Wine Region Rentals - Robert's Wine Blog

wines of chile :trade master class hosted by john Szabo, Master Sommelier -Nov 12,2024- one king st,toronto

11/22/2024

I had the privilege to attend this very interesting, informative Master Class hosted by the well known wine critic John Szabo.
The event was followed by Trade Walk Around Tasting -Taste from 120 wines from different regions of Chile and enjoy light food pairings.

Here are a few pictures and notes from this event .

Chile is not presently known for their production of Pinot Noir which currently represents 3% from their overall production.
Chile is determined to increase production and find a suitable market for their Pinot Noir.
Wines of Chile is still researching how should they position their Pinot Noir in the market .
Indications are that they would like to produce quality Pinot Noir at more affordable prices.
Out of the 11 Pinot Noir tasted I would recommend 2 wines matching those goals :

2022 Montes Limited Selection Pinot Noir
Aconcagua Costa
$15.95 Vinages #37937

2021 Luis Felipe Edwards Marea
El Canelo,Leyda Valley
Not on the market -Price in the $25-$30 range

John Szabo hosting -2 hrs

List of 11 Pinot Noir tasted :

1.Miguel Torres Codillera Pinot Noir Extra Brut 2022 100% Pinot Noir, Curico Valley
2.Cono Sur Organic Pinot Noir 2021 100% Pinot Noir (3 vineyards: San Antonio,

Colchagua, BioBio)
3.P|K|N|T Gold Pinot Noir Grand Reserve 2022 100% Pinot Noir, Casablanca
4.Santa Rita Cigar Box Pinot Noir 2021, Leyda Valley
5.Santa Carolina Leyda Pinot Noir 2023 100% Pinot Noir, Leyda

6.Leyda Reserva Pinot Noir 2022 100% Pinot Noir, Leyda
7 .Luis Felipe Edwards Marea Pinot Noir 2021 100% Pinot Noir, Leyda
8.Montes Limited Selection Pinot Noir 2022 100% Pinot Noir, Aconcagua Costa
9.Maycas del Limari (Emiliana) TBA 100% Pinot Noir, Limari
10.MontGras Organic Pinot Noir 2023 100% Pinot Noir, Bio Bi
11.San Pedro Tarapaca TAYU 2021 100% Pinot Noir, Malleco

Recommended Pinot Noir

2022 Montes Limited Selection Pinot Noir
Aconcagua Costa
$15.95 Vinages #37937

Trade Walk Around Tasting
Below you will find a digital copy of the catalogue of wines and theme tables for Drink Chile Toronto 2024.

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1LsLx3Y-DTvdkuPmZmOTs_RSxy7FRZl6D?usp=sharing

Cremaschi Furlotti Gran Reserva Carmenère 2019

9/16/2024

Region: Maule Valley, Chile
Agent :unitedstars.ca
Grapes : Carmenère
Alcohol : 13.5%
Sugar : 3g/l

Year :2019
Price :$19.95
Robert rating : 91

Superb !
Deep purple in colour,full body, blackberry notes, very smooth, long lasting to enjoy it to the last sip. Pair well with meat like beef , lamb, chicken and pasta dishes. I enjoyed at dinner paired with chicken snitzel and potatoes. Excellent value at $20 . Highly recommended!

taste of piedmonte with wine vikings

7/3/2024

  Traditional wines and dishes from Piedmont, Italy with Rob Reader

Where: Parola Ristorante (965 Major Mackenzie Dr W Unit C 1-2, Maple, ON L6A 4P8)
When : June 27, 2024 ; 6:30 pm – 9:30 pm
Grapes: Glera, Cortese, Moscato, Nebbiolo, Barbera
Format: FIVE (5) Courses.

I had the pleasure to attend this event last week. One of my places to visit on my bucket list was Piedmonte, Italy. When I've got the invitation from Vladimir, the owner of Unitedstars   I jumped right away to the occasion to attend this unique event. Vladimir introduced Rob Reader as our Wine Educator and Host for the night. Rob proved to be extremely knowledgeable about Piedmonte wines and pairing them with traditional Piedmonte food. My favourite dish was Second course trout fillet paired with Cortese Alto Monferrato Proposta 2022 .
It was an unforgettable evening of wine education with food pairing , excellent wines paired with high quality dishes ! This was the second seating and others might follow. Stay tuned for future similar events

Guests were seated family-style at large tables,

Each wine and dish was introduced to the guests by Rob, course by course. Rob explained the
cultural origins of the dish/ingredients, the wine pairing, and its association to the dish, and any
interesting techniques or grape varieties which are important to the pairing.
The kitchen and service staff brought each guest a 3 oz. sample of the wine and the dish for that
course.
Guests enjoyed and discussed the dish and the pairing. This process was repeated for each course.

