely with refreshing acidity. On the nose and palate, Syrah’s distinctive notes of black pepper are combined with blackberry and plum. Aromas of bacon/smoked meat, clove, and subtle hints of red rooibos tea add intrigue. This spicy, smoky number would go nicely with a juicy brisket, grilled lamb or a cozy evening by the fire.

REBECCA LECHMAN

Domaine de la Vinçonnière 2017 Muscadet Sèvre et Maine Loire Valley, France $14.99

Made from 100% Melon de Bourgogne, the Vinçonnière has zesty notes of citrus. Because it is made “sur lie,” yeast is left in the wine for an extended period allowing it to impart some of its flavour character, texture, and body. Produced in proximity to the sea, Muscadet Sèvre et Maine has a slight saline quality that makes it a classic pairing with shellfish. Next time you’re thinking mussels or oysters, pick up this pocketbookfriendly gem.

JILL KWIATKOSKI

Pinuaga 2018 Bianco Sauvignon Blanc La Mancha, Spain $14.99

One of my favourite refreshing whites from one of my favourite producers! Organically farmed and abiding by their minimal intervention philosophy, Pinuaga brings us this little gem of a Sauvignon Blanc. Full of bright, fresh citrus notes, a hint of honeydew melon, Bosc pear, and yellow flowers, this unique Spanish Sauvignon Blanc is perfect just to sip and also pairs beautifully with appetizers, salads, chicken, fish, and your favourite paella recipe!

SARA MCDONALD

Rabl 2017 Langenlois Grüner Veltliner Kamptal, Austria $19.99

I know what you’re thinking— Grüner Vetliner? What is that? This grape is predominately grown in Austria and produces a fresh, zesty white wine with mouth-watering acidity. Classic tasting notes include lime, grapefruit, and white pepper. Sauvignon Blanc and Riesling lovers take note—this is right up your alley. Try the Rabl Langenlois with your favourite sushi takeout to see just how versatile this grape can be!

SYLVIA JANSEN

Erste + Neue 2017 Kalterersee Classico Superiore, Trentino-Alto Adige, Italy, $19.99 Have you ever tasted a Schiava?

This one is an elegant, light-bodied red from Italy’s far north. Aromatic with red fruit, almond, and floral notes, it glides over the palate with harmonious balance and smooth, low tannins. Serve cool, about 13°C, matched with an informal taco buffet or mixed topping pizzas. Erste + Neue: translated, that’s First and New.

STEVE LAGIMODIERE

Poggio Anima 2017 Belial Sangiovese Tuscany, Italy $16.99

As a fan of Heavy Metal, I was immediately drawn to this label (you can see it on page 19). This little demon is 100% Sangiovese sourced from a single vineyard near Siena. Winemaker Riccardo Campinoti pours just as much passion (or sorcery) into this wine as his Brunellos. Rockin’ ruby, sustained notes of cherries, grace notes of spice balanced with harmonic tannin. Pair with power chords and Marshall stacks.