July 23rd , 2011 Vintages release.
From the desk of Allan Martineau, Sommelier, ottawasommelier@gmail.com
One of my newsletter followers suggested, and rightfully so that my tastes are not always reflected in his tastes. He further suggested that when a wine is rated by a known critic that it might be nice to see the name and rating. I agree and will endeavor to do so. This way you can all begin to find a critic you like. Ex: Robert Parker wines are usually scored high when they are HUGE, bold and VERY fruit forward. If that’s what you like then follow RP recommendations
| REDS | |
 | Tedeschi ‘Capitel San Rocco’ Ripasso Valpolicella Superiore 2008
(719294) $18.95 Ripasso is a technique used in the Valpolicella region of northern Italy. Made typically from the Corvina Veronese, Rondinella, and Molinara grapes. Ripasso is a form of Valpolicella Superiore made with partially dried grape skins that have been left over from fermentation of Amarone or recioto .This wine of the month is a dry medium-bodied blend with aromas of red fruit, spice, herbs and earth. Crisp, fresh texture and fine tannin with ripe, sweet, red fruit—cherry, raspberry and cranberry on the palate. The attractive earthy, spicy notes replay on the long refreshing finish. This is a wine that can be enjoyed on its own or with tomato-based pasta dishes. RP scores this a 90 |
 | Sampietrana ‘Tacco Barocco’ Primitivo 2008
IGT Salento $14.95 (214692) Primitivo is italy’s Zin and this one is flavour packed and value laden. Aromas of kitchen spice, cured tobacco leaf and cherry coupled tangy juicy waves of nicely balanced flavour of berries. It’s medium-full bodied with good mouth feel and a lingering aftertaste.should be excellent with BBQ’d burgers or sausages |
 | THATCHED HUT PINOT NOIR 2010 Central Otago, South Island 242933 $17.95 Central Otago is the most southerly wine region on our little planet and the region produces some of my favorite pinot Noirs. Although I have not tasted this particular wine I will be buying it based solely on the region’s reputation and the incredible price. Medium ruby colour. Aromas are typical for the region: sour cherry, pomegranate, wet earth, plum, plus a hint of prune. Dry, flavourful and fruity with good tannins and pleasant acidity. (VINTAGES panel, June 2011) |
| WHITES | |
 | Vinea Garganega 2009
IGT Veronese $12.95 (230656)
For this low price it’s time to try something completely different; although Italy’s 6th most planted grape, we see few here as a single varietal even though it’s Soave’s major grape. Aromas of spice, floral and citrus pour from this value-packed gem. It has medium weight with generous mouth feel sporting a gusher of flavours apricot, peach and pear mingling with good citrus acidity. A great summer wine best served ice cold on a hot day with a plate of antipasto or with fish. |
 | TERREDORA LOGGIA DELLA SERRA GRECO DI TUFO 2009 DOCG 983197 $17.95 The 2009 is a vivid, multi-dimensional wine laced with white peaches, minerals, flowers and mint, aromas which are replayed in the mouth with a long, creamy finish. Serve this with grilled or BBQ’d white fish. Score: 91 (Antonio Galloni, erobertparker.com, June 2010) |
 | TENUTA S. ANNA EXTRA DRY PROSECCO DOP (Genagricola) 169128 $15.95 If you haven’t tried a prosecco bubbly then I can only ask one question. WHY NOT. I promise you all you will fall in love with this Italian gem. This wine from Italy is better than most proseccos, with a core of almost-sweet red apple, orange-juice and lemon flavours. Serve it as an aperitif or with cool appetizers. Anyone who has dined at Chez Martineau knows that we often have this before dinner but SHhhhhhh don’t tell anyone about this gem it’s our little secret ok? (Beppi Crosariol, The Globe and Mail, June 27, 2010) |