Pricing (suggested) - $250 per COUPLE $130 per single, pre-paid, ticketed event. Planned seating.

Tel: 416-767-8639 ; www.unitedstars.ca ; e-mail:[email protected]

MENU

First course :Antipasti

Speck, quail egg with white anchovy, caviar with bread and butter, Grana Padano

Paire with: Prosecco Mille Extra 2022, The Gruppo I Vinai, Veneto, Italy

Second curse :Pesce

Tortelli Piemonte's (Pan-seared trout fillet with sauteed vegetables, fresh herbs, pine nuts, garlic, and white balsamic vinegar)

Paire with: Cortese Alto Monferrato Proposta 2022, Azienda Vitivinicola Berta Paolo, Piedmont, Italy

Fourth course wine pairing

Fourth Course: Manzo

Brasato al Barbera (Tender beef cheek braised in a rich gravy of Barbera wine, beef stock, garlic, cipollini
onions, button mushrooms, and shaved truffle on whipped potatoes)

Paired with: La Berta, Nizza DOCG 2017, Azienda Vitivinicola Berta Paolo, Piedmont, Italy

Third Course: Risotto

Risotto all 'NERO con Fontina (BLACK risotto with Fontina cheese and crisp guanciale)

Paire with: Gattinara Riserva DOCG 2017, Anzivino Di Anzivino Emanuele, Piedmont, Italy

Fifth Course: Dolce

Cheese cake

Paired with: Leonardo 20 yr tawny Port, Douro, Portugal or Moscato D’Asti 2020, Bera Azien

chateaux du grand Barrrail blaye cotes de bordeaux

5/24/2024

Region: Bordeaux ,France
Agent :unitedstars.ca
Grapes : 70% Merlot,30% Malbec
Alcohol : 13.3%
Sugar : 2g/l

Year :2021
Price :$28.95
Robert rating : 89

Good kosher Bordeaux Red wine

This wine is deep red colour in the glass, very pleasant nose , driving great desire to explore and enjoy this kosher organic red wine from the famous Chateau du Grand Barrail Bordeaux. Easy to drink, smooth, with a bit too much oak to my taste when you open it. Food pairing with veal, lamb and aged cheeses recommended. Recommended for Passover and for many other occasions .

ALAZANIS VALLEY off Dry RED WINE

5/1/2024

Region: Georgia
Agent :unitedstars.ca
Grapes : Saperavi
Alcohol :11.5%
Sugar : Semi-sweet

Year :2022
Price :$ 17
Robert rating : 89

Good semi-sweet wine

This medium bodied Georgian wine is semi-sweet , dark red colour in the glass , easy to drink. I have enjoyed it with a sweet & sour green beans meal. Also as a dessert wine is very good with dark chocolate. I recommend it

chardonnay villa blanche 2022

4/23/2024

Region: South of France
Agent :unitedstars.ca
Grapes : Chardonnay
Alcohol :13.5%
Sugar : Extra Dry

Year :2022
Price :$15.95 (on sale now at LCBO)

Robert rating : 90

Excellent wine
This wine was recommended by a friend and I am happy that I got it. This Chardonnay from South of France is one of the best I had. The light yellow gold colour in the glass and the beautiful fruity aroma , the burst of various fruits taste is a pleasure to drink. The wine has medium body, extra dry well balanced finish and length. Recommended

mukuzani red wine georgia

3/6/2024

Mukuzani Red Wine Georgia

Region: Georgia
Agent :unitedstars.ca
Grapes : Saperavi
Alcohol:13 %
Sugar : Dry
Year :2021

Price: $20

Robert Rating : 91

This is an amazing wine at a good price. Intense red colour in the glass , berry and blackberry impressive nose , smooth, easy to drink , long lasting, imense pleasure to drink alone or with friends .Best match steak , lamb ,tabaka chicken .Highly recommended .Buy one or two cases

muscat regala -moldova -wines from vulcanesti

2/27/2024

Wines of Vulcanesti

Muscat Regala
Region: Moldova
Agent :unitedstars.ca
Grapes : Muscat Blanc 85%,
Feteasca Regala 15%
Alcohol:12.5 %
Sugar : Semi-sweet
Year :2020

Price: $15

Robert Rating : 88

This is a beautiful crafted wine from Moldova at an incredible price. Light yellow/gold colour in the glass, fruity ,citrus with a dominant grapefruit and lemon nose, fresh and long lasting taste. It is perfect as an aperitif and delightful with desserts and fruits.
Serve at 12C
Drink now
Buy a case or two to drink with friends

cricova prestige red wine tasting notes

2/16/2024

Cricova Prestige
Codru
2019
Red wine
Price :$30

Alc.14 %
Sugar :Dry
Aged :18 months in oak barrels
Agent : United Stars www.unitedstars.ca

Robert Rating: 90

Blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot from Moldovian Cricova Winery,nicely balanced ,mid body, low acidity and tannins.
Dark ruby colour in the glass ,superb nose of blackberry,plum.It opens right away after you pour in the glass. Taste is complimented by a touch of oak to supplement this beautiful wine.Easy to drink,Bordeaux style wine at a more affordable price.

