The holidays are fast approaching and with it, are festive parties, family gatherings, and cozy nights by the fire. Dandurand Wine & Spirits has a diverse portfolio of wines and spirits sure to impress for all merry occasions.
1865 Cabernet Sauvignon 2020: Established in 1865, each bottle of this aptly named winery captures over 150 years of winemaking experience, demonstrating the evolution and potential of Chilean viticulture. A true tribute to its birthplace, this classic focuses on the fruits of the Maipo valley. A vibrant red, present with structure and intensity, combines accents of black currant and plum with vegetal, spicy, and woody notes. Available in Ontario, Quebec, and online for ~$20.80.
CARMENERE – SAN PEDRO 1865 SINGLE VINEYARD MAULE 2020
$25.99 available at BC Liquor Stores
From Chile’s finest terroir comes this Cabernet Sauvignon full of complex quality. The grapes are grown in poor, gravel soils at the foothills of the Andes Mountains and produce a wine that reflects the true expression of Maipo Valley. This provides 1865’s with its high quality footprint of Cabernet Sauvignon.
Trinity Oaks Cabernet Sauvignon: Trinity Oaks 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon was sourced from premier California vineyards in Lodi and coastal counties using sustainable growing practices. Dark aromas of ripe blackberries, juicy raspberries with notes of green olive, dried herbs, and vanilla complement robust black cherry flavours. This red is full-bodied with a smooth, rounded finish. Available in Ontario and online for ~$17.95.
Trinity Oaks Cabernet Sauvignon
In partnership with Trees for the Future, a nonprofit that has planted over 180 million trees, Trinity Oaks plants one tree per bottle purchased. The grapes are sourced from sustainably farmed vineyards. Brimming with blackberry and juicy raspberry flavours, this red is superb with grilled steak or eggplant parmigiana.
Erath 2020 Oregon Pinot Noir: Founded by Dick Erath over 40 years ago, Erath wines are cultivated in the Dundee Hills of Oregan. Known for their Pinot Noir grapes, this bottle is a fruit-forward, fan favourite. With scrumptious aromas of cola, dark cherry, cassis and a waft of mandarin orange, the ruby coloured Erath 2020 Oregan Pinot Noir is an extremely versatile choice for meals. Available in Quebec and online for ~ $25.45.
Erath 2020 Oregon Pinot Noir
This is a bang on Oregon Pinot, with smoky, licorice, red plum, blood orange and earthy aromas and flavours that just might put it in the running for your house red. Extra dry, medium-bodied and supple, it has the versatility to match everything from planked salmon to burgers to roasted red peppers and grilled back ribs.
Canard-Duchêne: A pale gold bubbly, Canard-Duchêne stems from a unique blend of family values and an identity that is deeply rooted in the heart of the Champagne region. With holidays bringing about special occasions, Canard-Duchêne Champagne is the perfect celebratory drink. With notes of yellow fruit, tropical fruit, and gingerbread, you’ll be toasting all night long. Available in Quebec for ~ $56.00.
Canard-Duchêne
Dedicated to the founder of the House, the Léonie cuvées are champagnes of connoisseurs whose style is marked by maturity and complexity. The omnipresence of Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier in this cuvée, as well as a minimum aging of 3 years allow an optimal structure and richness.
TASTING NOTES
The Léonie Brut cuvée is attractive and elegant.
On the nose, compote yellow fruits, exotic fruits, dry flowers and gingerbread.
To the eye, a pretty pale gold dress.
The palate is fresh, with candied pineapple aromas, slightly spicy, with toasted flavors.
The word of Laurent Fédou, Head of Cellars: “La Cuvée Léonie Brut is an elegant champagne. It is distinguished by its freshness and exoticism.”
Wine notes and bottle shots courtesy of the wineries, BC Liquor Stores and LCBO. Feature image: Dandurand.