Pairing with red meat, steak and roasted celery

Serving temperature 15-18C
Drink now or later
Buy a case or two

2021 sauvignon blanc de purcari tasting notes

2/15/2024

Purcari Chateau (Moldova)
White Wine
2021

Price :$25
Alc.13.5%
Sugar :Dry-below 5g/l residual
Agent : United Stars www.unitedstars.ca

Robert Rating: 88

Nice crispi on the nose ,bright golden colour in the glass, fruity,citrusy with lemon accents,fresh,lighter body, balanced acidity,long lasting taste.
Pair excellent with baked chicken prepared with garlic, onion and white wine.
Cheese pairing : Goat's cheese
Drink now
Buy a case

freedom blend 2020 tasting notes

2/14/2024

Freedom Blend 2020

Tribute Edition to Ukraine
Purcari (Moldova)

Price :$40
Alc.13.5%
Sugar :Dry
Aged :6 months in French oak barrique
Agent : United Stars www.unitedstars.ca

Robert Rating: 92

This red wine is a manifesto celebrating the free spirit from the famous winery Chateau Purcari of Moldova ,dedicated to people of Ukraine ,fighting the Russian aggression.

it is smooth and well-rounded red wine,it is a nice blend of three indigenous grapes varieties , 65%Saperavi (Georgia), 20% Rara Neagra (Moldova) and 15% Bastardo (Ukraine)

Intense red colour in the glass,medium to full body,low acidity,medium tannins,nuances of plum,smoky tabbaco,long lasting,opens up to the nose after 15 minutes in the glass,touch of oak to ad to the enjoyment.

Drink now or store it for later.
Pairing is perfect with red meat, ryb-eye meat and pork steak.dessert with black chocolate

Recommended to buy a case or two

DRINK CHILE 2023 -Toronto,monday november 20,windsor arms hotel

11/21/2023

I have attended the Drink Chile 2023 Trade Walk Around tasting on Monday November 20 at Windsor Arms Hotel in Toronto ,as part of annual chilean Wine Festival. The Annual celebration of Chilean wines returns to Toronto for 2023 !
According to Wine of Chiles brochure from the event Chile continues its ambition to be the number one producer of Certified Sustainable wines from New World. The province of Ontario remains Canada's largest market for Chilean wine

The following is a summary of my notes and photo's from this event :

1. A live walk around trade tasting with more than 120 wines from 17 wineries to taste
2.A feature table from LCBO's Cellar Collection
3.Audio Tours and tastings every 15 minutes for a quick overview of Chile's wine reguons and wine styles

At the time of my visit 2:00 to 3:00 p.m the tasting hall was packed to capacity and was extremely noisy. (see attached photos ).The light food pairings were gone in the first 30 minutes or so to my surprise.

The two highlited wines below avaialble for purchase at LCBO were my preferred wines :

2021 1865 Cabernet Sauvignon
Maipo Valley
$19.95

2020 SANTA CAROLINA RESERVA DE FAMILIA
Cabernet Sauvignon
Maipo
$19.95

Tasting with Natalie MacLean

5/18/2023

I have joined wine writer Natalie MacLean for a tasting of her favourite 5 Peller Estates Wines last Saturday May 13,2023 at Peller Estates Wines . As promised We have also got a behind-the-scenes look into the glamourous, but surprising world of wine and those who write about it. In her newest book Wine Witch on Fire , Natalie shares the career and life challenges that forced her to dig deeper and reconnect with her belief in second chances.
We also got a personally signed copy of her book. You can get the book from any of these retailers: https://www.nataliemaclean.com/blog/retailers-2/
The wines were reviewed by both Natalie and Peller Estates winemaker Katie. It was a great selection but I enjoyed the Cabernet Frank and the Ice wine which both are excellent.

PINOT GRIGIO AND LAVINIA'S ART series

8/2/2022

You need to put a lot of work , talent and passion to produce a great wine. You can say same that you have to have talent ,imagination ,passion to produce great paintings like the one created with infinite imagination by Lavinia. And even better You can enjoy now two free bottles and change of racy Pinot Grigio Mari Di Sirena Pinot Grigio D'Abruzzo, Italy reviewed by Carolyn Evans Hammond below ,when you buy this unique one of a kind ink & pen on paper 6"x8" art work by Lavinia. A $25 LCBO Digital eCard card will be e-mailed to the buyer after the purchase of the art work.

Just dropped a new ep of The Wine Find Talks featuring a racy Pinot Grigio with a mermaid on the label. This inexpensive white with the kitschy label works well with any dish that calls for a bright squeeze of lemon.https://t.co/EDPQhevoMG
— Carolyn Evans Hammond (@thewinefind) August 1, 2022

Pinot Grigio Art Series by Lavinia

Pinot Grigio Art Series by Lavinia ink and pen on paper 6"x8" unframed

A $25 LCBO Digital eCard will be emailed to the buyer after the purchase

Mare Di Sirena Pinot Grigio
4.7 out of 5 stars. Read reviews for Average rating value is 4.7 of 5. Read 6 Reviews Same page link.4.7
$8.90
LCBO#:20054

california wine club valentine's day amazing deals

2/8/2022

Per Wikipedia,California Wine Club is a wine club co-founded in 1990 by Bruce and Pam Boring in Ventura, California and is considered one of the largest mail-order wine businesses in the United States.The club offers hand-selected wines on a monthly basis from boutique and small, family-owned wineries in California, Oregon and Washington State, and other countries such as France, Italy, and Austria.

I recently joined California Wine Club affiliate program, to help promote artisan wineries small-batch wines with wine lovers in United States and wine enthusiasts everywhere.

I have discovered that being a part of The California Wine Club is a true wine adventure!
There is a wine club level for every taste, and every budget. Whether for yourself or as a gift the wine club is unmatched for quality wine and impeccable service.

California Wine Club has some amazing deals for Galentine's and/or Valentine's Day to celebrate with your girlfriends or a cozy dinner with your loved one.

Amazing Valentine's Day Gifts :

1. A 3 Bottle Gift Set! Each gift set includes three unique bottles of handcrafted wine. These one-time shipments include a custom gift message from you, plus detailed tasting notes and pairing recommendations.

2. A Premier Series Wine Club membership for yourself and get two bonus bottles of wine in your first delivery with code WINEBONUS. (Does not apply to gifts, case purchases, nor to other wine series.)

3.YES10- Save 10% sitewide with code YES10. Not valid on Case Club, cases during $1 shipping sales, or on discounted skus.

4. $1 wine shipping

I hope that you all my friends will cheer Galentine/Valentine's Day with amazing wines from
California Wine Club !

Cheers !

pairing wine with Lavinia Szasz amazing art Blog Series

1/20/2022

Introduction

I am starting a new series of Blogs about pairing wines with amazing art of my wife Lavinia Szasz instagram @lavinia_szasz. Every time I will open a wine for dinner or I will taste a wine I will pair with one of her creations. You need to put a lot of work , talent and passion to produce a great wine. You can say same that you have to have talent ,imagination ,passion to produce great paintings.
I am also an Affiliate with California Wine Club who are art lovers and offer a great selection of wines you can pair with works of Lavinia Szasz instagram @lavinia_szasz or other artists. The California Wine Club is ready for Valentine's Day with some amazing deals for any evening- hanging with your girlfriends celebrating Valentine's Day or a cozy dinner with your love! Their personal wine consultants are ready to help you and your readers with favorite pairings to make sure the holiday is celebrated in style. You can inquire about Lavinia's art on instagram @lavinia_szasz or email [email protected]

Lavinia Szasz
Artist
Toronto based Artist. Exclusive original artwork available for purchase. All artwork is copyright. For inquires please contact [email protected]

5 wine&food Pairing mistakes that can ruin your dinner by natalie maclean

12/14/2021

I attended Monday December 13,2021 at 7:30 p.m a free on line one hour course of Wine & Food Pairing with above Title presented by Award Winning Canadian Writer and Wine Critic Natalie MacLean. www.nataliemaclean.com

I was going to learn how to:
* Fix the 5 pairing mistakes that many people make
* Create mouth-watering, moan-worthy pairings I will love
* Understand WHY we like certain wines and pairings and not others
* Become the expert on YOUR OWN

After I got the invitation I was on a fence for awhile either to attend or not. The last chance to register marketing email I received was saying that even if I learn ONE tip only will be worth it. Indeed there is ONE tip I learned which I did not know before attending this one hour course.
Here it is :
Pair the wine with the sauce and not the protein

However I got in total 12 tips which you can get them and much more if you ENROLL NOW
to Natalie MacLean Wine Smart Course
A Full-Bodied Framework to Taste, Pair & Buy Wine Like a Pro

The Wine Smart Course is your online experience to make you the go-to person on wine among your colleagues, friends and family!

About Natalie MacLean
Natalie's first book Red, White and Drunk All Over: A Wine-Soaked Journey from Grape to Glass and her second book Unquenchable: A Tipsy Quest for the World's Best Bargain Wines were both selected as one of Amazon's Best Books of the Year. She is the wine expert on CTV's The Social, Canada's largest daytime television show; CTV News; and Global Television's Morning Show.
Natalie was named the World's Best Drinks Writer at the World Food Media Awards and has won four James Beard Foundation Journalism Awards. She is the only person to have won both the M.F.K. Fisher Distinguished Writing Award from the James Beard Foundation and the M.F.K. Fisher Award for Excellence in Culinary Writing from Les Dames d'Escoffier International. Natalie is the editor of Canada's largest wine review site at www.nataliemaclean.com

Holiday Hosting with Natalie MacLean

12/6/2021

An Exclusive Online Tasting Experience with the World's Best Drinks Writer, Natalie MacLean

.HereAbout this event
Ace Your Holiday Hosting!

I have attended virtual a very entertaining and informative evening with Canadian Wine Writer Natalie Maclean, on Thursday December 10,2021 at 7:00 p.m EST
• Natalie has get us ready for holiday entertaining: how to pair wines with turkey dinner and all the side dishes as well as gingerbread and chocolate Santas
• Discover how to plan the wines for larger gatherings and parties: how much to buy, what mix of wine types, proper glassware, temperatures and decanting tips
• How to choose great gift wines, even when you don't know the recipient's taste

Featured Collection:

Peller Estates Private Reserve Sauvignon Blanc 2020
Wayne Gretzky Whisky Oak Aged Red 2019
Trius Red 2019
Thirty Bench Effervescent Riesling 2018
Peller Estates Vidal Icewine 2018 - 50mL

I am planning to buy and review in the next post Wayne Gretzky Whisky
Oak Aged Red 2019. Here is Natalie MacLean's review :

Wayne Gretzky Whisky Oak Aged Red 2019

• VQA Niagara Peninsula • Blend: Cabernet Franc (44%), Merlot (42%), Cabernet Sauvignon (14%)
• Grapes aged separately for six months in French and American barrels, then blended, 75% aged another two months, 25% aged one month in red cask whisky barrels

Taste Profile
• Full-bodied, smooth, generous
• Aromas of black cherry, spice, vanilla, cassis
• Serve at 17 to 18 degrees Celsius in red wine glass
• Drink until 2025

Pairing Tips
• Spicy chips, nuts, hard cheeses, dark chocolate
• Grilled steak, leg of lamb, pot roast, walnut bread
• Turkey dark meat, stuffing, bacon Brussels Sprouts

About Natalie MacLean
Natalie's first book Red, White and Drunk All Over: A Wine-Soaked Journey from Grape to Glass and her second book Unquenchable: A Tipsy Quest for the World's Best Bargain Wines were both selected as one of Amazon's Best Books of the Year. She is the wine expert on CTV's The Social, Canada's largest daytime television show; CTV News; and Global Television's Morning Show.
Natalie was named the World's Best Drinks Writer at the World Food Media Awards and has won four James Beard Foundation Journalism Awards. She is the only person to have won both the M.F.K. Fisher Distinguished Writing Award from the James Beard Foundation and the M.F.K. Fisher Award for Excellence in Culinary Writing from Les Dames d'Escoffier International. Natalie is the editor of Canada's largest wine review site at www.nataliemaclean.com

Great Wine Adventures

1/9/2018

This guest post is by Lysa Allman-Baldwin, a seasoned travel writer and the Publisher and Editor of
Authenticity&Purpose

From Maine to California, Washington State to Florida, and almost everywhere in between, while traversing along many of the country’s major highways and petite country roads you can find wonderful vineyards, wineries, wine trails (and wine related events) nearly year-round.
So whether you are a true wine aficionado, choose your wines based on how pretty the bottle looks, or fall somewhere in between, anyone can get out and enjoy tasting and learning about wines.

Here are a few places to get you started.

The New York “Vines”

You may not realize this, but New York State is one of the country’s oldest commercial wine regions, and is said to produce the greatest diversity of wine from any one wine region in the world.

Statewide you will find close to 150 wonderful, flavorful and historic wineries, with vines originating from the French, Dutch and English who brought them from Europe when they settled here several hundred years ago.

Consider doing a little wine exploration through Long Island, where wineries can be found in The Hamptons as well as in Northeast and Southeast Suffolk. In the Hudson River Valley, some 500 acres of vineyards blanket both the west and east sides of the Hudson River.

The New York Wine & Grape Foundation, www.newyorkwines.org
Long Island Wine Council, 631.369.5887, www.liwines.com
New York Wine Cork, 877.302.WINE, 518.632.9260, www.nywinecork.com

Wines in the Heartland

Blessed by fertile ground and a long growing season, winemakers have successfully produced exceptional grapes and nationally and internationally recognized wines in the state of Missouri for over 150 years. In fact, by 1870 Missouri was the second-largest wine-producing state in the country, and legend has it that at one time “American wine” usually meant Missouri wine

Today there are more than 40 wineries dotted around the state, many situated closely together which allows for exploration of several different styles and varieties within the same day. One of the more well-known winery areas is known as the Missouri Weinstrasse. German for “Wine Road,” the Weinstrasse is a tribute to the German immigrants from the Rhine River Valley. Stretching from St. Charles to Hermann (about midway between Kansas City and St. Louis), this two-lane road encompasses numerous wineries and is a wonderful way to spend a weekend

Missouri Weinstrasse, www.moweinstrasse.com
Missouri Winemaking Society, www.mowinemakers.org
Wonderful Wines of Missouri, 800.392.WINE, www.missouriwine.org

California Wine Country

About an hour and a half north of San Francisco is Sonoma County, world-renown for its thriving vineyards that consistently produce quality award-winning wines and Northern California’s first wine producing region. Excellent wineries dot the area, each completely different from the next and offering a divergent experiences and exposures to the many facets of wine and winemaking.

Some of the biggest names and oldest wineries can be found in the Alexander Valley and Russian River Valley regions, which encompass literally thousands of vineyard acreage, and hundreds of grape varieties.

Wine Zone, www.winezone.com
Sonoma County Wineries Association, 707.586.3795, www.sonomawine.com

Texas Hill Country

Most people don’t know that the Texas Hill Country is one of the fastest-growing wine destinations in the country, encompassing three viticulture areas with 14 wineries located in and around the city and county, and offering numerous self-guided and guided wine tours and events year-round.

One way to explore them is along Wine Road 290 Fredericksburg, a 45 mile stretch of US Highway 290 and “the second most visited wine region in the United States second only to Napa Valley according to Orbitz Travel,” or, check out Texas Hill Country Wineries with more than 35 unique and visually stunning wineries throughout the Hill Country and a little further afield.

Texas Hill Country Wineries, 872.216.9463, www.texaswinetrail.com
Wine Road 290 Fredericksburg, 872.216.9463, www.wineroad290.com.

Get to Sippin!
Touring a winery and the grounds is as much a part of the wine tasting experience as tasting the wine itself. But no matter where you travel, be sure to stop and smell the grapes and enjoy all that wine tasting has to offer.

About the Author
Lysa Allman-Baldwin is the Publisher and Editor of Authenticity&Purpose.For over 25 years she has fed her wanderlust for "everything the world has to offer" by passionately writing feature articles and reviews covering a wide variety of topics including travel and tourism, cuisine/restaurants, events and festivals, just to name a few, for numerous print and online publications.She speaks,facilitates workshops and have authored a new book

INNOVATION: 'The New Chile'

11/9/2017

Trade seminar - Toronto -ROM -November 7,2017

Seminar Host, Patricio Tapia, Wine Writer & Author of Descorchados

The objective of the seminar was to present the new generation of Chilean winemakers who are creating innovative wines using new methods and blends. Tasted a selection of ten (10) new wine styles selected by Patricio Tapia and learned why Chile should occupy a top spot in the commercial cellar.

"Regionality is the key to Chile's stylistic development, and winemakers are striving to reflect the different terroirs that the country can offer,especially in the cooler coastal areas and those in the Andeam foothills " - said
Mario Pablo Silva ,President, Vinos de Chile

Here are a few of my notes and recommendations about the wines tasted :

The host provided a good overview of the history of wines in Chile which started about 450 years ago, the grape varietal , the terroir,the appellations. The wine selection for tasting allowed to learn and understand the potential of Chilean wines as top producers in the world.

White wines

1. Winery -Emiliana from Casablanca valley
2016 Signos de origen la vanilla
72% Chardonnay 12% Viognier, 10%Marsanne,6% Roussane
Dry,fruity,white peaches, fresh

2. Winery -Carmen from Colchagua
2016 do quijada #1 Semillon
95% Semillon, 5% Sauvignon Blanc
Creamy,fresh,nice on palate

Red wines

1.Winery -Santa Rita from Maipo
2012 Bougainville
90% Petit Syrah,10% Syrah Can $54.95
Concentrated, ripe ,full body, excellent wine

2.Winery -Errazuriz from Aconcagua Costa
2016 Las Pizaras Pinot Noir Can $129.99
Very limited quantity -Not available in Canada
Nice Pinot Noir but pricy

3. Winery -Santa Carolina
2012 Luis Perera
90% Cabernet Sauvignon,55 Cabernet Franc,2% other
Easy to drink,light,gentle ,delicate

Guided winery Tour at domaines schlumberger alsace, france

10/16/2017

Visited Domaines Schlumberger in Guebwiller, Alsace ,France on September 20,2017 during my Alsace Wine Route tour to find the best wine tours to recommend to my followers and list on Wine Region Rentals website. We pre-booked the guided tour with Esther Lelievre who also conducted the 2 hours tour.
We were Welcomed by Severine Schlumberger ,one of estate owners and Esther Lelievre our knowledgeable tour guide.
The entire experience from contacting Esther, arranging the tour and taking the tour was excellent !
The tour was conducted highly professional, very informative , educational and tasty.
It consists of general presentation of the over 200 years history , passion of their family estate , the entire process of wine making from growing the grapes in the vineyards to bottling , shipping and ending with a lovely wine tasting.

Domaines Schlumberger is one of the largest Producers in Alsace with 120 hectares of vineyards with 50% of its area planted with Grands Crus. The winery is going through a major renovation/expansion of the Reception and Tasting Room scheduled for completion in 2018.

If you follow the pictures, you will see the grapes pressing tanks, the grape juice fermentation with yeast in 120 temperature controlled barrels (you see also the picture of the biggest barrel that can hold 17,500 litres) when they allow all the sediments to go to the bottom of the barrel, then the wine is collected and transferred in the stainless steel vats, followed by automated bottling, then stored until orders when the bottles are getting labeled and shipped

Now to my favourite part : We tasted 7 wines from different grapes Riesling , Pinot Gris ,Muscat ,Gewurtztraminer from Princess Abes and Grand Crus range. Although I enjoyed most of the wine tasted my favourite was the Pinot Gris Grand Cru Spiegel well balanced,fruity ,fresh not to sweet,not too dry with a finish with beautiful length.I bought couple of bottles to enjoy them when I am back home in Toronto.
Want to visit the beautiful Domaines Schlumberger ?
Domaines Schlumberger kindly ask you to book your tour with Esther Lelievre by phone 03 89 74 27 00 or their contact form you can find at this link

Recommended place to stay

During our Alsace Wine Route trip we stayed at La Maison d'Emilie in Pfaffenheim ,a charming bed and breakfast in an authentic village house from 17th century. The B&B location is about 20 minutes easy drive to Domain Schlumberger.

Union Forté 2012 - an amazing value port-like fortified wine at lcbo

11/30/2016

The FORTÉ is now available in LCBO stores
$17.95 VINTAGES#: 361758 | 500 mL bottle

Background

Union is the brainchild of Canadian winemaking legend Dr. Allan Jackson and sommelier Andrew von Teichman.

Port-style fortified 100% VQA certified from amazing Ontario premium grown grapes

It is a perfect blend of Merlot,Cabernet and a hint of Shiraz fortified with 18%alc./vol ,aged in oak barrels for 3 years

Tasting notes

Dark purple, oak character ,sweet in the palate 104g/L but not too sweet for a dessert wine, smooth, pleasant blackberry and cherry aroma on the nose,medium length.It has nice complexity with a balance of fruits/alcohol/tannins and acid.

I have tasted last night November 29,2016 with :

Dark chocolate - perfect on the palate, like sipping black cherries wine
Alexis de Portneuf-Brie De Saint-Raymond Double creme - the FORTÉ is smooth, blending well, excellent Brie cheese complement
Dessert wine - Great for sipping after dinner .Same amazing taste as described in Tasting notes

Recommendation

Grab a bottle or two for Holidays before they disappear from the shelfs ! At this price is an amazing value dessert wine !

An Afternoon Tasting at Peller Wine Estates

4/18/2016

Written by Amanda Mejia

Peller Wine Estates

This weekend was the perfect weather to enjoy Niagara-on-the-Lake. During our adventure to the Niagara Food & Wine Expo 2016, we stopped by the much buzzed about Peller Wine Estates . Upon arrival, the majestic entrance alone affirms the fact that this is somewhere you want to be. Driving down further reveals an elegant building with a cream hue that compliments the sun perfectly. After entering the building, we are guided to the tasting room bustling with friends and families laughing and exchanging stories with their personal Tasting Attendant.

Now for my favourite part: tasting of the wine! Our Tasting Attendant recommends the
Ice Cuvée Rosé, a sparkling wine that is unique because 100ml of Vidal Icewine is added to it, enhancing the delicious wild raspberry and cherry notes. Our Tasting Attendant tells us that Sparkling Wine is often called Champagne however, the word Champagne is only allotted to Sparkling Wines created in the region of Champagne, France. Nonetheless, this one is a winner!

A few more excellent wines were savoured but of notable mention is the
_Cabernet Franc Icewine _.Peller Wines is no stranger to awards and accolades in Icewine production.

Peller Wine Tasting Attendant

Showdown: The Vidal Icewine vs the Cabernet Franc Icewine

Although the Vidal Icewine was a sweet citrus delight, the Cabernet Franc Icewine had me wanting more and more. With a burst of red berry and rhubarb flavours, this was a clear winner for me. Now all I needed was the perfect dessert pairing: dark chocolate.

Want to visit the beautiful Peller Estates? Contact us now for a customized Niagara-on-the-Lake wine tour.

Traveling to Peru: A Majestic Adventure

3/21/2016

Written by Amanda Mejia

Travel Peru and savour the delicious seafood dishes and explore majestic cities when you embark on this tour of a lifetime. Thinking of booking your flight but still need convincing? Take a look at our personal account of traveling the historical land of Peru.

Our journey has brought us to the beautiful Peru. Peru can be described in one word: mystical. Ask anyone who visits; there is an energy that emulates out of the ground and walls. In fact, stories float around about people who have experience some eerie things. The battery of phones, cameras and laptops of everyone in our group would drain suddenly in certain areas. It is said that this is a result of a lot of magnetic activity under the ground in Peru. This 8-day tour of Peru is an excellent adventure that will have you experiencing new dishes, enjoying views like no other, and exploring ancient civilizations.
Top 3 Things to Do in Peru:

Visit the Nazca Lines. Remember when I said this land is eerie? Well, here is a great example. These are lines in the earth that create unusual shapes and creatures. These lines have an interesting history and are said to be created by the Incas, however many legends exist about their origin. As of today, they remain intact.
Explore Cuzco, Peru. Take some time to get to know the city of Cuzco. Be sure to shop the markets and bring home authentic, handmade alpaca scarfs. Added bonus? At night, the local kids gather to play volleyball. Join a game but beware, they are really good!
Visit the Chinchero District. Known as the Sacred Valley of the Incas, this place gives you a sense of calm and serenity. It is as surreal as Machu Picchu (which is another must!) It is not crowded with tourist and it features a breathtaking view of enormous mountains. All things come together to make this a truly inspiring day trip.

3 Things You Must Eat in Peru:

Ceviche. This is a classic dish in many South American cultures but it is well known that Peru makes it the best. (I'm Colombian so don't tell anyone I said that!) It is a shrimp & fish cocktail made with lime and spices. It's a personal fav!
Arroz Con Mariscos. More seafood! Rice and shrimp cooked to perfection.
Pisco Sour. Pair this with every meal, but don't ask what's in it. Just know it's delicious. During this 8-day tour you’ll have the opportunity to visit the town of Pisco, tour a pisco factory, and sample the unique flavour of the famous Pisco sour.

Traveling to Spain: An Unforgettable Adventure.

3/21/2016

Written by Amanda Mejia

Travel Spain and savour the delicious food and wine the land has to offer when you embark on this tour of a lifetime. Thinking of booking your flight but still need convincing? Take a look at our personal account of traveling the breathtaking land of Spain.

I have had the opportunity to travel to a few countries but I have yet to love a country as much as I loved Spain. If I had the chance, I would go back over and over again. Over the course of one week, I visited Madrid and Barcelona. Here's why Spain is so epic:

3 Things To Do in Barcelona, Spain.

1. Take a Train to Sitges.

This city is a few kilometers from
Barcelona and is accessible by a short (and cheap!) train ride. I suggest staying the night if you can as it has a great nightlife. If you cannot stay the night, the beaches during the day are enough to leave you in awe; white sandy beaches with clear blue waves. For dinner, walk the small strip of restaurants and choose one of the charming restaurants. TIP: If they bring you olives, they will charge you 4 Euros for it. Politely say no if you do not what to pay this. If you stay the night, TRY THIS: buy fresh bread and salami for breakfast and spend the morning sitting on the rocks and enjoying the view as the waves crash around you. I did this with my significant other and it is, till this day, my favourite moment. Ever.

2. Visit Park Güell. Also known as the Gaudi Gardens, this is a MUST DO in Barcelona. Imagine you could step into the whimsical world of Alice and Wonderland. How cool would that be? Well, imagine no more because this park is just as trippy. The park is a piece of art filled with funky shapes and colours. It's worth it!

3. Wine & Olive Tastings. Spain is home to some of the finest wines. This 6 Day tour will have you sipping award-winning wines, tasting locally-produced olive oil, and travelling 13th century villages!

The City of Sitges, near Barcelona.
Source:

Park Guell in Barcelona, Spain.
Source:

Paella!
Source: Amanda Mejia

3 Things to Eat in Spain:

Paella! If you haven’t heard of this dish you must be living under a clam shell (get it!) Paella is a famous Spaniard dish consisting of shrimp, calamari, mussels and rice. It is cooked in a delicious broth and a few spices so the rice is left a little wet.
Sangria. I know I don’t have to remind you to taste as many versions of Sangria as you can! For those who don’t know, Sangria is a wine cocktail that adds juices and a variety of fruit to create a cup of delightfulness. There are so many delicious versions of Sangria, so experiment.
Tapas. This is staple in Spain and has been popularized around the world. Tapas are not one specific dish but rather a concept. Ever been to a restaurant and said, “I want to try everything!” Well, tapas are your answer to that. It is an experience where you order many different dishes and they come in sample sizes so you get to taste and array of gourmet flavours.

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